How Is The Best Treatment Option For Myopia Determined?
The “best” treatment option for myopia is determined by a specialist physician based on the patient’s eye prescription, corneal thickness, age, and lifestyle expectations. ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) is recommended for high prescriptions or thin corneas, while laser methods like Femto-LASIK are the most commonly used and successful solutions for low/moderate prescriptions. The choice between laser or lens is based on detailed preliminary examination and corneal map (topography) results, which are vital for safety. Expert physicians in Turkey guide the patient to the most suitable method for the safest and most permanent result, ensuring long-term vision quality and ocular health.
Why Is LASIK Treatment The Most Preferred Method For Myopia?
LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is the most preferred method for myopia because it yields fast results, is painless, and has a very short recovery time. In modern versions like Femto-LASIK, the cornea is permanently reshaped, allowing the patient to achieve glasses-free clear vision, typically the next day. The fast recovery and high success rate offered by LASIK, combined with minimal post-operative discomfort, have made it the number one choice for myopia treatment globally. However, this method is only suitable for patients whose corneas are sufficiently thick and healthy to withstand the necessary tissue removal.
Which Myopia Patients Is Intraocular Lens (ICL) Treatment Best For?
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) treatment is the best solution for patients whose cornea is too thin for laser or whose myopia prescription exceeds safe laser limits (e.g., above -10.00). With ICL, a permanent lens is implanted inside the eye without touching the patient’s natural lens. This method provides high-quality vision with excellent depth perception, even in situations where LASIK is risky because it does not remove corneal tissue. ICL is also completely reversible and preserves the eye’s natural structure, making it the primary choice for patients with high prescriptions seeking the safest outcome.
What Is The Superiority Of Femto-LASIK Over Traditional LASIK?
Femto-LASIK (bladeless laser) is much superior to traditional LASIK because the stage of creating the corneal flap is performed with a high-precision Femtosecond laser instead of a mechanical blade. This laser technique ensures the flap is smoother, thinner, and safer, which is critical for the cornea’s structural integrity. This technological precision significantly reduces the risk of dry eyes and flap complications like wrinkles or irregularities. Modern eye centers in Istanbul and Ankara apply Femto-LASIK as a standard, prioritizing both patient safety and long-term visual clarity.
In Which Cases Is PRK Treatment Considered Safer Than LASIK?
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) treatment is considered safer than LASIK for patients whose cornea is too thin for LASIK or whose profession carries a high risk of eye impact (e.g., boxing, contact sports). With PRK, no flap is created; the laser is applied directly to the corneal surface. This approach less disrupts the biomechanical structure of the cornea, preserving more structural integrity, which is a safety advantage. However, the recovery period is longer and more pain may be felt in the first days compared to the rapid recovery of LASIK.
Is Laser Treatment A Permanent Solution For Presbyopia (Near Vision Difficulty)?
Laser treatment permanently corrects only refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Presbyopia (near vision difficulty after age 40) is a natural aging process resulting from the loss of flexibility of the eye’s natural lens, which laser surgery cannot reverse. Laser alone does not provide a permanent solution for this. However, alternative solutions such as the Monovision LASIK technique (one eye set for distance, the other for near) or replacing the natural lens with Trifocal/EDOF lenses may be offered to patients over 40 for a glasses-free solution.
Which Treatment Is Recommended For High Myopia (Example: Over -10 Diopters)?
The safest and most successful treatment option for patients with high myopia is generally ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) implantation. Since LASIK requires removing too much tissue from the cornea to correct high prescriptions, the cornea may dangerously weaken (risk of ectasia/keratoconus). ICL preserves corneal integrity by placing a permanent lens inside the eye, which provides excellent, high-resolution vision without affecting the corneal structure. Expert centers in Istanbul successfully apply this advanced surgical method, making it the gold standard for high myopia.
What Is The Risk Of Myopia Recurrence (Regression) After LASIK Surgery?
