Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market

Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Size and Share:

The global artificial cornea and corneal implant market size was valued at USD 468.85 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 831.98 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.25% during 2025-2033. North America currently dominates the market with a market share of 50.5%. The growing prevalence of corneal infections and eye-associated disorders, rising construction of various healthcare facilities, and escalating demand for full-thickness corneal transplantation represent some of the key factors driving the market.

Currently, one of the main factors favorably impacting the artificial corneas and corneal implants market is the increased incidence of corneal infections and eye-related conditions in the general population. About 6 million individuals worldwide suffer from corneal opacity, which ranks as the sixth most common cause of blindness and visual impairment, according to PubMed Central. In addition, a positive market outlook is being provided by the expanding construction of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, assisted living facilities, and eye clinics, in order to effectively treat patients. Additionally, the market is expanding because of the growing prevalence of vision issues among young people who spend a lot of time using computers and laptops or staring at smartphones. The Institut Català de Retina estimates that men between the ages of 18 and 40 account for around 75% of eye injuries. In addition, the market is expanding as a result of the growing need for full-thickness corneal transplantation brought on by the world's aging population.

One significant disruptor of the market is the United States with a market share of 90.20% in North America. In the nation, corneal disorders have been a major cause of vision impairment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), corneal problems are a major cause of vision loss or blindness, which affects over 7 million Americans. Furthermore, the nation has been having trouble keeping up with the demand for corneal transplants, with initiatives to boost contributions. With a 12.8% increase in donors over 2022, eye banks reported 137,697 tissue recoveries from 69,637 donors in 2023. Nevertheless, the demand for corneal transplants keeps rising faster than the supply of donor tissue, highlighting the need for substitutes such as implants and artificial corneas.

Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Trends:

Rising Healthcare Expenditure and Access to Advanced Treatments

Healthcare systems worldwide are prioritizing eye health, and allocating more resources to treatments and technologies that address visual impairments. For instance, the government of USA allocated a total of $6.5 million for vision and eye health programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In particular, the fund Vision Health Initiative (VHI) saw a budget increase of $2.5 million in FY2023, a $1 million hike over FY2022. Rising healthcare budgets in both developed and emerging economies are enabling greater access to advanced treatments, including artificial corneas and implants. Governments, private hospitals, and non-governmental organizations are actively working to make these innovations available to more patients, particularly in underserved regions.

Surge in Geriatric Population

One of the key factors propelling this market is the aging population. Degenerative eye diseases such corneal opacities and endothelial dysfunction are more common in older persons. The number of people in need of vision restoration operations is increasing as a result of rising life expectancy worldwide. In the United States, almost 12 million adults over 40 suffer from a visual impairment. According to a study, by 2050, there may be around 895 million individuals with distant vision impairment, of whom 61 million will be blind, as a result of urbanization, aging, and population expansion. For older patients, particularly those who are unable to get conventional transplants because of health issues, artificial corneas and corneal implants provide a dependable alternative.

Increasing Awareness and Adoption of Advanced Vision Solutions

Awareness campaigns about eye health and the benefits of artificial corneas and implants are playing a pivotal role in driving market growth. Patients and healthcare providers are becoming more informed about these cutting-edge solutions, leading to increased acceptance and adoption. Organizations focused on vision care are leveraging media platforms, community outreach programs, and educational initiatives to spread knowledge. As patients learn about the long-term benefits, including improved vision quality and reduced risks, more are opting for these procedures. This growing awareness is translating into higher demand, particularly in regions where traditional eye care methods are less effective.

Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global artificial cornea and corneal implant market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, transplant type, disease indication, and end user.

Analysis by Type:

• Human Cornea
• Artificial Cornea
   

Human cornea accounts for the largest market share in 2024. This growth is driven by its superior biocompatibility and effectiveness in restoring vision. This segment is preferred for its ability to integrate seamlessly with human tissue, reducing the risk of rejection and complications. Advancements in harvesting techniques and preservation have further enhanced its viability, making it the gold standard in corneal transplants. The demand is also bolstered by increasing awareness among healthcare professionals and patients regarding its high success rates, especially for severe cases where artificial alternatives may not be as effective. This dominance is expected to continue as medical research refines techniques to expand the availability and usability of human donor corneas globally.

 Analysis by Transplant Type:

• Penetrating Keratoplasty
• Endothelial Keratoplasty
• Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty
• Keratoprosthesis
   

In 2024, penetrating keratoplasty held the largest market share because it effectively treats a variety of serious corneal disorders, such as degenerative diseases, thinning, and scarring. By substituting a healthy donor cornea for the injured or diseased cornea, this full-thickness corneal transplant technique provides a considerable improvement in eyesight. Its supremacy has been solidified by its wide range of applications and high success rate, especially when other methods, like lamellar keratoplasty, are less successful. Its use has been accelerated by improvements in surgical instruments and methods, which have increased accuracy and shortened recuperation periods. The demand for this technique is anticipated to continue to be strong in the upcoming years as patient and healthcare professional knowledge of it increases.

