DSAEK Corneal Transplant
Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK)—a proven corneal transplant technique offering excellent outcomes for endothelial disease.
Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy
A progressive condition affecting the cornea's inner cell layer, causing gradual vision loss and morning blur. Specialist corneal transplant surgery can restore clear vision.
Understanding Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy
Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy is a progressive condition affecting the endothelium—the vital inner cell layer of your cornea that acts as a pump to keep the cornea clear and free of excess fluid.
In a healthy eye, endothelial cells continuously pump fluid out of the cornea, maintaining its transparency. In Fuchs' Dystrophy, these cells gradually deteriorate and develop abnormal deposits called guttata. As cell numbers decline, the cornea becomes waterlogged and cloudy.
The condition typically affects both eyes and progresses slowly over many years. Early symptoms often include blurred vision upon waking that clears as the day progresses—this is because the cornea swells overnight when your eyes are closed.
Fuchs' Dystrophy is Ms. Menassa's area of special interest. As a corneal specialist, she offers the most advanced surgical treatments including DMEK and DSAEK corneal transplants, which can restore excellent vision for suitable patients.
Signs You May Notice
If you're experiencing any of these signs, a consultation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
- Blurred or cloudy vision, often worse in the morning
Vision typically improves as the day goes on in early stages
- Glare and halos around lights
Particularly noticeable when driving at night
- Difficulty seeing in low light conditions
Reading in dim light becomes challenging
- Eye discomfort or pain in advanced stages
If blisters form on the corneal surface
- Foreign body sensation
Feeling of something in the eye
Causes
- Genetic factors—often runs in families
- Age-related cell deterioration
- Exact cause of endothelial cell loss not fully understood
Risk Factors
- Family history of Fuchs' Dystrophy
- Age over 50 (symptoms typically appear from middle age)
- Female sex (women are slightly more commonly affected)
When to Seek Help
Consider booking a consultation if you notice any of the following:
- You notice persistent morning blur that takes hours to clear
- Your optician has detected signs of corneal oedema or guttata
- You have a family history of Fuchs' Dystrophy
- You are considering cataract surgery and have been told you have Fuchs'
- Your vision is deteriorating despite glasses changes
Frequently Asked Questions
Not everyone with Fuchs' Dystrophy needs surgery. Many people have mild disease that progresses slowly and may never significantly affect vision. However, if your vision is impacted and affecting quality of life, modern corneal transplant surgery offers excellent outcomes.
This is a common situation and one that Ms. Menassa frequently manages. Depending on the severity of each condition, she may recommend cataract surgery alone, combined cataract and corneal transplant surgery, or staged procedures. She will advise the best approach for your specific situation.
Yes, Fuchs' Dystrophy often runs in families and is thought to be inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. If you have Fuchs', your children have a chance of inheriting the condition, though severity varies. They should have regular eye examinations.
How We Can Help
Ms. Menassa offers the following treatments for Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy:
Concerned About Your Eyes?
Ms. Menassa provides thorough, unhurried consultations to assess your condition and discuss the best treatment options for your situation.
Specialist Expertise
As a fellowship-trained Cornea and Anterior Segment specialist, Ms. Menassa has particular expertise in conditions affecting the front of the eye. Her training in Heidelberg and Lucerne ensures you receive care informed by the latest international advances.
Available Treatments
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DMEK Corneal Transplant
Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK)—the most advanced corneal transplant technique for endothelial cell disease, offering faster recovery and superior visual outcomes.
Take the First Step
Understanding your condition is the first step toward clear vision. Ms. Menassa is here to provide expert guidance, honest advice, and compassionate care.