EYE DONATION FAQ

1. What is eye donation?

Eye donation is the donation of eyes or corneal tissue after death so that suitable tissue may be used for corneal transplantation. Corneal transplantation can help restore vision in appropriately selected patients.

2. Is the whole eye transplanted?

In routine corneal transplantation, the cornea or appropriate corneal tissue is used rather than transplanting the entire eye as a functioning visual organ.

3. Who can donate eyes?

People of many ages can potentially donate. Wearing spectacles, having had cataract surgery, or having conditions such as diabetes or hypertension does not automatically prevent donation. The eye bank determines suitability after medical assessment. (AIIMS)

4. Is there an age limit for eye donation?

There is no simple age cutoff that should stop a family from contacting an eye bank. The suitability of the donated tissue is assessed individually. When in doubt, contact the eye bank.

5. Can a person who wears spectacles donate eyes?

Yes. Wearing spectacles does not automatically exclude a person from eye donation. (AIIMS)

6. Can someone who has undergone cataract surgery donate eyes?

Yes, previous cataract surgery does not automatically rule out eye donation. The donated tissue will be assessed by the eye bank. (AIIMS)

7. Can a person with diabetes donate eyes?

Diabetes does not automatically exclude a person from eye donation. The eye bank will assess the donor and tissue according to established protocols.

8. Can a person with high blood pressure donate eyes?

Yes, hypertension by itself does not automatically prevent eye donation.

9. How soon after death should the eye bank be contacted?

Immediately. NOTTO states that cornea donation can generally be performed within 6–8 hours after death. Early notification gives the eye-bank team the best opportunity to complete retrieval within the appropriate time. (NOTTO)

10. Can eye donation be done at home?

Yes. Corneal donation can be arranged following death at home or in a hospital. The family should contact a nearby eye bank promptly so that the authorised team can guide and carry out the retrieval process. (NOTTO)

11. Does eye donation disfigure the face?

No. Eye retrieval is performed by trained personnel using appropriate medical techniques, with respect for the dignity of the deceased. (AIIMS)

12. Can the family still have the funeral normally?

Yes. Eye donation does not normally prevent the family from proceeding with funeral arrangements.

13. Can the family donate the eyes of someone who did not pledge during their lifetime?

Families should contact the nearest eye bank. Donation may be possible with the required consent from the appropriate legal custodian/next of kin, subject to applicable rules and medical suitability. (NOTTO)

14. Does the donor's family have to pay for eye donation?

Eye donation is a donation of tissue and is not a commercial sale. Families should obtain information directly from the authorised eye bank regarding any specific logistical or administrative arrangements.

15. Who decides whether the donated cornea can be used?

The authorised eye bank evaluates and screens the donor and tissue. Only tissue meeting the required medical and safety standards is considered for transplantation. (NOTTO)

16. Can eyes be donated if the person died from an illness?

It depends on the illness and the circumstances of death. Certain medical conditions are contraindications to retrieval, while many common illnesses do not automatically prevent donation. The eye bank makes the final determination after appropriate screening. (NOTTO)

17. Can eye donation be performed in medico-legal cases?

Special procedures may apply in medico-legal cases. The family should inform the eye bank and follow the instructions of the relevant authorities and medical team.

18. Is eye donation against any religion?

Eye donation is generally regarded as an act of charity and compassion, but individuals should follow their own religious and personal beliefs.

19. Can a person pledge their eyes during their lifetime?

Yes. A person can express their wish to donate and complete an appropriate pledge where available. However, it is extremely important to tell family members about the decision, because the family will need to contact the eye bank after death.

20. What should the family do immediately after death?

The most important step is to contact the nearest authorised eye bank without delay.

• Keep the eyelids gently closed.
• Keep the head slightly elevated.
• Keep the environment reasonably cool.
• Preserve relevant medical information.
• Follow the instructions of the eye-bank team.
• Avoid attempting any retrieval themselves.

21. Can one donor help more than one person?

The donated corneal tissue may potentially help more than one recipient depending on the tissue obtained and its suitability for different types of transplantation. The eye bank determines appropriate utilisation.

22. Is eye donation the same as organ donation?

No. Eye donation generally involves donation of corneal tissue after death, whereas organ donation may involve organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys or lungs. Cornea is classified as a tissue within India's organ and tissue donation framework. (NOTTO)

23. What is the most important message about eye donation?

Do not wait until the time of death to discuss eye donation. Talk to your family today.

Your decision can become someone else's opportunity to see.