Eye Care in Istanbul

By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Akif Ozdamar, on Nov 25, 2024

Eye Procedure Recovery Time

The recovery period will differ from one patient to another, depending on the procedure's extent. Before you're discharged, your doctor will provide the instructions you need to speed up your recovery.

Most eye surgeries need a recovery period of between three to five weeks. Expect to return to normal activities within four weeks.

 

Pre and Post-Operative Care for Vision Care

The right pre and post-operative care plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of any vision correction procedure. Whether preparing for laser eye surgery or recovering from another treatment, following best practices can help protect your eyes and maximize results. Here’s what you need to know to take the best care of your eyes before and after surgery.

Preparing for Your Vision Correction Procedure

Your journey to improved eyesight starts well before the actual procedure. Pre-operative care is essential for setting the stage for successful results. Here’s how to prepare:

Attend All Eye Appointments

Before your surgery, your eye specialist will evaluate your eligibility and customize the treatment plan. These eye appointments are critical for assessing your current vision health and catching any underlying issues.

Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions

Your laser eye clinic will provide you with guidelines tailored to your procedure. This may include avoiding contact lenses for a period before surgery or using prescribed eye drops to prepare your cornea.

Plan Your Recovery Time

Arrange your schedule to allow time for rest and minimal screen use after the procedure. Setting up your recovery space with essentials like dark sunglasses and artificial tears can ease the post-operative process.

Post-Operative Vision Care: What to Expect

The days and weeks after surgery are crucial for healing and achieving optimal results. Proper post-operative care helps ensure the health of your eyes as they adjust to the changes.

Stick to Your Follow-Up Eye Appointments

After the surgery, your doctor will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress. These appointments are essential for identifying and addressing any concerns early on.

Protect Your Eyes

Avoid rubbing your eyes and exposure to irritants such as dust or harsh light. Use your laser eye clinic's protective shield or goggles, especially when sleeping.

Follow Medication Guidelines

Use the prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing. It’s also important to take oral medications as your eye specialist directs.

Limit Strenuous Activities

For the first few weeks, avoid heavy exercise, swimming, or any activity that puts pressure on your eyes. Instead, focus on gentle activities to support your recovery.

Enhancing Recovery with Vision Therapy

In some cases, vision therapy can complement post-operative care. This involves a series of exercises or techniques designed to improve coordination and strengthen the connection between the eyes and brain. Vision therapy can help fine-tune your results and support long-term eye health if recommended.

Types of Eye Care Treatment in Turkey 

Vision care has come a long way, offering a variety of procedures to address different eye conditions. Whether you’re considering corrective surgery or need treatment for a specific condition, understanding the most common eye procedures can help you make informed decisions about your eye health.

LASIK

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most popular vision correction procedures. It uses a laser to reshape the cornea, correcting refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

It is ideal for individuals seeking an alternative to glasses or contact lenses. Expect quick recovery, minimal discomfort, and highly effective results. Most patients notice significant vision improvement within 24 hours, with full stabilization over a few weeks.

Regular follow-up eye appointments with your specialist are key to maintaining the benefits of LASIK.

PRK

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) is another laser-based procedure similar to LASIK but with a slightly different approach. Instead of creating a corneal flap, PRK removes the cornea's outer layer to reshape it. It is ideal for those with thinner corneas or who are ill-eligible for LASIK. It is effective for correcting refractive errors, with long-term results comparable to LASIK. PRK has a longer recovery time but is equally safe and effective.

Patients recovering from PRK may benefit from supplemental vision therapy to optimize results.

Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful eye procedures worldwide. It involves removing the eye's cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. It is for individuals experiencing vision loss or blurriness due to cataracts. The procedure restores clear vision, improves quality of life, and often reduces the need for glasses. It’s a quick outpatient procedure with a high success rate and minimal downtime. Your laser eye clinic will guide you through pre-surgery preparation and post-operative care to ensure smooth recovery and optimal outcomes.

Corneal Transplants

A corneal transplant is a procedure in which damaged or diseased corneal tissue is replaced with healthy donor tissue. It is often recommended for individuals with corneal scarring, keratoconus, or other corneal disorders.

The procedure is for patients with significant corneal damage or diseases affecting vision. It improves vision, reduces pain, and enhances eye health. Recovery can take several months, but the procedure has a high success rate when performed by skilled surgeons.

Consistent follow-up eye appointments and adherence to care instructions are vital for healing and preventing complications.

