
Dr. Arash Alivand is a distinguished ophthalmologist in Shiraz, Iran, specializing in corneal and anterior segment disorders, currently serving as […]
A corneal transplant is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue to restore vision, reduce pain, and improve eye function.
Clear outer layer of the eye
Focuses light for sharp vision
Protects the eye from debris and infection
✔ Keratoconus (thinning, cone-shaped cornea)
✔ Corneal Scarring (from infections, injuries, or burns)
✔ Fuchs’ Dystrophy (endothelial cell loss)
✔ Bullous Keratopathy (swelling due to endothelial failure)
✔ Corneal Ulcers (severe infections)
Type | Description | Best For |
---|---|---|
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP) | Full-thickness cornea replacement | Severe scarring, advanced keratoconus |
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) | Replaces outer & middle layers | Keratoconus, superficial scars |
Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK/DMEK) | Replaces only inner endothelial layer | Fuchs’ dystrophy, endothelial failure |
Comprehensive eye exam (to assess corneal damage)
Donor cornea matching (tested for safety & compatibility)
Local or general anesthesia (no pain during procedure)
Damaged cornea removed, donor tissue stitched or secured
Duration: 30–90 minutes (depending on type)
Protective shield worn for a few days
Eye drops (antibiotics & anti-inflammatory) for months
Stitches removal (if used) in 6–12 months
Full recovery: 6–12 months (vision improves gradually)
90%+ success rate for most conditions
Faster recovery with newer techniques (DMEK/DSEK)
Rejection (5–30% risk; treatable if caught early)
Infection (rare with proper care)
Astigmatism (may require glasses/contacts post-surgery)
Signs of Rejection:
Redness, pain, light sensitivity, vision loss → See your doctor immediately!
🔹 Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery (more precise cuts)
🔹 Artificial corneas (for high-risk patients)
🔹 Better donor tissue preservation (extends usability)
Most patients regain functional vision
Regular follow-ups needed to monitor healing
Contact lenses/glasses may still be required
Q: How long does a donor cornea last?
A: Transplanted corneas can last decades with proper care.
Q: Can I drive after surgery?
A: Not immediately—vision may be blurry for weeks.
Q: Are there alternatives to transplants?
A: For early keratoconus, corneal cross-linking may help.
If you have:
🔸 Severe corneal scarring
🔸 Painful corneal swelling
🔸 Vision loss unimproved by glasses
Consult an ophthalmologist to explore options!
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