Corneal Transplant in Indianapolis, IN

Name: Corneal Transplant
Brand: Eye Surgeons of Indiana
Rating: 4.9 (3298 reviews)

Restore clear vision, reduce discomfort, and protect your long-term eye health with advanced corneal transplant procedures at Eye Surgeons of Indiana. Our experienced surgeons help patients regain clarity, comfort, and confidence so they can enjoy life without the limitations of corneal disease.

Discover Life With Clear Vision

At Eye Surgeons of Indiana, we specialize in surgical solutions for corneal disease, including full- and partial-thickness corneal transplants. Using state-of-the-art technology and a compassionate, patient-centered approach, we help you experience the world with sharper vision and greater comfort. For nearly 30 years, patients across Indianapolis and surrounding communities have trusted our surgeons to provide expert care in a supportive, informative environment.

What Is a Corneal Transplant?

A corneal transplant, also called keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces damaged or diseased corneal tissue with healthy donor tissue. This procedure can restore clarity, reduce pain, and improve quality of life for patients with conditions such as:

Corneal scarring or clouding
Keratoconus (thinning and bulging of the cornea)
Chronic or severe corneal infections
Surface damage causing discomfort or vision loss
Advanced endothelial (inner cornea layer) disease, such as Fuchs’ dystrophy

Transplants are highly effective for improving vision when other treatments, including medication, specialty lenses, or less invasive procedures, cannot provide sufficient relief.

Schedule a Consultation

Why Choose Eye Surgeons of Indiana?

Our Indianapolis cornea specialists are board-certified ophthalmologists and optometrists with extensive experience in microsurgical corneal procedures. We perform both full-thickness (penetrating) and partial-thickness (lamellar or endothelial) transplants using advanced techniques to maximize visual outcomes while minimizing complications.

We take time to explain each procedure in clear, understandable terms, answer all your questions, and guide you through recovery. Our goal is simple: restore your vision and comfort while giving you confidence in your care.

Types of Corneal Transplants

Full-Thickness (Penetrating) Corneal Transplant

This procedure replaces the entire thickness of a damaged cornea with donor tissue. It is often recommended for severe scarring, advanced keratoconus, or deep infections. Surgeons carefully remove the diseased tissue and suture the donor cornea, allowing it to integrate over time for restored vision.

Partial-Thickness (Endothelial) Corneal Transplant

This approach replaces only the affected layers of the cornea while preserving healthy tissue. Partial-thickness transplants reduce the risk of rejection, minimize complications, and often result in faster visual recovery. They are especially suited for localized corneal disease or conditions like Fuchs’ dystrophy.

These advanced techniques target the innermost corneal layer, the endothelium, which regulates fluid balance and transparency. DSAEK (Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty) replaces a thicker section of the endothelium, while DMEK (Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty) replaces only an ultra-thin portion, including the endothelial membrane. Both methods are minimally invasive, offer smaller incisions, and provide excellent visual outcomes with quicker recovery.

Donor Tissue and Surgical Precision

All donor tissue is rigorously screened, preserved, and matched through FDA-regulated eye banks to ensure safety and compatibility. Our surgeons use advanced operating microscopes and microsurgical instruments for precise placement, suturing, and integration of donor tissue. This precision helps minimize postoperative astigmatism, blur, or complications and supports optimal visual results.

Recovery After Corneal Transplant

Recovery varies depending on the type of transplant:

Full-thickness transplants may require several months for vision to stabilize.
Partial-thickness and endothelial transplants often allow faster visual improvement and a quicker return to daily activities.

All patients receive detailed instructions for eye drop use, protective measures, and activity restrictions. Regular postoperative visits allow our surgeons to monitor healing, detect early signs of rejection, and address any concerns promptly. Lifelong follow-up is essential to ensure your transplant continues to provide clear, comfortable vision.

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.

Expected Results

Most patients experience substantial improvement in vision and comfort. Success depends on factors such as the underlying condition, eye health, and adherence to postoperative care.

With careful monitoring, a corneal transplant can restore clarity, reduce pain, and provide long-term visual benefits.

Am I a Candidate for a Corneal Transplant?

You may be a candidate if you have:

Corneal scarring or clouding affecting vision
Advanced keratoconus or corneal thinning
Corneal endothelial disease, including Fuchs’ dystrophy
Recurrent or severe infections unresponsive to medication
Painful corneal surface disease

During your evaluation, our Indianapolis team will assess the extent of your corneal damage, overall eye health, and lifestyle needs to recommend the most appropriate surgical option.

The Importance of Continued Care

Even with modern techniques and high success rates, corneal transplants require long-term monitoring. While most donor tissue integrates successfully, rejection can occur even years after surgery.

Routine eye exams allow our surgeons to catch early signs of complications, manage them promptly, and ensure your vision remains clear for years to come.

Safety Considerations

All corneal transplants carry potential risks, including infection, bleeding, tissue rejection, or postoperative astigmatism. Eye Surgeons of Indiana minimizes these risks through:

Careful surgical planning and technique
Use of FDA-regulated, screened donor tissue
Close postoperative follow-up and patient education

Your surgeon will review all safety considerations before surgery and provide personalized guidance to help you make an informed decision.

Corneal Transplant Frequently Asked Questions

Are corneal transplants painful?

Most patients report mild discomfort rather than pain. Local anesthesia and sedation are used during surgery, and post-op care prioritizes comfort.

Will I need glasses after surgery?

Some patients may require glasses or contact lenses to achieve optimal vision, especially after full-thickness transplants. Your surgeon will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.

How long does a corneal transplant last?

With proper care and monitoring, many transplants last for decades. Long-term follow-up ensures your vision remains stable and healthy.