Home Treatments Eye Treatments Corneal Transplant

Corneal Transplant

eye-handsome-man-close-up-with-copy-space

At a glance:

Corneal Transplant london

Book a consultation NOW

Symptoms

Vision impairment, eye discomfort, and light sensitivity due to corneal conditions like keratoconus, Fuchs’ dystrophy, or scarring.

Diagnosis

Comprehensive evaluation using advanced imaging techniques to assess the cornea’s condition and determine the most suitable treatment plan.

Treatment

Corneal transplant surgery using donor tissue to replace damaged cornea, available in full-thickness or partial-thickness procedures, tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Our clinic operates as a private surgery and is not affiliated with the NHS (National Health Service)

What is a Corneal Transplant?

A corneal transplant, also known as a corneal graft or keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue. This treatment addresses conditions that impair the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye essential for vision, such as keratoconus, corneal ulcers, or scars from previous eye surgeries, which can lead to significant vision loss.

The surgery involves carefully replacing of the affected cornea to restore vision and improve quality of life. Post-operation, patients must use eye drops and take precautions to protect the new cornea.

At Clinica London, our expert team ensures the highest standard of care for corneal transplant surgery, tailored to each patient’s needs, aiming to achieve the best possible vision outcomes.

BOOK A CONSULTATION VIEW PRICES

Do I Need a Corneal Graft?

If you’re experiencing persistent eye discomfort, vision distortion, severe redness, or a decline in vision clarity, it’s time to consult with Clinica London’s specialists. Our expertise in cornea transplants can address conditions like keratoconus, Fuchs’ dystrophy, or corneal scarring, which impair vision and impact daily life.

Choosing Clinica London for your cornea transplant (London) means opting for precision and care. Our experienced corneal surgeons ensure optimal outcomes through:

Tailored Surgery: Each procedure is customised to meet your unique needs.

Comprehensive Care: Dedicated post-operative support to promote healing and maximise vision restoration.

Benefits of a Corneal Graft at Clinica London include:

Improved Vision: Significantly clearer and sharper vision post-surgery.

Reduced Discomfort: Alleviation of pain and discomfort associated with corneal damage.

Enhanced Appearance: Restoration of a normal, healthy-looking cornea.

At Clinica London, we prioritise your vision and well-being, guiding you through every step of the corneal transplant process with compassion and expertise.

If you believe your vision issues may be linked to a corneal condition, contact us to explore how a corneal graft could restore clarity to your life.

How Long Do Corneal Surgery (Keratoplasty) Results Last?

Corneal transplants, performed using the latest techniques and highest standards of care at Clinica London, are designed to offer long-term improvements in vision.

The results of a corneal graft are generally expected to last for ten years or more, offering a sustained enhancement to vision and overall quality of life. The success and longevity of the transplant depend on various factors, including the specific condition treated, the patient’s overall health, and their commitment to following post-operative care instructions.

Our team of expert ophthalmologists are dedicated to supporting patients through a comprehensive post-operative care plan, meticulously designed to optimise the lasting benefits of the corneal transplant and maintain the health of your eyes for as long as possible.

Corneal Transplant Surgery

A corneal transplant surgery, or keratoplasty, is a delicate procedure to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea to restore or improve the patient’s vision. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals suffering from corneal scarring, keratoconus, corneal dystrophies, or other conditions that affect the cornea’s clarity and function.

Procedure Overview:

The surgery involves carefully removing the damaged section of the cornea and replacing it with clear, healthy donor tissue. The donor cornea is secured with fine sutures, which may remain for months to over a year, depending on the individual’s healing process and the specific technique used.

Corneal transplants are generally completed in a single session. However, the number of follow-up visits required post-surgery can vary based on the patient’s response to the transplant, the healing process, and the need for suture removal or adjustment.

Preparing for Cornea Transplant Surgery (e.g. for advanced Keratoconus and other causes of corneal scarring)

Preparation for a corneal transplant involves several steps to ensure the best possible outcomes:

Comprehensive Evaluation: A thorough assessment by your ophthalmologist to determine the suitability for the procedure and to discuss any potential risks or complications.

Medication Review: Discuss current medications with your doctor, as some may need to be adjusted or stopped prior to surgery.

Fasting: Patients are typically required to fast for a certain period before the surgery, as it is usually performed under sedation or general anaesthesia.

Arranging Transportation: Since you will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure, it is necessary to arrange for someone to drive you home.

