Corneal Transplantation for Advanced Corneal Disease
When all layers of your cornea are compromised, our Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) option offers a pathway back to clearer, more comfortable vision with the care of expert corneal specialists.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
At a Glance
Quick facts about Penetrating Keratoplasty surgery to help you understand the basics
- Treatments offered
Penetrating Keratoplasty (full-thickness corneal graft)
- Finance
Transparent pricing and full aftercare support; financing options discussed during consultation
- Why Choose
Internationally-renowned corneal surgeons, advanced grafting techniques and full after-care support
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey
Key Benefits
- Restores corneal clarity and transparency
- Improves visual acuity
- Relieves pain from corneal disease
- Replaces structurally weakened or perforated cornea
- Long track record of surgical success
What is Penetrating Keratoplasty?
Penetrating keratoplasty is a surgical procedure that replaces all layers of the cornea—from the epithelium to the endothelium—with donor corneal tissue. The damaged or diseased cornea is removed using a circular trephine, and a clear donor graft is sutured into place using fine microsurgical stitches.
PK is one of the most established and successful forms of organ transplantation in medicine.
At Centre for Sight, you will be cared for by corneal specialists using advanced surgical environments and long-term monitoring to maximise graft clarity, comfort and survival.
When Is Penetrating Keratoplasty Needed?
Penetrating keratoplasty is recommended when corneal disease affects the full thickness of the cornea and cannot be treated with less invasive procedures such as lamellar keratoplasty.
Common indications include:
1
Advanced Keratoconus with scarring
2
Corneal scarring from infection or injury
3
Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy
4
Failed previous corneal transplant
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 (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty)
How it works
The damaged front layers of the cornea are removed and replaced with donor tissue, while the patient’s endothelium (inner layer) is preserved.
Best For
Keratoconus, corneal thinning, or anterior scarring with a healthy endothelium.
Pros
Lower rejection risk, preserves natural tissue.
Cons
Not suitable for full-thickness damage.
Procedure Type
DSAEK / DMEK (Endothelial Transplant)
How it works
Only the innermost endothelial layer is replaced through a small incision, leaving the majority of the cornea untouched.
Best For
Fuchs’ Endothelial Dystrophy, endothelial failure after surgery, or swelling from endothelial dysfunction.
Pros
Small incision and faster recovery with minimal change to corneal shape.
Cons
Only suitable if the rest of the cornea is healthy.
Procedure Type
PK (Penetrating Keratoplasty / Full-Thickness Transplant)
How it works
All layers of the cornea are removed and replaced with a full-thickness donor graft.
Best For
Full-thickness disease, deep scarring, trauma, advanced keratoconus, or failed previous grafts.
Pros
Addresses complex and advanced corneal conditions.
Cons
Long-term follow-up and suture management required.
What are the Benefits and Risks of Penetrating Keratoplasty PK?
Your consultant will provide a personalised risk-and-benefit discussion based on your eye’s specific needs.
Benefits (vary by procedure):
Can restore vision when all corneal layers are damaged
Suitable for advanced or complex conditions
Offers improved clarity when other grafts aren’t suitable
Can provide long-term, stable results when healing is successful
Performed by corneal specialists using high-grade donor tissue
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
Longer recovery — months for vision to stabilise
Higher risk of graft rejection compared with partial grafts
Lifelong monitoring recommended to maintain graft health
May require glasses or contact lenses afterwards
Suture management is required and can influence vision clarity
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 suitable for PK if:
All layers of your cornea are affected or significantly scarred
You have advanced keratoconus, deep corneal scarring, trauma, infection-related damage, or a previously failed graft
Other types of corneal transplant (such as DALK or DSAEK/DMEK) are not appropriate or no longer effective
You are happy to commit to long-term follow-up to monitor graft health and stability
You may need further assessment if you have:
Active infection or inflammation in the eye
Severe dry eye or uncontrolled glaucoma
Retinal disease that may affect visual outcome
Medical conditions that can slow or impair healing
Flexible Financing Options
Private Medical Insurance
Many of our consultants work with all of the major insurance providers*
Self Pay
Pay in full for patients who prefer a straightforward approach
0% APR Financing
6-24 month payment plans with approved credit
Military Discount
5% discount for active military and veterans
* Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses or Laser Lens Replacement
FAQs
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Penetrating Keratoplasty
How long does vision take to improve after PK?
Will I need glasses or contact lenses afterwards?
How is graft rejection detected and treated?
Does PK last for life?
Why choose Centre for Sight for 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
Certifications & Recognition
The Power List 2026
Global Top 50: Mr. Sheraz Daya
Top 1% Surgeons
National recognition
CQC Accredited
Highest safety standards
5-Star Rated
Patient satisfaction