Corneal Transplant

What is Corneal Transplant?

Corneal transplantation, also known as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces damaged or diseased corneal tissue with healthy donor corneal tissue. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye and plays a crucial role in focusing light. When the cornea becomes cloudy, scarred, or misshapen due to disease, injury, or genetic conditions, vision can be severely impaired. Corneal transplantation restores vision by replacing the damaged tissue with clear donor tissue, allowing light to properly enter the eye again.

Procedure Details

There are several types of corneal transplant procedures, each targeting specific layers of the cornea. Full-thickness transplant (penetrating keratoplasty) replaces the entire cornea. Partial-thickness transplants include DSEK/DMEK (replacing inner layers) and DALK (replacing outer layers while preserving the innermost layer). The surgeon selects the most appropriate technique based on the specific condition affecting the cornea. During the procedure, the damaged corneal tissue is removed, and the donor tissue is precisely positioned and secured with ultra-fine sutures or, in some cases, an air bubble (for endothelial keratoplasty). The surgery is typically performed under local or general anesthesia and takes 30-90 minutes depending on the technique. Advanced technologies such as femtosecond lasers may be used to create precise incisions for better wound healing and visual outcomes.

Recovery Information

• Surgery Time: 30-90 MIN
• Back to Work: 1-2 WEEKS
• Anesthetist: LOCAL/GENERAL
• Hospitalization Time: OUTPATIENT
• Recovery Time: 3-12 MONTHS
• Stay Time: 7-14 days

Benefits

• Restoration of vision in corneal blindness cases
• Relief from pain caused by corneal disease or injury
• Improved appearance of the eye in cases of scarring
• Prevention of further corneal damage
• Enhanced quality of life through better visual function
• Opportunity to preserve more healthy tissue with partial transplants
• High success rates with modern surgical techniques
• Potential for long-term graft survival

Why Choose Iran for Corneal Transplant

Iran offers numerous significant advantages for international patients seeking corneal transplantation:

• Renowned Corneal Specialists: Iranian ophthalmologists specializing in corneal surgery are internationally recognized for their expertise, with many having trained at prestigious global institutions
• Exceptional Cost Savings: Corneal transplantation in Iran costs 75-85% less than in Western countries, with comprehensive packages starting from $2,000-$4,000 (compared to $15,000-$30,000 in the US or Europe)
• Advanced Surgical Techniques: Iranian eye centers offer all modern corneal transplant procedures including DSEK, DMEK, DALK, and femtosecond laser-assisted keratoplasty
• Well-Established Eye Banking System: Access to quality donor tissue through Iran's organized eye banking network
• Comprehensive Eye Care: Full spectrum of services from pre-operative assessment to long-term follow-up
• High Success Rates: Iranian corneal transplant centers report outcomes comparable to leading global institutions
• Minimal Wait Times: Shorter waiting periods for donor tissue compared to many countries
• All-Inclusive Packages: Comprehensive care covering pre-operative assessment, surgery, post-operative care, accommodation, transportation, and interpreter services
• Combined Procedures: Options for addressing multiple eye conditions during the same visit

Risks and Considerations

• Potential for graft rejection requiring prompt treatment
• Risk of infection or inflammation
• Possibility of astigmatism affecting visual quality
• Suture-related complications in full-thickness transplants
• Need for extended use of steroid eye drops
• Potential need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery
• Possibility of graft failure requiring re-transplantation
• Slow visual recovery, especially with full-thickness transplants

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates for corneal transplantation include individuals who:- Have corneal scarring from injury or infection- Suffer from keratoconus (corneal thinning and bulging)- Have Fuchs' dystrophy or other corneal endothelial disorders- Experience corneal edema (swelling) that doesn't respond to other treatments- Have corneal ulcers resistant to medical therapy- Have failed previous corneal transplants- Have realistic expectations about recovery and outcomes- Are able to comply with post-operative care and follow-up

Preparation for Travel to Iran

Before traveling to Iran for corneal transplantation, patients should:- Consult with their chosen Iranian eye center remotely- Complete comprehensive eye examination in their home country and share results- Obtain necessary medical visa (facilitated by most medical tourism providers)- Discuss the most appropriate transplant technique with the Iranian specialist- Stop wearing contact lenses for the recommended period before surgery- Arrange for a companion to assist during the recovery period- Pack comfortable sunglasses for post-operative sun protection- Bring all current medications and eye drops- Prepare for a 7-14 day stay in Iran for the procedure and initial follow-up

Post-Operative Care in Iran

After corneal transplantation in Iran, patients benefit from:- Immediate post-surgical care in modern eye care facilities- Regular check-ups with your corneal surgeon during your stay- Provision of all necessary medications and eye drops- Detailed instructions on eye protection and activity restrictions- Dedicated medical tourism coordinators to assist with any needs- Comfortable recovery accommodations- Translation services for all medical communications- Guidance on long-term care requirements- Remote follow-up consultations as needed

Long-Term Results

The success rates for corneal transplantation are generally high, with over 90% of grafts remaining clear at one year for low-risk cases. Visual recovery varies depending on the type of transplant, with endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK/DMEK) offering faster visual rehabilitation (weeks to months) compared to full-thickness transplants (months to a year). Patients who undergo corneal transplantation in Iran report outcomes comparable to those achieved at leading global centers but at a fraction of the cost. Long-term success depends on careful follow-up care, compliance with medications, and prompt treatment of any complications. With proper care, many corneal transplants last 10-20 years or longer, with some functioning well for a lifetime.