Lens Replacement

Lens Replacement


Lens Replacement Surgery in Turkey: Cost, Best Doctors & VISA Assistance

Lens replacement surgery becomes necessary in cases of lens impairment where other treatments fail to restore vision. Today, more than one billion people worldwide struggle with lens-related issues, and over 26 million lens replacement surgeries are performed every year around the world.

The transparent structure behind the coloured iris, the lens, focuses light from varying distances onto the retina. This focused light enables the brain to interpret clear images. However, certain diseases can affect the natural lens and impair its function. When the lens becomes cloudy, it obstructs the passage of light and causes visual disturbances. In such cases, lens replacement surgery is performed for restoring clear vision.

Turkey is a great place to go if you're looking for reasonably priced, high-quality lens replacement surgery. Turkish cities such as Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir are known for providing the best quality lens replacement procedures. Patients from countries like the USA, UK, and Australia frequently choose Turkey for its quality of care and cost-effectiveness.

The cost of lens replacement surgery in Turkey is also lower than in many Western countries, where long waiting lists are common. Beyond its medical expertise, undergoing lens replacement surgery in Turkey also offers the opportunity to explore this beautiful country. So if you’re considering getting eye lens replacement surgery in Turkey, this page will be your guide for the same.

What are the Indications for Lens Replacement Surgery in Turkey?

If you are considering an eye lens replacement surgery in Turkey, you should first find out whether you are eligible to undergo this treatment. If you have questions like, is lens replacement surgery permanent, or how much time does it take to recover from an eye replacement surgery? Then, you need to track the indications that signal the need for it. Here are some typical indications that you may need an eye lens replacement surgery in Turkey:

  • Double or ghosted visions
  • Blurred or cloudy vision
  • Difficulty seeing clearly in low-light or nighttime conditions
  • Increased sensitively towards light
  • Faded or yellowed perception of colors
  • Headaches and eyestrain, especially when doing close-up work or reading

If cataracts or other lens-related conditions begin to interfere with your daily life and activities, your ophthalmologist may recommend lens replacement surgery Turkey. You might be an ideal candidate for eye lens replacement surgery in Turkey if you match the following criteria:

  • Are over 40 years old
  • Have cataracts, astigmatism, or presbyopia
  • Rely heavily on bifocal, varifocal, or multifocal contact lenses or glasses
  • Have healthy eyes overall (no major retinal or corneal diseases)
  • Have no existing eye infections

What Are the Options for Lens Replacement Surgery in Turkey?

Eye hospitals in Turkey offer advanced surgical options for lens replacement surgery. Treatment options are suggested based on a patient’s specific lens problem and requirement. Here are some common options for lens replacement surgery in Turkey:

■ Cataract Surgery:

The most common type of eye lens replacement surgery in Turkey is cataract surgery. In this procedure, the cloudy natural lens (caused by a cataract) is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. This not only restores clear vision but also prevents future cataract formation, as cataracts cannot grow on artificial lenses.

■ Refractive Lens Exchange:

Also known as clear lens extraction, refractive lens exchange involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one to correct refractive errors such as hyperopia, presbyopia, or cases involving a thin cornea. This procedure is recommended for patients aged 40 years or older who may not be suitable candidates for LASIK or other corneal laser surgeries.

■ Implantable Contact Lens:

ICL or Implantable Contact Lens is a surgical procedure where an artificial lens is placed behind the iris or in front of the natural lens to correct moderate to severe refractive errors. This is another common lens replacement surgery Turkey. This surgery is mainly used for the management of moderate eye problems.

■ Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation:

Phakic Intraocular Lens implantation, which includes the ICL procedure, involves placing a synthetic lens on the natural lens. The artificial lens can be positioned either behind or in front of the iris, while the natural lens remains intact. This method helps correct refractive errors while preserving the natural focusing ability of the eye.

What is the Step-by-Step Procedure for Lens Replacement Surgery in Turkey?

Before knowing the lens replacement surgery Turkey cost, it is important to understand the procedure in detail. Here is how the lens replacement procedure is performed in Turkey:

  • Step 1: Before the surgery begins, your eye specialist will administer pupil-dilating eye drops to widen the pupil and apply a local anesthetic to numb the eye area. The area around the eye is then thoroughly cleaned and sterilised to ensure safety and prevent infection.
  • Step 2: The actual lens replacement surgery takes between 10 and 20 minutes per eye. A small incision is made on the surface of the eye, through which the surgeon carefully removes the affected natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens. This lens is folded and inserted through the tiny incision through a minimally invasive and precise procedure.
  • Step 3: Once the artificial lens is securely positioned, the incision will heal naturally without the need for stitches. The eye is then covered with a protective shield to prevent accidental rubbing or exposure. Patients are asked to rest for about 30 minutes after the procedure before being discharged from the clinic.

How is Recovery after Lens Replacement Surgery in Turkey?

If you are planning an eye lens replacement surgery in Turkey, it would be wise to know what you can expect during the healing period post-surgery. Fortunately, lens replacement surgery is a minor procedure, performed mainly by experienced eye surgeons in Turkey. It might take 7 to 8 weeks to recover after the surgery. You will be discharged from the hospital within half an hour after the treatment. Here are some standard recovery guidelines to help you make informed decisions regarding your post-surgical period:

  • Immediate Post-Surgical Care: Avoid splashing or using water on the eye, keep the bandage clean, and change it regularly. Do not drive.
  • Follow-Up Care and Protection: You should also visit your doctor for follow-ups and follow all the instructions for protection, such as wearing goggles and avoiding direct exposure to water, dust, and dirt. 
  • Long-Term Medication and Care: Eye replacement surgery takes around 8 weeks for complete healing. During this period, if you witness any complications, seek professional help. Take the medications and care accordingly to speed up your recovery process. 

