Your cornea is an essential part of how your eye functions. When it’s compromised, it can affect how you see and disrupt your quality of life. An exam can determine the best treatment to help keep your cornea functioning and healthy. If your eye doctor recommends that you need a cornea transplant, here are a few things you can expect that come with the procedure.
Why Would I Need a Cornea Transplant?
Your cornea plays a significant role in your vision. In some cases, serious complications make the need for a cornea transplant necessary.
Some reasons for needing a cornea transplant include:
- eye infections
- Inflammation of the eye
- Thinning of the cornea
- Fuchs dystrophy
Eye infections and inflammation can come from rubbing your eyes or wearing contact lenses. Each time you touch your eyes without washing your hands, you can inadvertently expose your body to bacteria and risk infection.
Chronic conditions involving the cornea can sometimes cause thinning, resulting in impaired vision. When your cornea thins, its shape changes, and it can no longer focus the light in your eye. This can hinder your eyesight and make tasks such as driving, reading, or using a computer challenging.
What Happens With A Cornea Transplant?
A cornea transplant requires a donor, and, unlike other transplant surgeries, it does not require tissue matching. Not needing matching tissues makes for a shorter waiting list and helps improve your chances of getting the procedure.
On the day of your procedure, you may have a local anesthetic or receive a sedative to keep you from feeling pain.
The procedure typically takes less than an hour but can vary depending on your situation.
After the procedure, medication can help control swelling and reduce the risk of your body rejecting the new cornea. Also, wearing eye protection and avoiding injuries are essential for recovery.
Some patients report their vision is slightly worse immediately after surgery, but this is temporary. Your vision may slightly worsen because your eye is adjusting to the new cornea, which can take some time.
If you have questions about cornea surgery, schedule a consultation with our office. Dr. Groat serves the Wilmington area and is ready to help. Call today at 910) 769-4590.
