Corneal Transplantation

Trauma, disease, and other factors can damage the cornea, leaving behind scar tissue and compromising vision. To help patients whose corneas have been injured or affected maintain optimal corneal health and to prevent vision loss, we offer corneal transplantation surgery. Corneal transplantation surgery is becoming increasingly common – in fact, more than 45,000 procedures are performed each year. Its success rate is generally very high: nearly 95 percent of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after surgery!

Corneal transplantation surgery, like cataract surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis at our practice . Anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye, and in some cases, patients who are prone to anxiety are placed under sedation. During the procedure, a tiny portion of the cornea is surgically removed (a laser is not used) and replaced with donor cornea tissue, then sutured into place. Sometimes, other procedures, such as cataract removal and lens implantation, are performed in conjunction with corneal transplantation surgery. During the first few weeks after surgery, the patient will experience blurred vision and focusing difficulties, but these side effects will fade as the eye heals. Additionally, most patients can resume normal activities shortly after surgery. As with all surgical procedures, there are some risks associated with corneal transplantation, such as rejection. Rejection symptoms include redness, sensitivity, changes in vision, and pain. Patients experiencing any of these side effects should contact their surgeons immediately.

To learn more about corneal transplantation, please contact us today!