Cornea Transplant in India: Costs, Procedure, Types & FAQs
Discover everything you need to know about cornea transplant in India—from eligibility and procedure to advantages, disadvantages, types of grafts, and common FAQs.
Cornea Transplant Cost in India
Typical cost ranges from ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 (~USD 2,400–2,800 per eye) depending on procedure type and hospital
Partial transplants like DALK, DSEK, DMEK average around ₹55,000–₹60,000 ($663–$723 USD)
Full‑thickness PK costs approx ₹50,000 ($602 USD) and up
What Is a Cornea Transplant?
Also known as keratoplasty or corneal graft, this surgery replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with donor corneal tissue to restore vision
When Is a Corneal Transplant Needed?
A cornea transplant is necessary when damage impairs vision and cannot be corrected with treatment or lenses. Conditions include:
Corneal scarring
Keratoconus
Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy
Corneal thinning or edema
Non‑healing ulcers and chronic swelling
Types of Corneal Transplant (Keratoplasty)
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) | Full‑thickness replacement of the entire cornea. Slower recovery, used when damage extends through layers . |
| Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) | Replaces middle/outer corneal layers, preserving inner layers; ideal for scarring. |
| Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK/DMEK) | Replaces only the innermost layer—Descemet’s membrane and endothelium; faster recovery and preferred for endothelial issues like Fuchs’ dystrophy. |
| Pre‑Descemet’s EK (PDEK) | Includes Dua’s layer, Descemet’s membrane, and endothelium; developed in India for deeper-level endothelial repair. |
| Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK/SALK) | Surface replacement procedures replacing superficial layers only. |
Cornea Transplant Procedure in India
Pre-op Assessment: Eye exams, allergy/infection checks, donor tissue matching, and basic systemic health evaluation
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia commonly used, general anesthesia for children/anxious patients.
Surgery: Procedure takes 45–75 minutes depending on type; donor cornea is trimmed and secured with fine sutures.
Recovery: Eye patch or shield worn initially; sutures may stay in place for months; visual recovery can take weeks to a year.
Advantages & Disadvantages
 Advantages |  Disadvantages / Challenges |
|---|---|
| Restored or improved vision—often dramatically | Risk of graft rejection (5–30% in high‑risk eyes), infection, glaucoma, astigmatism |
| Faster recovery with lamellar procedures (e.g. DMEK) | Limited or variable visual outcome—full function may take months to a year |
| Outpatient procedures available for partial transplants | Hospital stay of 1–2 days for full‑thickness PK |
Post-Cornea Transplant Care
Use prescribed antibiotic and eye drops regularly to prevent infection and rejection.
Keep the eye shield or patch on as instructed; remove only when advised.
Avoid eye rubbing or pressure, strenuous activity, or dust exposure.
Attend frequent follow-up visits—especially during the first year.
Be alert to symptoms like redness, pain, vision changes or light sensitivity.
Cornea Transplant FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How successful is cornea transplant in India?
Success rate exceeds 90% for keratoconus and other non‑scarred conditions; overall success ranges from 75–95% depending on condition and technique.Will I need glasses or contacts after surgery?
Most patients do—though a small percentage achieve good vision unaided. Final refractive correction may be needed after healing.Will my eye color change after cornea transplant?
No—the iris remains unchanged. Only corneal tissue is replaced.Can a person receive a cornea from a living donor?
No—donor tissue comes only from deceased eye donors with prior consent or pledges.How long until vision improves?
Most notice vision improvement within weeks, full clarity may take months to a year depending on procedure type.
Final Thoughts on Cornea Transplant in India
Cornea transplant in India has advanced significantly, offering cutting-edge treatments like full-thickness PK, DALK, DSEK, and PDEK — including innovative procedures like Dua’s layer-assisted transplants, discovered right here in India. With world-class surgeons, cost-effective packages, and high donor availability, India stands out as a trusted global hub for corneal care.
Whether you’re suffering from corneal scarring, keratoconus, or endothelial failure, timely intervention can restore vision, improve quality of life, and prevent permanent blindness. Always consult an expert to determine the right transplant type based on your condition.