If the cornea becomes damaged, light entering the eye is distorted and causes our vision to appear blurry. There are several ways that the cornea can become damaged; these may include injury, disease, infection, or a previous eye surgery. Sometimes damage to the cornea is mild enough that it may be repaired to restore vision; however, if damage is more severe a corneal transplant may be necessary. A corneal transplant involves the removal of the central portion of the diseased cornea, which is replaced with a healthy donor cornea. First, you are given eye drops and medication to help you relax. Next, the central, damaged part of the cornea is carefully removed from the eye. Finally, the healthy donor cornea is securely sewn into place.

Once your cornea transplant is completed, medications are prescribed to help control infection, swelling and pain as well as prevent corneal graft rejection. You will also wear a protective eye shield at night, which you should continue to wear until your doctor instructs you to remove it. It is important to follow all instructions given to you by your physician, as this helps bring the fastest visual recovery. Plan to take it easy after your cornea transplant, and slowly work your way back to your normal activities. Corneal transplantation surgery has a high success rate, but like any surgery complications can occur. The most common complication is rejection of the new cornea. This problem can be recognized by increased sensitivity to light and a sudden increase in eye pain. Because rejection of the new donor tissue can take place years after having surgery, it’s important to schedule and attend follow-up appointments based on your doctors instructions as well as remaining on any post-operative drops prescribed to you by your physician.

The cornea is the clear, protective ‘window’ at the front of the eye. Any scratch, or scrape to the surface of the cornea is called a corneal abrasion. Typically, these injuries are caused by direct contact with a sharp object, such as a fingernail, tree branch, or makeup brush. Corneal abrasions can also be caused when small airborne particles such as dust, wood, or metal shavings make contact with the eye. Even contact lenses, and conditions such as Dry Eye, can cause abrasions. Common symptoms associated with corneal abrasions include tearing, eye redness, pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision.

As soon as a person experiences a corneal abrasion, it is important to visit an eye care professional immediately, within 24 hours. If left untreated, a corneal abrasion can lead to a secondary infection that can threaten vision in the absence of immediate medical attention.

Keratoconus is the thinning of the cornea the clear dome-shaped outer surface of your eye. Eventually, the cornea bulges outward into a cone shape causing blurred vision, sensitivity to light and difficulty seeing at night. Most commonly affecting individuals between the ages of 10 to 25, the chance of developing it increases if it runs in the family. Different treatment options are available, depending on the severity. Mild to Moderate Keratoconus may be treated with eyeglasses or contact lenses. Another treatment is called Corneal Collagen Crosslinking, which uses riboflavin and UV light to strengthen the cornea. Often this treatment is used in addition to the insertion of Intacs.

Intacs corneal implants are two small crescent shaped pieces made of plastic polymer which are inserted into the cornea to support the cornea’s shape, leading to improved vision. But if the cornea becomes scarred, making it painful to wear contacts, surgery is another option. Recovery time can take up to one year and you may need to continue wearing rigid contacts to ensure clear vision. Keratoconus can worsen over time so early detection is key. If you notice any of the symptoms, it is best to schedule an appointment with your eye care professional. He or she can work with you, to make sure you have the best vision possible!