FAQs/Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the waitlist to get a cornea transplant?

Donor cornea tissue is generally readily available. Almost always, we can schedule your procedure and count on having a transplant for use. There are many “eye banks” around the country that collect, store, and distribute tissue every day. We appreciate organ donors who make this gift so accessible to those in need!

Do I need any blood-type matching to reduce the chance of rejection?

The wonderful thing about corneas is that there are naturally no blood cells/vessels within the tissue. It is “avascular”. This means that any donor (as long as they’ve met quality screening standards) can be used for any individual regardless of blood type or genetics.

Do I need to take anything by mouth for immunosuppression?

Fortunately, there is no need for systemic immunosuppression with cornea transplants. All you typically need are topical steroid eye drops to help prevent rejection.

• • Corneal Transplants
  • Endothelial Keratoplasty: DSEK/DMEK
  • Penetrating Keratoplasty (PKP/Full-thickness) & Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK)

RETURN TO CORNEAL DISEASES & DISORDERS

To schedule an appointment, call (509) 456-0107