DALK is a partial-thickness corneal transplant designed to treat conditions such as advanced keratoconus or anterior corneal scarring. The procedure replaces the front and middle layers of the cornea while preserving the patient’s own healthy inner layers (Descemet’s membrane and endothelium), significantly reducing the risk of graft rejection and long-term complications.
At Centre for Sight our surgeons have deep experience in DALK techniques, allowing for excellent visual outcomes and long-term graft survival.
Please note that your consultant will recommend the most suitable treatment option tailored to your specific case.
| Procedure | How it works | Best for | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DALK | Partial-thickness graft; replaces front/middle corneal layers while preserving endothelium | Keratoconus with healthy endothelium | Lower rejection risk; preserves deeper layers and function | Technically complex; may not address deeper or full-thickness damage |
| FSDALK | Laser-assisted version of DALK providing ultra-precise graft placement | Advanced keratoconus needing high precision | Improved wound integrity; faster healing | Requires specialist surgical skill; may cost more |
| DSEK/DSAEK | Replaces only the inner corneal layer (endothelium) via small incision | Severe keratoconus, scarring, previous graft failures | Comprehensive repair when other grafts aren’t suitable | Longer recovery; higher complexity and risk |
| PK | Full-thickness corneal graft replacing all layers | Severe keratoconus, scarring, previous graft failures | Comprehensive repair when other grafts aren’t suitable | Longer recovery; higher complexity and risk |
You may be a candidate for DALK if you:
Suitability is determined after a detailed assessment of corneal thickness, shape, scarring, endothelial cell count and overall ocular health. Some factors (such as full-thickness damage, endothelial failure or retinal disease) may mean a different graft type is more appropriate.
Your consultant will provide a personalised risk-and-benefit discussion based on your eye’s specific needs.
| Benefits (vary by procedure): | Risks/side effects (not exhaustive): |
|---|---|
| Improved vision clarity and reduced distortion when keratoconus advances | Residual interface haze or scarring between donor-recipient layers may affect clarity |
| Lower risk of graft rejection compared with full-thickness grafts (since the patient’s own endothelium is preserved) | Technical complexity means some visual recovery might take longer than simpler procedures |
| Long-term stability and reduced need for frequent contact lens changes | As with all grafts, possibility of rejection, infection, or complications remains |
Fill out our online form or call our team. Our enquiry staff will guide you through your first steps towards clearer vision.
We perform detailed corneal imaging (topography, pachymetry, endothelial cell count), evaluate scarring, lens health and ocular surface to ensure suitability.
Meet your corneal specialist consultant, review diagnostics, discuss graft options, outcomes, benefits and risks in depth before you decide.
Surgery scheduled at our dedicated eye-care hospital; graft type selected for your specific condition and surgical plan tailored to you.
Structured follow-up and monitoring extend beyond months; graft health, vision clarity and eye-pressure are tracked, and you’ll have access to our 24-hour helpline.
Please contact us to obtain your personalised quote. Graft technique, donor tissue type and complexity influence cost.
DALK preserves the patient’s own endothelial layer, lowering rejection risk and often providing excellent long-term results. Full-thickness grafts (PK) replace all layers and are used when damage affects the entire cornea.
Visual recovery after DALK can vary; many patients see improvement in months, but full stabilisation may take longer. Your consultant will outline expected times based on your condition.
Many patients achieve improved clarity and reduced need for contact lenses, but some optical correction (glasses or lenses) may still be required depending on your cornea’s condition and healing.
Your surgeon may recommend an alternative graft such as full-thickness (PK) or laser-assisted grafting. Centre for Sight offers the full range of graft options.
Our corneal surgeons are highly experienced in keratoconus and graft techniques, we use advanced surgical tools and laser-assistance, and we provide tailored after-care to optimise outcomes.
