Damage to the cornea can significantly impede vision, greatly affecting your quality of life. However, advancements in medical science have introduced Corneal Transplantation Surgery as a solution, effectively repairing the damage and enhancing vision, thus improving overall quality of life.
What are the benefits of this surgery?
One of the primary advantages of Corneal Transplant surgery is its remarkable improvement in vision. Following the procedure, patients often experience resolution of infections and damage. Observations indicate a notable alleviation of the severe pain associated with corneal damage, providing much-needed relief.
Who should undergo surgery?
Surgery becomes necessary when vision correction is required, typically due to specific medical conditions. Your physician may recommend surgery when vision problems are accompanied by severe pain and inflammation, indicating the need for intervention.
How is the surgery done?
The physician will recommend either full or partial thickness transplantation based on the optic condition. This decision also considers which part of the cornea requires replacement. Advancements in medical science now allow targeted replacement of only the damaged portions, avoiding the necessity for full-thickness replacement in all cases.
Full Thickness Transplantation
Full-thickness transplantation, also known as keratoplasty, involves removing a circular portion of the damaged cornea and replacing it with a donated one.
In most cases, the procedure involves using a rotating cutting tool to remove the damaged cornea. Surgeons then carefully stitch the new cornea into position, typically securing it along the edges with precision.
Typically lasting around an hour, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia. During this time, the patient experiences a temporary loss of vision as the eye ceases to function.
If you are undergoing full-thickness corneal transplantation, you will usually need to stay in the Hospital for the night.
Partial-Thickness Transplantation
Recent breakthroughs in medical science have enabled the targeted replacement of solely the damaged segment of the cornea, although this method isn’t universally applicable. The procedure, more intricate than full-thickness transplantation, necessitates the use of cutting instruments and, at times, laser technology. Analogous to full-thickness replacement, partial-thickness transplantation is administered under local anesthesia and typically lasts a couple of hours.
Corneal transplantation can bring improvement to the extent of 70% or even higher.
The recovery period and care
The anticipated recovery period varies depending on the extent of transplantation undergone by the patient. Typically, full-thickness transplantation requires approximately 18 months to yield complete results. For those seeking expedited outcomes, the use of contact lenses or spectacles is advisable. Conversely, partial-replacement offers a significantly shorter recovery time, with noticeable results emerging within a few weeks.
During the recovery period, it’s crucial for the patient to exercise proper caution. Rubbing the eyes should be strictly avoided, and activities such as swimming and engaging in full-contact sports should be temporarily abstained from. These precautions help ensure a smooth and successful recovery process.
What are the risk factors?

• The body may reject the implanted cornea. It will likely affect one out of every three patients undergoing surgery.
• Glaucoma and cataract
• Bleeding
• Infection to the eyes
• Temporary vision loss
• Swelling of the implanted cornea

Corneal Transplant Treatment cost in India are as follow