Expert DALK Corneal Transplant Surgery
When keratoconus or surface scarring affects your cornea, Centre for Sight offers advanced DALK grafting to restore clarity, comfort and confidence.
FDA Approved
Advanced Technology
DALK Corneal Transplant Surgery at a Glance
Quick facts about DALK (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty) to help you understand the basics
- Treatments offered
DALK (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty) for advanced keratoconus and corneal scarring
- Finance
Transparent pricing and full aftercare support; financing options discussed during consultation
- Why Choose
Internationally-recognised corneal specialists and pioneering DALK techniques.
- Locations
London, Sussex, Surrey
Key Benefits
- Keeps the healthy part of your cornea
- Lower risk of rejection
- Maintains eye strength
- Clearer vision
- Less invasive than a full transplant
- Expert, consultant-led care
What is DALK?
DALK is a partial-thickness corneal transplant designed to treat conditions such as advanced keratoconus or anterior corneal scarring. The procedure replaces the front and middle layers of the cornea while preserving the patient’s own healthy inner layers (Descemet’s membrane and endothelium), significantly reducing the risk of graft rejection and long-term complications.
At Centre for Sight our surgeons have deep experience in DALK techniques, allowing for excellent visual outcomes and long-term graft survival.
Types of Transplantation Performed at Centre for Sight
1
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)
Partial-thickness graft replacing front and middle corneal layers, preserving your own endothelial cells; often used in keratoconus.
2
Automated Lamellar Therapeutic Keratoplasty (ALTK)
A variation replacing a thin layer of front cornea, ideal for surface-scarring or certain dystrophies with quicker visual recovery.
3
Femtosecond Laser Deep Lamellar Keratoplasty (FSDALK)
Uses femtosecond-laser technology for ultra-precise partial-thickness grafts; further enhances precision and reproducibility.
4
Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK/DSAEK)
Minimally invasive graft replacing only the innermost layer (endothelium) through a small incision — ideal for endothelial disorders like Fuchs.
5
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
Full-thickness corneal graft used when all layers are involved (e.g., trauma, failed previous grafts).
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; replaces front/middle corneal layers while preserving endothelium
Best For
Keratoconus with healthy endothelium
Pros
Lower rejection risk; preserves deeper layers and function
Cons
Technically complex; may not address deeper or full-thickness damage
Procedure Type
FSDALK
How it works
Laser-assisted version of DALK providing ultra-precise graft placement
Best For
Advanced keratoconus needing high precision
Pros
Improved wound integrity; faster healing
Cons
Requires specialist surgical skill; may cost more
Procedure Type
DSEK / DSAEK
How it works
Replaces only the inner corneal layer (endothelium) via small incision
Best For
Severe keratoconus, scarring, previous graft failures
Pros
Comprehensive repair when other grafts aren’t suitable
Cons
Longer recovery; higher complexity and risk
Procedure Type
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
How it works
Full-thickness corneal graft replacing all layers
Best For
Severe keratoconus, scarring, previous graft failures
Pros
Comprehensive repair when other grafts aren’t suitable
Cons
Longer recovery; higher complexity and risk
What are the Benefits and Risks of DALK?
Your consultant will provide a personalised risk-and-benefit discussion based on your eye’s specific needs.
Benefits of DALK:
Improved vision clarity and reduced distortion when keratoconus advances
Lower risk of graft rejection compared with full-thickness grafts (since the patient’s own endothelium is preserved)
Long-term stability and reduced need for frequent contact lens changes
Risks/side effects (not exhaustive):
Residual interface haze or scarring between donor-recipient layers may affect clarity
Technical complexity means some visual recovery might take longer than simpler procedures
As with all grafts, possibility of rejection, infection, or complications remains
Not Sure If You're Eligible?
Schedule a comprehensive eye examination to determine your candidacy for DALK (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty).
Am I suitable for DALK?
Your surgeon will speak with you about the benefits and risks involved before your procedure.
You may be a candidate for DALK if you:
Have advanced keratoconus or anterior surface scarring that cannot be managed with contact lenses or cross-linking
Retain a healthy endothelial layer (so that a partial-thickness graft is appropriate)
Are seeking improved vision clarity, less distortion and better contact lens tolerance being no longer viable.
Suitability is determined after a detailed assessment of corneal thickness, shape, scarring, endothelial cell count and overall ocular health. Some factors (such as full-thickness damage, endothelial failure or retinal disease) may mean a different graft type is more appropriate.
Costs and Finance Options
Please contact us to obtain your personalised quote. Graft technique, donor tissue type and complexity influence cost.
Additional Procedures
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
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
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 Financing
6-24 month finance options. Credit is provided subject to affordability, age and status. Minimum spend applies.
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
*Private Medical Insurance is unlikely to cover Laser Eye Surgery Procedures, Implantable Contact Lenses, Laser Lens Replacement or any other cosmetic procedures.
FAQs
Below you will find answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about this DALK (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty).
What is the difference between DALK and a full-thickness graft?
DALK preserves the patient’s own endothelial layer, lowering rejection risk and often providing excellent long-term results. Full-thickness grafts (PK) replace all layers and are used when damage affects the entire cornea.
How long does recovery take?
Visual recovery after DALK can vary; many patients see improvement in months, but full stabilisation may take longer. Your consultant will outline expected times based on your condition.
Will I need glasses or contact lenses after DALK?
Many patients achieve improved clarity and reduced need for contact lenses, but some optical correction (glasses or lenses) may still be required depending on your cornea’s condition and healing.
What happens if DALK isn't possible or successful?
Your surgeon may recommend an alternative graft such as full-thickness (PK) or laser-assisted grafting. Centre for Sight offers the full range of graft options.
Why choose Centre for Sight for DALK?
Our corneal surgeons are highly experienced in keratoconus and graft techniques, we use advanced surgical tools and laser-assistance, and we provide tailored after-care to optimise outcomes.
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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