Analysis by Disease Indication:

• Fuchs' Dystrophy
• Fungal Keratitis
• Keratoconus
• Others
   

In 2024, Fuchs' dystrophy held the largest market share of 52.5%. Its high incidence in aging populations and the growing number of efficient treatment options are the main drivers of its rise. Surgery, such as corneal transplantation, is frequently required for this progressive eye condition, which causes corneal swelling and visual impairment. Advanced instances of Fuchs' dystrophy are frequently treated with penetrating keratoplasty and more recent methods such as Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK), which provide notable enhancements in visual acuity and quality of life. In order to maintain its market domination, the demand for therapies aimed at this ailment is being further fueled by improvements in surgical techniques and growing awareness of early detection.

Analysis by End User:

• Hospitals
• Ambulatory Surgical Centers
• Specialty Clinics
   

Hospitals account for the largest market share of 57.5% in 2024. This growth is being fueled by their sophisticated infrastructure, access to state-of-the-art surgical tools, and availability of qualified ophthalmologists. In order to ensure high success rates and patient confidence, these institutes perform a majority of difficult corneal transplant operations, such as endothelial keratoplasty and penetrating keratoplasty. Additionally, hospitals play a key role in post-operative care by offering thorough monitoring and problem-solving services. Their position as the leading category has been further solidified by the rising healthcare investments to enhance hospital capacities and the increasing prevalence of corneal disorders. Furthermore, the increasing number of multispecialty hospitals adding state-of-the-art ophthalmology facilities guarantees continued demand in this industry.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

In 2024, North America accounted for the largest market share of 50.5%. The high incidence of corneal disorders, a strong healthcare system, and large investments in medical research and innovation are the main drivers of this expansion. Superior treatment results are also made possible by the region's extensive access to qualified ophthalmologists and cutting-edge surgical technologies. Additionally, donor corneas are more accessible because of the encouraging organ and tissue donation programs. This, coupled with the acceptance of artificial corneas is accelerated by the existence of major market competitors. Favorable reimbursement policies and increasing awareness about advanced vision restoration procedures further contribute to North America’s dominance. The United States, with its cutting-edge healthcare facilities and large patient base, remains the primary growth driver in the region.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Analysis

United States is leading the market with a share of 90.20% in North America. Aging population, the rising incidence of eye diseases, and advances in corneal implant technologies are some of the driving forces identified in the artificial cornea and corneal implant market in the US. According to the U.S. Census, the older population had already attained an impressive figure of 55.8 Million, or 16.8 percent of the total population, in 2020. With regards to increased number of elderly people, greater cases of eye diseases related to aging, such as cataracts and keratoconus, are inducing a need for corneal implants. Also, the increasing number of eye injuries and disorders owing to environmental factors further fuels the market. Technological innovations such as bioengineered corneas as well as artificial corneas are improving the outcomes and efficiency of corneal transplants. Adoption by the market is also enhanced by the availability of advanced diagnostic tools as well as improved surgical techniques. In addition, proper reimbursement policies and initiatives from healthcare providers are significant in increasing access to eye surgeries for their patients, which will be key in boosting this product market's growth. It is expected that awareness of and access to eye technologies, coupled with research in regenerative medicine, will drive the largest artificial cornea implant market forward, making the U.S. one of the biggest regions for implants.

Asia Pacific Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Analysis

The aging population, rising rates of corneal disorders, and improvements in healthcare infrastructure are contributing to the Asia-Pacific region's artificial cornea and corneal implant market's notable growth. The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) reports that in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania, the age-standardized prevalence of blindness and moderate to severe visual impairment was greater in women than in men. Women are 12% more likely than males to lose their eyesight, and they make up 55% of the world's population with vision loss on average. As a result, corneal implants have become more popular among senior citizens. In addition, awareness about eye care and innovations in synthetic and bioengineered corneas are resulting in the growth of the market. With the improved healthcare infrastructure across the region, an increasing trend is expected to continue in the use of advanced eye care solutions in the Asia-Pacific region going forward.

