DMEK corneal transplantation
Ophthalmology · Planning care in Germany and Czechia
- Clinical name
- Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK)
- German
- Descemet-Membran-Endothelkeratoplastik (DMEK)
- Czech
- Endoteliální keratoplastika DMEK
Replaces the damaged innermost corneal layer with donor tissue, often for Fuchs endothelial dystrophy. An air or gas bubble supports graft attachment. It differs from a full-thickness corneal transplant.
Time, hospital stay & appointments
Times are planning guides, not national averages or guaranteed schedules. They reflect published provider examples and patient guidance. The treating team confirms the individual plan, time needed near the clinic and fitness to travel. Waiting lists are not included.
- Procedure or course duration
- Oxford University Hospitals describes about 1 hour for endothelial keratoplasty, including DMEK. Donor preparation, anaesthesia and any combined cataract surgery require additional planning.
- Hospital stay
- Oxford University Hospitals describes same-day discharge for most patients, with an overnight stay for some. The surgeon confirms positioning instructions, pressure checks and discharge.
- Visits and repeat attendance
- Corneal assessment, preoperative preparation, 1 operation and early graft/pressure checks, followed by longer-term reviews. A detached graft may require an additional air or gas injection (rebubbling).
- Recovery and travel planning
- Drops and follow-up continue after discharge. Do not fly while an air or gas bubble remains in the eye; obtain the surgeon’s clearance and a plan for urgent eye symptoms.
Sources & finding a provider
Editorial source check: 29 October 2026. This is educational information, not an individual clinical assessment.
These country-specific sources document the service or its clinical use; their inclusion does not indicate a RAUQ partnership. Case acceptance, appointment availability and payment arrangements require separate provider confirmation.