Different Types of Cornea Transplant Techniques

Corneal transplant techniques have evolved significantly, offering options that cater to the specific needs of the patient and the condition being treated:

Full Thickness Corneal Transplant (Penetrating Keratoplasty): Involves replacing the entire cornea with a donor cornea.

Partial Thickness Corneal Transplant (Lamellar Keratoplasty): Only the damaged layers of the cornea are replaced, preserving the healthy parts.

Endothelial Keratoplasty (EK): A procedure focused on replacing the cornea’s innermost layer, suitable for conditions affecting the endothelium.

The duration of the corneal transplants can vary depending on the specific technique used but typically ranges from one to two hours.

Does Corneal Graft Procedure Hurt?

Concerns about pain during corneal graft surgery are common among patients. It’s important to understand that the procedure is conducted under local anaesthesia, ensuring the eye is completely numb and the patient is comfortable throughout the surgery. This means that you should not feel any pain during the corneal transplant.

For added comfort, sedation options are available to help patients relax. Post-operative discomfort is typically minimal and can be effectively managed with medications prescribed by the surgeon.

Clinica London is committed to ensuring a pain-free experience during the procedure, prioritising patient comfort and care at every stage of the treatment process.

Recovery & Aftercare

Following a corneal transplant, the recovery period and aftercare are crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes. Recovery times can vary, with most patients noticing a gradual improvement in their vision over several months. Patients must adhere to the aftercare instructions provided by their surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery. These instructions typically include:

Eye Drops: Regularly use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.

Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a specified period to prevent complications.

Eye Protection: Wearing eye protection to safeguard the new cornea from injury.

Follow-up Visits: Attending follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and adjust treatment as needed.

Patients should report any signs of complications, such as increased pain, redness, or a sudden decrease in vision, to their surgeon immediately.

Risks & Side Effects

Donated cornea transplant surgery is highly successful, yet it carries some risks and potential side effects.

These include the possibility of:

Donor cornea rejection can often be managed with prompt treatment.

Infections are rare but can occur, and preventative measures and post-operative care are designed to minimise risk.

Glaucoma, where monitoring and management can mitigate the risk of increased eye pressure

Astigmatism, which may require corrective lenses for optimal vision post-surgery.

Understanding these risks is vital, and your surgeon at Clinica London will provide detailed information to ensure informed decision-making.

Pricing

Corneal transplantation (graft) at Clinica London begins at £12,000 per eye.

For comprehensive pricing details and inquiries, please refer to our dedicated pricing page.

OUR CONSULTANTS

Esteemed consultants direct Clinica London’s corneal transplant surgeries, including Professor Sajjad Ahmad, a leading forefront expert in corneal transplantation. With extensive experience in treating corneal diseases and a strong commitment to advancing the field through research, Mr Ahmad ensures our patients the highest standard of care.

Our team comprises specialists renowned for their expertise and dedication to achieving optimal outcomes in corneal transplantation. They combine advanced surgical skills with a compassionate approach to patient care, making Clinica London a trusted choice for your corneal transplant needs.

Professor Sajjad Ahmad

Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon
Cornea & External Eye Diseases, Cataract, Keratoconus & Refractive Surgery Specialist

Our clinic operates as a private surgery and is not affiliated with the NHS (National Health Service)

FAQS

Yes, the primary goal of corneal transplant surgery is to improve your vision. By replacing the damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor tissue, we aim to restore or significantly improve your vision.

The extent of vision improvement varies among patients depending on the underlying eye condition, the type of transplant performed, and individual healing responses.

The timeline for seeing results after corneal transplant surgery can vary. Some patients may notice improvements in their vision within a few weeks, while for others, it may take several months to achieve the outcome. The healing process is gradual, and vision clarity can improve over time. Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor your progress.

The success rate of corneal transplant surgery is influenced by several factors, including the type of corneal disease, the specific technique used for the transplant, the overall health of the patient, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.

Our expert team at Clinica London utilises the latest techniques and provides comprehensive aftercare to maximise the success rate and longevity of the transplant.

Corneal transplant surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs the eye area, ensuring you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. In some cases, sedation may be offered to help you relax.

The choice between local anaesthesia with or without sedation and general anaesthesia will depend on the specific details of your case and your comfort. Our team will discuss the best option for you during your pre-operative consultation.

Award Winning Clinic in London

Clinica London is a leading ophthalmology and dermatology medical clinic. It has a sense of passion for helping patients. The clinic’s consultants are highly skilled professionals who have received British, European, and international awards in their respective fields. Clinica is honest and offers transparent treatment advice in a relaxed and comfortable environment.

BOOK A CONSULTATION