Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Cornea Transplant (Keratoplasty) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Thickness Cornea Transplant (PKP) | $12,000 – $25,000 | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Partial-Thickness (DSAEK/DMEK) | $10,000 – $22,000 | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Artificial Cornea (Keratoprosthesis) | $15,000 – $30,000 | $3,000 – $6,000 |
CPT/ADA Code: 65730
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Medically necessary — covered after deductible when vision is significantly affected
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
A cornea transplant costs $10,000 to $25,000 without insurance, including the donor tissue fee, surgery, and initial follow-up.
Full-thickness transplants can last 10-20+ years. Partial-thickness techniques like DMEK have excellent long-term outcomes with faster recovery.
Vision gradually improves over 3-12 months. Full-thickness transplants take longer to heal than partial-thickness procedures.