When Dharmendra Underwent A Corneal Transplantation: Exploring The Eye Surgery

Amid recent reports about veteran actor Dharmendra’s health and hospitalisation, the actor once had a corneal transplant in April 2025. In the clip, the actor, seen wearing an eye patch, confidently said, “Abhi bhi bahut dum hai” (I still have a lot of strength left in me). The reassuring moment, originally shared after his eye surgery, has resurfaced on social media as fans express concern and send prayers for his recovery.
As for his health, the veteran actor has been hospitalised and reportedly moved to ventilator support after his health worsened. Read ahead to know about his eye surgery that the Sholay actor went through in the past.

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. In one of our previous article, 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. 

ALSO READ: After Dharmendra, Another Veteran, Prem Chopra Admitted To Hospital Due To Age-Related Issues

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.

ALSO READ: Eye Infection Is Common in Summer: These Tips Will Keep Your Eyes Infection-Free

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.

ALSO READ: Veteran Actor Dharmendra’s Health Declines, Moved To Ventilator Support After Being Hospitalised - Report

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.

ALSO READ: Does Kajal Make Eyes Look Bigger? A Dermatologist Explains the Truth and Illusion

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.