DSEK (Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty) and DSAEK (Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty) are partial-thickness corneal transplant procedures used to treat diseases affecting the endothelial layer; the thin, innermost part of the cornea responsible for pumping out excess fluid and maintaining clarity.
When this layer fails (as in Fuchs Endothelial Dystrophy, pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, or post-surgical endothelial damage), the cornea becomes swollen and vision cloudy.
Unlike traditional full-thickness transplants, DSEK and DSAEK replace only the diseased inner layer, leaving the outer corneal structure intact. This results in faster recovery, reduced rejection risk, and more stable visual outcomes.
The traditional technique where the damaged inner layer is manually removed and replaced with healthy donor endothelium. This approach offers excellent clarity and a smaller incision than full-thickness grafts.
An advanced version of DSEK that uses automated precision instruments to prepare a thinner, smoother donor graft. This improves visual outcomes and accelerates recovery.
The most refined approach, transplanting only the ultra-thin endothelial membrane for the fastest recovery and most natural vision, ideal for suitable eyes with clear outer corneas.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSEK | Replaces the damaged inner corneal layer with donor endothelium | Fuchs Dystrophy, corneal swelling | Smaller incision; faster recovery than full graft | Slightly thicker donor tissue than DMEK |
| DSAEK | Automated version of DSEK using precision donor preparation | Moderate-to-severe endothelial failure | Smooth donor interface; reliable outcomes | Rare need for repositioning if graft dislocates |
| DMEK | Transplants only Descemet’s membrane and endothelium | Clear outer corneas; advanced endothelial disease | Fastest recovery; sharpest vision | Technically demanding; not suitable for all patients |
You may be suitable for DSEK or DSAEK if you have:
Suitability depends on the overall health of the outer cornea, retinal function, and ocular surface. A thorough diagnostic evaluation at Centre for Sight will determine which transplant method is right for your eyes.
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): |
|---|---|
| Restores clear vision with minimal tissue replacement | Temporary blurring as the graft settles |
| Smaller incision and faster recovery than full-thickness grafts | Rare graft dislocation requiring repositioning |
| Lower risk of graft rejection | Minimal risk of infection or rejection |
| Proven outcomes for Fuchs Dystrophy and similar conditions | Need for glasses or lens adjustment post-surgery |
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.
DSAEK is an automated evolution of DSEK, using precision instruments to create a smoother, thinner graft for faster and more reliable visual recovery.
Most patients notice clearer vision within a few weeks, with stability improving over several months as the graft fully integrates.
No. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation — patients are comfortable throughout.
In a small number of cases, the graft may need to be reattached with a simple air bubble procedure, often done in-clinic.
Our corneal surgeons are leaders in partial-thickness transplant surgery, performing hundreds of successful grafts using the latest endothelial techniques with proven long-term results.
