What Is LASEK Eye Surgery
LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis) is a refractive surgery method applied to reshape the corneal surface. In this method, the cornea’s outermost layer, the epithelium, is loosened using a special alcohol solution and gently pushed aside. Subsequently, the underlying corneal tissue is reshaped with an excimer laser according to the specific vision defect. In the final stage, the separated epithelial layer is repositioned over the cornea, and a protective contact lens is placed to support healing. This technique is a preferred and reliable alternative, especially for patients with thin corneas or those unsuitable for LASIK.
How Is LASEK Treatment Performed
The treatment begins after anesthetic drops are applied, and the area around the eye is sterilized. The surgeon uses a special ring and an alcohol solution to loosen the corneal epithelial layer. After the epithelial layer is carefully lifted and moved aside, the computer-controlled excimer laser is activated. The laser reshapes the corneal surface to the desired configuration in seconds, correcting myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. Once the procedure is complete, the epithelium is repositioned, and a temporary bandage lens is applied to facilitate eye healing. The entire process for both eyes takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and is completely painless.
Why Are LASEK Prices Affordable In Turkey
The primary reason Turkey offers competitive prices for LASEK treatment is that the general operating and living costs are lower compared to Western countries. Significant investments in health tourism and intense competition within the sector ensure that prices remain well below international standards. Despite this, the quality of technology and expertise used is on par with centers in Europe and the United States. Crucially, the favorable exchange rate allows foreign patients to receive high-quality treatment at much more affordable costs, making Turkey an attractive destination. Cure Holiday will provide you with the most suitable package.
Which Vision Defects Does LASEK Correct
LASEK surgery successfully treats the three main common refractive errors: myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (blurry or distorted vision). This method is an effective option for correcting high degrees of myopia and astigmatism, especially in cases where corneal thickness is insufficient for LASIK. The treatment works by altering the curvature of the cornea, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina, thereby enabling the patient to achieve clear vision. For successful results, your eye prescription must be within certain limits and remain stable for the past year.
What Are The Eligibility Criteria For LASEK
To be a suitable candidate for LASEK, the patient must be at least 18 years old, and their eye prescription must have remained unchanged for the past year. It is essential that the candidate has good general eye health, sufficient corneal thickness (though less is required than for LASIK), and no progressive eye diseases (such as keratoconus). Furthermore, LASEK is considered a safer choice, particularly for individuals involved in contact sports or those with occupational risks, as it eliminates the risk of a corneal flap complication. You can consult with specialists in Turkey through Cure Holiday for a detailed eligibility test.
Is The LASEK Operation Painful
Patients do not feel pain or discomfort during the LASEK operation because anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye surface before the procedure. However, it is common to experience moderate discomfort, burning, stinging, and watering for the first few days (usually 3 to 5 days) after the laser application, due to the epithelial layer’s healing process. To minimize this discomfort, a protective bandage lens and analgesic drops are prescribed by the surgeon. As the recovery period completes, these symptoms fully subside, and comfort levels increase rapidly.
What Is The Pre-Treatment Preparation Process Like
The most critical preparation before treatment is for patients who wear contact lenses to stop using them. Those who wear soft lenses must stop for at least 7 days, while the discontinuation period for hard (RGP) lenses may extend up to 3-4 weeks for the cornea to fully return to its natural shape. Glasses must be worn during this period. Adhering to this rule before starting treatment is crucial for accurate laser calibration and the ultimate success of the treatment.
How Long Does The Surgery Take
The LASEK operation itself is a very quick procedure. The laser application time for each eye typically lasts between just 30 seconds and 1 minute. Including the preparation stages, such as loosening the epithelial layer and repositioning it, the total time the patient spends in the operating room for both eyes is approximately 10 to 15 minutes. This rapid process shortens the patient’s time in the clinical setting and reduces treatment stress. Clinics in Turkey manage this process most efficiently, prioritizing your comfort.
Is The Recovery Process Different From No Touch
LASEK and No Touch Laser (Trans-PRK) methods fall under the surface ablation group, so their general recovery profiles are similar; in both, achieving full visual acuity takes longer than with LASIK. However, in LASEK, the epithelial layer is lifted and replaced with the aid of alcohol, whereas in No Touch, this is also done by the laser. This difference can sometimes lead to more stinging and watering in the initial few days of recovery with LASEK. In both methods, reaching final sharp vision may take several weeks, but the process is managed safely under medical supervision.