The risk of myopia recurrence (regression) after LASIK surgery is very low, especially in patients whose eye prescription was stable for at least one year before the surgery. Regression usually occurs in young patients whose prescription was still changing or in rare situations where the cornea changes shape. If a small prescription remains, reliable clinics generally offer a free Touch-Up (enhancement) laser intervention within one year. This service guarantees that the patient achieves full visual clarity, provided the initial procedure was properly planned.
Which Factors Make Myopia Treatment Prices Attractive In Turkey?
Factors that make myopia treatment prices attractive in Turkey include: a cost advantage of up to 50-70% compared to Europe/UK, a significant exchange rate difference that multiplies foreign currency value, low general operational and personnel costs, and massive investment in state-of-the-art devices like Femto-LASIK. These procedures, performed with the same quality laser devices and by expert surgeons, can be completed with a budget far below European prices. Through Cure Holiday, you can find suitable packages that make it affordable to receive treatment in Turkey.
Why Is Corneal Thickness Measurement Critical Before Treatment?
Corneal thickness measurement (Pachymetry) is critically important for the safety of laser surgery (LASIK). The laser must remove enough tissue to correct the vision defect without compromising the cornea’s structural integrity. Applying LASIK to patients with insufficient corneal thickness (residual bed thickness) significantly increases the risk of keratoconus (corneal structural distortion), which can lead to blindness. Therefore, specialist physicians perform detailed pachymetry and corneal map (topography) tests before surgery to guarantee the patient’s long-term safety.
What Is The Average Cost Of LASIK Surgery In Turkey?
The average cost of Femto-LASIK laser surgery in Turkey is one-third to one-half the price of equivalent clinics in Europe. Prices vary according to the use of Femto-LASIK or more advanced Wavefront technology, the quality of the consumables used, and the scope of the package offered (VIP transfer, accommodation). However, this cost is highly suitable even for operations performed at international standards by expert physicians. You can get transparent price quotes through Cure Holiday and easily manage your budget, making the decision to receive treatment in Turkey financially sound.
Are Accommodation And Transfer Included In Laser Surgery Packages?
Clinics and organizations like Cure Holiday focused on health tourism generally offer comprehensive packages for the comfort of international patients. These packages may include VIP airport transfers and short-term accommodation in 4 or 5-star hotels during the treatment period, in addition to the surgery cost. These services ensure that the patient does not experience logistical stress in Istanbul or other major cities, allowing them to focus solely on rest and the crucial post-operative recovery period.
Do High Eye Prescriptions Increase The Price Of Laser Treatment?
Laser treatment prices are generally determined by the type of laser applied (Femto-LASIK, PRK). High eye prescriptions (e.g., over -8.00) do not usually lead to a large price difference in the standard LASIK fee. However, if the patient’s cornea is thin and the surgeon mandates the more expensive ICL (Intraocular Lens) treatment for safety reasons, the total cost will increase significantly. The physician prioritizes recommending the safest and most technically appropriate treatment, regardless of the patient’s budget.
Are Detailed Eye Tests Performed Before Laser Treatment Included In The Fee?
Yes, the fees for all detailed tests mandatory before laser surgery, such as corneal thickness, corneal map (topography), eye pressure, and fundus examination, are included in the laser package price offered by reliable clinics. This diagnostic phase is fundamental to surgical planning, ensuring safety, and determining the most accurate laser profile. Patients must confirm that these non-negotiable safety tests are included in the package when deciding to receive treatment in Turkey.
Are Medications And Drops Included In The Package Price After Surgery?
Yes, all antibiotic and cortisone eye drops and painkillers that must be used during the post-operative recovery period are included in most comprehensive packages. This service eliminates the patient’s need to search for extra medication in Turkey and ensures that the crucial healing process is supported with the correct, sterile products. Regular use of the drops, as instructed by the surgeon, is critically important for preventing infection and ensuring optimal recovery.
What Is The Free Touch-Up (Enhancement) Guarantee If The Laser Fails?
