For good vision, the cornea should be transparent, smooth, properly shaped, and healthy. If it is damaged or misshapen, for example, it cannot properly focus the light that enters the eye, leading to glare or blurry vision. If your cornea is beyond repair, a corneal transplant may be a viable solution for you. The surgery involves replacing a damaged cornea with donor tissue. Eye Clinic of Austin is one of the premier eye care and surgery centers in Central Texas. Our team is dedicated to helping patients improve or maintain healthy eye function. Learn more about corneal transplants at our facility below.
What Conditions Can a Corneal Transplant Treat?
A corneal transplant may be recommended for you if you have experienced severe corneal damage, which can cause pain in the eyes or cloudy, blurred vision. Many patients can have their vision restored with a corneal transplant. If you have any of the following conditions, a corneal transplant may be an option:
Fuch’s dystrophy: Fuch’s dystrophy is an inherited eye disease that typically affects the corneas in both eyes. As the disease progresses, endothelial cells deteriorate, which causes the formation of small bumps on the cornea. When this occurs, fluid begins to build up, causing corneal swelling and blurry vision.
Keratoconus: Keratoconus is an eye condition that affects the corneal structure. With keratoconus, the cornea will begin to thin and bulge outward into a cone shape, which greatly diminishes vision quality. The condition is associated with several risk factors, including genetics, eye rubbing, age, and allergies. In the early stages, vision can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses; however, this becomes less effective over time. Corneal crosslinking may be a treatment option as the condition advances, but late-stage keratoconus may require a corneal transplant to restore vision.
Ulcers on the cornea: Corneal ulcers are open sores on the cornea that can lead to symptoms such as redness, watery eyes, or severe pain. These ulcers can be the result of injuries, inflammation, or infection and can cause permanent corneal damage if not treated.
Benefits of Surgery
After undergoing a corneal transplant, most patients experience better vision. In some cases, a corneal transplant may be recommended to reduce eye pain, which can effectively boost their quality of life. The surgery is considered safe, and Dr. Irshad will make every effort to reduce the risk of complications or rejection following the transplant.
Corneal Transplant in Austin
Dr. Irshad and his team at Eye Clinic of Austin understand that eye surgery may be intimidating for some patients. However, his expertise and commitment to patient care allow him to deliver excellent results to his patients. Take the first step toward better vision by contacting our office for a consultation.