Specialist Corneal Transplant Surgery for Keratoconus
When keratoconus progresses beyond conventional treatments, Centre for Sight offers advanced corneal graft techniques to restore clarity and comfort, personalised to you.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
Corneal Transplant Surgery for Keratoconus at a Glance
Choosing the right treatment for keratoconus is crucial when contact lenses no longer provide sufficient vision correction or when the cornea becomes significantly distorted. Here are the quick facts:
- Treatments offered
Corneal Transplants for Keratoconus (partial- or full-thickness grafts)
- Finance
Transparent pricing; detailed quote provided at consultation, financing options may be discussed
- Why Choose
Renowned corneal specialists, pioneering techniques (including femtosecond-laser DALK) and international reputation in keratoconus treatment.
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey.
Key Benefits
- Restores corneal shape and clarity
- Tailored surgical options
- Preserves as much natural tissue as possible
- Improves quality of life
- Consultant-led care
- Long-term visual outcomes
What is a Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus?
Keratoconus causes progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea into a cone shape, leading to visual distortion, increasing astigmatism and reduced contact lens tolerance.
When conventional treatments (glasses, rigid contact lenses, cross-linking) are no longer effective, a corneal transplant may be recommended.
A corneal transplant for keratoconus replaces all or part of the damaged cornea with healthy donor tissue, restoring shape, clarity and visual comfort. At Centre for Sight we often use Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) or other graft techniques that preserve the patient’s own endothelium and reduce rejection risk.
Types of Treatments Offered at Centre for Sight
1
The most common surgical treatment for advanced keratoconus, DALK replaces the front and middle layers of the cornea while preserving the patient’s healthy inner layer (endothelium). This greatly reduces the risk of graft rejection and provides long-term stability and vision improvement.
2
A partial-thickness transplant that replaces only the innermost layer of the cornea. While less commonly needed for keratoconus, this option may be recommended if endothelial damage or swelling is also present.
3
A full-thickness corneal transplant where all layers of the cornea are replaced with a clear donor graft. PK is typically reserved for severe keratoconus, scarring, or cases where other graft types are unsuitable.
4
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (FSDALK)
An advanced evolution of DALK that uses femtosecond laser technology to achieve exceptional precision when preparing both donor and recipient tissue. The laser creates an exact match between layers, improving graft alignment, wound strength, and recovery time.
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
Front/middle layers replaced; patient’s own endothelium preserved
Best For
Keratoconus, surface scarring
Pros
Lower rejection risk; good structural integrity
Cons
Technically more complex; may not address posterior layer
Procedure Type
FSDALK
How it works
Laser-assisted version of DALK for high precision
Best For
Keratoconus needing fine graft matching
Pros
Enhanced accuracy; improved outcomes
Cons
Requires specialist surgical skill
Procedure Type
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
How it works
Full-thickness corneal graft
Best For
Multi-layer damage, trauma, graft failure
Pros
Comprehensive solution for advanced/severe cases
Cons
Longer recovery; higher risk of complications
Procedure Type
DSEK/DSAEK
How it works
Replaces the damaged inner endothelial layer of the cornea with healthy donor tissue
Best For
Endothelial diseases such as Fuchs’ dystrophy or corneal swelling after surgery
Pros
Faster visual recovery; smaller incision; maintains corneal strength
Cons
Not suitable if deeper corneal layers are affected; graft positioning required
What are the Benefits and Risks of a Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus?
Your consultant will provide a personalised risk-and-benefit discussion based on your eye’s specific needs.
Benefits of Corneal Transplants:
Potentially significant improvement in vision clarity and quality when keratoconus becomes advanced or contact lens intolerant.
Improved comfort, reduced distortion, and often the chance to return to daily activities with fewer visual limitations.
Advanced surgical techniques (such as femtosecond laser DALK) improve outcomes and long-term graft survival.
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
Graft rejection or failure (though partial-thickness grafts carry lower risk)
Infection, elevated intra-ocular-pressure, suture-related complications
Visual recovery may take months, and outcomes can vary depending on condition severity
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Book a comprehensive eye examination to better understand your vision and available treatment options.
Am I suitable for a Keratoconus Corneal Transplant?
Your surgeon will speak with you about the benefits and risks involved before your procedure.
You may be considered for corneal transplant if you:
Have keratoconus causing significant vision distortion or thinning of the cornea beyond corrective contact lenses or cross-linking capabilities.
Are experiencing reduced contact lens tolerance, rapidly progressing astigmatism, or corneal scarring.
Have good overall eye health (retina and other structures) and realistic expectations for graft outcome.
Some factors may affect suitability, such as: severe retinal disease, uncontrolled glaucoma, ongoing infection, or conditions affecting donor graft acceptance. A detailed consultation at Centre for Sight will assess your individual suitability and guide the next steps.
Costs and Finance Options
Please contact us to obtain your personalised quote. Graft technique, donor tissue type and complexity influence cost.
Additional Procedures
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
DSAEK
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
DSEK
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
0% APR 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 Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, or Laser Lens Replacement
FAQs
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about corneal transplants.
When is a corneal transplant required for keratoconus?
It is considered when conventional treatments such as contact lenses, cross-linking or ring-segments can no longer provide satisfactory vision or fit comfort.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies by graft type; partial-thickness grafts often offer faster visual stabilisation, while full-thickness (PK) may take longer (many months) for final outcome.
Will I still need glasses or contact lenses afterward?
Can a corneal transplant “cure” keratoconus?
Why choose Centre for Sight for keratoconus corneal transplant surgery?
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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