Affordable Corneal Transplant surgery in Los Angeles with skilled professionals?

Sophia

I need Corneal Transplant surgery to replace the cornea. Can anyone recommend affordable hospitals in Los Angeles with skilled surgeons for this treatment?

Amit

Overview of Corneal Transplant Surgery

Corneal transplant (keratoplasty) is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue. Modern advancements have led to several techniques, including full-thickness (PKP), partial-thickness (DALK), and endothelial (DSEK/DMEK) transplants, each tailored to the patient’s specific condition. These surgeries are performed by fellowship-trained cornea specialists using state-of-the-art technology, offering high rates of success and vision restoration[1][2].

Affordable Hospitals and Centers in Los Angeles

1. Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley (OAV)

Locations: Encino and West Hills (San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles)
Services: Full range of corneal transplant procedures (DMEK, DSEK, PKP) using the latest techniques.
Surgeons: Board-certified ophthalmologists, including Dr. Aizuss and Dr. Huynh, with strong patient reviews for skill and care.
Affordability: Offers consultations to discuss procedure costs and insurance coverage. Known for personalized care and modern equipment[1].

2. Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA Health

Location: Westwood, Los Angeles
Services: Comprehensive corneal transplant program with advanced surgical techniques for faster recovery and better outcomes.
Surgeons: Highly skilled, including Dr. Anthony Aldave (rated "Elite" for corneal transplant), Dr. Boris Malyugin ("Distinguished"), and others recognized for their expertise[3][4].
Affordability: UCLA Health accepts most insurance plans and offers financial counseling for patients. The institute is a leader in corneal surgery and research[4].

3. Keck Medicine of USC – USC Roski Eye Institute

Location: Downtown Los Angeles
Services: Expertise in all types of corneal transplants, including DALK, DSEK, PKP, and keratoprosthesis. Advanced technology and high-quality outcomes.
Surgeons: Renowned corneal specialists with extensive experience.
Affordability: Accepts major insurance and offers financial assistance for eligible patients[2].

4. Cornea Eye Institute (Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Orange County)

Services: Latest corneal transplant techniques and alternatives for complex cases (e.g., CTAK for keratoconus).
Surgeons: Dr. Amir Moarefi and team, recognized for advanced training and patient-centered care.
Affordability: Offers financing options for uninsured patients and accepts most major insurance plans[5][6].

5. Los Angeles Community Hospital and Los Angeles General Medical Center

Services: Corneal transplant surgery at competitive prices.
Affordability: According to recent data, the cost ranges from $4,900 to $15,200 per eye, with a median price of $9,253 in Los Angeles. Some outpatient centers, such as Glendale Eye Surgery Center, offer procedures starting as low as $2,550[7].
These hospitals are suitable for patients seeking lower-cost options while maintaining quality care.

Highly Rated Surgeons in Los Angeles

Dr. Anthony Aldave (Jules Stein Eye Institute, UCLA Health) – Elite provider for corneal transplant[3].
Dr. Neda Shamie (Maloney-Shamie Vision Institute) – Advanced provider, experienced in complex corneal procedures[3].
Dr. Matthew Bujak, Dr. Bradley Beatson, Dr. Alexander Knezevic – Experienced providers in Los Angeles[3].
Dr. Amir Moarefi (Cornea Eye Institute) – Recognized for expertise in innovative corneal treatments[5][6].

Cost and Insurance

The cost of corneal transplant surgery in Los Angeles typically ranges from $3,900 to $16,800 for outpatient procedures, and up to $28,000 for in-hospital cases without insurance[8][7].
Most major centers accept insurance, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses if the surgery is medically necessary.
Many clinics offer payment plans or financial assistance for uninsured or underinsured patients[5][6].

Rishikr

Hospitals and Centers with Skilled Surgeons and Affordable Options:

Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley (OAV): Located in Encino and West Hills, OAV specializes in all aspects of corneal transplantation, including advanced techniques like DMEK, DSEK, and PKP. Patients consistently report positive experiences and successful outcomes with their board-certified ophthalmologists. OAV is recognized for staying current with the latest research and for providing thorough pre- and post-operative care[1].
UCLA Stein Eye Institute: This center is nationally recognized and offers the full range of corneal transplant surgeries using the latest technology and surgical techniques. Their surgeons are experienced in complex corneal procedures and are known for excellent patient care and outcomes. UCLA Health also provides financial counseling and assistance programs for those concerned about affordability[2].
Advanced Vision Care: This Los Angeles eye care clinic is highly reputed for corneal surgery and employs board-certified surgeons who have developed and adopted innovative surgical techniques. The clinic offers both partial and complete corneal transplants and is known for personalized care. They also provide pro-bono assistance through the Masket Foundation for eligible patients[3].
Cornea Eye Institute: Serving Los Angeles and Beverly Hills, this institute specializes in corneal and laser vision correction, including transplants. Their team of cornea specialists is experienced in the latest procedures and accepts most major insurance plans, which can help reduce costs for patients[4].
Los Angeles Community Hospital and Los Angeles General Medical Center: These hospitals offer corneal transplant surgery at more accessible price points, with costs typically ranging from $4,900 to $15,200 depending on the complexity and facility. Public and teaching hospitals often have financial assistance programs for qualifying patients[5].

Highly Rated Surgeons in Los Angeles:

Dr. Anthony Aldave (UCLA Stein Eye Institute) – Elite provider for corneal transplants.
Dr. Neda Shamie (Maloney-Shamie Vision Institute) – Specialized in advanced corneal procedures.
Dr. Uday Devgan (Devgan Eye Surgery) – Highly rated for patient satisfaction and surgical skill.
Dr. Lisa Dang and Dr. Erika Saucedo-Sanchez – Known for excellent patient care and outcomes[6][7].

Cost and Affordability:

The average cost of corneal transplant surgery in Los Angeles ranges from $4,900 to $15,200, with outpatient centers sometimes offering lower rates (as low as $2,550 in some facilities)[5].
Most major hospitals and clinics accept insurance, and many offer payment plans or financial counseling to help