Corneal Tattooing

What Is Corneal Tattooing?

Corneal tattooing is a cosmetic and therapeutic procedure in which a special pigment is applied to the cornea to improve the appearance of a damaged or scarred eye. It is primarily used for eyes with corneal opacity, scarring, or irregularities that affect appearance or cause light sensitivity, rather than to restore vision.

Indications

Corneal tattooing is considered in patients with :

Corneal scars or opacities due to trauma, infection, or keratitis
Irregular or discolored cornea causing cosmetic concerns
Persistent glare or photophobia (light sensitivity)
Blind or non-functional eyes with unsightly appearance

Benefits

Improves cosmetic appearance of scarred or opaque cornea
Reduces visual discomfort caused by glare or light sensitivity
Minimally invasive with relatively quick recovery

Surgical Procedure

Preoperative Assessment
Comprehensive eye examination to evaluate the corneal surface and ocular health.

Preparation
The corneal surface is cleaned and anesthetized using topical or local anesthesia.

Application of Pigment
Specially formulated, biocompatible pigments are applied to the cornea using fine needles.

Fixation
Pigment is carefully layered and blended to achieve a natural and uniform appearance.

Post-Procedure Care
Eye is protected with a bandage lens or patch, and medications are prescribed to prevent infection and inflammation.

Risks & Considerations

While generally safe, corneal tattooing may involve some risks :

Incomplete or uneven pigmentation requiring touch-ups
Mild inflammation or irritation
Infection (rare with proper care)
Fading of pigment over time

Postoperative Care & Recovery

Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops
Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
Protective eyewear may be recommended temporarily
Follow-up visits to monitor healing and pigment retention
Cosmetic results are usually visible immediately, with stabilization over a few weeks