Corneal Transplant in India
Your cornea is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye. When it becomes cloudy, scarred, or swollen from injury, infection, keratoconus, or Fuchs’ dystrophy, vision blurs and glasses can’t fix it. A Corneal Transplant (keratoplasty) replaces the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea to restore vision, relieve pain, and improve appearance.
Discover what this treats so that you can choose confidently
Corneal transplant is recommended when corneal scarring, edema, or distortion causes significant vision loss—commonly from keratoconus, Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy, infections/ulcers, trauma, or hereditary disease. Replacing the damaged layer (partial) or full thickness cornea lets light focus properly again.
Why people choose India when this procedure is needed
- Experienced corneal surgeons trained in Europe and the USA
- Fresh donor tissues via certified eye banks
- Advanced DALK, DSEK, and DMEK techniques for layer-specific surgery
- NABH-accredited hospitals and dedicated eye centers
- Costs 70–80% lower than Western countries
- Comprehensive post-op care and vision rehabilitation
India’s leading eye hospitals achieve success rates above ninety percent, restoring clear vision for thousands each year.
How the procedure works in simple steps
Like swapping a fogged camera lens for a clear one, keratoplasty restores focus so images are sharp again.
- Evaluation: Detailed eye exam determines damage and the best technique (PK, DALK, DSEK/DMEK).
- Donor tissue preparation: Healthy cornea from a registered eye bank is quality-checked.
- Surgery: Under local or general anesthesia, damaged tissue is removed; the donor cornea is shaped and secured with fine sutures or laser assistance.
- Recovery: Drops, medicines, and protective shields prevent infection and rejection.
Procedure time: 1–2 hours. Most patients go home the same day or next day.
Who should consider this and when to wait
- Vision significantly reduced by corneal scarring, swelling, or distortion
- Advanced keratoconus not correctable with contact lenses
- Permanent damage after corneal ulcers or infections
- Hereditary endothelial disease (e.g., Fuchs’ dystrophy)
Consider waiting or nonsurgical options if vision is manageable with lenses/medications, or if there is active infection/inflammation. Your ophthalmologist advises timing based on eye status and donor tissue availability.
Benefits and risks that you should understand
Benefits
- Restores or markedly improves vision
- Reduces corneal pain and discomfort
- Improves eye appearance and clarity
- Durable results—donor corneas can last decades
Possible risks (closely managed)
- Graft rejection (≈5–10%)
- Infection or inflammation
- Astigmatism related to sutures
- Graft failure (occasionally needs repeat surgery)
With proper drops, shielding, and follow-ups, most patients achieve stable, long-term vision.
Recovery timeline so that planning feels easier
- Week 1: Eye shield and antibiotic drops; mild irritation possible.
- Month 1: Vision starts to clear; sutures remain.
- Month 3–6: Most activities resume; vision stabilizes.
- Month 12: Final correction; selective suture removal if advised.
Patient moment “After my cornea transplant in India, I could see clearly within weeks—like seeing the world for the first time.”
Cost overview without surprises
| Type of Corneal Transplant | Average Cost (USD) | Typical Hospital Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Penetrating Keratoplasty (Full Thickness) | 2000 – 3000 | 1 – 2 days |
| DSEK / DMEK (Partial Thickness) | 2500 – 3800 | 1 – 2 days |
| Artificial Corneal Implant (Keratoprosthesis) | 4000 – 5500 | 2 – 3 days |
Final cost depends on technique, donor tissue, and hospital category. Personalized estimates are provided after evaluation.
How to compare hospitals and specialists with confidence
Choosing your surgeon is like selecting an artist to restore a delicate painting—precision and experience matter most.
- Corneal surgeon’s expertise and number of transplants performed
- Eye bank certification and donor tissue quality standards
- Hospital accreditation (NABH/JCI)
- Post-transplant vision rehabilitation and optics support
- Transparent costs and structured follow-up plan
Ask about success rates, expected visual improvement, and follow-up frequency before deciding.
Questions people often ask before this treatment
Will my vision become normal after surgery?
Most patients see dramatic improvement, though full clarity may take months.
How long does the donor cornea last?
Many last 20 years or more with good care.
Can I donate my cornea after death?
Yes—eye donation is coordinated through authorized eye banks in India.
Is corneal transplant painful?
No—performed under anesthesia; mild irritation during recovery is common.
Can both eyes be operated on?
Yes, but surgeries are staged with healing time in between.
Video testimonials from real patients
Watch inspiring stories from international patients who regained sight after corneal transplant in India.
Important care note so that every reader stays safe
Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye. Use prescribed drops exactly as directed, wear protection outdoors, and attend regular follow-ups. Limit dust and bright light exposure until cleared by your surgeon.
Medically reviewed by
Dr Aryan Malhotra
MBBS, David Tvildiani Medical University, Georgia
Radiation Oncology Resident, Burdwan Medical College and Hospital
Registration number: 95565
Dr Malhotra reviews organ and tissue transplant content for Treatmentcost.com to ensure medical accuracy, clarity, and patient safety.
Disclaimer
This page is educational and not a substitute for medical advice. Corneal transplantation must be planned and performed by qualified ophthalmic surgeons in licensed eye centers.
References
Watch patient videos
https://www.youtube.com/@TreatmentCost