02/02/2026
When people think about eyesight, they often focus on glasses, contact lenses, or the retina at the back of the eye. But one of the most important structures for clear vision sits at the front of the cornea. This transparent, dome-shaped surface is the eye's first point of contact with light and plays a critical role in how sharply we see the world.
Why It Matters
The cornea is responsible for most of the eye's focusing power. Even small changes to its shape, clarity, or surface can noticeably affect vision. Because it is exposed to the environment, the cornea is more vulnerable to dryness, injury, infection, and wear. Early attention is essential for long-term visual comfort and clarity.
Insights
-
The cornea helps bend and focus incoming light precisely onto the retina.
-
A smooth, healthy corneal surface supports sharp, distortion-free vision.
-
Early corneal issues can often be managed effectively if detected on time.
-
Good corneal health improves comfort, especially for contact lens wearers.
-
Advanced diagnostics can identify subtle corneal changes before vision is affected.
Warning Signs
Changes involving the cornea often appear early. Signs to watch for include:
-
Blurred or fluctuating vision that doesn't improve with glasses
-
Increased sensitivity to light
-
A gritty or foreign-body sensation in the eye
-
Redness, irritation, or excessive tearing
-
Discomfort or intolerance to contact lenses
If these symptoms persist, a specialist eye evaluation is recommended.
FAQ Section
Q: Can corneal problems affect vision even if my eye test seems normal?
A: Yes. Early corneal surface or shape changes may not immediately affect standard vision tests but can still cause discomfort, distortion, or glare.
Q: Is corneal damage always permanent?
A: Not always. Many corneal conditions can be treated or stabilized if detected early, which is why timely assessment is important.
Q: Do contact lenses damage the cornea?
A: When worn and cared for correctly, contact lenses are safe. Problems usually arise from overuse, poor hygiene, or wearing lenses longer than recommended.
Our Approach
At Barraquer, corneal health is evaluated through comprehensive eye examinations and advanced imaging tools that assess clarity, thickness, shape, and surface integrity.
This allows our specialists to detect early changes, determine the underlying cause of symptoms, and recommend the most appropriate treatment, whether medical, supportive or procedural.
Our Specialists
Dr. Marta Calatayud
is a leading ophthalmologist with over 25 years of experience in cornea and ocular surface diseases. She specializes in advanced corneal transplantation (DMEK, DSAEK, DALK and full-thickness grafts), keratoconus, and complex corneal and ocular surface reconstruction.
Based at Barraquer UAE Eye Hospital in Dubai, Dr. Calatayud is internationally recognized for his precision in treating severe corneal conditions, using techniques such as amniotic membrane transplantation and limbal stem cell therapy to restore vision and eye health.
Conclusion
The cornea may be transparent, but it plays an essential role in vision. Keeping it healthy is key to seeing clearly, comfortably, and confidently every day.
If you've noticed changes in your vision, increased sensitivity, or persistent discomfort, a professional eye assessment can help identify whether the cornea is involved and guide the next steps.
At Barraquer Eye Hospital, our specialists are equipped to evaluate corneal health with accuracy and care, helping protect your vision today and for the future.
Book a specialist consultation to ensure your eyes stay sharp and healthy.
Schedule a consultation today
-
Email: appointments@barraquer.ae
-
Phone (outside UAE): +971 4 573 9999
-
Toll-Free (inside UAE): 800 234 823 (BEHUAE)
-
Working Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Extended hours on Mondays until 8:00 PM