Stromal Corneal Transplant (ST)

The Problem

• The front of the eye is scarred or bent out of shape

Surgery

• Layered transplantation is highly skilled microsurgery to restore vision
• The front layer of the cornea is replaced with healthy donor corneal tissue
• The inner layer of the cornea is retained, eliminating the risk of devastating rejection
• Surgery is under general anaesthesia and takes 90 minutes
• The donor tissue is stitched in place with fine sutures
• You may go home a few hours after your surgery

What to expect

• You will be able to remove the eye-pad on the next day
• The vision will be blurry and improve slowly
• You will need to use drops after surgery
• Stitches may remain in place for up to 18 months
• You can change glasses at approximately 3 months after surgery

Remember 

• Refrain from rubbing the eye indefinitely after transplantation
• Stitches are usually removed at around 18 months in the office
• Continued care is required to reduce the risk of graft failure and the need for a repeat transplant
• Failure to follow medical advice after corneal transplantation will cause transplant failure
• You MUST CONTINUE DROPS until specifically instructed to cease by Dr Maloof