Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition that causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, leading to distorted vision. For patients with advanced keratoconus who no longer benefit from contact lenses or glasses, a cornea transplant becomes a viable solution. This procedure, also known as corneal transplantation, replaces the damaged cornea with a healthy donor cornea to restore clear vision.
Understanding Keratoconus and Its Progression
Keratoconus typically starts in the teenage years or early adulthood and progresses over time. Symptoms include:
- Blurry or distorted vision
- Increased light sensitivity
- Frequent prescription changes in glasses or contacts
- Difficulty seeing at night
When keratoconus progresses to an advanced stage, and vision correction through glasses or keratoconus contact lenses is no longer effective, corneal transplantation is often recommended.
Types of Cornea Transplant for Keratoconus
There are different types of corneal transplant procedures depending on the severity of the condition:
| Type of Corneal Transplant | Description |
|---|---|
| Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) | Full-thickness transplant replacing the entire cornea. |
| Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) | Partial-thickness transplant preserving the innermost corneal layer. |
| Endothelial Keratoplasty (EK) | Suitable for endothelial dysfunction rather than keratoconus. |
Who Needs a Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus?
Patients with the following conditions may be eligible for a keratoconus eye surgery:
- Severe corneal thinning
- Significant keratoconus progression
- Scarring from previous corneal damage
- Intolerance to keratoconus contact lenses
Corneal Transplant Procedure
Pre-Surgery Evaluation
- Detailed eye examination
- Measuring corneal thickness
- Checking for corneal scarring
Surgical Process
- A healthy donor cornea is prepared.
- The damaged cornea is removed.
- The new corneal grafting is stitched into place.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Regular check-ups are necessary.
- Corneal transplant aftercare includes eye drops and avoiding strenuous activities.
- Full recovery may take several months.
Corneal Transplant Success Rate and Risks
The corneal transplantation success rate for keratoconus is quite high, with 90% of patients experiencing vision improvement. However, potential risks include:
- Corneal transplant complications like rejection
- Infection or scarring
- Astigmatism requiring additional correction
Cost of Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus
| Country | Average Cost of Corneal Transplant |
| USA | $13,000 – $27,000 |
| UK | £6,000 – £8,000 |
| Turkey | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| India | $2,500 – $4,000 |
Factors affecting the corneal transplant cost include:
- Hospital and surgeon fees
- Type of transplant procedure
- Post-surgical care expenses
Alternatives to Corneal Transplant for Keratoconus
Before opting for surgery, patients may explore:
- Corneal cross-linking to strengthen the cornea
- Scleral lenses as an alternative to transplant
- Intacs (corneal implants) to reshape the cornea
Why Choose Cayra Clinic for Keratoconus Surgery?
At Cayra Clinic, we specialize in advanced keratoconus treatment options, including corneal transplantation, corneal cross-linking, and other vision correction procedures. Our experienced eye surgeons and state-of-the-art medical facilities ensure successful outcomes with affordable corneal transplant costs. Read about Cayra Clinic’s expertise in eye care and transplants on our About Us page. If you’re struggling with keratoconus progression, contact Cayra Clinic today for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the success rate of cornea transplant for keratoconus?
The corneal transplantation success rate is over 90% for keratoconus patients.
How long does it take to recover from cornea transplant surgery?
Recovery can take between 6 months to a year, depending on the procedure.
Is cornea transplant painful?
The procedure is painless due to anesthesia, but mild discomfort is expected post-surgery.
What are the risks of corneal transplantation?
Risks include rejection, infection, and astigmatism that may need correction.
How much does cornea transplant cost in Turkey?
The corneal transplant cost in Turkey ranges from $4,000 to $6,000, making it a cost-effective option.
Can keratoconus come back after cornea transplant?
Keratoconus does not return in transplanted corneas, but other eye conditions may develop.
Are there alternatives to cornea transplant for keratoconus?
Yes, options like corneal cross-linking and scleral lenses may help delay or avoid transplant.
Can I wear contact lenses after a cornea transplant?
Yes, many patients use specialized lenses for better vision correction post-surgery.
Is cornea transplant covered by insurance?
In some cases, insurance covers the surgery, but coverage varies by provider and country.
How do I know if I need a cornea transplant?
If glasses and keratoconus contact lenses no longer provide clear vision, a cornea transplant may be necessary.