A corneal transplant is an operation to remove all or part of the damaged cornea replacing it with healthy donor tissue.
Often referred to as keratoplasty or corneal graft, the procedure improves sight, relieves the patient, and can treat severe infections or damage.
Alternative treatment options available for the vision problem include:
The recovery time for a corneal transplant depends on types of corneal transplants. Typically, it can take about 18 months to experience the final results of a full-thickness transplant.
Sometimes, the vision may fluctuate before it improves. Some patients may require wearing corrective lenses even after the vision returns.
During the procedure, the doctor removes a circular piece of the damaged cornea from the center of your eye and replaces it with a healthy cornea.
Most cornea transplant surgeries involve transplanting the full thickness of the cornea. But, with modern technology, doctors can perform partial corneal transplants.
The full-thickness transplant or penetrating keratoplasty involves the removal of the circular piece of your damaged cornea, and the new one is replaced and held in place by tiny stitches.
After the procedure, you should wear eye shields to protect the eyes during the healing process. To help the new tissue stay in place, lie on your back.
Prepare to take rest after the cornea transplant. Avoid strenuous activities, eye rubbing, or pressing the eye.
The doctor will schedule the follow-up clinics and monitor your progress. In case of complications, contact your doctor.
Some of the possible complications you can develop after a cornea transplant in Turkey include:
Most patients report a high satisfaction rate, and cornea transplant surgery in Turkey has a success rate of 70% - 90%.
Stop Aspirin and other medications that might contain blood thinners weeks before the procedure.
Do not smoke tobacco at least two weeks before the procedure.
Use the antibiotic drops before the procedure to prevent an infection.
Avoid alcohol and other drugs that might affect anesthesia.
Procedure | Corneal Transplant |
Duration | Less than an hour |
Stay | 2 - 3 nights |
Cost in Turkey | €12,000 per eye |
Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
Recovery | 2 - 3 weeks |
Final Results | 18 months |
Side Effects | Red eye, light sensitivity or photophobia, vision problems |
Risks | Glaucoma, Astigmatism, Internal infection |
Success Rate | 90% |
Exercise | After 3 - 4 months |
Back To Work | After 2 - 3 weeks |
Scars | No |
Pain | No |
Related Procedures | Bandage contact lenses |
Many patients like to travel to medical tourism hubs and believe they provide the best healthcare. Also, geographical location plays a role. Turkey and Hungary have gained a reputation as top destinations for medical treatment.
The vast number of patients who travel to these destinations adds value to their experience and understanding of international patients' expectations.
One of the significant benefits of having treatment in Turkey is avoiding waiting time. In some countries like the UK and USA, there is a waiting time for a specific procedure, which can take months. But in medical tourism countries, it is reduced drastically. In some cases, with no waiting time.
A cornea transplant can last a lifetime, but there is a possibility you will need to replace the cornea if there is cornea transplant rejection.
The procedure takes less than an hour, and you may leave the hospital the same day or stay overnight, depending on the procedure.
Corneal transplant success rate ranges between 90% after a year and 74% after five years. Typically, the success rate depends on the patient’s surgery and health.
The recovery time for a corneal transplant depends on the type of procedure. Typically, it can take about 18 months to enjoy the final results of a full-thickness transplant.
A corneal transplant can restore vision and improve the appearance of a damaged or diseased cornea.
No. The doctor will place you under local anesthesia to be comfortable during the procedure.