Procedure Type
SurgicalProcedure Duration
1 - 2 HoursHospital Stay (Days)
1 - 3 daysCorneal transplantation, also known as a corneal graft or eye transplant, is a surgical procedure where a damaged or diseased cornea is replaced with healthy donor tissue. The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye that helps focus light. When it becomes cloudy or scarred due to injury, infection, or disease, it can significantly impair vision. Corneal transplantation restores clarity and improves vision, often leading to dramatic improvements in a patient’s quality of life.
People may need a corneal transplant if they suffer from conditions that affect the structure or clarity of the cornea. Common reasons include keratoconus (a condition where the cornea thins and bulges outward), corneal scarring from infections like herpes simplex, traumatic injuries, complications from previous eye surgeries, or degenerative diseases such as Fuchs' dystrophy. In severe cases where vision cannot be restored through glasses, contact lenses, or medications, transplantation becomes necessary.
Corneal transplant surgery is typically done under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s condition and preference. The surgeon removes the damaged or diseased portion of the cornea and replaces it with a precisely cut, healthy donor cornea. The most common type of transplant is penetrating keratoplasty (full-thickness transplant), but other methods like DSEK (Descemet's Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty) or DMEK may be used for specific conditions. The new cornea is carefully stitched into place using fine sutures, and the eye is then protected with a shield.
Senior Consultant & Assistant Professor MBBS, MD OPHTHALMOLOGY, FRCS
MBBS, MD - Ophthalmology Ophthalmologist/ Eye Surgeon
Recovery from a corneal transplant is gradual and can take several weeks to months, depending on the type of procedure and the patient’s healing response. After surgery, the patient will need to use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and rejection, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity, and attend regular follow-up appointments. Vision will initially be blurry, but it typically improves steadily. Some patients may need corrective lenses or additional procedures to achieve optimal vision.
As with any surgical procedure, corneal transplantation carries potential risks. These include infection, inflammation, increased intraocular pressure (glaucoma), cataract formation, and the possibility of graft rejection. Graft rejection, which occurs when the immune system attacks the donor tissue, can often be managed with timely medical intervention. Following post-operative instructions and maintaining close communication with the ophthalmologist helps reduce these risks.
Corneal transplant surgeries have a high success rate, especially with modern surgical techniques and advanced post-operative care. Most patients experience significant improvement in vision and can return to normal activities over time. Success rates may vary depending on the underlying condition being treated and whether the transplant is a first-time procedure or a repeat operation.
Gurugram, India
Gurugram, India
Gurugram, India
Honest Guidance, Reliable Support, Seamless Journeys.
Provide Us
Reports
Get Medical
Opinions
Pre-Arrival
Arrangements
Visa
Support
Assistance in
Treatments
Fly back and
Follow Up