What is the Cost of Lens Replacement Surgery in Turkey?

If you’re wondering about the lens replacement surgery cost in Turkey, you should know that the country offers high-quality eye treatments at a fraction of the price compared to many Western nations. In fact, the cost of lens replacement surgery in Turkey can be up to ten times lower than in several first-world countries, and that too without compromising on quality, technology, or medical expertise.

Below is the cost of lens replacement surgery across different countries:

Country Lens Replacement Surgery Cost
Turkey $1,000 - $2,500 per eye
Europe $2,800 - $3,600 per eye
UK $3,900 - $4,800 per eye
USA $3,500 - $10,000 per eye

Why Get Lens Replacement Surgery in Turkey? 

When it comes to eye lens replacement surgery in Turkey, you can trust Turkish hospitals for the best results. Millions of people trust the Turkish treatment team to design their lens replacement surgery in Turkey. Here are some key reasons to choose Turkey for your lens replacement surgery:

  • Advanced technological support and advanced eye surgery tools and equipment
  • Advanced and effective eye care infrastructure
  • Globally trusted and skilled medical support team
  • Renowned and experienced surgeons trained in international institutions
  • Competitive pricing, which is relatively less than the prices in countries like the UK, USA, and Australia
  • Higher success rates in treatment procedures
  • JCI-accredited hospitals that follow international standards in treatment procedures
  • Excellent opportunity to explore and enjoy the rich culture and tourism
  • Post-surgical support and assistance for optimal health outcomes
  • Pre-surgery counselling and financial assistance
  • CureTurkey’s all-inclusive treatment packages for international patients.

When compared to many Western countries, surgical costs and medical materials in Turkey, particularly in Istanbul, are much lower. Lens replacement surgery in Turkey can cost up to 70% less than in the United Kingdom or the United States, making high-quality eye care more affordable without compromising on standards.

Undergoing lens replacement surgery in Istanbul, Turkey, is a cost-effective way to restore clear vision. For instance, a standard cataract or lens replacement surgery may cost between $1,000 and $2,500 per eye in Istanbul, whereas the same procedure ranges from $3,900 to $4,800 in the UK. Similarly, advanced procedures like refractive lens exchange or intraocular lens implants are priced significantly lower in Turkey compared to Western nations, providing substantial savings.

The surgery packages and pricing may vary depending on the type of lens used, hospital, or surgeon. These are general estimates, but overall, lens replacement surgery in Istanbul and other Turkish cities is considerably more affordable than in Europe, the UK, or the USA. For patients seeking high-quality, budget-friendly options, Turkey has become a leading destination for vision correction procedures.

Country Lens Replacement Surgery Cost
Turkey $1,000 - $2,500 per eye
Europe $2,800 - $3,600 per eye
UK $3,900 - $4,800 per eye
USA $3,500 - $10,000 per eye

Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey, is a major hub for international travel, with two international airports connecting the city to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. This connectivity makes it convenient for patients from around the world to visit Turkey, a country that beautifully blends rich heritage with modern healthcare facilities.

If you are planning to travel for lens replacement surgery in Turkey, you might need to apply for a medical visa. Here are some important points to keep in mind when preparing for your trip:

  • Along with a valid medical visa, you must have a current passport and travel insurance.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates.
  • Verify that your passport has enough blank pages for entry and exit stamps.

Citizens of certain countries, such as the UK, are allowed to visit Turkey for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.

Turkey is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant city life, rich history, and cultural heritage. Istanbul, in particular, offers patients not only advanced medical care for lens replacement surgery but also the opportunity to enjoy the city’s architecture, lively culture, and centuries of history. Many tourist sites in Istanbul are a blend of Eastern and Western influences, making it the best destination for both healthcare and leisure.

Some must-visit locations for patients travelling to Istanbul include:

  • Hagia Sophia
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Blue Mosque
  • Gulhane Park
  • Suleymaniye Mosque
  • Topkapi Palace
  • Dolmabahçe Palace
  • Bosphorus Strait

For those seeking relaxation and leisure, luxury cruises along the Bosphorus offer a serene escape, either alone or with family.

The treatment options and their cost for lens replacement can vary from one country to another. You can choose a country for lens replacement surgery that offers world-class treatment options at affordable prices. Turkey is one such country that provides high-quality lens replacement surgeries at cost-effective charges.

The lens replacement surgery Turkey cost can vary depending on the hospital you choose, its location, the surgeon’s fees, etc. However, the average cost of lens replacement surgery in Turkey can be between $1,135 and $2,817.

Lens replacement surgery has a high success rate in Turkey, as placing an artificial lens in the eye can offer permanent solutions to problems such as cataracts. The procedure has a 95% success rate in the country, thanks to its skilled surgeons and JCI-accredited hospitals.

Turkey offers a state-of-the-art healthcare infrastructure and qualified eye specialists for better outcomes of lens replacement surgery. Also, the affordable pricing that Turkish treatment offers also makes it one of the best international destinations for lens replacement surgeries.
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