Introduction

A corneal transplant, also known as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue.
The cornea plays a critical role in focusing light and maintaining clear vision. When it becomes scarred, swollen, or distorted due to disease or injury, vision can be severely impaired or lost.
Corneal transplantation aims to restore corneal clarity, improve vision, reduce pain, and enhance overall eye health when other treatments are no longer effective.
Türkiye is a trusted destination for advanced corneal surgery, offering experienced corneal specialists, modern surgical techniques, and internationally aligned safety standards.
Averia Health ensures a personalized, safe, and fully coordinated corneal transplant journey focused on restoring vision and long-term eye stability.

Why Choose Türkiye for Corneal Transplant

Türkiye is internationally recognized for advanced ophthalmology and corneal surgery because:

• Experienced corneal surgeons and ophthalmologists
• Access to modern keratoplasty techniques
• Advanced operating microscopes and surgical precision
• Carefully screened donor corneal tissue
• Internationally accredited eye hospitals and clinics
• Comprehensive post-transplant follow-up care
• More affordable than Europe, UK, and the US

Türkiye combines surgical expertise with structured long-term care.

Why Choose Averia Health

Averia Health delivers a structured and patient-centered corneal surgery experience:

• Pre-arrival review of eye history and prior treatments
• Referral to expert corneal transplant surgeons
• Clear explanation of transplant type, risks, and expectations
• Personalized surgical planning
• Coordination of diagnostics, surgery, and follow-up
• Interpreter services for clear communication
• 24/7 patient support during your stay
• Long-term post-transplant care guidance

We prioritize safety, clarity, and vision restoration.

Conditions Treated with Corneal Transplant

Corneal transplantation may be recommended for:

• Advanced keratoconus
• Corneal scarring from infection or injury
• Corneal edema (endothelial dysfunction)
• Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy
• Failed previous corneal transplant
• Corneal ulcers causing permanent damage
• Congenital corneal disorders

Suitability is determined after comprehensive corneal evaluation.

Types of Corneal Transplant Procedures

Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK)

• Full-thickness corneal transplant
• Used for extensive corneal damage

Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)

• Replaces front layers of the cornea
• Preserves healthy inner layers
• Commonly used for keratoconus

Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK / DSAEK)

• Replaces only the inner corneal layer
• Used for endothelial diseases
• Faster recovery and reduced rejection risk

The surgical technique is selected based on corneal pathology.

How Corneal Transplant Is Performed

Preoperative Evaluation

• Corneal topography and tomography
• Visual acuity and eye pressure testing
• Retinal and optic nerve evaluation

Surgical Technique

• Performed under local or general anesthesia
• Diseased corneal tissue is removed
• Donor cornea is carefully positioned and secured
• Microsurgical precision ensures optimal alignment

The procedure requires expert surgical skill and careful planning.

Treatment Journey in Türkiye

1. Pre-Arrival Consultation
   You share vision problems, history, and previous test results.
2. Corneal Specialist Evaluation
   Advanced imaging confirms transplant indication.
3. Personalized Surgical Plan
   Transplant type and expectations are explained.
4. Corneal Transplant Surgery
   Performed by an experienced corneal surgeon.
5. Post-Operative Monitoring
   Healing and graft clarity are closely followed.

Expected Results & Benefits

• Improved corneal clarity
• Restoration or significant improvement of vision
• Reduced pain and discomfort
• Stabilization of corneal structure
• Improved quality of life

Visual recovery varies depending on transplant type and condition severity.

Risks & Considerations

Corneal transplant is highly successful but may include:

• Risk of graft rejection
• Infection or inflammation
• Astigmatism or refractive changes
• Need for long-term eye drops
• Rare need for repeat transplantation

Close follow-up is essential for long-term success.

What’s Included in Your Medical Trip

• Airport pickup & drop-off (if applicable)
• Corneal specialist consultation
• Advanced corneal diagnostics
• Corneal transplant surgery
• Anesthesia and hospital services
• Post-operative medications and care instructions
• Interpreter services
• 24/7 patient support
• Follow-up assistance after returning home

Averia Health ensures ethical, precise, and coordinated corneal transplant care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is corneal transplant safe?
Yes — it is a well-established and commonly performed procedure.

How long does a corneal graft last?
Many grafts last decades with proper care.

Will I regain perfect vision?
Vision improves significantly, but glasses or lenses may still be needed.

Is donor tissue safe?
Yes — donor corneas are carefully screened.

Can both eyes be transplanted?
Yes — usually performed one eye at a time.

Is rejection common?
Rejection is uncommon and often treatable if detected early.

Ready to Start Your Health Journey?

Restore vision and corneal clarity with expert corneal transplant surgery in Türkiye.
Request a free quote or contact us on WhatsApp to schedule your corneal specialist evaluation and begin your personalized treatment journey.