DMEK Transplant Surgery in Salt Lake City

Regardless of how young or old you are, it’s critical to have an ophthalmologist that you can trust. Don’t let your eye health suffer because you’re scared to see an ophthalmologist. If you’re looking for high-quality eye care, turn to Mountain States Eye Center. Our complete ophthalmology practice only uses the most current practices and equipment. Our staff ophthalmologist, Dr. Corey A. Miller, offers all of his clients a huge range of ophthalmic services including DMEK cornea transplants. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is prepared to bring excellent ophthalmic services to those in Salt Lake City.

What DMEK Is & How it Works

The cornea is a clear covering on the front of the eye that bends and refracts light rays. When a person’s cornea becomes more opaque or swollen, a corneal transplant may be indicated. There are several types of corneal transplants with Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty, or DMEK, being one of them. A DMEK transplant is a corneal transplant where the innermost layers of the cornea get replaced with donor Descemet membrane and endothelium, and this will give you an exact anatomic replacement. Some people are not a candidate for DMEK and may need a different type of corneal transplant (DSAEK, Penetrating Keratoplasty, or DALK).

When you get a DMEK transplant surgery in Salt Lake City, you can expect a relatively quick appointment. In fact, the DMEK procedure only takes about 45 minutes and is typically done without general anesthesia. After the transplant is placed, a gas bubble will be placed in your eye. This will keep the DMEK transplant in place and you’ll be able to go home.

You’ll be required to lie flat for 24 hours, so the air bubble and the transplant will have maximum contact. After the initial 24 hours, you’ll then be required to lie down 50% of the time, alternating every two hours, for the next two days. Additionally, antibiotic and steroid drops will be used while the eye heals. It’s also typical for your vision to be blurry, but it will start to clear up around day three or four.

Schedule a DMEK Procedure Today

If you’re experiencing cloudy, hazy vision, give our office a call at (801) 277-1087 to see if a DMEK transplant is right for you.