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Imagine an endless cycle of cloudy vision in the morning, clearer vision through the day, and eye pain in between. Over time, the blurry periods become longer until your eyesight has completely faded.
This phenomenon is common and is estimated to affect nearly 5% of all US adults over the age of 40. However, your solution is right here at CEENTA.
Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy (or simply known as Fuchs’ dystrophy) is a progressive eye disorder that affects the cornea. When the innermost layer of cells in the cornea — endothelial cells —begin to deteriorate, fluid can build up over time and reduce your vision.
The most common symptoms of Fuchs’ dystrophy include:
Your vision may also change throughout the day, starting off blurry in the morning and progressively clearing as the hours go on.
This condition is hereditary, but women are more likely to develop it than men. While symptoms often appear in middle age, early signs may begin in patients who are in their 30s and 40s.
In the beginning stages of Fuchs’ dystrophy, you may try non-surgical treatments like saline eye drops or a hairdryer to draw fluid from the cornea. This may not be enough to provide relief as the disease progresses.
Dr. Rena Xu, CEENTA’s newest fellowship-trained cornea specialist who practices out of our Concord, Huntersville, and University offices, offers two surgical treatments for Fuchs’ dystrophy: DMEK and DSEK.
Standing for Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty, DMEK is an advanced corneal transplant technique where a thin layer of donor endothelial cells and Descemet’s membrane are transplanted in the cornea. According to Dr. Xu, “This is the most advanced technique for treating Fuchs’ dystrophy, offering faster visual recovery, better visual clarity, and a lower risk of rejection.”
In more complex cases of Fuchs’ dystrophy or those with multiple failed grafts, Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (or DSEK) can be performed. “This reliable technique involves replacing the damaged endothelial layer with a slightly thicker donor graft that includes some supporting tissue,” says Dr. Xu.
The world is full of fantastic sights, and Fuchs’ dystrophy should not rid you of them. CEENTA’s team of cornea specialists are here to provide the clarity and relief you need with treatment options including DMEK and DSEK. “Together, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan to help restore and protect your vision,” says Dr. Xu.
To get started, schedule your cornea consultation with Dr. Xu at our Concord, Huntersville, or University locations today by calling 704-295-3000.
This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your physician.
CEENTA is proud to welcome cornea specialist Rena Xu, MD, PhD, to our practice effective August 5, 2025.
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