Corneal Transplant (Penetrating Keratoplasty)

The cornea is the clear dome-shaped structure on the anterior part of the eye. Scarring, swelling, or infection of the cornea can decrease its clarity, resulting in poor vision. If eye drop medications cannot restore corneal clarity, a patient may need a corneal transplant. The diseased or scarred central portion of the cornea is surgically removed and replaced with a donor cornea. This surgery is an outpatient procedure. General anesthesia may be required, however, some patients need only a local block around the eye. Visual recovery varies on every patient with many taking 6-12 months to get back useful vision.