At Vista Eye, we have the special expertise required in the management of corneal disorders, especially in situations where corneal transplantation (the surgical replacement of the cornea) is needed. The cornea is the clear dome that serves as the window into the eye. The cornea bends light rays that focus on the retina in the back of the eye. Whenever the shape or clarity of the cornea is altered the patient experiences a loss of visual acuity. Often injury or disease can affect the cornea rendering this normally transparent tissue to become cloudy, ultimately limiting one’s level of vision. If the cloudiness is significant, corneal transplantation may be necessary to remove the cloudy cornea and restore good vision.
There are many indications for corneal transplantation. Some of the more common ones include: Fuchs Corneal Endothelial Dystrophy, keratoconus when acceptable vision can no longer be obtained with glasses or contact lenses, corneal scarring as a result of injury, scarring that is the result of corneal infections, and failure of a previous corneal transplant.
Unlike cataract surgery where visual improvement is often seen within days, the healing process after corneal transplant surgery is typically much longer. While a patient is usually able to see well enough to perform most activities of daily living in the days following a corneal transplant, complete visual recovery is a slow process that takes 6 to 12 months or even longer. In addition, eye drops are usually necessary throughout this entire timeframe. With the technologically advance technique of partial corneal transplantation (DSEK) your recovery time may be significantly shortened. Ask Dr. Jani which corneal transplantation technique is right for you.
With proper care and follow up the surgical results can be excellent, helping many patients to regain vision and independence.
