Corneal transplantation (keratoplasty), commonly known as eye transplantation; is a surgical procedure performed when the transparent layer at the front of the eye becomes permanently cloudy or deformed due to disease, trauma, or infection. The damaged corneal tissue is removed and replaced with healthy donor tissue obtained from the Turkish Cornea Bank.
The aim is to restore visual clarity and preserve the structural integrity of the eye. The decision for transplantation is made by a specialist after a detailed eye examination, corneal topography, OCT, and endothelial cell count if necessary.
In Which Situations is Corneal Transplantation Necessary?
- Advanced keratoconus (cases where cross-linking, rings, or hard lenses are insufficient)
- Corneal dystrophies (Fuchs endothelial dystrophy, lattice, and macular dystrophy)
- Corneal scars after trauma, burns, or severe infections
- Recurrent or resistant corneal infections
- Failed previous corneal transplantation (re-keratoplasty)
- Endothelial insufficiency (loss of function of the inner layer of the cornea)
Types of Corneal Transplantation
Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP): All layers of the cornea are replaced. It may be preferred in cases of deep scars, advanced keratoconus, and extensive dystrophies.
Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK): Only the anterior and middle layers are replaced; the patient's endothelium is preserved. The risk of tissue rejection may be lower in suitable patients.
Endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK / DMEK): Only the thin inner layer is transplanted in Fuchs dystrophy and endothelial insufficiency. Smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less astigmatism are targeted.
Surgical Process
- Pre-evaluation — Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, corneal topography, retina, and lens examination are performed.
- Waiting list — Suitable donor corneal tissue is obtained in coordination with the Turkish Cornea Bank.
- Surgery — Usually performed under local or sedation anesthesia; the duration is 45–90 minutes depending on the case.
- Discharge — Most patients are discharged on the same day or the next day.
- Follow-up — Regular check-ups in the first week, first month, and thereafter; eye drop treatment is used regularly.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Mild burning, tearing, and light sensitivity in the first days are normal. Visual clarity gradually improves over a few weeks to a few months; full stabilization may take 6–12 months depending on the type of transplantation.
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed
- Avoid rubbing the eye; stay away from swimming/bath pressure during the period recommended by the doctor
- Do not miss follow-up appointments
- Seek immediate attention for sudden redness, pain, or vision loss
In keratoconus patients, transplantation is not always the first option. In the early stage, cross-linking and hard contact lens treatments are prioritized; transplantation is planned only in advanced cases where sufficient vision cannot be achieved with other methods.
Corneal Transplantation at the First Eye Hospital
At the First Eye Hospital, corneal diseases are evaluated with advanced imaging devices. In cases of keratoconus, dystrophy, corneal scars, and endothelial insufficiency, the patient is first examined for protective treatments; transplantation is planned only when truly necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most cases are planned. In emergencies such as severe infection or corneal perforation, intervention may be required without delay.
Donor tissues are screened and tested at the Turkish Cornea Bank; they are stored in accordance with international standards.
In many patients, vision improves significantly. Glasses, hard lenses, or additional intervention may be needed for astigmatism or fine adjustments.
In the early period, most rejections are controlled with aggressive drop treatment. If necessary, re-transplantation is evaluated.
Generally no. Months are left between the two eyes; this facilitates recovery monitoring and visual adaptation.
No. In the early stage, cross-linking and lens treatments are prioritized. Transplantation is considered in advanced cases when other methods are insufficient.
