Femtosecond Laser PK (Penetrating Keratoplasty) is a full-thickness corneal transplant where all layers of the cornea are replaced with a clear donor graft and performed using femtosecond laser technology for unparalleled precision and control.
Unlike traditional hand-cut grafts, the laser creates interlocking incision patterns (such as “zig-zag” or “top-hat” designs) in both donor and recipient tissue. These patterns ensure a perfect fit, stronger wound closure, faster healing, and reduced postoperative astigmatism.
At Centre for Sight, this technique is used for complex corneal disease, trauma, advanced keratoconus, or previous graft failure, offering a refined and reliable solution for restoring clear, comfortable vision.
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 replacing front/middle corneal layers | Keratoconus, scarring with healthy endothelium | Lower rejection risk, preserves natural tissue | Not suitable for full-thickness damage |
| FSDALK | Laser-assisted version of DALK for ultra-precise layer matching | Advanced keratoconus, anterior disease | Improved wound strength, less astigmatism | Limited to cases with healthy endothelium |
| Laser PK | Full-thickness corneal transplant using femtosecond laser for donor/host cuts | Severe keratoconus, trauma, graft failure | Perfect graft fit, reduced astigmatism, stronger wound | Longer recovery than partial grafts |
You may be a candidate for Laser PK if you:
Suitability depends on corneal integrity, ocular health, and systemic factors such as healing potential and infection risk. A comprehensive consultation at Centre for Sight includes corneal imaging, endothelial cell analysis, and ocular health checks to confirm eligibility.
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): |
|---|---|
| Replaces all corneal layers, restoring clarity even in complex disease. | Graft rejection or failure (more common in full-thickness procedures). |
| Femtosecond laser incisions provide a perfect graft fit for stronger, smoother healing. | Infection or suture-related irritation during recovery. |
| Reduced postoperative astigmatism and improved long-term stability. | Longer visual stabilisation (often several months). |
| Suitable for eyes where other graft types are not possible. | Secondary glaucoma or need for corrective lenses postoperatively. |
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 who will review your test results, explain graft options (including Laser PK), and answer all your questions.
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.
Traditional PK is performed manually, whereas the femtosecond laser creates exact incision patterns that allow for better graft alignment, reduced astigmatism, and stronger healing.
Early healing occurs within weeks, but full visual stabilisation can take several months. Sutures are typically removed gradually once the cornea has fully healed.
Advanced keratoconus, full-thickness scarring, trauma, or failed previous corneal grafts.
Many patients enjoy significant improvement in vision; however, mild astigmatism or refractive correction may still require glasses or contact lenses.
Centre for Sight pioneered femtosecond laser grafting techniques in the UK. Our surgeons use the latest technology for enhanced precision, safety, and outcomes, supported by comprehensive aftercare.