Choosing the Right Procedure for You

Selecting the right procedure depends on your unique needs, eye health, and lifestyle. Consulting with an experienced eye specialist or visiting a trusted laser eye clinic will help you explore the best options. Each procedure has benefits and considerations, but all aim to improve your vision and quality of life. Investing in your eye health is an investment in your overall well-being, so take the time to make the best decision for your needs.

Compare Costs Between Turkey and Other Countries

The cost of eye procedures can vary significantly depending on the country where you receive treatment. Turkey has become a popular destination for medical tourism, including vision correction surgeries, due to its affordable pricing, high-quality care, and experienced specialists. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs of common eye procedures in Turkey compared to other countries.

LASIK

• Turkey: The cost of LASIK in Turkey typically ranges from €1590 - €2000 per eye, which includes consultations, surgery, and follow-up care.
• Other Countries:
  • USA: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye.
  • UK: £1,500 to £2,500 per eye (~$1,900 to $3,200).
  • Australia: AUD 3,000 to 5,000 per eye (~$2,000 to $3,300).

Turkey offers a significant price advantage without compromising the quality of care, especially at renowned laser eye clinics.

PRK

• Turkey: PRK procedures in Turkey are generally priced at €1590 - €2000 per eye and are often bundled with pre-and post-operative care.
• Other Countries:
  • USA: $2,000 to $3,000 per eye.
  • UK: £1,200 to £2,000 per eye (~$1,500 to $2,600).
  • Canada: CAD 2,000 to 3,500 per eye (~$1,500 to $2,600).

Turkey’s affordability makes it a preferred choice, particularly for those combining the surgery with a vacation.

Cataract Surgery

• Turkey: Cataract surgery in Turkey costs between  €2000 - €3500 per eye, depending on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) used. Premium lenses may increase the cost.
• Other Countries:
  • USA: Standard surgery costs $3,500 to $5,000 per eye, but premium lenses can raise the cost to $7,000 or more.
  • UK: £2,000 to £4,000 per eye (~$2,600 to $5,200).
  • Germany: €2,000 to €4,500 per eye (~$2,200 to $4,900).

Turkey’s lower costs and world-class facilities attract many international patients for cataract surgery.

Corneal Transplants

• Turkey: Corneal transplants are available in Turkey for approximately €12000, depending on the complexity and whether donor tissue is sourced locally or internationally.
• Other Countries:
  • USA: $13,000 to $27,000, making it one of the most expensive locations for this procedure.
  • UK: £8,000 to £12,000 (~$10,400 to $15,600).
  • Australia: AUD 15,000 to 25,000 (~$10,000 to $17,000).

With experienced surgeons and advanced technology, Turkey offers this life-changing procedure at a fraction of the cost.

Why Turkey is a Cost-Effective Choice

Turkey’s lower costs for eye procedures can be attributed to a combination of factors, including favorable currency exchange rates, government support for medical tourism, and lower operating costs for clinics. Despite the affordability, Turkish laser eye clinics and hospitals maintain high standards of care, adhering to international medical standards.

If you’re considering vision correction or other eye procedures, comparing prices and quality across countries can help you make the best choice for your health and budget. Turkey remains a strong contender for combining exceptional care with affordability.

How to Take Care of Pink Eye

Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, is a common condition that causes redness, irritation, and discharge in the eyes. Proper care can help ease symptoms, prevent the spread of infection, and support faster recovery. Here’s how you can manage pink eye effectively:

Types of Pink Eye and Their Care

Viral Pink Eye

• Symptoms: Watery discharge, redness, irritation.
• Care Tips: Use a cold compress to soothe irritation. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes to prevent spreading the virus. Rest and allow the infection to clear independently, typically within 1–2 weeks.

Bacterial Pink Eye

• Symptoms: Yellow or green discharge, swelling, redness.
• Care Tips: See a doctor for prescription antibiotic eye drops or ointments. Clean discharge with a warm, damp cloth several times a day. Wash your hands frequently to avoid spreading bacteria.

Allergic Pink Eye

• Symptoms: Itchy eyes, watery discharge, redness.
• Care Tips: Use over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops. Apply a cool compress to reduce swelling and discomfort. Avoid allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.

General Tips for All Types of Pink Eye

• Maintain Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and avoid sharing towels, makeup, or contact lenses.
• Remove Contacts: Switch to glasses until the infection clears to prevent further irritation.
• Disinfect Surroundings: Clean surfaces like countertops, doorknobs, and light switches frequently.
• Consult a Doctor: If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice to rule out other eye conditions.

These steps can minimize discomfort and protect your eyes and those around you.

