Bengaluru, Feb 14: In a moving story of resilience, compassion, and medical expertise, doctors at Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru, have successfully restored vision to a 30-year-old factory worker who lost sight in his right eye following a severe workplace accident involving molten aluminium. While working in a factory, the patient sustained a devastating thermal injury when molten metal splashed into his right eye, placing the eye at risk of complete damage. The initial emergency treatment and reconstructive surgery were performed at other hospitals, including amniotic membrane grafting to prevent the eye from melting due to the intensity of the injury. Although the eye was saved, as is common in severe thermal and chemical injuries, he was left with a dense corneal scar and negligible vision.
As the sole breadwinner of his family, the loss of vision had a profound impact on his ability to work and live independently. Following significant hardship and with limited options, he approached Apollo Hospitals seeking hope for sight restoration. After detailed evaluation, the ophthalmology team determined that a corneal transplant offered the best chance for visual recovery. Recognising both the medical need and the patient’s circumstances, the hospital decided to take up his care as a community service.
The corneal transplant surgery was successfully performed, and the patient is now recovering well. The corneal graft is healthy, adapting well to the eye, and the patient has already begun regaining useful vision, bringing him closer to returning to work and reclaiming his independence.
“Restoring vision in eyes affected by severe thermal injuries requires meticulous planning and precise surgical execution,” said Dr. Dr Sharon D’Souza, Consultant Ophthalmologist Cornea, Cataract and Refractive surgeon Apollo Hospitals, Bengaluru. “These injuries leave behind complex scarring. Seeing the graft settle well and the patient slowly regain vision is extremely rewarding for the entire team.”
Reflecting on the emotional journey, the patient shared, “After the accident, I thought my life was over. I couldn’t work properly and felt like a burden on my family. When the doctors told me there was a chance to see again, it felt like hope had returned. Today, I can see again, and I can dream of going back to work.”
Mr. Akshay Oleti, CEO, Apollo Hospitals Karnataka Region, added, “At Apollo, we believe healthcare must heal lives, not just organs. This young man’s journey from injury to vision restoration highlights what is possible when clinical excellence is backed by empathy and purpose. Giving someone the ability to see again is also giving them a future.”
Doctors emphasized that severe eye injuries often result in long-term vision loss due to corneal scarring. However, with advances in corneal transplantation and timely intervention, vision restoration is possible even years after injury. Early eye protection in industrial settings and prompt specialized care remain critical to preventing such life-altering injuries.
As he continues to recover, the patient is preparing to return to work – this time with vision, confidence, and renewed independence.