Eye Donation

In the process of eye donation, only the cornea is removed and not the entire eye ball.
The cornea is a thin transparent covering over the pupil of the eye, like a contact lens, hence the simple procedure is usually carried out within 20 minutes.
The eyes can be removed at home / hospital / mortuary / any other place where the body is kept.
The eye bank sends its team after receiving a phone call from the family.
Eyes must be donated within 6-8 hours of death, after which the tissue becomes inoperable.
There is no disfigurement of the face nor is any bandage needed to be placed over the eyes after donation.
Conditions like cataract or glaucoma or wearing spectacles are not a disqualification for eye donation. Most cancer patients can also donate their eyes.

The family members need to phone / inform an eye bank.
Switch off overhead fan to prevent drying of the corneas.
Keep the air-conditioner on where possible.
Place a piece of wet cotton or cloth over the closed eyelids. It will help keep the eyeballs moist.
Try to keep the head a little raised.
Keep the death certificate ready.