Which Vitamins Are Good for Eye Health?

A balanced diet rich in essential vitamins is crucial for maintaining healthy vision. Here are the key vitamins that support eye health and the foods where you can find them:

• Vitamin A: Helps maintain clear vision by protecting the cornea. Reduces the risk of night blindness and age-related eye conditions. You can find it in Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and liver.
• Vitamin C: Protects eyes from oxidative damage. Reduces the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. You can find it in oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli.
• Vitamin E: Shields eye cells from free radical damage and may lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). You can find it in almonds, sunflower seeds, and hazelnuts.
• Vitamin D: Helps reduce inflammation linked to dry eye syndrome. You can find it in Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
• B Vitamins (B6, B12, Folate): Lower homocysteine levels, a protein associated with AMD. It is found in poultry, eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids Prevent dry eye syndrome and support retinal health. They are found in fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, walnuts, and flaxseeds.

Tips for Incorporating Eye-Healthy Vitamins

• Include a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet.
• Consider supplements if your diet is lacking, but consult a doctor first.
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol or smoking, which can deplete essential nutrients.

By prioritizing these vitamins in your daily routine, you can keep your eyes healthy and reduce the risk of vision problems.

Can Your Vision Deteriorate After Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a highly successful procedure that restores clear vision by replacing the eye's cloudy lens with an artificial one. However, some people may notice changes or challenges with their vision after surgery. While permanent deterioration is uncommon, several factors can influence post-surgery vision. Here’s what you should know.

Secondary Cataracts: A Common Cause of Blurred Vision

After cataract surgery, you may develop posterior capsule opacification (PCO), often called a secondary cataract. This occurs when the lens capsule, which holds the artificial lens in place, becomes cloudy over time.

• Symptoms: Blurred vision, glare, or difficulty seeing clearly.
• Treatment: A simple laser procedure called YAG capsulotomy can correct this issue in minutes, restoring your eyesight.

Underlying Eye Diseases

Vision deterioration after cataract surgery can sometimes be linked to pre-existing or concurrent eye diseases such as:

• Macular Degeneration: Affects central vision and may progress independently of cataract surgery.
• Glaucoma: Increased pressure in the eye can damage the optic nerve, affecting vision.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: If you have diabetes, diabetes eyesight complications like damaged retinal blood vessels can impact your vision.
• Managing these conditions as part of your overall vision care plan is crucial to prevent or minimize vision loss.

Retinal Detachment

Cataract surgery can increase the risk of retinal detachment in rare cases, especially in individuals with extreme nearsightedness or other predisposing factors.

• Symptoms: Sudden flashes of light, floaters, or a shadow over your vision.
• Action Required: This medical emergency requires immediate attention to protect your vision.

Importance of Regular Vision Care

To ensure the long-term success of cataract surgery and address potential issues, follow these vision care tips:

• Schedule Regular Check-Ups: Regular eye exams help monitor for secondary cataracts, retinal health, or other eye conditions.
• Manage Chronic Conditions: Control health issues like diabetes to reduce risks to your eyesight.
• Protect Your Eyes: Use sunglasses to shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can further damage vision over time.

When Does Eyesight Deteriorate?

Eyesight deterioration is a common concern that can happen at different stages of life due to various factors. While aging is a primary cause, other conditions and lifestyle habits can also play a role. Understanding when and why your eyesight may decline can help you take proactive steps for better vision care.

Early Childhood

In some cases, eyesight deterioration can occur in childhood due to congenital conditions or developmental issues such as:

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Often develops in school-aged children and can progress rapidly during growth spurts.
• Strabismus or Amblyopia: Misalignment of the eyes or "lazy eye" can lead to vision problems if untreated.

Adolescence and Young Adulthood

During the teenage years and into your 20s, changes in eyesight are typically linked to:

• Genetics: Family history of refractive errors like myopia or astigmatism.
• Lifestyle Factors: Prolonged screen use and lack of outdoor activity can accelerate vision deterioration.

Middle Age (40+)

Eyesight deterioration often becomes noticeable around age 40 due to:

• Presbyopia: A natural loss of the eye's ability to focus on close objects, requiring reading glasses.
• Chronic Conditions: Health issues like diabetes can lead to complications such as diabetic retinopathy, which affects eyesight.

Later Life (60+)

Aging significantly impacts vision, with common conditions including:

• Cataracts: Clouding of the lens, leading to blurry or dim vision.
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): Affects central vision, making it difficult to see fine details.
• Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure that can damage the optic nerve and cause gradual vision loss.

