Included support
- +Hospital matching
- +Record review
- +Care coordination
- +Travel support
- +Interpretation support
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)
Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) may be considered when keratoconus causes significant scarring, risk of perforation, or inability to obtain functional vision with lenses, and endothelial function is good. The decision is based on corneal thickness/scar depth, infection control, previous s
24-72h
Response window
Approx. $1,900
Treatment fee
Not included
- -Treatment fee
- -Travel costs
- -Optional extras
Hospital consultation window
Peking Union Medical College Hospital - Beijing - Grade 3A
Ruijin Hospital - Shanghai - Grade 3A
West China Hospital - Chengdu - Grade 3A
Our service process
Let us coordinate the treatment journey with you.
1
How Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) is performed
Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty replaces the damaged anterior stroma while preserving the recipient's Descemet's membrane and endothelium. A common practice is to inject gas into the corneal stroma to form a separation, or to gradually cut and remove the diseased tissue in layers, and then suture and fix the donor anterior stroma with the endothelium removed. Postoperatively, corneal transparency, corneal shape, and intraocular pressure are monitored, with the goal of improving optical quality and reducing endothelial-related risks. The above is general health information and not medical advice; specific information is subject to specialist assessment and hospital protocols.
What is Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)?
Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty replaces the damaged anterior stroma while preserving the recipient's Descemet's membrane and endothelium. A common practice is to inject gas into the corneal stroma to form a separation, or to gradually cut and remove the diseased tissue in layers, and then suture and fix the donor anterior stroma with the endothelium removed. Postoperatively, corneal transparency, corneal shape, and intraocular pressure are monitored, with the goal of improving optical quality and reducing endothelial-related risks. The above is general health information and not medical advice; specific information is subject to specialist assessment and hospital protocols.
How is Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) performed?
Step 1
How Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) is performed
Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty replaces the damaged anterior stroma while preserving the recipient's Descemet's membrane and endothelium. A common practice is to inject gas into the corneal stroma to form a separation, or to gradually cut and remove the diseased tissue in layers, and then suture and fix the donor anterior stroma with the endothelium removed. Postoperatively, corneal transparency, corneal shape, and intraocular pressure are monitored, with the goal of improving optical quality and reducing endothelial-related risks. The above is general health information and not medical advice; specific information is subject to specialist assessment and hospital protocols.
Recovery process
Step 1
Recovery and stay
Including pre-operative assessment and early follow-up, it is generally recommended to stay for 2–4 weeks; subject to the actual schedule of the hospital.
Request a free evaluation
Tell us about your Keratoconus case and we will help match you with the right hospital, specialist, and travel pathway.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get started?⌄
Submit a free evaluation request with your diagnosis and records. The team reviews your case and suggests suitable next steps.
Do I need a visa to travel to China for treatment?⌄
Many patients do. We can help explain what documents are normally needed for treatment travel planning.
Will there be a language barrier?⌄
Medical interpretation can be arranged for consultations and treatment visits.
How much does treatment cost?⌄
Costs depend on the procedure, hospital, and treatment pathway. A practical estimate is provided before travel.
What happens after I return home?⌄
We can help coordinate remote follow-up and keep communication open with your care team.