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Keratoplasty Surgery – Cornea Transplant
Medically reviewed by: Op. Dr. Alim Hüseynov · Last updated: 7 September 2026
What is a corneal transplant?
Corneal transplantation (keratoplasty) replaces a cornea — or one of its layers — that has lost transparency or shape with healthy donor tissue. The aim is to restore vision, relieve pain or preserve the integrity of the eye.
When is it needed?
- Advanced keratoconus and other corneal thinning disorders
- Corneal scarring after infection or trauma
- Endothelial failure with corneal oedema (Fuchs dystrophy, post-surgical)
- Corneal dystrophies and infections unresponsive to treatment
Types of transplant
- Penetrating keratoplasty (PK): all corneal layers are replaced; used for extensive scarring and advanced disease.
- Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK): the patient’s own endothelium is preserved and the anterior layers replaced. Preferred in keratoconus, with a lower risk of rejection.
- Endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK / DMEK): only the diseased endothelial layer is replaced; visual recovery is faster and sutures are largely avoided.
After surgery
Recovery depends on the type of graft. After endothelial keratoplasty vision improves within weeks; after penetrating keratoplasty it may take months, and sutures remain in place for a long period. Regular use of steroid drops and attendance at follow-up visits are decisive. Astigmatism after transplantation is common and is managed with glasses, contact lenses or suture adjustment.
Graft rejection
Rejection of donor tissue is a risk with every type of transplant. Sudden loss of vision, redness, pain or light sensitivity require urgent assessment. Rejection recognised early usually responds to treatment.
Donor tissue
Donor corneas are supplied through an eye bank and undergo serological testing. Tissue supply and allocation follow the applicable regulations.
Frequently asked questions
When is a corneal transplant needed?
When corneal clarity or shape cannot be restored with glasses, lenses or other surgical options.
Which technique is used?
It depends on the affected layer: DALK where the endothelium is healthy, DSAEK/DMEK for endothelial disease, PK for extensive scarring.
How soon does vision improve?
Within weeks after endothelial keratoplasty; months after penetrating keratoplasty.
Can the graft be rejected?
Yes. Sudden visual loss, redness or pain require urgent assessment; early rejection usually responds to treatment.
Will I need glasses afterwards?
Usually. Astigmatism after transplantation is common and is managed with glasses, lenses or suture adjustment.
Medically reviewed by
Op. Dr. Alim Hüseynov — Ophthalmologist — refractive laser surgery, cornea and oculoplastic surgery, Nişantaşı Hastanesi Göz Merkezi. Our doctors
This page is for general information and does not replace an examination by a doctor. Treatment decisions are made after examination and diagnostic tests.
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