What is an Artificial Cornea?

Artificial corneas have been FDA approved since 1992. They help to restore vision for patients who cannot sustain traditional corneal transplants. Corneal transplants are extremely hard to receive. Only about 100,000 corneal transplants are performed each year worldwide due to a lack of donor tissue. Now, artificial corneas are becoming a more viable option for patients. The keratoprosthesis is made of clear plastic that has excellent tissue tolerance and optical properties.

At Boston Vision, we will speak with you about your corneal transplant options and recommend the artificial cornea if it would be better suited for you.

How is an Artificial Cornea Placed?

The artificial cornea surgery is performed on an ambulatory basis. This means that the patient is either returning home or wherever they are staying the same day as their procedure. The surgery is done with local anesthesia. The artificial cornea is inserted in a corneal graft. This graft is then sutured into the patient’s cornea. Then a soft contact lens is applied to the surface. This surgery takes about three hours to complete.

Follow-Up Care

For people who get keratoprosthesis, they are required to get regular ophthalmologic examinations. Your Boston Vision doctor will give you a detailed list of after-care instructions to help you take care of your artificial cornea. During the first year, patients will need to return to Boston Vision bi-monthly for check-ups. Patients will also need to start using eye drops regularly to help prevent infection.

Cost of an Artificial Cornea

Most major U.S. medical insurance plans cover the cost of an artificial cornea. It is important to check with your insurance provider prior to scheduling surgery to check if it is covered under your plan. For patients who do not have insurance coverage, please consult with the patient care coordinator at the Boston Vision to discuss the matter.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are suffering from an eye condition of the cornea, then talk to one of our eye care specialists at the Boston Vision to discuss your treatment options. To schedule your appointment, book online with us or email us at help@bostonvision.com to get started.

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