This disclosure provides the first description of hESC-derived cells transplanted into human patients. Results are reported for one patient with each of Stargardt' s Macular Dystrophy (SMD) and Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Controlled hESC differentiation resulted in near-100% pure RPE populations. Immediately after surgery, hyperpigmentation was visible at the transplant site in both patients, with subsequent evidence the cells had attached and integrated into the native RPE layer. No signs of inflammation or hyperproliferation were observed. The hESC-derived RPE cells have shown no signs of rejection or tumorigenicity at the time of this report. Visual measurements suggest improvement in both patients.