If a small prescription rarely remains after a successful laser surgery, reliable clinics generally offer a free Touch-Up (enhancement) laser intervention guarantee within one year. This guarantee is a strong statement of quality and professionalism, ensuring that the remaining small error is corrected and the patient achieves full visual clarity. This assurance is an important factor that provides long-term satisfaction to the patient and increases confidence in receiving treatment in Turkey.
Is The Price Of Monovision LASIK Treatment Different From Standard LASIK?
The price of the Monovision LASIK technique is not different from standard LASIK as long as the same laser technology (e.g., Femto-LASIK) is used. Monovision is a surgical technique where the surgeon plans one eye for distance vision and the other eye slightly for near vision to eliminate the need for reading glasses after age 40. This difference in planning does not change the equipment or the cost of the laser device, making it an affordable solution for presbyopia.
What Are Potential Hidden Extra Costs And How Can They Be Prevented?
Transparent corporate clinics avoid hidden costs. However, extra costs that may rarely arise include: the mandatory fee for switching to ICL lens because the cornea is too thin (a safety necessity), extra specialist consultation fees for treating an uncontrolled chronic disease, or the cost of long-term artificial tear drops if dry eye is persistent. These risks must be determined during detailed pre-operative tests, and the patient must be informed of them in writing beforehand to avoid unexpected expenses.
How Is The Most Suitable Budget For Laser Surgery Determined?
The most suitable budget for laser surgery should be determined based on a comprehensive package price that includes not only the surgery but also tests, necessary medications, transfer, and accommodation. Professional institutions like Cure Holiday provide transparent budget options by bundling all these costs into a single figure. When determining the budget, choosing a package that guarantees advanced technology like Femto-LASIK and expert physician experience instead of the cheapest price is the most profitable decision in the long run.
What Is The Cost Of Switching To EDOF Or Trifocal Lens Treatment?
If a patient is over 40 and not suitable for LASIK due to presbyopia or cataracts, they may need to switch to Trifocal or EDOF lens treatment. The cost of these treatments is significantly higher than LASIK due to the high production cost of the intraocular lens itself. The price varies according to the brand of the lens (Premium) and the need for astigmatism correction (Toric Lens). However, even this remains far below Western prices due to Turkey’s exchange rate advantage.
How Fast Is The Recovery After Laser Surgery?
Recovery after laser surgery is incredibly fast, especially for patients who undergo Femto-LASIK. Patients generally begin to see clearly the next day at the first check-up and can resume most of their daily activities, such as working on a computer or watching television. Achieving full and final visual acuity may take a few weeks to a month as the eye heals and the brain adapts. This rapid recovery process allows patients to quickly utilize their short stay in Turkey.
How Long Must Contact Lens Use Be Stopped Before Surgery?
Contact lens use must be stopped before surgery to allow the cornea to return to its natural shape, which is essential for accurate measurements. Soft lens users must stop using them at least 1 week prior, and hard/gas-permeable lens users must stop using them 2 to 4 weeks prior. This period is vital for accurate and correct pre-operative measurements. Incorrect measurements due to lens wear can lead to errors in laser planning and jeopardize the surgery’s success.
How Is The Risk Of Blinking Prevented During Laser Surgery?
The risk of blinking during surgery is physically prevented by using a special eyelid holder (speculum) which keeps the eye open. More importantly, modern laser devices are equipped with very fast eye-tracking systems (Eye-Tracker) that constantly monitor the eye’s position. If the eye moves, the laser beam either follows the movement or immediately stops and resumes when the eye returns to the correct spot, maximizing surgical safety.
How Long Does The Dry Eye Problem Last After Surgery?
Temporary dry eyes are an expected side effect after surgery and generally resolve completely within a few months. Femto-LASIK like modern techniques reduce the risk of dryness compared to older methods by affecting the corneal nerves less. Physicians manage this condition by prescribing intensive moisturizing (artificial tear) drops. Performing a dry eye test before surgery helps in selecting the appropriate treatment, and permanent dry eye is rare.