Factors That Accelerate Eyesight Deterioration

Several factors can cause vision problems at any age:

1. Lifestyle Choices: Excessive screen time, smoking, and poor nutrition can harm eye health.
2. Eye Diseases: Conditions like glaucoma, AMD, or uncorrected refractive errors worsen without proper care.
3. Health Conditions: Diabetes eyesight issues, such as diabetic retinopathy, are major causes of vision loss.
4. Injury or Trauma: Damage to the eye or head can lead to permanent vision changes.

How to Protect Your Vision

To slow or prevent eyesight deterioration, follow these vision care tips:

• Regular Eye Exams: Catch issues early and update prescriptions as needed.
• Healthy Diet: Include vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids to support eye health.
• Manage Chronic Conditions: Keep conditions like diabetes under control to reduce the risk of complications.
• Limit Screen Time: Follow the 20-20-20 rule: look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes.
• Wear Protective Eyewear: Use UV-blocking sunglasses and safety goggles during risky activities.

Eye Surgery Results

Most patients report a high satisfaction rate, and eye treatments in Turkey have a success rate of 90%. 

How To Prepare For Laser Eye Treatment

• Stop aspirin and other medications that might contain blood thinners weeks before the procedure.   
• Do not smoke tobacco at least two weeks before the procedure
• Use the antibiotic drops before the procedure to prevent an infection
• Avoid alcohol and other drugs that might affect anesthesia

Benefits of Eye Care Installment Payment Plan

Medical tourism is an increasingly popular option for individuals seeking high-quality, cost-effective healthcare. For many, the financial burden of upfront payments can be a barrier to accessing treatment abroad. Opting for installment payment plans offers several advantages that make medical treatments more accessible and manageable.

Affordable Access to Quality Care

• Spread-Out Costs: Eye Care Turkey Installment payments allow patients to spread the cost of medical procedures over a period of time, reducing the immediate financial pressure.
• Access to Premium Services: Patients can afford higher-quality treatments, facilities, or specialists they might not otherwise consider.

Improved Financial Flexibility

• Manageable Payments: Small, predictable monthly payments make it easier to plan and budget without depleting savings or emergency funds.
• Minimized Debt Risk: Installment plans often have lower interest rates and manageable terms than taking a high-interest loan or maxing out credit cards.

Opportunities for Early Treatment

• Reduced Delays: Eye Care Installment options remove the need to wait until the full amount is saved, enabling patients to receive timely medical care.
• Better Outcomes: Early treatment can prevent health conditions from worsening, often reducing overall healthcare costs in the long run.

Peace of Mind

• Financial Security: Knowing payments are spread out and manageable reduces stress and allows patients to focus on their recovery.
• Transparent Agreements: Many installment plans have clear terms, ensuring no hidden fees or unexpected financial surprises.

By leveraging installment payment plans, individuals can access high-quality medical care abroad while maintaining financial stability. This approach ensures a balance between receiving the best treatment and managing personal finances responsibly.

How Can Flymedi Help with Payment Plan Options

We’ve created payment plans to fit the needs of patients in different regions, with varying terms and limits:

Payment Plan Options by Region:

• United Kingdom: Up to 36 months, maximum £5,000
• United States: Up to 36 months, maximum $30,000
• Germany: Up to 36 months, maximum €5,000
• Canada: Up to 36 months, maximum CAD 30,000
• France, Spain, Italy, Romania: Up to 3 months, maximum €1,500
• Other Countries: Financing is available in Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden, and more (specific limits available on request).

Interest Rates:

• 3-month plans: Interest-free
• Up to 36-month plans: Interest rates range from 7.5% to 15%, depending on your credit history and employment status.

How to Apply:

1. Pick Your Platform: Use Klarna for patients in Europe and Canada or Affirm for U.S. patients.
2. Provide Details: Enter your full name and legal address (no need for card details yet).
3. Book Early: Once approved, you can schedule your appointment right away.

You can choose installment plans with VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover if you have a high credit card limit. Terms include 3, 6, or 12 months, with a 10% fee. We’re here to help! Contact us for guidance or to find the best plan for your needs. Your health is important, and we’re committed to making care accessible.

Eye Care Quick Facts 

Procedure	Eye Care
Duration	Depends on treatment
Stay	1 - 2 nights
Cost in Turkey	€1390 - €1590
Anesthesia	Depends on treatment
Recovery	3 - 5 weeks
Final Results	After 3 months
Side Effects	Mild discomfort, Visual disturbances, Red marks
Risks	Eye infections, blurry vision
Success Rate	90% - 95%
Exercise	After 2 weeks (light activity)
Back To Work	After  3 days
Scars	No
Pain	No
Related Procedures	LASIK eye surgery, Cataract surgery

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When should I see an ophthalmologist?

