Every year on World Eye Donation Day, we are reminded of a silent need that affects millions – the need for donated eyes to restore vision in those suffering from corneal blindness.
👁️ Why Eye Donation Matters
India has one of the world’s highest numbers of visually impaired individuals.
Out of these, over 1 lakh people are waiting for a corneal transplant – a surgery that can restore eyesight but relies entirely on donor corneas.
💡 What You Should Know
- Anyone can pledge to donate their eyes, regardless of age or medical history.
- Eye donation happens only after death, and it doesn’t disfigure the face.
- The procedure takes less than 20 minutes and must be done within 6 hours after death.
🩺 A Message from Dr. Hitesh Chheda
“As an ophthalmologist, I witness how a corneal transplant transforms lives – children seeing their parents for the first time, elders regaining independence, students going back to school. Eye donation is a true act of immortality.”
– Dr. Hitesh Chheda, Ophthalmologist & Founder, Asian Eye Hospital
✅ How You Can Help
- Pledge your eyes through a registered eye bank or online portals like https://ebai.org/
- Inform your family of your wish.
- Spread the word – awareness saves sight.
📣 Final Word:
On this World Eye Donation Day, take a step that costs nothing but means everything. Pledge to donate your eyes – and become someone’s miracle.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Eye Donation
1. Who can donate eyes?
Almost anyone can pledge to donate their eyes, regardless of age, gender, or medical history. Even those who wear spectacles or have certain health conditions can usually donate.
2. When can eyes be donated?
Eyes can only be donated after death. The retrieval must be done within 4 to 6 hours of death for the corneas to remain viable.
3. How is eye donation performed?
A trained professional from an eye bank visits the deceased donor’s home or hospital to collect the eyes. The procedure is simple, respectful, and takes 15–20 minutes.
4. Does eye donation disfigure the face?
No. The procedure is done carefully, and there is no visible disfigurement. The donor’s eyes are closed, and appearance is preserved.
5. Will my family be charged for eye donation?
No, eye donation is absolutely free. There is no cost to the donor’s family.
6. Can I donate my eyes if I have poor eyesight or have had cataract surgery?
Yes. People with poor eyesight, cataract surgery, or even chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension can often still donate.
7. How do I pledge to donate my eyes?
You can pledge through:
- Registered Eye Banks
- Online portals like ebai.org
- Or contact Asian Eye Hospital directly to register your intent
8. What is the use of donated eyes?
Only the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) is used to restore vision in corneal blindness patients through transplantation.
9. Will my family need to give consent at the time of donation?
Yes, even if you’ve pledged, the family’s consent is still required after death. It’s important to inform your family of your wish in advance.
10. Can I donate other parts of the eye too?
Only the cornea is typically used for transplant. However, the remaining tissue can be used for research and education, with consent.