Europe Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Analysis

Demographic changes, technology advancement and strong infrastructure for healthcare are the key factors which drive the artificial cornea and corneal implant market in Europe. As per the Confederation of WHO, currently nearly 90 million people living in the European Region have vision impairment or blindness, which covers almost 9% of the total population. The high incidence of eye diseases associated with an increasing older population is a considerable reason for the high demand for corneal implants. With the constant ageing of the population, there will also be an increase in the age-related eye diseases like cataracts and keratoconus. Certainly, there is a rise in the requirements for advanced treatment in relation to corneal health. Alongside this, the recent advances toward synthetic and bioengineered corneas have shown increased transplant success rates and are making corneal implants more effective and accessible. However, it is claimed that Europe has well-established healthcare systems along with strong awareness regarding eye health, that is boosting the market expansion. In addition, the region has provided continuous investment in eye care technologies and research in regenerative medicine. Therefore, the market for artificial corneas will continue to grow in the region as it is a key market for corneal implants because of favorable reimbursement policies and efforts to improve access to healthcare.

Latin America Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Analysis

Due to improved access to healthcare and the rising incidence of corneal disorders, the market for artificial corneas and corneal implants is expanding in Latin America. According to CEPAL, about 88.6 million persons in Latin America and the Caribbean were 60 years of age or older as of 2022, accounting for 13.4% of the region's total population. By 2030, this ratio is anticipated to rise to 16.5%. The need for sophisticated eye care, including corneal implant solutions, is growing because of the region's aging population, which is fueling the market's expansion.

Middle East and Africa Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Analysis

The region of the Middle East and Africa is experiencing demand for artificial and corneal implants due to increasing awareness of eye health as well as increasing cases of corneal diseases, with improvements in healthcare infrastructure. According to DUPHAT, between 0.8% in the UAE and 10.6% population in Turkey are exposed to chronic diseases, especially above the age of 60. This growing elderly population combined with a higher incidence of conditions such as trachoma accounts for a major reason for the demand of corneal implants. Additionally, advanced medical technologies that will continue developing and increased healthcare investments, are supporting the growth of the market.

Competitive Landscape:

Key players in the market are focusing on strategic innovations, partnerships, and expansions to strengthen their market position and meet the growing demand for advanced vision restoration solutions. Companies are heavily investing in R&D to develop biocompatible materials and next-generation implants that improve safety and effectiveness. Some are working on integrating advanced technologies, such as nanotechnology and bioengineered corneal tissues, to enhance product performance. Partnerships with healthcare providers and research institutions are enabling collaborative innovations and increasing the accessibility of these solutions. Key players are also expanding their geographical reach by entering emerging markets with high unmet needs, where awareness and access to advanced treatments are growing. In addition, efforts to improve the production and distribution of donor corneas through collaborations with eye banks are addressing critical supply shortages. These strategic moves are not only driving competition but also accelerating advancements in the field of corneal transplants and vision care.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the artificial cornea and corneal implant market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Advancing Sight Network
• AJL Ophthalmic S.A.
• Aurolab
• Corneat Vision Ltd
• EyeYon Medical
• Florida Lions Eye Bank
• Keramed Inc.
• L V Prasad Eye Institute
• LinkoCare Life Sciences AB
• Mediphacos
• Presbia PLC
• San Diego Eye Bank
   

Latest News and Developments:

• October 2024: Iran’s Ophthalmology Association, led by Chairman Mahmoud Jabarvand, announced the successful use of locally produced artificial corneas in cornea transplants. Developed over the past five years, these artificial corneas offer a solution for patients with stem cell degeneration in both eyes. This advancement provides an alternative to traditional corneal transplants, making treatment more accessible and affordable.
• September 2024: Aurion Biotech launched Vyznova® (neltependocel) in Japan for bullous keratopathy, marking the first approved cell therapy for corneal endothelial disease. The launch, led by Professor Shigeru Kinoshita, follows Aurion’s acquisition of the technology from Kyoto Prefecture University of Medicine and the scaling of corneal endothelial cell production.
• August 2024: Kerato Ltd, a BSF subsidiary, partnered with the University of Montreal to develop an in-situ gelling cornea treatment. The approach uses stromal cells and a synthetic matrix to repair corneal damage via injections, aiming to reduce transplant procedures and improve patient outcomes.
• June 2024: CorneaGen launched its Corneal Tissue Addition for Keratoplasty (CTAK), a solution for keratoconic eyes. Developed with CTAK LLC and Ziemer, CTAK provides custom, gamma-irradiated corneal tissue segments tailored to a patient’s needs.
• January 2024: LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) in Hyderabad has received a 20-year patent for a cell therapy to repair damaged corneas. Developed by Dr. Sayan Basu and Dr. Vivek Singh, the therapy uses stem cells and clotting factors to regenerate healthy corneal cells. It offers a potential alternative to traditional transplants, especially for conditions like Keratoconus, and is currently in clinical trials.
   

Artificial Cornea and Corneal Implant Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the artificial cornea and corneal implant market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global artificial cornea and corneal implant market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the artificial cornea and corneal implant industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.