Monofocal Lens Replacement in Turkey- Cost, Top Hospitals & VISA Guide

Monofocal lenses in Turkey are intraocular lenses used by surgeons during cataract surgery to improve vision and eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. They are specifically designed to focus the incoming light entering your eye onto your retina and improve your vision considerably. These lenses are especially beneficial for patients with conditions such as astigmatism, cataracts, and presbyopia. However, many people remain unaware of the advantages of monofocal lens treatments due to a general lack of knowledge and awareness. 

But even with the knowledge, the high cost of monofocal lenses and associated cataract procedures in countries like the UK, the USA, Singapore, and Australia oftentimes prevents patients from accessing quality eye care. Long waiting times and limited insurance coverage further delay timely treatment. 

It is no wonder then that more and more people are choosing Turkey for their eye treatments. Here, affordability blends with high-quality care to produce impressive success rates that go as  high as 98% in the transplantation of monofocal lens in Turkey. The shorter waiting times, along with transparent payment options, make it easier for patients to access immediate medical intervention at cost-effective prices. With the availability of accredited hospitals and internationally certified surgeons, Turkey attracts international patients seeking high-quality healthcare without breaking their bank.

What are the Benefits of Getting Monofocal Lenses Implanted?

There are several advantages to monofocal lenses, especially for patients undergoing cataract surgery or wanting long-term vision correction. While they are designed to focus on a single distance, usually a long one, they provide excellent clarity and considerably improve quality of life for the right candidates. The benefits of monofocal IOLs are:

■ Improved Vision Clarity:

Monofocal lenses restore clear vision by focusing light precisely on the retina. This leads to a significant reduction in blurry or distorted vision, especially for distance viewing.

■ Permanent Cataract Treatment:

These lenses replace the clouded natural lens during cataract surgery, serving as a long-term and permanent treatment method  for cataract-related vision issues.

■ Reduced Reliance on Glasses:

Many patients discover that they no longer require glasses for activities like driving, watching TV, or going to events after getting monofocal lenses implanted.

■ Cost-Effective:

Compared to multifocal or premium lenses, monofocal lenses are more affordable while still offering high success rates and reliable results, especially when implanted by experienced surgeons in Turkey.

■ High Success Rates:

With success rates as high as 98% in Turkey, monofocal lens surgeries are considered safe and effective, with low complication risks when performed in accredited clinics like the leading eye clinics with CureTurkey.

Who are the Ideal Candidates for Monofocal Lenses in Turkey?

Monofocal lens in Turkey are high-quality intraocular lenses implanted to replace the eye’s natural lens after the removal of a cataract-affected lens. While they offer excellent vision correction, especially for distance vision, they may not be suitable for every patient; hence, knowing the conditions that require monofocal lens replacement can help you make informed decisions regarding your eye health: 

• Myopia
• Hyperopia
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Double Vision or Diplopia
• Halos or glare, particularly noticeable at night or from peripheral vision
• Cataracts
• Presbyopia
• Astigmatism
• Age-related vision deterioration
• Swelling or redness in the eye caused by lens opacity or irritation

If you suffer from any of the above conditions and are wanting long-term vision correction without relying heavily on glasses or contact lenses, the cost-effective monofocal lens in Turkey is your answer. 

How is Monofocal Lens Surgery Performed in Turkey? 

Monofocal lens surgery in Turkey is a highly advanced procedure carried out by experienced ophthalmologists using state-of-the-art technology. The process is designed to offer the best vision correction results. Here’s how the whole treatment procedure with monofocal lens in Turkey works: 

■ Initial Consultation:

Your treatment will begin with a thorough consultation at the Turkish clinic. During this session, the surgeon will evaluate your eye health, discuss your lifestyle and vision goals, and help determine which is the best monofocal lens for you and the exact power suitable for your condition. 

■ Comprehensive Eye Exam:

Your eye specialists will conduct some eye examinations to assess your eye health and for precise measurements for the IOL. These tests help with the selection of the most appropriate intraocular lenses and their placement, which is important for achieving the best results.