Does Vision Immediately Clear Up After LASEK
Immediately after LASEK surgery, patients will experience some vision improvement, but the vision will initially be blurry and hazy. This blurriness is caused by fluid beneath the epithelial layer, which has been repositioned on the corneal surface, and the healing of this layer. Visual acuity improves gradually; patients usually start seeing clearly enough to perform daily activities after the bandage lenses are removed, typically after the first 3-5 days. Reaching the final and sharpest vision level may take 4 to 8 weeks, so patience is important.
What Medications Are Used During The Recovery Period
During the recovery period, various eye drops are used to prevent eye infection, control inflammation, and ensure the cornea heals smoothly. Antibiotic drops are typically prescribed to reduce the risk of infection, while anti-inflammatory (corticosteroid) drops are used to regulate corneal healing and prevent the formation of haze (cloudiness on the cornea). Additionally, ample artificial tears (moisturizing drops) are used to prevent dry eyes and enhance comfort. The regular and compliant use of these drops is vital for successful healing.
What Are The Potential Risks Of LASEK Treatment
As with any surgical procedure, LASEK treatment has some potential risks, although these are very low with modern techniques. Possible risks include the formation of corneal haze (cloudiness) (especially with high prescriptions), infection, temporary dry eyes, and glare/halo effects in night vision. The risk of haze is largely controlled by the regular use of corticosteroid drops after treatment. LASEK’s greatest advantage is that it completely eliminates the risk of a permanent corneal flap complication, unlike LASIK.
Which Technology Do Clinics In Turkey Use
Leading clinics in Turkey use state-of-the-art excimer laser devices for LASEK treatment. These devices are generally the same modern platforms used in Europe and the USA, featuring very high firing speeds, high precision, and, most importantly, advanced eye-tracker systems. This technology constantly monitors the patient’s eye movements to ensure the laser is applied precisely on target, thereby enhancing the safety of the treatment and the accuracy of the outcome. Cure Holiday offers you centers that utilize the most current devices.
How Permanent Are The Results After LASEK
The vision correction achieved with LASEK treatment is permanent. Since the laser permanently changes the shape of the cornea, the treated prescription does not return. However, the person’s eye prescription must have stabilized before the surgery. Years after the treatment, natural aging processes (such as cataract development or presbyopia, which is near vision loss after age 40) may occur, but these do not mean the LASEK treatment was unsuccessful. LASEK promises you long-term, clear vision.
How Long Should One Stay In Turkey For Treatment
The ideal length of stay in Turkey for LASEK treatment is generally recommended to be between a total of 5 to 7 days, encompassing the detailed pre-treatment examination and mandatory post-treatment check-ups. While the day of the operation involves a short stay at the hospital, you must return for a check-up the next day and on the third or fourth day for the removal of the bandage lenses and healing follow-up. Cure Holiday will integrate this period seamlessly into your travel plan, allowing you to complete your treatment and explore the country’s beauty.
When Should Contact Lens Use Be Discontinued
Since contact lenses temporarily change the shape of the corneal surface, they must be discontinued before LASEK surgery to allow for accurate measurements. The discontinuation period for soft lenses is typically at least 7 days, while for hard (RGP) lenses, it can extend up to 3-4 weeks for the cornea to fully return to its natural state. Glasses must be worn during this period. Adhering to this rule before starting treatment is critical for the correct laser adjustment and the ultimate success of the procedure.
From What Age Is LASEK Surgery Performed
The minimum age limit for LASEK surgery, like most refractive surgery methods, is 18. This age limit is based on the fact that eye prescriptions generally begin to stabilize after adolescence. For the surgery to be successful and the result to be permanent, the patient’s eye prescription is expected not to have changed by more than 0.5 diopters in the past year. There is no strict upper age limit; you can benefit from this treatment at advanced ages as long as your general eye health and corneal structure are suitable.
