Cornea transplant, also known as corneal transplantation or keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy cornea from a donor. This procedure offers hope to individuals suffering from corneal diseases or injuries that affect their vision and overall eye health. Bangalore has emerged as a leading destination for cornea transplant surgeries, offering advanced medical facilities, experienced surgeons, and affordable treatment options.
What is Cornea Transplant?
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped tissue located at the front of the eye. It plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina, enabling clear vision. However, various conditions, such as corneal infections, trauma, dystrophies, and degenerations, can cause the cornea to become cloudy or scarred, leading to vision impairment. Cornea transplant involves removing the damaged cornea and replacing it with a healthy cornea obtained from a deceased donor.
Cost of Cornea Transplant in Bangalore, India
One of the primary reasons why many international patients choose Bangalore for their cornea transplant is the affordability of the procedure. The cost of cornea transplant in Bangalore is significantly lower compared to other countries. The exact cost may vary depending on several factors, including the city, hospital, surgeon's expertise, and the type of cornea transplant required (full thickness or partial thickness).
Cornea Transplant Cost in Major Cities of India
For Indian patients, the cost of Cornea Transplant in Bangalore ranges from Rs. 75,000 to Rs. 1,20,000 & for International patients between USD 1700 to USD 2500 for the procedure.
Here is an overview of the approximate cost of cornea transplant in major cities of India:
| Cities |
Cost (INR) |
Cost (USD) |
| Bangalore |
75,000 to 1,20,000 |
1700 to 2500 |
| Mumbai |
70,000 to 1,00,000 |
1600 to 2400 |
| Delhi (NCR) |
70,000 to 1,25,000 |
1500 to 2500 |
| Chennai |
65,000 to 1,00,000 |
1500 to 2200 |
| Kolkata |
60,000 to 1,00,000 |
1500 to 2500 |
It's important to note that these are approximate costs and may vary based on individual cases and hospitals.
Cornea Transplant Cost in India Vs Other Countries
India offers highly cost-effective cornea transplant procedures compared to many other countries. Here is a comparison of cornea transplant costs in India with some popular medical tourism destinations:
| Country |
Cost Of Cornea Transplant (Approx.) |
| India |
USD 1500 - 2500 |
| Thailand |
USD 3000- 5000 |
| Turkey |
USD 2590 - 4500 |
| Mexico |
USD 2000 - 4000 |
| United States |
USD 20,000 - 30,000 |
| United Kingdom |
GBP 12,000 - 15,000 |
| Australia |
AUD 20,000 - 30,000 |
These figures indicate the significant cost advantage offered by India for cornea transplant surgeries, making it an attractive destination for medical tourists seeking quality treatment at an affordable price.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Cornea Transplant Surgery
Several factors can influence the cost of cornea transplant surgery in Bangalore, India:
1. Type of transplant: The cost may vary based on whether it is a full thickness cornea transplant or a partial thickness transplant (DALK, DSEK, or DMEK).
2. Hospital and surgeon: The reputation, expertise, and infrastructure of the hospital or medical center, as well as the experience and skill of the surgeon, can impact the cost.
3. Location: The city where the treatment is sought can influence the overall cost due to variations in living expenses and healthcare infrastructure.
4. Inclusion of additional services: The cost may differ based on the inclusion of pre and post-operative care, diagnostic tests, medications, and follow-up consultations.
5. Patient-specific factors: Any additional treatments, complications, or specific patient requirements can also affect the total cost.
It is advisable to consult with a medical tourism facilitator or the hospital directly to get a personalized cost estimate based on the specific case.
Pre and Post-Medical Tests for Cornea Transplant
Before undergoing a cornea transplant, certain medical tests are typically performed to assess the patient's eligibility and determine the appropriate treatment plan. These may include:
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Visual acuity tests
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Slit-lamp examination
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Corneal topography
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Pachymetry (corneal thickness measurement)
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Specular microscopy
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Blood tests for general health evaluation
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Donor tissue compatibility testing
Post-transplant, frequent follow-up visits will be required to monitor the healing process, ensure proper care, and track the patient's progress.
Recovery Time
The recovery time after a cornea transplant can vary from patient to patient. In general, the initial healing period takes a few weeks, during which blurred vision and discomfort may be experienced. However, complete visual recovery may take several months to a year. Regular follow-up visits with the ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor the healing progress and make any necessary adjustments to post-operative care.
