Cornea Treatment
Expert care for corneal diseases and transplants
Overview
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. Corneal diseases, infections, and injuries can cause significant vision impairment. Modern corneal treatments — including transplants and cross-linking — can restore clarity and function.
Corneal specialists treat a wide range of conditions from infections and ulcers to keratoconus and corneal dystrophies. Corneal transplantation (keratoplasty) is one of the most successful tissue transplant procedures in medicine.
Signs & Symptoms
- Eye pain or discomfort
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Redness of the eye
- Excessive tearing
- Distorted vision
- Feeling of something in the eye
Causes & Risk Factors
- Keratoconus (thinning and bulging of the cornea)
- Corneal infections (bacterial, viral, fungal)
- Corneal dystrophies (inherited conditions)
- Eye injuries or chemical burns
- Complications from contact lens wear
- Previous eye surgery complications
Treatment Options
Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)
Riboflavin drops combined with UV light to strengthen corneal collagen fibres and halt keratoconus progression.
Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)
Full-thickness corneal transplant replacing the entire diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue.
DSAEK / DMEK
Selective transplantation of only the inner layers of the cornea, offering faster recovery and better outcomes for endothelial diseases.
Intrastromal Corneal Ring Segments (ICRS)
Small plastic rings implanted in the cornea to flatten and regularise the corneal surface in keratoconus.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a corneal transplant last?
Most corneal transplants last 10–20 years or longer. Some patients may need a repeat transplant if the graft fails.
Is corneal cross-linking painful?
The procedure itself is not painful as anaesthetic drops are used. Some discomfort and light sensitivity may occur for a few days after.