Treatment Overview
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) in Korea is an advanced corneal transplantation procedure designed to treat keratoconus, corneal thinning, and stromal scarring while preserving the patient’s healthy inner corneal layer (endothelium). Unlike a full-thickness corneal transplant (penetrating keratoplasty), DALK selectively replaces only the diseased or irregular corneal stroma, minimizing rejection risks and ensuring faster, safer healing.
Korean ophthalmic surgeons perform DALK with femtosecond laser precision, Big Bubble air dissection techniques, and AI-assisted intraoperative imaging, allowing exact separation between healthy and damaged corneal layers. This high-precision approach achieves smoother graft interfaces, enhanced vision quality, and long-term structural stability.
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty in Korea represents the ideal combination of surgical skill, technology, and biologic preservation — offering clear, natural vision with superior safety and durability.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Replace diseased or thinned corneal layers in keratoconus while preserving the endothelium.
- Restore smooth corneal shape and transparency.
- Strengthen the corneal structure for long-term stability.
- Improve visual acuity and reduce optical distortion.
- Minimize immune rejection and graft complications.
Benefits
- Endothelium Preservation: Retains the patient’s natural inner corneal cells for long-term graft clarity.
- Low Rejection Risk: Avoids immune reaction associated with full corneal transplants.
- Femtosecond Laser Precision: Ensures uniform lamellar separation and smooth graft surfaces.
- Faster Healing & Recovery: Shorter recovery time compared to full-thickness keratoplasty.
- Enhanced Visual Outcomes: Reduced astigmatism and improved optical quality.
- Long-Term Stability: Proven graft survival and sustained visual improvement for many years.
Ideal Candidates
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with moderate to advanced keratoconus where corneal thinning affects vision.
- Individuals with corneal scars or irregularity while maintaining healthy endothelium.
- Those not suitable for laser reshaping or cross-linking due to advanced disease.
- Patients wishing to reduce the risk of transplant rejection.
- Individuals seeking durable and natural vision restoration.
Possible Risks & Complications
DALK is considered a very safe and proven procedure, though mild, temporary effects can occur:
- Redness or Swelling: Common after surgery; resolves within days.
- Light Sensitivity: Improves during recovery with UV-protective eyewear.
- Temporary Vision Fluctuation: Normal as the graft integrates.
- Minor Interface Haze: Managed with medicated or regenerative drops.
- Rare Microperforation: Skillfully handled during surgery with advanced tools.
Korean clinics employ AI-guided corneal depth control and intraoperative OCT imaging to ensure safety, precision, and optimal graft placement.
Techniques & Technology Used
Core Techniques
- Big Bubble Air Dissection: Safely separates the corneal layers to expose healthy tissue.
- Femtosecond Laser Lamellar Creation: Provides accurate graft thickness and shape.
- Donor Graft Transplantation: Healthy donor corneal tissue is placed precisely over the prepared area.
- AI-Assisted Surgical Visualization: Ensures perfect alignment and smooth interface.
- Regenerative Biologic Therapy: Enhances healing and reduces inflammation.
- UV-Protective Aftercare System: Maintains corneal clarity and stability after surgery.
These technologies make Korean DALK surgery one of the most advanced and biologically integrated corneal procedures worldwide.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Diagnostic Assessment:
Corneal topography, pachymetry, and endothelial cell count determine suitability.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning:
AI-calibrated imaging and laser mapping define graft depth and size.
Step 3 – Anesthesia & Preparation:
Local or topical anesthesia ensures a comfortable, pain-free procedure.
Step 4 – Big Bubble or Laser Dissection:
The surgeon carefully separates the diseased corneal layers using air injection or laser precision.
Step 5 – Graft Placement & Fixation:
The donor corneal tissue is positioned and secured with ultra-fine sutures.
Step 6 – Regenerative Aftercare:
Biologic drops, anti-inflammatory medication, and follow-up care support healing.
Procedure Duration: 60–90 minutes per eye
Recovery Period: Functional vision typically returns within 1–2 weeks; complete stabilization in 2–3 months.
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and lubricating drops as prescribed.
- Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes for at least two weeks.
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors.
- Avoid swimming, saunas, or strenuous activity for one month.
- Attend all follow-up visits for corneal monitoring and suture adjustments.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild irritation and blurred vision; graft begins to adapt.
- Week 1: Redness fades; vision gradually improves.
- Weeks 2–6: Graft becomes clear; vision continues to stabilize.
- 3 Months: Optimal clarity achieved; full recovery complete.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Restoration of corneal shape and clarity.
- Significant improvement in vision quality and focus.
- Long-term graft stability and minimal rejection risk.
- Natural appearance and comfort.
Longevity
DALK provides decades of visual stability and graft clarity, with success rates exceeding 95% in Korean clinics.
Endothelium preservation ensures long-lasting results and reduces complications seen in traditional corneal transplants.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is an international leader in lamellar corneal transplantation and regenerative ophthalmic surgery, combining advanced technology, surgical artistry, and precision medicine.
- Femtosecond Laser & AI Integration: Delivers unmatched accuracy and tissue preservation.
- Expert Lamellar Surgeons: Specially trained in Big Bubble and laser-assisted DALK techniques.
- Regenerative Recovery Protocols: Promote rapid epithelial healing and comfort.
- Low Rejection & Complication Rates: Endothelium-sparing technique ensures safety.
- Comprehensive Corneal Care Programs: Include diagnosis, surgery, and personalized aftercare.
- International Clinical Standards: Consistent, long-term success with exceptional patient satisfaction.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology
- Femtosecond Laser-Assisted DALK
- AI-Calibrated Big Bubble Dissection
- Endothelium-Preserving Graft Technique
- Regenerative Biologic Eye Therapy
- Oxygen-Enhanced Healing Protocols
- UV-Protective and Long-Term Stability Care
These innovations make Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty in Korea one of the safest, most effective, and durable solutions for restoring vision in keratoconus patients.
Cost Range
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard DALK Surgery | ₩4,000,000 – ₩5,500,000 per eye | ~$2,900 – $4,000 | Manual lamellar dissection with standard graft and aftercare |
| Femtosecond Laser-Assisted DALK | ₩6,000,000 – ₩7,800,000 per eye | ~$4,300 – $5,600 | Laser-guided surgery with precision graft alignment |
| Premium Regenerative DALK Package | ₩8,000,000 – ₩10,000,000+ per eye | ~$5,800 – $7,200+ | AI-guided DALK, regenerative healing therapy, and UV-protective recovery |
Pricing varies depending on technology, graft source, and surgeon expertise.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Specializes in femtosecond-assisted DALK and regenerative lamellar surgery.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Known for Big Bubble DALK with biologic healing protocols.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul): Offers precision DALK with long-term visual stability.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Expert in AI-guided lamellar keratoplasty and post-surgery care.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Pioneers in regenerative corneal reconstruction and lamellar graft integration.