■ Medication Review:

You’ll be asked to provide a complete list of any medications or supplements you are taking to your doctor. Your doctor may need to pause or adjust some medications before surgery to minimise complications.

■ Informed Consent:

Once your surgeon discusses the procedure, expectations, and potential risks for your understanding, you will be ready for the procedure. 

■ Surgery Options:

• Phacoemulsification: Phacoemulsification is the most common technique used for the implantation of monofocal IOL. It uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy natural lens, which is then gently suctioned out before the monofocal IOL is implanted.
• Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery: In this procedure, a femtosecond laser is used to create precise incisions and fragment the lens. This method is highly accurate and has a quick recovery time.

■ Post-operative Care:

After surgery, you’ll receive detailed aftercare instructions. You must adhere to these post-surgery instructions, including eye drops for infection prevention and inflammation reduction, along with the restrictions, like avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities, for a smooth healing. 

■ Follow-Up Visits:

Scheduled follow-up visits are important to monitor your healing and avail the best vision results. Your surgeon will assess your progress and adjust your care plan as needed.

How is Recovery After Monofocal Lens Surgery in Turkey?

Recovery after monofocal lens surgery in Turkey is quick, thanks to the advanced surgical techniques and expert postoperative care provided there. Most patients start noticing an improvement in their vision within a few days only; however, initially the vision can be slightly blurry or hazy. Mild discomfort, light sensitivity, or a gritty sensation in the eye is normal during the first 24 to 48 hours. Patients are usually prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent the risk of infections, and it is important to follow the medication schedule closely. Activities such as heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, swimming, and rubbing the eyes should be avoided during the early recovery phase to prevent complications. Wearing sunglasses outdoors is also recommended to protect the eyes from UV exposure and dust. Follow-up visits with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor progress and make sure that the implanted lens is functioning correctly. Within 2 to 6 weeks, patients report a clear and stable vision, especially for distance. While reading glasses may still be needed for close-up tasks, the overall vision improvement is long-lasting.

What are the Different Brands of Monofocal lenses available in Turkey? 

When selecting a monofocal intraocular lens, choosing a reputable brand is important. In Turkey, a number of manufacturers offer high-quality monofocal lenses that are trusted by both ophthalmologists and patients. Below are some of the most preferred monofocal lens brands in Turkey:

■ Alcon’s AcrySof IQ: These lenses are designed in meticulous detail to achieve the best visual outcome, as they incorporate STABLEFORCE haptics that limit both rotational and axial movement. The Alcon lenses are known for their precision and advanced technology, providing exceptional vision clarity.

■ Johnson & Johnson TECNIS lenses: These are next-generation mono-focal lenses designed for excellent visual outcomes at both far and intermediate distances. These lenses are capable of building 20/20 distance vision and offer improvements for intermediate vision.

■ Bausch + Lomb enVista lenses: By focusing on innovative design and patient satisfaction, enVista lenses offer a broader depth of focus, with the proven benefits of the enVista platform that caters to the vision needs of the modern world. 

Why Choose Turkey for Monofocal Lens Treatment? 

Turkish clinics, especially in cities like Istanbul, Izmir, and Antalya, boast modern facilities, advanced technology, and experienced surgeons who deliver the best outcomes. Compared to the UK, USA, and Australia, surgery costs with a monofocal lens in Turkey are 30-70% lower, ranging between $1,500 and $2,500 per eye. Turkey's shorter waiting times and strategic location also make it easily accessible to patients travelling from other countries. Many clinics partner with CureTurkey to offer all-inclusive packages covering surgery, accommodation, and transportation, while some even provide language interpreters and travel assistance. Turkey's strong reputation for medical tourism is backed by international accreditation, such as JCI, which ensure high standards of care and make ophthalmology clinics in Turkey the top choice for international patients seeking monofocal lens treatment.