Can High Eye Prescriptions Be Treated
LASEK is an effective solution, especially for patients with high prescriptions who have thin corneas or are unsuitable for LASIK. It is commonly used to treat up to -10 diopters of myopia, up to +4 diopters of hyperopia, and up to -6 diopters of astigmatism. To increase the chance of success in high prescriptions, closer adherence to post-operative medication protocols to prevent corneal haze is necessary. The most accurate assessment will be made during the preliminary examination, considering factors like corneal thickness and the eye map.
Is Dry Eye A Contraindication For LASEK
Dry eye is a condition that can temporarily worsen after refractive surgery. However, LASEK is considered to have a lower risk of permanent dry eye compared to LASIK because it involves less cutting of the corneal nerves. Patients with mild to moderate dry eye are generally good candidates for LASEK, and the condition can be managed with moisturizing drops after treatment. In cases of severe dry eye, treatment for dryness may be required before surgery. Specialists in Turkey will analyze your dry eye status in detail and determine the most suitable method for you.
Is Astigmatism Treatment Possible With LASEK
Yes, the LASEK method can successfully correct astigmatism along with myopia and hyperopia. Astigmatism results from the flawed curvature of the cornea, and the laser reshapes the corneal surface based on mapping data. This ensures that light rays focus at a single point, eliminating the problem of distorted vision. Detailed topographic analysis before surgery is vital for the laser to target the angle and power of the astigmatism with millimeter precision. Cure Holiday collaborates with centers specializing in astigmatism treatment.
How Are Eye Check-Ups Done After Surgery
After LASEK surgery, several follow-up appointments are mandatory to monitor the patient’s healing process. The first check-up is usually performed the day after the surgery. The second important check-up is typically done after 3 to 5 days for the removal of the protective bandage lenses. Subsequently, additional check-ups may be scheduled at one week, one month, three months, and six months. For international patients treated in Turkey, clinics generally complete the mandatory checks within the first week and can coordinate with a local eye doctor for subsequent controls.
What Do LASEK Package Prices In Turkey Include
LASEK package prices in Turkey are usually designed to be comprehensive and all-inclusive. These packages often include detailed eye examinations before the laser treatment, the surgery itself (for both eyes), consumables used during the surgery, protective bandage lenses, and the medications and eye drops to be used during the recovery period. When purchased through a health tourism agency, the prices may also cover airport transfers and, in some cases, accommodation costs. It is advisable to contact Cure Holiday for a clear package breakdown.
Are There LASEK Treatment Options In Istanbul
Yes, Istanbul is one of the leading health centers not only in Turkey but also in Europe and the Middle East. The city hosts many accredited eye clinics that feature the latest technology LASEK devices and offer high-level comfort for international patients. Choosing to be treated in Istanbul offers you the opportunity to combine a historical and cultural experience with your medical recovery process. Cure Holiday can provide full support in arranging your appointment at the most reliable and experienced centers in Istanbul.
What Are The Advantages Of Getting LASEK Treatment In Antalya
Antalya is an ideal option for those who want to combine health tourism with relaxation. Clinics with modern medical infrastructure offer quality services, including LASEK treatment. The advantage of receiving treatment in Antalya is that you can spend the first days of your recovery in the sunny and peaceful atmosphere of the Mediterranean. The treatment process, combined with the comfort of a holiday, contributes positively to your healing. Cure Holiday can create a special package for you, bringing together high-standard clinics and relaxing accommodation options offered by Antalya.
How Should One Protect From The Sun After LASEK
Protecting from the sun after LASEK is the most critical stage of the recovery process. Due to the reshaping of the corneal surface, the healing tissue is sensitive to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Exposure to UV rays significantly increases the risk of corneal haze (cloudiness) formation. Therefore, it is mandatory for patients to wear high-quality, 100% UV-protected sunglasses when outdoors for at least 6 months. You must strictly adhere to this rule even after receiving treatment in Turkey.
When Is It Allowed To Start Exercising
A certain period must be waited before starting strenuous sports and intense physical activities after LASEK treatment. Light exercises (like walking) can usually be started within the first week. However, to reduce the risk of infection and trauma, it is generally recommended to take a break from contact sports and swimming (pool or sea) that involve eye strain, sweating, or the risk of eye impact for at least 2-4 weeks. LASEK is a safe choice for athletes in the long term because it does not carry the risk of a flap.
