Corneal Transplantation
Corneal transplantation is a surgical procedure where diseased or damaged corneas are replaced with donated tissue. It has become the most common solid organ transplants in the United States. Conditions that may require corneal transplantation include scarring from infections or trauma, and various forms of degeneration; such as Fuchs’ dystrophy and keratoconus.
Our surgeons have expertise in performing multiple types of corneal transplants, including partial and full thickness grafts. Corneal transplantation is an outpatient procedure that only requires topical drops post-operatively to prevent rejection. Pre- and post-operative care is important to avoid potential complications. While visual recovery is usually fairly quick, it may be weeks or months before new glasses or contacts can be fit and worn.
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus, often referred to as ‘KC’, is a non-inflammatory eye condition in which the typically round dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and weakens, causing the development of a cone-like bulge and optical irregularity of the cornea.
This causes ‘static’ in your vision and can result in significant visual impairment.
What are Corneal Ectasias?
Corneal ectasias are non-inflammatory, progressive degenerations of the cornea. Keratoconus being by far the most common type of ectasia. This condition causes a progressive thinning and irregularity of the cornea, which is the clear front shield of the eye. If keratoconus becomes advanced, it can significantly limit vision even with contacts or glasses.
To date, the only way to stop progressive ectasias in the cornea is with corneal collagen cross-linking. This procedure enhances the natural chemical crosslinking of the cornea and increases rigidity and promotes stability. It is important to consider cross-linking while the vision is still correctable with glasses or contacts.