Corneal Transplant in India: Giving Back the Gift of Sight

A corneal transplant, medically referred to as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace part or all of a damaged cornea with healthy donor tissue. The cornea plays a vital role in focusing light and maintaining clear vision. When it becomes scarred, swollen, or misshapen due to injury or disease, a transplant can help restore sight.

The surgery is typically performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s condition, and may be done on an outpatient basis. Post-operative care and follow-up are essential for long-term success.

Several eye disorders can compromise the integrity and transparency of the cornea, necessitating surgical intervention:

• Keratoconus – A progressive thinning and cone-like bulging of the cornea.
• Corneal scarring – Resulting from trauma, infections (e.g., herpes simplex), or previous surgeries.
• Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy – A genetic condition causing swelling and clouding of the cornea.
• Corneal edema – Accumulation of fluid in the cornea, impairing vision.
• Graft failure – In cases of previous unsuccessful corneal transplants.

Indian eye specialists are well-versed in diagnosing and treating such conditions using modern surgical approaches and global best practices.

Thanks to evolving technologies in ophthalmology, surgeons in India now offer various types of corneal transplant procedures tailored to the patient’s specific condition:

Each technique has its own advantages, and the choice depends on the extent of corneal damage and the surgeon’s recommendation.

India stands out globally for its expertise in ophthalmology and affordability of care. Patients from around the world choose India for corneal transplants for the following reasons:

• Cost-Effective Care: Corneal transplant surgery in India typically costs between $2,000–$2,500, including hospital fees, surgeon charges, and donor tissue. In comparison, the same procedure in countries like the U.S. or U.K. may exceed $30,000, excluding travel and accommodation.
• Skilled Surgeons: India’s leading ophthalmologists are internationally trained and specialize in complex corneal procedures. Many are affiliated with top global research institutions and maintain high surgical success rates.
• Internationally Accredited Hospitals: Reputed eye hospitals such as Apollo Hospital, Max Super Specialty Hospital and The Sight Avenue Hospital follow NABH and JCI standards, ensuring safety, hygiene, and consistent care.
• Advanced Eye Bank Network: India has a well-developed eye banking infrastructure that ensures timely availability of safe and healthy donor corneas. Tissues are meticulously screened for infections and viability before use.
• Comprehensive Patient Support: Through facilitation platforms like VRH Healthcare, international patients receive end-to-end assistance—including medical visa guidance, airport transfers, interpreter services, and accommodation support.

Modern keratoplasty techniques offer a range of benefits with significantly reduced complications:

• Improved Vision: Most patients regain functional or near-normal vision, improving their ability to perform daily tasks.
• Reduced Dependence on Lenses: In cases like keratoconus, patients often experience improved corneal shape and less reliance on corrective lenses.
• Lower Rejection Rates: Especially with partial-thickness procedures like DMEK and DSAEK.
• Faster Healing: Patients undergoing DMEK can achieve 20/40 vision or better in as little as 6–12 weeks.

Success Rates:

• DMEK: Over 90% success with minimal complications.
• Long-term graft survival: Up to 85–90% over 5 years with proper follow-up.
• Rejection risk: Less than 10% with adherence to post-operative care and medications.

Some of the most trusted names in eye care in India include:

These institutions house highly experienced cornea specialists and offer state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technologies.

At VRH Healthcare, we are committed to making high-quality eye care accessible to international patients. We help you connect with India’s top eye hospitals and provide:

• Pre-arrival video consultations
• Medical visa assistance
• Airport pickup and local transport
• Interpreter and translation services
• Customizable treatment and travel packages
• Post-treatment follow-up coordination

Learn more about our services or contact our international patient support team for personalized assistance.

Losing vision due to corneal damage doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Thanks to India’s combination of medical excellence, affordability, and global-standard facilities, thousands of patients from across the world regain their sight and confidence each year through corneal transplants.

If you or a loved one is considering keratoplasty, connect with VRH Healthcare today to begin your journey to restored vision.