Corneal Transplantation

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.

Why is the Cornea Important?

  • Clear outer layer of the eye

  • Focuses light for sharp vision

  • Protects the eye from debris and infection

Who Needs a Corneal Transplant?

Common Conditions Treated

✔ 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)

Types of Corneal Transplants

TypeDescriptionBest For
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP)Full-thickness cornea replacementSevere scarring, advanced keratoconus
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)Replaces outer & middle layersKeratoconus, superficial scars
Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK/DMEK)Replaces only inner endothelial layerFuchs’ dystrophy, endothelial failure

What to Expect: Before, During & After Surgery

Before Surgery

  • Comprehensive eye exam (to assess corneal damage)

  • Donor cornea matching (tested for safety & compatibility)

During Surgery

  • Local or general anesthesia (no pain during procedure)

  • Damaged cornea removed, donor tissue stitched or secured

  • Duration: 30–90 minutes (depending on type)

After Surgery

  • 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)

Success Rates & Risks

Success:

  • 90%+ success rate for most conditions

  • Faster recovery with newer techniques (DMEK/DSEK)

Possible Risks:

  • 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!

Advances in Corneal Transplants

🔹 Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery (more precise cuts)
🔹 Artificial corneas (for high-risk patients)
🔹 Better donor tissue preservation (extends usability)

Life After a Corneal Transplant

  • Most patients regain functional vision

  • Regular follow-ups needed to monitor healing

  • Contact lenses/glasses may still be required

FAQs

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.

Is a Corneal Transplant Right for You?

If you have:
🔸 Severe corneal scarring
🔸 Painful corneal swelling
🔸 Vision loss unimproved by glasses

Consult an ophthalmologist to explore options!

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Nima Koosha

Nima Koosha

Cornea & External Diseases

Dr. Nima Koosha is an accomplished ophthalmologist based in Isfahan, Iran, specializing in corneal diseases and refractive surgery. He completed […]