Artificial Corneas and Corneal Implants: Improving Vision Quality

The cornea is the dome-shaped surface covering the front of the eye. It allows light to focus and enables clear vision. However, a large number of people have corneal blindness or damage. The traditional approach to treating corneal issues involves corneal transplantation with human donor tissue. But there’s a global shortage related to donor corneas. Then there are the limitations associated with graft rejection and infection risk.

This has resulted in the shift towards artificial corneas and corneal implants. Continue reading as we explain to you the basics of these corneas and their types. We also shed light on the key metrics for the artificial cornea and corneal implant market, as well as the major factors driving it forward.

What Are Artificial Corneas and Corneal Implants?

Artificial corneas and corneal implants are synthetic alternatives to human donor tissue. They are designed for restoring vision. They do so by replacing damaged or diseased corneal tissue. These devices differ from traditional grafts in that they make use of biocompatible materials. The integration of these materials with the natural tissue of the eye reduces the risk of immune rejection. It also takes away the reliance on the availability of donors.

The artificial cornea is also known as a keratoprosthesis. It is a complete corneal substitute that’s composed of clear polymer or collagen-based materials. Corneal implants are partial replacements. They are designed for reinforcing or reshaping the existing cornea. The use of corneal implants is common in conditions such as keratoconus or post-LASIK ectasia.

What Are Major Market Metrics?

The artificial cornea and corneal implant market is expected to witness sustained growth in the coming years. The market for artificial cornea and corneal implant stood at USD  505.44 million in 2024. It is expected to account for a CAGR of 7.3% between 2025 and 2034.

Growing healthcare spending globally has led to increased investment in advanced surgical equipment and medical facilities. The rising number of corneal disease and blindness cases is also contributing to the artificial cornea and corneal implant market expansion.

What Are the Types of Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implants?

Synthetic Corneas

Advanced polymer materials are used for making synthetic corneas. These materials mimic the optical and biomechanical properties of the human cornea. Devices like the Boston Keratoprosthesis (KPro) and AlphaCor are widely used synthetic models. The Boston KPro comes with a clear plastic optic for replacing the damaged cornea. Its anchoring is done using the donor tissue, which helps improve mechanical strength and transparency. Synthetic corneas are useful for individuals who have had multiple failed grafts. They are also used for conditions where traditional implants aren’t viable.

Bioengineered Corneas

Materials from the collagen market or other collagen-like materials are used for making bioengineered corneas. The materials are derived from recombinant or animal sources. These corneas are designed for encouraging cellular regeneration. This means that the host’s own corneal cells grow and integrate with the implant over time. A key advancement in bioengineered corneas is the introduction of ecombinant human collagen corneal implants. These implants have shown promising results in restoring vision without having a major immune reaction. Recent trials have shown that these corneas improve visual acuity and also help in the regeneration of natural tissue.

Corneal Inlays and Onlays

Corneal inlays and onlays are ultra-thin devices. Their implantation is done within or on top of the corneal stroma. They are used for improving near vision and correcting refractive errors. As with other procedures from the minimally invasive surgery market, corneal inlays and onlays are less invasive. They are increasingly being used for treating presbyopia, which is age-related loss of near vision. Modern designs use biocompatible hydrogels or synthetic materials to modify the focus of light. The quick recovery time of corneal inlays and onlays is driving their increased use.

What Are Artificial Cornea Transplants Categories?

Hard Keratoprosthesis

Rigid materials are used to make this type of transplant. The materials can be polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) or other polymers from the medical polymer market. They are created to replicate the refractive properties of the natural cornea. They offer high mechanical strength and can remain stable in the long term. Hard keratoprostheses are typically used in severe cases where multiple corneal transplants have failed. They can also be used in cases where the transplantation of the donor tissue isn’t possible. Structurally, a hard keratoprosthesis consists of a central optical core. The core acts as a visual window and a supporting haptic that anchors the device in a secure way.

Soft Keratoprosthesis

Soft keratoprosthesis is a more flexible alternative available in the artificial cornea and corneal implant market. It is designed to promote better integration with the natural tissue of the eye. Hydrogels or collagen-based materials are used for making these devices. The biomechanical and optical properties of these materials are largely the same as those of the human cornea. As these materials are flexible, the implant can move naturally within ocular tissues. This reduces mechanical stress and enhances comfort for patients. Furthermore, the soft structure enhances nutrient diffusion.

Conclusion

Advancements in artificial corneas and corneal implants are providing a significant change in the eye care field. These solutions represent the convergence of new biomaterials, regenerative medicine, and precise surgical techniques. As development continues to focus on ensuring these procedures are safe, accessible, and affordable, the ability to restore vision for all is becoming a reality. In the future, the artificial cornea and corneal implant market is expected to change the entire paradigm of vision restoration.