You should see an ophthalmologist if you experience physical changes to your eyes, such as crossed eyes or eyes that turn inwards, outwards, upwards, or downwards. In general, it is best to visit an ophthalmologist for an eye test in Turkey before undergoing surgery. 

What is the difference between an optician and an optometrist?

An ophthalmologist is a medical doctor who can perform medical and surgical interventions for eye conditions. An optician is a professional who can help fit eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other vision-correcting devices.

What does an eye doctor treat?

An ophthalmologist (eye doctor) will diagnose and treat eye injuries, infections, diseases, and disorders of the eye. Treatments can include surgery or medication taken orally or via eye drops.

What Are The Most Common Eye Surgeries In Turkey?

LASIK eye surgery is the most common eye procedure in Turkey. Because the surgeons are well-versed in eye treatment and have years of experience, some of them have credentials from prestigious global universities. The standard of care and expertise in these clinics abroad is as good as those in the UK, US, and Europe, if not better.

Can eye colour change with age?

Yes, subtle changes can occur due to ageing or medical conditions, but dramatic changes are rare and may indicate an underlying issue.

Can your eyes heal over time?

Some minor issues, like scratches on the cornea, can heal naturally, but more severe conditions often require medical treatment.

Does going outside improve eyesight?

Yes, spending time outdoors can reduce the risk of myopia, especially in children, due to exposure to natural light and focusing on distant objects.

Does washing eyes improve eyesight?

No, washing eyes improves hygiene and can relieve irritation but not directly improve eyesight.

How to care for eye vision?

Maintain a balanced diet, avoid excessive screen time, wear protective eyewear, and schedule regular eye exams.

How would you take care of your eyes?

Protect your eyes from UV rays, manage chronic conditions, and practice good screen habits, such as the 20-20-20 rule.

Should I go to urgent care for an eye infection?

Yes, if you experience severe symptoms like swelling, pain, discharge, or vision loss, seek urgent care.

Should I go to urgent care for eye pain?

Yes, severe or persistent eye pain could signal a serious condition and require prompt medical attention.

Should I go to urgent care for pink eye?

Yes, if symptoms worsen, involve significant pain, or impact vision, consult urgent care for appropriate treatment.

Would laser eye surgery work for me?

It depends on your eye health, age, and refractive error. For personalized advice, consult a specialist at a laser eye clinic.

Can eye colour change in the sun?

No, eye colour does not change in the sun, though prolonged exposure can damage the eyes. Wear UV-blocking sunglasses to protect them.

Can eye cream cause dryness?

Yes, certain ingredients or allergies can cause dryness. Discontinue use if irritation occurs and consult a dermatologist.

Do eye care supplements work?

Supplements containing vitamins A, C, E, and zinc may support eye health, especially for conditions like macular degeneration.

Can vision problems cause depression?

Yes, vision loss or chronic eye conditions can affect mental health and lead to depression. Seek support from healthcare professionals if needed.

Can eye strain damage your vision permanently?

No, but it can cause temporary discomfort like headaches and blurred vision. Resting your eyes can alleviate strain.

Does wearing glasses weaken eyesight?

No, wearing glasses does not weaken eyesight; they correct vision and reduce strain.

Can diet improve eyesight?

Yes, a diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E and omega-3 fatty acids can support overall eye health.

Are dry eyes a serious problem?

Dry eyes can lead to discomfort and, if untreated, may cause complications like corneal damage. Seek treatment for chronic symptoms.

Can UV exposure harm your eyes?

Yes, prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause cataracts and macular degeneration. Always wear UV-blocking sunglasses outdoors.

How often should I have an eye exam?

Adults should have an eye exam every 1–2 years or more frequently if they have existing conditions or wear corrective lenses.

Can blue light from screens harm your eyes?

Excessive blue light exposure can cause digital eye strain but is unlikely to cause permanent damage. Use blue light filters or take breaks.

Can allergies cause vision problems?

Yes, allergies can cause itchy, watery eyes and temporary blurry vision. Treating allergies often resolves these issues.

Is blinking important for eye health?

Yes, blinking naturally moisturizes and cleanses your eyes, reducing the risk of dryness and irritation.

Can smoking affect eye health?

Yes, smoking increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Quitting can significantly improve eye health.

What’s the best way to relieve eye fatigue?

Practice the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to rest your eyes.