Corneal Transplants

When Do You Need a Cornea Transplant?

The cornea is the tissue on the very front of the eye. It is composed of a clear layer of cells and covers the iris and pupil. Additionally, the cornea works with the lens to provide focusing power to the eye. If the cornea becomes opaque, swollen, or scarred, the vision becomes compromised.

Medication to control the damage to the cornea is usually the first line of treatment, but once it is clear that medication will not halt or alter the damage, a corneal transplant is considered. This surgical procedure involves the removal of the damaged tissue and replacement with a healthy, donated cadaver human cornea. Corneal transplantation can involve replacing the entire cornea or select parts of the cornea.  Your underlying corneal condition would determine which type of transplant would be indicated.  Because corneal transplant procedures require a transplant of foreign tissue into the eye, rejection of the tissue by the immune system of the recipient is the greatest risk.

It is important to receive yearly exams so you may catch certain symptoms before they could create permanent damage to your corneas. Come in for a consultation at one of our offices today!