Understanding the Cornea

The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped window at the front of the eye. It protects the eye from irritants and helps focus light so you can see sharp, detailed images. When the cornea becomes damaged, swollen, misshapen, or scarred, even simple daily tasks can become difficult. At Eye Surgeons of Indiana, our cornea specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of corneal diseases. Whether your goal is to relieve pain, improve clarity, or protect your long-term vision, we offer advanced treatment options for you.

What is Corneal Cross-Linking?

Video Thumbnail

What is DMEK & Fuch’s Dystrophy?

Why Patients Trust Eye Surgeons of Indiana

Patients and referring doctors have entrusted their care to our team for decades, not only because of our surgical skill, but because of the way we care for people. Our patients consistently describe their experience as warm, professional, and reassuring.

At Eye Surgeons of Indiana, you are never rushed, never pressured into a procedure, and never treated as “just another patient.” You receive clear explanations, advanced diagnostics, and a customized plan built around your needs.

“Every single person I encountered was professional and courteous. My personal doctors were top-notch, great personalities, great professionalism, and great skill. You can’t go wrong.”

- Patient, J.D.

Are You a Candidate for Cornea Surgery?

Cornea surgery may be recommended when vision changes, discomfort, or corneal damage cannot be corrected with medication, specialty lenses, or non-surgical therapies. You may be a candidate if you have:

  • Corneal scarring, thinning, or distortion affecting vision
  • Pain or irritation related to corneal disease
  • Fuchs’ dystrophy or degenerative endothelial (inner cornea) cell loss
  • Chronic infections or inflammation
  • Non-healing corneal ulcers
  • Progressive keratoconus or other corneal dystrophies

During your evaluation, we use state-of-the-art imaging to assess corneal thickness, curvature, cell health, and structural integrity. You’ll receive a clear explanation of your diagnosis, all appropriate treatment options, and our honest recommendation for the most effective long-term solution.

Banner media

Cornea Surgery and Treatments We Offer

Because we offer the full spectrum of corneal care, our specialists can match each patient with the procedure that fits their exact needs.

Corneal Transplant

A corneal transplant replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue. Corneal transplant surgery in Indianapolis may be recommended for scarring, advanced dystrophies, severe thinning, or structural damage. Recovery is closely monitored to ensure clear, stable vision.

DSAEK (Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty)

This partial-thickness transplant replaces only the diseased inner layer of the cornea. It is less invasive than full-thickness surgery and offers faster recovery and a lower risk of complications.

DMEK (Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty)

DMEK replaces only the ultrathin endothelial membrane. It demands exceptional surgical finesse but often delivers the most rapid visual improvement and lowest rejection rates of any corneal transplant.

Lamellar Keratectomy

This procedure removes only the affected corneal layers while preserving healthy tissue. It is used for certain scars, surface diseases, and structural irregularities on the top of the cornea.

Superficial Keratectomy

A gentle procedure that removes damaged or irregular surface tissue. It is commonly used for dystrophies, recurrent erosions, and scars that cause irritation or blur.

Corneal Cross-Linking

Corneal cross-linking (CXL) strengthens weakened corneal fibers, primarily to halt the progression of keratoconus (bulging cornea). Using ultraviolet light and special eye drops, CXL stabilizes the cornea and may help patients avoid or delay transplant surgery.

Schedule a Consultation

Contact Us

Conditions We Treat

Many patients arrive with a diagnosis already in hand, while others discover their condition during the evaluation. Our team treats all major corneal diseases, including:

Neurotrophic Keratitis

When the cornea loses sensation, it can no longer heal properly. We offer advanced therapies, including amniotic membrane grafts and regenerative drops, to restore comfort and promote tissue repair.

Infectious Keratitis

Corneal infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi must be treated promptly to protect vision. Our specialists provide fast diagnosis, targeted medical therapy, and surgical support when needed.

Keratoconus

This progressive thinning disorder causes the cornea to bulge into a cone shape, leading to distortion and blur. We provide comprehensive keratoconus management, including monitoring, collagen cross-linking, and corneal transplant when necessary.

Fuchs’ Dystrophy

Fuchs’ dystrophy destroys the inner corneal cells responsible for controlling fluid balance. As swelling increases, vision becomes hazy or cloudy, often worse in the morning. Treatments include DSAEK, DMEK, or other transplants, depending on disease severity.

Pterygium

A pterygium is a tissue growth on the cornea, often caused by sun exposure and environmental irritation. We remove pterygia with advanced surgical techniques and protective grafting to reduce recurrence and restore comfort.

Why Choose Eye Surgeons of Indiana for Corneal Care

Our cornea team combines decades of specialized experience with advanced imaging, refined surgical techniques, and a deeply patient-centered approach. Every treatment decision is personalized, whether you need minimally invasive therapy, cross-linking, or a complex transplant. We take time to explain every step, answer every question, and support you throughout recovery. Our goal is simple: help you return to life with clear, comfortable vision and the confidence that your eyes are cared for by the right team.

I am happy with my care. They are compassionate, knowledgeable and caring.

L.J.

Professional & friendly all the way from 
check-in to surgeon. Best run office I’ve ever been to. Surgery & sight as promised.

Anne H.

Had a visit with Dr. Morrow today and he was very thorough and helpful. I’d recommend this establishment to anyone.

Aron J.

Very efficient. Wait time limited and they 
got me in quickly. Went above and beyond to make sure I was attended to.

MJ K.

Very good experience. The best part was meeting the team everyone was so friendly. And I like the Dr I had. He was very thorough.

Delores B.

I am thrilled with the level of service that 
I have received. All staff members have been excellent to work with.

Clay O.
Read More Real Patient Reviews

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery depends on the specific procedure, but all patients receive detailed instructions and close follow-up. We guide you through medications, protective measures, activity restrictions, and milestones in healing. Your comfort, safety, and long-term vision are always our highest priorities.

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 317.841.2020.
Contact Us