Cornea Replacement Cost in India 2025
Cornea replacement in India is a highly cost-effective solution . Compared to global prices, India offers advanced eye care at nearly half the cost, attracting patients from around the world.
Cornea Replacement Cost in India (2025)
Treatment | Cost in India (INR) | Cost in USD (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) | ₹50,000 | $1,200 |
| Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK) | ₹55,000 | $1,320 |
| Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) | ₹60,000 | $1,440 |
| Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK) | ₹52,000 | $1,248 |
| Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) | ₹58,000 | $1,392 |
| Pre-Descemet’s Endothelial Keratoplasty (PDEK) | ₹60,000 | $1,440 |
🔍 What is Cornea Replacement?
Cornea replacement, also known as corneal transplant or keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure where a damaged or cloudy cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea. It restores clear vision, reduces pain, and improves the appearance of a diseased cornea.
Symptoms Indicating Corneal Damage
You might need a corneal transplant if you notice:
Persistent blurry or cloudy vision
Eye pain or discomfort
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Eye redness and inflammation
Difficulty wearing contact lenses
Common Causes of Corneal Damage
Keratoconus (thinning of the cornea)
Eye infections like herpes simplex or fungal keratitis
Injuries or burns to the cornea
Previous eye surgeries gone wrong
Corneal dystrophies (inherited conditions)
Advantages & Disadvantages
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Improves or restores clear vision | Graft rejection risk (rare) |
| Reduces eye pain and discomfort | Recovery time of a few weeks to months |
| Allows normal life and work post-recovery | Lifelong eye drops and follow-ups |
| Safe and proven long-term outcomes | Not suitable for every patient |
❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does recovery take after cornea replacement?
A: It can take several weeks to a few months for complete vision improvement.
Q2: Is the surgery painful?
A: The procedure is done under local anesthesia, so there’s no pain during surgery. Some mild discomfort may follow.
Q3: How long does the donor cornea last?
A: Donor corneas can last 10–15 years or more with proper care.
Q4: Is cornea transplant in India safe for foreigners?
A: Yes. India has top-tier eye hospitals, trained specialists, and English-speaking staff—making it ideal for medical tourists.
Q5: What is the success rate of corneal transplants in India?
A: Over 90% for most types of transplants, depending on the condition and care.
Final Thoughts
Cornea replacement in India is not just affordable but also highly effective. From full-thickness PK to advanced PDEK procedures, patients receive world-class care at a fraction of the international cost. India is home to top eye hospitals offering quick appointment scheduling, excellent infrastructure, and trusted donor networks.