Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK)

Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) is an advanced type of corneal transplant surgery used to treat diseases that affect the innermost layer of the cornea, called the endothelium.

In DMEK, only the damaged endothelial layer and its supporting membrane (Descemet membrane) are removed and replaced with healthy donor tissue. This makes it a much thinner and more targeted transplant compared to older methods, where more layers of the cornea were replaced.

Appointment Information

To learn more about DMEK or DSEK, please schedule an appointment with the Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery Program at 734-764-4190.

What is the DMEK?

Some corneal conditions—like Fuchs’ Corneal Dystrophy, surgery-related damage, or injury—can cause corneal swelling, leading to cloudy vision, discomfort, and over time, permanent vision loss.

If you’ve been diagnosed with corneal swelling or advised to have a corneal transplant, you may be a candidate for Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) or Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK). These procedures replace only the damaged inner layer of the cornea, unlike full-thickness corneal transplants. DMEK uses a thinner graft than DSEK, allowing for faster recovery and improved outcomes.

Because the transplant is placed inside the eye, a small air or gas bubble is used to hold it in place. After surgery, patients are asked to lie on their backs for most of the day for a few days to help the graft stick properly. Your surgeon will monitor healing closely, and if needed, may place another bubble to improve graft attachment. Both DMEK and DSEK offer improved vision and long-term success compared to traditional corneal transplants.

What Happens During the DMEK Procedure?

Damaged Tissue Removal: The surgeon removes the thin, inner layer of your cornea
Donor Tissue Placement: A very thin layer of healthy donor corneal tissue (Descemet membrane and endothelium) is carefully inserted into the eye.
Bubble Support: A small air or gas bubble is injected into the eye to hold the graft in place against your cornea while it heals.
Positioning: After surgery, you'll need to lie on your back for most of the day for a few days to help the graft stay in position.

What are the benefits of DMEK?

Faster healing and clearer vision than full-thickness corneal transplants
Lower risk of tissue rejection
Less invasive with fewer complications

Are you a candidate for DMEK or DSEK?

The U-M Kellogg Eye Center team will evaluate patients with corneal disorders to determine whether DMEK or DSEK is appropriate for their condition. The procedure is approved and intended for patients with Fuchs’ corneal dystrophy, corneal edema after cataract surgery, and failed corneal transplants.