Symptoms/Conditions Addressed

• Blurred or decreased vision

• Corneal clouding or opacity

• Pain or irritation in the eye

• Sensitivity to light

• Corneal thinning or distortion affecting daily activities

Types of Cornea Transplant

1. Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)

   • Full-thickness corneal transplant

   • Replaces all layers of the cornea

2. Lamellar Keratoplasty

   • Partial-thickness transplant

   • Only the affected layers of the cornea are replaced

3. Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK/DMEK)

   • Replaces only the innermost endothelial layer

   • Faster recovery and less risk of rejection

Procedure Overview

1. Pre-operative Assessment

   • Comprehensive eye examination

   • Corneal topography, pachymetry, and other imaging tests

   • Blood tests and evaluation for anesthesia suitability

2. Surgical Procedure

   • Performed under local or general anesthesia

   • Diseased corneal tissue removed and replaced with donor cornea

   • Sutures or tissue adhesives used to secure the graft

   • Procedure duration: 1–2 hours depending on type of transplant

3. Post-operative Care

   • Hospital stay: Usually 1 day; outpatient follow-up required

   • Eye drops (antibiotics and steroids) to prevent infection and rejection

   • Follow-up for graft healing, vision improvement, and suture removal

   • Avoid rubbing eyes and follow precautions for several months

Benefits of Cornea Transplant

• Restores vision in cases of corneal damage or disease

• Reduces pain and discomfort caused by corneal disorders

• Improves quality of life and independence

• Minimally invasive options like lamellar or endothelial keratoplasty reduce recovery time

• Long-term solution for irreversible corneal damage

Cornea Transplant Cost in India

Table 1: Average Cornea Transplant Cost in India

Factors Affecting Cost

1. Type of corneal transplant – Full-thickness vs partial-thickness

2. Hospital facilities and city – Advanced eye centers in metro cities may charge higher

3. Donor cornea availability – Imported or premium-quality grafts may cost more

4. Patient condition – Previous eye surgeries or complications may increase costs

5. Follow-up care – Eye drops, suture removal, and regular check-ups

Who Should Consider Cornea Transplant?

• Patients with corneal scarring, clouding, or thinning

• Individuals with keratoconus or endothelial dystrophy

• Patients with failed previous corneal surgery

• Candidates referred by ophthalmologists or cornea specialists

• Suitable for adults and pediatric patients, depending on the condition