How Does The Experience Of Eye Surgeons Affect Treatment Success?
The success of laser eye surgery heavily depends on the surgeon’s experience and precision. Eye surgeons in Turkey have international levels of practical experience due to their high volume of cases, which means they are highly adept at managing complications and making precise technical decisions. An experienced surgeon is the greatest assurance that the surgery will be safe, accurate, and the results will be permanent, making the expertise available in Turkey highly valuable.
When Is Eye Makeup And Lens Use Safe After Surgery?
To prevent infection risk, eye makeup (mascara, eyeliner, shadow) and contact lens use (which will no longer be necessary) are strictly forbidden for at least 1 week (preferably 2 weeks) after surgery. This period is required for the corneal flap to fully settle and the tiny incision to heal completely. Patients must also strictly avoid rubbing their eyes during this period, and new makeup must be used after the ban period to avoid introducing old bacteria.
Why Does ICL Lens Offer A Higher Success Rate In High Myopia Treatment?
ICL lens offers a higher success rate and safety than LASIK in high myopia treatment because it does not damage corneal tissue and preserves corneal integrity. ICL corrects high prescriptions while maintaining the cornea’s strength, which maximizes post-operative stability, especially in patients with thin corneas. ICL lens provides excellent visual quality even in high prescriptions, making it the preferred and safest choice by specialists in Turkey for this patient group.
When Is Air Travel Safe After Surgery?
Since laser eye surgery is a micro-surgical procedure, patients can safely fly immediately after the mandatory first-day check-up (usually 24 hours after the surgery). This allows patients to utilize their short stay in Turkey most efficiently. However, using regular moisturizing drops during the flight is recommended to mitigate the risk of dry eyes often caused by cabin pressure and dry air.
In Which Cases Is Lens Treatment (ICL/Trifocal) Recommended To Get Rid Of Glasses?
Lens treatment is recommended to get rid of glasses in the following situations: 1) The myopia prescription is too high and corneal thickness is insufficient (ICL), or 2) The patient is over 40 years old and has presbyopia/cataract issues (Trifocal/EDOF lens). In these cases, laser surgery may be unsafe or cannot provide a comprehensive solution for both far and near vision, thus lens treatment is chosen as the more permanent solution.
Will Night Vision Problems Occur After Laser Surgery?
Some patients may experience temporary reduced night vision, halos, or glare after LASIK. This condition is generally resolved as the cornea adapts within a few weeks to a few months. Wavefront (i-LASIK) like personalized laser technologies are used in Turkey to minimize this risk and optimize night vision quality. These effects are usually temporary and diminish as the eye fully heals.
Which Chronic Diseases Must Be Controlled Before Laser Surgery?
Uncontrolled diabetes, thyroid diseases, and certain chronic conditions must be strictly controlled before laser surgery. Uncontrolled diabetes slows down wound healing and increases the risk of infection. Physicians mandate that the patient’s blood values be within acceptable limits before surgery to maximize the surgery’s safety and success. Failure to control these conditions may lead to the postponement of the surgery.
Why Should Turkey Be Preferred For Eye Surgery?
Turkey should be preferred for eye surgery due to the combination of expert surgeons’ high experience, the use of latest technology devices like Femto-LASIK, and a cost advantage of up to 50-70% compared to Europe. JCI-accredited hospitals and the logistical comfort provided by organizations like Cure Holiday guarantee a stress-free and high-quality treatment process, making it the optimal choice to receive treatment in Turkey.
Which Is Better For Laser Surgery: Istanbul Or Antalya?
Both Istanbul and Antalya have high-quality, internationally accredited hospitals. Istanbul offers a wider range of specialist surgeons and the highest case volume, making it the primary hub. Antalya is ideal for those who want to combine high-quality clinic services with the comfort of a holiday. The decision depends on the patient’s personal preference for a metropolis or a resort-like atmosphere.
How Long Does The Process Of Getting Rid Of Glasses Last After Laser Treatment?
