Eye Care - Corneal Transplant

in Dalton, Georgia

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The cornea is the clear surface of the eye, and it is essential for good vision. If the cornea becomes injured, deformed, or diseased, it can impair vision, and for some patients, the best treatment to restore vision is to perform a corneal transplant (keratoplasty).

The Procedure

Corneal transplant is indicated for a variety of conditions which include but are not limited to corneal scars or infections, Fuchs Dystrophy, Keratoconus, and Pseudophakic Bullous Keratopathy. Anyone with visual disability from these conditions can have the damaged cornea replaced with a donor corneal tissue.

Recent advances in corneal transplantation techniques allow for the selective removal of the diseased part of the cornea which allows for safer surgery, lower risks for rejection, faster healing, and better quality of vision. Each procedure takes between thirty to sixty minutes. The surgeon will remove the affected part of the cornea, and then insert (or graft) the donor tissue. In some cases, the donor tissue is stitched into place using a fine thread. These stitches are removed by the surgeon at follow up visits.

Following Surgery

Following the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room to rest for about an hour. A protective shield will be placed over your eye, and you will need to wear this shield for about three days, unless your surgeon advises otherwise. This shield protects your eye from accidental bumps and rubs, and it is important that you continue to wear it.

Eye drops will be provided to prevent swelling and infection. To speed your recovery, please follow your surgeon's advice for using these drops. Please plan to have someone drive you home, as you will not be able to drive for several days.

You will return to the office the day after surgery for the doctor to check your recovery. You can expect to visit your doctor every 1-2 weeks the first month following surgery, and then every 2-3 weeks for the next 2 months.

Risks and Complications

Complications following corneal transplants are uncommon, but, as with any surgical and transplant procedure, there are certain risks. These include:

• Rejection of the donor tissue
• Bleeding
• Infection of the eye
• Glaucoma
• Swelling

If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact our office right away.

Corneal Transplant at PEA

Professional Eye Associates is proud to count among our staff the only fellowship-trained corneal specialist in the Northwest Georgia region, Dr. Brian Kim, MD. Dr. Kim joins our practice with extensive training and experience in performing natural and synthetic corneal transplants.

If you live in the Northwest Georgia area, and would like to know more about corneal transplantation, please call or email us to schedule your consultation. We will answer any questions you have, and we look forward to serving you.

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