Advanced Precision for Complex Corneal Transplants – Femtosecond Laser PK
When the entire cornea needs replacing, our femtosecond laser-assisted penetrating keratoplasty (PK) offers unmatched accuracy, strength and visual outcomes. At Centre for Sight, pioneering technology meets world-class corneal expertise.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
Femtosecond Laser PK at a Glance
Quick facts about Femtosecond Laser PK to help you understand the basics
- Treatments offered
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Penetrating Keratoplasty (Laser PK)
- Finance
Transparent pricing and full aftercare support; financing options discussed during consultation
- Why Choose
UK pioneers in laser corneal transplants with over 30 years of specialist experience
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey
Key Benefits
- Precision laser planning
- Customised graft preparation
- Improved wound alignment
- Reduced manual variability
- Restores corneal clarity
- Consultant-led care
What is Femtosecond Laser PK?
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.
Types of Femtosecond-Assisted Corneal Transplant Surgery
1
DALK replaces the front layers of the cornea while preserving the patient’s own healthy inner endothelial layer. It is commonly used for conditions such as keratoconus and reduces the risk of graft rejection compared with full-thickness transplants.
2
FSDALK uses femtosecond laser technology to assist with precise corneal dissection during DALK surgery. The laser improves accuracy and consistency, helping surgeons achieve cleaner tissue separation and potentially faster, more predictable visual recovery.
3
Femtosecond Laser Penetrating Keratoplasty (Laser PK)
Laser PK replaces the full thickness of the cornea using femtosecond laser-created incisions for both donor and recipient tissue. This advanced approach enhances wound alignment and stability compared with traditional PK, and is used when deeper corneal layers are also affected.
4
Traditional Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
Traditional PK is a full-thickness corneal transplant performed using manual surgical techniques rather than laser assistance. It remains a well-established and effective option when laser technology is not suitable or available, particularly in complex or advanced corneal disease. Your surgeon will advise whether a traditional or femtosecond-assisted approach is most appropriate for your eye.
Comparing Transplantation Procedures
Please note that your consultant will recommend the most suitable treatment option tailored to your specific case.
Procedure Type
How it works
Best For
Pros
Cons
Procedure Type
DALK
How it works
Partial-thickness graft replacing front/middle corneal layers
Best For
Keratoconus, scarring with healthy endothelium
Pros
Lower rejection risk, preserves natural tissue
Cons
Not suitable for full-thickness damage
Procedure Type
FSDALK
How it works
Laser-assisted version of DALK for ultra-precise layer matching
Best For
Advanced keratoconus, anterior disease
Pros
Improved wound strength, less astigmatism
Cons
Limited to cases with healthy endothelium
Procedure Type
Laser PK
How it works
Full-thickness corneal transplant using femtosecond laser for donor/host cuts
Best For
Severe keratoconus, trauma, graft failure
Pros
Perfect graft fit, reduced astigmatism, stronger wound
Cons
Longer recovery than partial grafts
What are the Benefits and Risks of Femtosecond Laser PK?
Your consultant will provide a personalised risk-and-benefit discussion based on your eye’s specific needs.
Benefits of Femtosecond Laser PK:
Replaces all corneal layers, restoring clarity even in complex disease.
Femtosecond laser incisions provide a perfect graft fit for stronger, smoother healing.
Reduced postoperative astigmatism and improved long-term stability.
Suitable for eyes where other graft types are not possible.
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
Graft rejection or failure (more common in full-thickness procedures).
Infection or suture-related irritation during recovery.
Longer visual stabilisation (often several months).
Secondary glaucoma or need for corrective lenses postoperatively.
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Book a comprehensive eye examination to better understand your vision and available treatment options.
Am I Suitable for Femtosecond Laser PK?
Your surgeon will speak with you about the benefits and risks involved before your procedure.
You may be a candidate for Laser PK if you:
Have full-thickness corneal disease, trauma, or advanced keratoconus not suitable for partial grafts.
Have failed previous grafts or severe scarring affecting multiple corneal layers.
Are seeking a stronger, more stable graft with modern laser precision.
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.
Costs and Finance Options
Please contact us to obtain your personalised quote. Graft technique, donor tissue type and complexity influence cost.
DALK
Bespoke Price
Per Eye
Consultant-led surgery
Advanced diagnostics and treatment planning
Laser-assisted procedure
24-hour emergency support
Comprehensive care package
1-year follow-up care
Femtosecond Laser PK
Bespoke Price
Per Eye
Consultant-led surgery
Advanced diagnostics and treatment planning
Laser-assisted procedure
24-hour emergency support
Comprehensive care package
1-year follow-up care
FSDALK
Bespoke Price
Per Eye
Consultant-led surgery
Advanced diagnostics and treatment planning
Laser-assisted procedure
24-hour emergency support
Comprehensive care package
1-year follow-up care
Flexible Finance Options
Private Medical Insurance
Many of our Consultants work with all the major insurance providers*
Self Pay
Pay in full for patients who prefer a straightforward approach
Interest Free Finance
6-24 month finance options subject to affordability, age & status
Military Discount
5% discount for active military and veterans
*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery, Implantable Contact Lenses, Laser Lens Replacement or any other cosmetic procedures.
FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about Femtosecond Laser PK surgery, helping you understand what to expect and whether treatment may be right for you.
How is Femtosecond Laser PK different from standard PK?
How long does recovery take?
What conditions is Laser PK used for?
Will I still need glasses afterward?
Why choose Centre for Sight for Laser PK?
Have Questions?
Our patient care team is here to answer any questions you may have.
Patient Success Stories
A first class experience
The whole process, start to finish, is first class. The facility at East Grinstead is superb and the staff were friendly and professional. The consultant, Saj Khan, is fantastic, a great communicator as well as being a leader in his work.
I had replacement lenses, after 3 months they became a little cloudy, distorting my vision. This is a known problem. I booked a consultation, within 2 hours I had been assessed and had laser treatment. No fuss, no problem, job done.
Laser Lens Replacement
Richard Black
Lens Replacement with Mr Shahnazaryan
The staff, experience and ultimately the outcome is why I have given this review a 5star. Mr David Shahnazaryans manner and expertise is outstanding. Whilst in the theatre Dr Lam kept me relaxed and comfortable with her kindness and fantastic professionalism. All the staff at CFS from the admin team, reception, clinic and theatre were excellent. I recommend them to everyone.
Laser Lens Replacement
Laser Lens Replacement
karen ryan
Laser lens replacement with trifocal lenses
I had Laser lens replacement with trifocal lenses for both eyes and the results are just amazing. The thorough testing and information I received pre and post operative was excellent. I highly recommend Mr Sheraz Daya who in my opinion is an “eye god” his lovely wife and highly professional team to anyone seeking this type of surgery.
Laser Lens Replacement
Susan Gifford
Professional Actor
5* Lens Replacement Procedure
I had tri focal lens replacement, both eyes done on the same day by Mr Daya. I wish I’d had it done sooner, it’s totally life changing. I researched the procedure for many months and selected Centre for Sight and I’m so glad I did. The whole process is first class from the very first contact, the initial tests could not be more thorough and the procedure is totally painless. The whole team could not be more helpful, I cannot praise them enough. I have perfect all round vision now so if you’re considering having the procedure done then this is definitely the place to choose you won’t regret it
Laser Lens Replacement
Jayne Chandler
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