The process of getting rid of glasses after laser treatment is very fast. Patients generally begin to see clearly right after the surgery and stop using glasses completely the next day following the first check-up. The eye’s dependence on glasses for myopia is permanently eliminated, allowing a quick return to normal life. This rapid result is one of the main appeals of the procedure in Turkey.
In Which Cases Is Presbyopia Laser Preferred Over Standard Laser Surgery?
If the patient is over 40 and has started experiencing near vision difficulty (presbyopia), Presbyopia Laser (Monovision) is preferred while correcting myopia. This technique adjusts one eye for distance and the other slightly for near vision, providing functional reading ability without glasses. The physician recommends this tailored approach based on a thorough lifestyle assessment.
What Is Cure Holiday’s Role And Advantages In The Treatment Process?
Cure Holiday serves as a bridge of trust, quality, and organization for patients. It selects the best accredited eye centers and expert surgeons suitable for the patient’s budget and eye structure. It organizes all logistical processes (VIP transfer, luxury accommodation) and provides uninterrupted interpreter support, guaranteeing a safe, stress-free, and transparent treatment process in Turkey, making the decision to receive treatment in Turkey reliable.
How Mandatory Is The Use Of Sunglasses After Surgery?
The use of sunglasses (UV protected) is absolutely mandatory for at least one month after surgery to protect the healing cornea from UV rays and external elements. Sunglasses protect against dust and wind, which could lead to complications. Wearing a protective shield at night is also vital for the surgery’s success, particularly in the first week.
How Does The Use Of High Technology (Femto Laser) Increase Surgical Success?
The use of high-technology Femto Laser directly increases surgical success by creating the corneal flap with millimetric precision. This minimizes the risk of flap-related complications (slippage or irregularity), maximizes visual quality, and significantly reduces the risk of dry eyes. This advanced technology is consistently accessible in clinics throughout Turkey.
What Is The Average Duration Of Stay Recommended In Turkey For Treatment?
An average of 3 to 4 days of accommodation is recommended in Turkey for myopia laser surgery. This period is sufficient for the detailed pre-operative examination, the surgery day, and the mandatory first-day check-up. This short accommodation period ensures that the patient does not have to take a long leave from work and allows the patient to quickly return to their home country.
How Long Does The Prohibition On Sports And Swimming Last In The Recovery Period?
Light exercise and walks can generally be done after 2-3 days. However, heavy sports that carry a risk of eye impact and swimming (sea/pool) should be avoided for at least 2 weeks (preferably 1 month). Water and sweat getting into the eye increase the risk of infection. Adherence to this prohibition is crucial for the safety of the corneal flap.
Is ICL Intraocular Lens Treatment A Permanent Solution After Surgery?
Yes, ICL Intraocular Lens treatment is a permanent solution for a lifetime because the lens is permanently placed inside the eye and is composed of a biocompatible material. This treatment permanently eliminates the need for glasses/lenses for myopia, regardless of the patient’s age or whether they develop presbyopia later in life.
Are Long-Term Check-Ups Charged After Laser Surgery?
Reliable clinics generally offer post-operative long-term control appointments (6 months/1 year) free of charge for one year. The patient is only obliged to cover the travel expenses (airfare) required for these controls. This free check-up guarantee ensures the patient’s long-term safety, and Cure Holiday helps coordinate these appointments.
Which Methods Are Used For Patients With Insufficient Corneal Thickness?
Patients with insufficient corneal thickness (thin cornea) are generally recommended PRK laser (which removes less tissue from the surface) or ICL (Intraocular Lens) implantation. ICL lens is the safest and most effective solution as it preserves corneal integrity completely. The physician determines the best method based on the patient’s specific corneal measurements.
What Is The Most Suitable Age Range For Receiving Treatment In Turkey?
The most suitable age range for myopia laser surgery in Turkey is between 20 and 40, where the eye prescription is stable. This age range offers the highest success and permanence rate. Young patients under 18 or those whose prescription is still changing are usually not suitable for surgery, and they are advised to wait for stabilization.
