Cornea Transplant: Patient Education from the UCH Eye Center

Corneal Transplantation is done on an outpatient basis at the hospital. The surgery usually takes one to two hours. After spending a short time in the recovery area, you will leave the hospital with an eye patch and shield and eye drops.

Recovery is different for each patient. Sometimes, vision returns after a few months and for others it may take up to a year to return to full vision.

You should follow up with your doctor as directed to ensure there is no rejection or infection of the transplanted tissue. Signs of possible complications include but are not limited to the following symptoms:

• Decreased vision
• Flashes of light or floaters in the eye
• Light sensitivity
• Redness of the eye that gets worse
• Pain

Getting a Second Opinion About Corneal Transplants

As with any surgery, it is important to feel comfortable with your doctor and the staff. The Eye Center at University of Colorado Hospital is happy to offer a second opinion and to work with you if you choose to come to our hospital for your surgery.

Please contact us at (720) 848-2020 to schedule your first appointment.

Additional Cornea Transplant Resources

National Eye Institute