Restoring Sight with Corneal Transplantation: What You Need to Know

The cornea—the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of your eye—plays a vital role in focusing your vision. When it becomes damaged or diseased, your eyesight can become blurred, distorted, or even lost. Corneal transplantation offers a highly effective solution to restore vision and improve quality of life for patients with corneal disorders.

At Seema Eye Care Centre, we are dedicated to delivering expert care for a wide range of corneal conditions, including those requiring transplant surgery. With a patient-first approach and years of clinical experience, our team is here to guide you every step of the way through your vision restoration journey.

What Is Corneal Transplantation?

Corneal transplantation, also known as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure where damaged or diseased corneal tissue is replaced with healthy donor tissue. It is typically performed to treat:

• Corneal scarring from infections or injuries

• Keratoconus, a condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge

• Fuchs’ dystrophy, a degenerative disease that affects the cornea’s inner layer

• Corneal ulcers or swelling that has not responded to other treatments

Types of Corneal Transplants

Advances in medical technology have made it possible to tailor corneal transplant procedures to individual needs. Depending on the extent and location of corneal damage, your ophthalmologist may recommend one of the following:

1. Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)

This full-thickness transplant involves replacing all layers of the cornea and is often used for severe scarring or trauma.

2. Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK or DSEK)

A partial-thickness transplant where only the innermost layer (endothelium) is replaced. This technique offers faster healing and fewer complications for diseases like Fuchs’ dystrophy.

3. Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK or DALK)

This method removes and replaces the outer and middle layers of the cornea, leaving the endothelium intact. It’s commonly used for keratoconus or superficial scarring.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Corneal transplantation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia, depending on the case. The surgery generally lasts between 30 to 90 minutes.

During the procedure:

• The surgeon removes the damaged corneal tissue.

• The donor cornea is carefully shaped and sutured into place.

• Protective coverings or shields may be applied to protect the eye during initial healing.

At Seema Eye Care Centre, we use the latest surgical techniques and equipment to ensure the highest levels of precision and safety throughout the entire process.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-operative care plays a crucial role in the success of a corneal transplant. Patients are usually prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and eye pressure.

Tips for Recovery:

• Avoid rubbing or pressing on your eye.

• Protect your eyes from injury or harsh environments.

• Follow your medication schedule strictly.

• Attend all post-operative appointments.

Most patients notice an improvement in vision within a few weeks to several months, though full recovery can take up to a year depending on the type of transplant.

Risks and Success Rates

As with any surgical procedure, corneal transplantation carries some risks, including infection, rejection of the donor tissue, or increased eye pressure. However, with modern techniques and proper aftercare, the success rate of corneal transplants remains very high.

If complications arise, early detection and treatment can greatly reduce the risk of long-term problems. That’s why choosing an experienced team, like the specialists at Seema Eye Care Centre, is critical for the best outcomes.

When to See a Specialist

If you are experiencing ongoing vision problems, pain, or symptoms like corneal swelling or distortion, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis. Our team can determine whether corneal transplantation—or another form of treatment—is right for you.

If you're searching for a trusted ophthalmologist in Calgary, our clinic combines advanced surgical skill with compassionate care to support your journey to better vision.

Conclusion
Corneal transplantation is a life-changing procedure that can restore clear, functional vision to those with serious corneal conditions. At Seema Eye Care Centre, we are committed to helping you regain not just your sight, but your confidence and independence.

If you or a loved one is struggling with corneal disease, don’t wait—schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward clearer vision and improved quality of life.