When Can Makeup Application Begin
Makeup application around the eyes should be avoided for generally 2 weeks to completely eliminate the risk of infection. Products such as mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, which have a high risk of harboring microorganisms and touching the eyes, must be strictly avoided. The use of makeup products during the healing period can damage the recovering epithelial layer. Your physician will inform you when you can safely start applying makeup after confirming that your corneal surface has fully closed and healed.
Is There A Possibility Of Repeat Treatment (Touch-Up)
The ultimate goal of LASEK treatment is to provide full correction in one session, and most of the time, this success is achieved. However, especially in patients with high eye prescriptions or if the cornea’s healing process progresses differently than expected, a very small residual prescription may remain. In this case, a touch-up (repeat treatment) may be needed, usually 6-12 months after the initial treatment, once the eye prescription is confirmed to be completely stable. These situations are rare, and the touch-up procedure is also fast and safe.
Will Glasses Or Lenses Be Needed After LASEK
The most important goal of LASEK treatment is to completely eliminate the patient’s need to wear glasses or contact lenses in daily life. Most patients achieve this goal by gaining clear vision after treatment. Even if a very small residual prescription remains, it is usually at a level that does not affect daily tasks. However, near vision impairment (presbyopia), which everyone experiences after the age of 40, is independent of the defect corrected by LASEK, and this condition may require reading glasses in the future.
Are The Health Standards In Turkey Reliable
Health centers in Turkey, especially clinics serving the health tourism sector, have a high level of reliability. Many eye clinics hold international accreditations (such as JCI) and strictly adhere to global standards for hygiene, technology, and patient safety. Turkish eye surgeons have received comprehensive training both domestically and internationally and have performed thousands of successful LASEK procedures. Cure Holiday guarantees your safety by selecting centers that meet these high standards and use the latest technology.
How Are Travel And Accommodation Arrangements Made
For patients traveling to Turkey for treatment, travel and accommodation arrangements are usually comprehensively planned by health tourism agencies like Cure Holiday. These services generally include airport pick-up, transfers to the treatment center and accommodation, reservations at partner hotels, and all necessary logistical support during the treatment period. This allows patients to focus on the treatment process and minimize travel-related stress.
How Can Cure Holiday Help In This Process
Cure Holiday is here to provide you with personalized support at every step of your LASEK journey in Turkey. They select internationally standardized clinics and experienced specialists on your behalf, arrange your preliminary examination and surgery appointments. They clarify the details of your treatment package and offer options suitable for your budget. Furthermore, they organize all logistical arrangements, including travel to Turkey and accommodation, offering you the opportunity to focus solely on your recovery and enjoying your new vision.
How Does A Comparison Of International And Turkey Prices Look
The cost of LASEK treatment differs significantly between Turkey and Western countries (Europe, USA, Canada). The price of LASEK surgery performed with the same quality and technology in Turkey is usually 60% to 80% lower than its counterparts abroad. This large price difference is due to Turkey’s lower operating costs and the foreign exchange rate advantage. This situation makes Turkey a first-class option for patients who cannot afford treatment abroad due to high costs.
What Happens In Case Of Eye Blinking During Treatment
Modern LASEK laser devices are equipped with state-of-the-art eye-tracker systems that completely prevent the patient from blinking or moving their eye during treatment. If the patient moves their eye or tries to blink reflexively, the laser immediately stops. When the eye returns to the correct position, the laser automatically continues from where it left off. This intelligent system completely eliminates application errors that could result from human error and ensures the flawless and safe completion of the treatment.
What Are The Touristic Benefits Of Getting Treatment
Choosing to undergo LASEK treatment in Turkey not only provides you with clear vision but also offers the opportunity to experience a rich cultural and touristic journey. After spending the first days of your recovery resting, you can explore the historical peninsula of Istanbul, the unique beaches of Antalya, or the magical atmosphere of Cappadocia. Affordable treatment and high-quality health services, along with an unforgettable travel experience, are an important part of this decision. Cure Holiday will help you make the most of these touristic advantages.
