Corneal Transplant
There are two types of corneal transplants for treating keratoconus.
- Deep lamellar keratoplasty (DLK) removes the diseased cornea but leaves behind the healthy posterior layer (endothelium). The diseased corneal layer is replaced by a healthy cornea from a donor's eye.
- Full-thickness or penetrating Keratoplasty is performed if there has been damage to the posterior layer (hydrops) and the whole cornea is replaced with a donor cornea.
Both types of transplants are sutured into place. Corneal transplants for keratoconus is a very successful treatment with up to 96% survival at 5 years after surgery but the transplant may take 12-18 months to ‘bed in’.
Which procedure is right for you?
personalEYES will aim to ensure you have been given a clear explanation of your condition and treatment options.