How Endothelial Transplant for Fuchs Dystrophy Can Save Your Sight: Signs You Shouldn’t Wait

Fuchs’ dystrophy is a progressive eye condition that affects the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye. Over time, this disease causes the endothelial cells, which are responsible for pumping out excess fluid from the cornea, to deteriorate. As the cells weaken, fluid builds up, the cornea swells, and vision becomes increasingly blurry.
 

Fortunately, modern advancements in corneal surgery, particularly endothelial transplant procedures, can restore vision and protect your eye health. If you have been diagnosed with Fuchs’ dystrophy, knowing when to take action can make the difference between clear sight and permanent vision loss.
 

What Is an Endothelial Transplant?

An endothelial transplant, also known as endothelial keratoplasty, is a specialized surgery where only the damaged inner layer of the cornea is replaced. Unlike traditional corneal transplants that involve replacing the full cornea, this targeted approach is less invasive, allows faster healing, and has a higher success rate.
 

Two common techniques include:
 

•          DMEK (Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty) - A precise procedure where only the endothelial layer and its thin supporting tissue are replaced.

•          DSAEK (Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty) - Slightly thicker donor tissue is transplanted, offering excellent stability and vision restoration.
 

Both methods help restore the cornea’s ability to stay clear by ensuring fluid balance, improving vision, and reducing symptoms like glare and haziness.
 

Signs You Shouldn’t Wait

If you are living with Fuchs’ dystrophy, delaying treatment can put your sight at risk. Watch for these warning signs that it may be time to consider an endothelial transplant:
 

•          Persistent Blurred or Cloudy Vision - Especially if it doesn’t improve with new glasses or contact lenses.

•          Morning Haze That Lasts Longer - Many patients notice their vision is worse upon waking; if this persists or worsens, it’s a sign of advancing disease.

•          Glare and Halos Around Lights - Particularly noticeable at night or in low-light conditions.

•          Increasing Corneal Swelling or Pain - As fluid builds up, the cornea may become more swollen and uncomfortable.

•          Difficulty Performing Daily Activities - Reading, driving, or recognizing faces becomes harder due to visual distortion.
 

If left untreated, advanced Fuchs’ dystrophy can lead to severe corneal scarring and vision loss that may not be fully reversible.
 

The Importance of Early Treatment

Endothelial transplant surgery has an excellent success rate when performed before irreversible corneal damage sets in. Acting promptly not only improves your chances of regaining clear vision but also shortens your recovery time and helps you return to normal activities sooner.
 

At iSight Care, Dr. Sane specializes in advanced treatment options for corneal disease. We provide thorough evaluations and personalized care to determine whether an endothelial transplant is the right step for protecting your sight.
 

Discover if an Endothelial Transplant Is Right for You at iSight Care

Fuchs’ dystrophy doesn’t have to mean the loss of your independence or quality of life. With modern endothelial transplant procedures, you can restore clarity, reduce discomfort, and preserve your vision for the future. The key is not to wait until the disease has advanced too far.
 

If you are experiencing blurred vision, glare, or other symptoms of Fuchs’ dystrophy, now is the time to act. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sane at iSight Care (www.isightcare.com) to discuss your treatment options and see if an endothelial transplant can help you regain clear vision. Visit our office in Los Altos, California, or call (650) 747-8339 to book an appointment today.