Corneal Transplant – Full Thickness

The Problem

A Corneal Transplant is required when the cornea at the front of the eye has lost clarity. This causes blurring vision. With modern techniques used in ophthalmic surgery, a full corneal transplant is a last resort. A layered transplant is the method of choice but is not always possible. Below is an image of a donor cornea, due to be used in surgery.

For Corneal Transplant surgery, the entire central cornea is replaced with clear donor cornea.
Surgery may be performed under local or general anaesthesia, this is a case by case decision.
Donor cornea is supplied by the Lions Eye Bank
The new cornea is sewn in place using very fine stitches.
Cataract surgery, if necessary, is usually performed separately.
Surgery takes about 90 minutes, in most cases
You will be discharged a few hours after surgery

You can remove the eye pad the next day after surgery
The vision will be reduced the next day
Watery discharge, pain, grittiness or discomfort is normal the first week after surgery
You need to use drops as prescribed after surgery
Stitches may remain in place for up to 18 months
You will not change glasses for approximately 3 months after surgery and advised when it is appropriate to do so.
Refrain from swimming for a period of 1 month after surgery
The stitch may require a re-tensioning in the first month after surgery

Avoid injury to the eye – it is weaker, and injury could rupture the eyeball
NEVER rub the eye: Repeated rubbing may cause warpage to the cornea
Removal of the stitches, cataract surgery, glaucoma surgery or repeat corneal graft may be needed at any time
Continued care is required to reduce the risk of transplant failure
Failure to follow medical advice may affect the life of the transplant