DMEK and S-DMEK in Cairo — by the surgeon who introduced it.
DMEK (Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty) replaces only the inner endothelial layer of the cornea — the gold standard for Fuchs dystrophy and endothelial failure. Dr. Ahmed Shaarawy was the first surgeon to perform S-DMEK in Egypt and the broader Arab region after training under Prof. Mark A. Terry at Devers Eye Institute, Portland — one of the original developers of the technique. From $3,000 with internationally certified eye-bank tissue.
Why choose us
International standard. Regional access.
Fellowship under Prof. Mark A. Terry
Devers Eye Institute, Portland, Oregon — where modern DMEK was developed. Direct training in the original technique from one of its inventors.
First S-DMEK in Egypt and the Arab region
Dr. Shaarawy introduced the S-DMEK variant — using a tissue stamp to prevent the donor membrane from being implanted upside-down. A meaningful safety improvement.
AAO-published outcomes
Co-author on AAO 2014 research showing DMEK improves vision even in eyes with prior refractive surgery — a notoriously challenging patient group.
Lowest rejection rate of any transplant
DMEK has a lifetime rejection rate of 3–5%, far below DSAEK (5–10%) or PKP (15–20%). Because only one layer of foreign tissue is implanted, the immune response is minimized.
Procedures & pricing
Transparent USD pricing.
Final cost is set after clinical examination. Local-currency equivalents available on request. Insurance reports issued for international patients.
| Procedure | Best for | From (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| S-DMEK (S-stamp DMEK) | Tissue marked with an S-stamp on the donor side — eliminates the risk of upside-down implantation. | $3,000 – $3,500 |
| Standard DMEK | Conventional DMEK technique. Used when S-stamped tissue isn't available. | $2,800 – $3,300 |
| DMEK + cataract surgery (triple procedure) | DMEK combined with phaco + IOL in a single session. Common in Fuchs patients with cataract. | $4,000 – $5,200 |
Common questions
Frequently asked.
Discuss your case with the surgeon who introduced S-DMEK to the region.
Send your specular microscopy, OCT, and recent topography. We'll respond within 24 hours with whether DMEK, DSAEK, or another approach is right for you, the all-in cost, and a recommended travel plan.