Corneal Transplant in Austin

What is a corneal transplant?

A corneal transplant is a procedure in which a damaged or diseased cornea is replaced by healthy corneal tissue.  The process can help reduce pain levels and restore vision to those who had serious vision problems in the past. It's an outpatient procedure with low recovery time and very little pain. There are few side effects, and preparation time on your part is fairly minimal.

Who is a candidate for a corneal transplant?

This procedure can be performed for a variety of reasons. The most common are Fuch's Corneal Dystrophy and keratoconus. Another major indication is corneal scarring that results from old infections, trauma or birth defects. In some cases, thinning of the cornea can be treated in this manner. Those who have had complications from previous eye surgeries may also benefit from a procedure like this one.

How is the procedure performed?

The surgeon cuts a circular graft from a donor cornea. The same size circular disc is cut from your eye. Then, the donor cornea is fastened to your eye using tiny sutures that are smaller than a human hair. Drops will then be placed in your eye and finally, your eye will be patched. The next day, you'll return to our office to have the patch removed.

What can I expect during the recovery period?

Immediately following the transplant, your vision will be blurry and it's likely you will experience mild pain. Normal vision will slowly return in 3-6 months, and sutures will be gradually removed during this time period. Additionally, steroid eye drops are used for the first year following the surgery to prevent the body from rejecting the new corneal tissue.

What is endothelial transplantation (DSAEK)?

Endothelial transplantation or DSAEK,  is the newest type of corneal transplant that may be used in certain corneal disorders. DSAEK stands for Descemet's Stripping Automated Endothelial Transplantation.  This procedure has the benefit of offering more rapid visual recovery and eliminates the complications that may be associated with the multiple sutures used in traditional tranplants.  Patients who have a disease state of the endothelial portion of their cornea are excellent candidates for this procedure.  Dr. Cottle is the only corneal surgeon in Cedar Park to be able to offer this exciting new technique to her patients.