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Corneal Transplants
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The cornea is the clear front window of the eye that covers the colored iris and the pupil. Light passes through the cornea so we can see. To have clear vision, the cornea must be healthy. If the cornea is damaged, swollen, scarred, or irregularly shaped, the cornea may scatter or distort light, resulting in glare or blurry vision.
Conditions that may require corneal transplants:
- Corneal failure after other eye surgery, such as cataract surgery
- Keratoconus, a steep curving of the cornea
- Hereditary corneal failure, such as Fuchs’ Dystrophy
- Scarring after infections, especially after herpes
- Scarring after injury
Corneal Transplant Surgery
Before your surgery, your name will be added to a list at your local eye bank for a donor cornea. Usually, the wait is not very long. The donor cornea will be tested for viruses and will be carefully checked for clarity. During the surgery, the eyelids are held open with a lid speculum. You will not see the surgery while it is happening. The damaged cornea is then removed from the eye and a clear donor cornea is sewn into place.
After the surgery, you will need to use the prescribed eye drops, take care not to press or rub your eye, wear glasses or an eye shield, and not drive a vehicle until instructed by your doctor. Eventually, depending on your eye health and rate of healing, the stitches will be removed.
As with any transplant surgery, complications are possible. Dr. Ranelle would be happy to speak with you about those concerns.
Image of Transplanted Cornea
Your ophthalmologist at Fort Worth Eye Associates can provide you with more information specific to your case. The above information is not intended to replace a personal exam, medical diagnosis, and/or complete treatment description by an ophthalmologist.
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