Corneal Surgery & Transplants are procedures designed to treat conditions that affect the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye that helps focus light. Corneal issues, such as scarring, thinning, clouding, or damage from infections or injuries, can lead to vision impairment or even blindness. Corneal surgery aims to restore clear vision by repairing or replacing damaged tissue.
Corneal Transplant (or Keratoplasty) is the most common procedure, where the damaged cornea is replaced with healthy donor tissue. There are different types of corneal transplants:
- Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK): A full-thickness transplant that replaces the entire cornea.
- Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK/DSEK/DMEK): Partial-thickness transplants that replace only specific layers of the cornea, depending on where the damage is.
Advances in corneal surgery allow for more precise, minimally invasive procedures, resulting in quicker recovery and better outcomes. Other corneal treatments may include corneal cross-linking, LASIK, or PRK, depending on the patient’s condition. Corneal surgery can significantly improve vision and quality of life, and a thorough evaluation by an eye specialist can determine the most suitable treatment approach.