Bollywood legend Dharmendra has proved age is just a number! The 89-year-old actor recently underwent corneal transplant surgery but hasn't lost any of his famous energy. Seen leaving the hospital wearing an eye patch, he confidently told waiting photographers: "I still have lots of strength left in me!"
His reassuring words, "Abhi bhi bahut dum hai" (I still have lots of energy), quickly went viral, calming worried fans. The veteran star explained he had a ‘graft’ (transplant) in his eye but was recovering well. True to his tough on-screen image, Dharmendra walked strongly to his car, showing his fighting spirit remains intact.
What Surgery Did Dharmendra Went Through?
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Dharmendra went through eye graft surgery (Cornea transplant). This surgery replaces damaged eye tissue to improve vision, a common procedure, especially for seniors. Doctors say most patients recover well with proper care. Dr Ajay Sharma, Chief Medical Director, EyeQ, Gurugram, explains, “A corneal transplant is an eye surgery where doctors replace a damaged or sick cornea with healthy tissue from a donor. This surgery is also called a corneal graft”.
It helps people who have the following:
- Serious eye infections
- Bad cornea damage
- Poor eyesight because of cornea problems
- Eye pain from cornea issues
- The surgery can replace either part or all of the cornea.
- It helps patients see better and reduces pain.
Why Do People Need This Surgery?
Aging thins the cornea and makes it cloudy. Diseases like Fuchs’ dystrophy or infections can also damage it. Symptoms include blurry vision, glare, and eye pain. Without treatment, it may cause blindness.
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Why Get a Corneal Transplant? Key Benefits Explained
Dr Sharma shares why this surgery helps so many people:
- Better Vision: Most patients see clearer after healing. The cloudiness goes away, making everything brighter.
- Reduces Pain: For those with damaged corneas causing constant eye pain, the transplant brings relief.
- Safe Procedure: With modern techniques, it's one of the safest eye surgeries available today.
- Quick Recovery: Many patients go home the same day and resume light activities within weeks.
- High Success Rate: Over 90% of transplants work well, especially when patients follow aftercare instructions.
Recovery Tips
Below are a few simple recovery tips:
- Rest your eyes: Avoid screens and bright lights.
- Use prescribed eye drops: They prevent infection and reduce swelling.
- Attend follow-ups: Doctors check healing progress.
- Wear protective glasses: Shield eyes from dust or injury.
- Stay positive: Stress slows healing.
How to Protect Your Eyes as You Age
- Ageing increases eye disease risks. Experts suggest these steps:
- Get yearly eye checkups: Detect issues like glaucoma early.
- Eat leafy greens and fish: Nutrients like lutein boost eye health.
- Wear sunglasses: UV rays damage the cornea.
- Control diabetes and blood pressure: They harm vision if unmanaged.
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Conclusion
Dharmendra's successful corneal transplant reminds us that age-related eye issues are treatable with timely medical care. His positive attitude and transparency about the surgery help break taboos around elderly health concerns. For fans and seniors alike, his story is a hopeful message. With proper care and medical advances, people can continue to enjoy life's beautiful sights at any age.