DALK

Restore corneal clarity and improve vision with DALK, a precise, tissue-preserving transplant technique designed for long-term success.

Overview

DALK (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty) is an advanced corneal transplant technique designed to address corneal diseases affecting the superficial layers of the cornea, while leaving the deeper, healthier endothelial layer intact.

Unlike traditional corneal transplants, which involve the whole cornea, DALK selectively targets the damaged anterior layers, preserving the patient’s natural endothelial tissue. This approach offers significant advantages, including a reduced risk of immune rejection, faster recovery times, and better long-term visual outcomes.

At SEON Vision, we are here to guide you through every step of your journey - from your initial consultation to post-treatment care. Our expert team will ensure you understand your options, feel confident in your decision, and receive the highest standard of personalised care.

How it can help

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Are you a candidate?

DALK is an ideal option for patients with corneal conditions that affect the front layers of the cornea while leaving the deeper endothelial layer healthy. This procedure can restore vision and improve corneal integrity in cases such as:

Keratoconus - a progressive condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone shape, leading to distorted vision)

Corneal scarring - vision impairment caused by trauma, infection, or disease-related scarring.

Anterior corneal dystrophies - inherited conditions that lead to degeneration of the cornea’s outer layers.

Post-infectious or post-surgical scarring - scarring resulting from severe eye infections or complications from previous eye surgery.

The benefits of DALK

Lower risk of rejection
By preserving the innermost layer of the cornea (the endothelium), DALK significantly reduces the risk of immune rejection compared to full-thickness corneal transplants.

Faster recovery
With less disruption to the eye’s natural structure, DALK offers a faster healing process and reduced post-operative discomfort, helping patients return to their daily activities sooner.

Better long-term results
By maintaining the healthy corneal endothelium, DALK provides more stable vision, fewer complications, and improved long-term outcomes for better visual clarity.

Can we help?

If you would like to know more about us, or want to make an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Tel: 0203 411 1820

Request appointment

Meet our Corneal specialists

Mr Nizar Din

BBS (AICSM) BSc (Hons) PGDipCRS FRCOphth

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Miss Maria Phylactou

MD MSc(Dist) FEBO PGDipCRS(Dist) CertLRS

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What to expect

During your comprehensive consultation, our experienced specialists will perform a series of advanced tests to assess your eye health and suitability for DALK. We’ll take the time to explain your options, answer any questions, and ensure you feel confident in your treatment plan.
DALK is a precise and delicate procedure, performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or, in some cases, general anaesthesia. The surgery begins with the careful removal of the damaged front layers of the cornea, while preserving the healthy endothelium.
At SEON Vision, we utilise the advanced ‘big bubble’ technique to aid in separating the layers with precision. A carefully prepared donor graft is then placed into position and secured with fine sutures to ensure optimal healing and integration.
Following your procedure, you’ll be monitored in our recovery area for a few hours before returning home. Most patients experience little to no pain, but you’ll be prescribed a short course of steroid and antibiotic drops to support healing and reduce the risk of inflammation or rejection. In the weeks that follow, you’ll have follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Sutures are typically removed between 12 and 18 months, ensuring the best possible visual outcome.