Corneal transplants are for someone who has lost his or her vision, a big chance to gain it back, and is one chance worth taking. Cornea transplants offer that chance by replacing the damaged cornea with one taken from a donor. Cornea transplants do not have the notoriety that major transplant surgeries have, such as heart or bone marrow but they are equally important to those who can no longer see.

Corneal transplants occur when the cornea has been damaged due to injury or through some diseases. It will not treat all eye related illnesses, mainly just those associated with the cornea. The first step in a corneal transplant surgery is to determine eligibility. Factors such as what is wrong with the defective cornea, age, and health level are determined. Once it has been determined that the patient is a good candidate for the surgery, he or she is placed on a waiting list. Corneas cannot be manufactured. They are not made of sophisticated polymers or plastics. They must come from a human donor that has agreed in advance either to be an organ donor or come from the consent of family.

Factors in cornea donation revolve mainly around the health of the donor cornea. Factors such as age, race, sex or creed do not play a factor. Once the donor is found and all necessary paperwork is done, the removed cornea is rushed to the hospital that will do the transplant. The receiving patient is prepped for surgery. Once the patient is ready, the anesthetic is given and then the damaged cornea is cut out with the use of a special microscope. The new cornea is put in and stitched into place. The procedure is not without risks though. It is possible for the body to reject the foreign tissue no matter the repression drugs given. It is less likely though in transplant surgery due to the lack of blood vessels. The doctor will keep a close watch on the patient to make sure the new transplants do not become infected. Medicines such as eye drops and steroids are prescribed, as is some pain medication for the discomfort.

Those with sight often take it for granted and it is not until something happens that it becomes appreciated for the precious gift it is. Until a day comes when science can replicate the detailed wonders of the human body, such as the cornea, the medical field must rely on human donors and corneal transplants to help those who have lost sight.