Cataract Surgery Prices in Turkey

What is a Cataract and What are its Symptoms?

A cataract is a condition where the natural lens inside the eye, which is normally transparent, loses its clarity and becomes cloudy. This happens as proteins inside the lens accumulate and clump together over time. The eye’s lens works like a camera lens, focusing light onto the retina, but when a cataract develops, this light cannot be focused, and vision quality decreases significantly.

Age-related cataracts are the most common type, but sometimes systemic diseases like diabetes, physical trauma to the eye, long-term corticosteroid use, or genetic factors can also cause cataracts. The symptoms appear gradually and may not be noticed at first. The most common symptom is blurred vision, as if looking through a foggy or misty window. Seeing halos around lights or experiencing light sensitivity while driving at night are also common symptoms. The fading of colors, double vision in one eye, and frequently changing eyeglass prescriptions can also be signs of a cataract.

Who are Suitable Candidates for Cataract Surgery?

The decision to have cataract surgery is based on the impact of the cataract on the patient’s daily quality of life, rather than on the degree of the patient’s eyeglass prescription. A suitable candidate for surgery is a person who has difficulty performing tasks, driving, reading, or engaging in daily hobbies due to the cataract. For example, difficulty reading a newspaper, watching television, seeing traffic signs while driving, or working on a computer are all important factors in the decision to have surgery. There is no specific age limit for the surgery; whether a patient is 40 or 80 years old is not the sole determinant for the decision. The important factor is how much the decrease in vision is limiting the individual’s life. Therefore, the decision for surgery is made collaboratively by the doctor and the patient, considering the patient’s lifestyle and expectations.

What Preparations Should be Made Before Cataract Surgery?

The pre-surgery period is vital for the success of the operation and the patient’s safety. First, your doctor will perform a comprehensive examination to fully evaluate the condition of your eye and your general health. One of the most critical steps during this examination is to perform intraocular lens power measurements and biometric measurements to determine the power of the artificial lens that will be implanted during the surgery.

These measurements ensure that you achieve the best possible visual acuity after the surgery. You must also inform your doctor of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are using. Especially if you are taking blood-thinning medications (aspirin, warfarin, etc.), you may need to stop taking them a few days before the surgery, as advised by your doctor. If there is any infection in the eye before the surgery, it may need to be treated first, and the surgery may be postponed. All these preparations are made to ensure that the surgery is completed smoothly and safely.

What Should be Considered Before the Surgery?

There are several important points to consider on the day of and in the few days leading up to the surgery. On the morning of the surgery, it is very important to thoroughly clean your face and the area around your eyes, but you should not use products like soap, lotion, cream, or makeup. Makeup and other cosmetic products can increase the risk of infection in the surgical area. Additionally, it is important to wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing to the surgery for your comfort afterwards.

You should absolutely not wear perfume or cologne, and you should not wear jewelry. You must follow all instructions given by your doctor exactly, especially regarding food and drink intake. Since the surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, a light breakfast may be allowed, but you must strictly follow your doctor’s specific instructions on this matter. These seemingly simple precautions make a big difference in ensuring the surgery is successful and without risk.

What Should I Bring with Me to the Surgery?

There is no need to bring a lot of items with you on the day of the surgery. Generally, your ID card and the necessary documents for hospital records are sufficient. It will be helpful to bring a pair of sunglasses with you for after the surgery, as your eyes may be sensitive to light. If you have a case for your current glasses, you might consider bringing that as well.

Most importantly, since it will be unsafe for you to drive until your vision is fully clear after the surgery, you should make sure a family member or friend accompanies you to take you home afterwards. To ensure the surgery and your return home are comfortable and smooth, it is best to only bring the necessary items with you. Remember that following all the directions from your doctor and the hospital staff is the most important rule throughout the pre- and post-surgery process.

How Long Does the Surgery Take and How is it Performed?

Cataract surgery, with the modern techniques applied today, is an extremely fast and safe procedure. The surgery is usually completed in a very short time, typically 15-20 minutes, and does not require a long hospital stay. The most commonly used surgical method is the phacoemulsification (PHACO) technique. In this technique, a very small incision is made in the transparent outer layer of the eye (the cornea). An ultrasonic probe is inserted through this incision to send ultrasonic waves to the eye’s lens. These waves cause the cataractous lens to break up and liquefy.

Then, these fragmented lens remnants are suctioned out of the eye using the same probe. Finally, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), which is rolled up and foldable, is placed into the eye through the same small incision and unfolds by itself. This lens takes over the function of the natural lens. The small incision often heals on its own without needing stitches, which speeds up the post-surgery recovery process.

Will I Feel Pain or Discomfort During the Surgery?

Cataract surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia, and patients do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Anesthesia is provided with eye drops or, very rarely, with an injection around the eye, which ensures that your eye is completely numbed. This allows the operation to be completed smoothly while your eye remains open and your blink reflex is controlled. Patients may generally feel a slight pressure, touch, or see a bright light, but these are not uncomfortably intense.

Even though you will be fully awake during the surgery, a sedative medication may also be given to help you feel more relaxed and at ease. Thanks to modern anesthesia techniques, cataract surgery has become a very comfortable and stress-free experience for patients. You can remain in communication with your doctor during the surgery, which also helps the patient feel secure.

What Type of Anesthesia is Used?

While the type of anesthesia used for cataract surgery is determined by the patient’s condition and the complexity of the surgery, local anesthesia is most commonly preferred. This method of anesthesia only numbs the eye, and the patient remains conscious. Local anesthesia is usually achieved with special drops administered to the eye before the surgery or with a small injection around the eye. The biggest advantage of this method is that it avoids the potential risks of general anesthesia, and the patient recovers much more quickly and can be discharged from the hospital immediately after the surgery.

General anesthesia, which involves putting the patient completely to sleep, is only preferred in very specific situations. These include patients who are extremely anxious or prone to panic attacks, small children, or patients who cannot remain perfectly still during the surgery. The use of general anesthesia is much rarer than local anesthesia and carries more risks.

What Types of Lenses are Used in Surgery and What are the Differences Between Them?

In cataract surgery, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is placed to replace the cloudy natural lens. These lenses vary according to the patient’s vision needs and lifestyle. The most commonly used lens type is Monofocal Lenses. These lenses are set to provide clear vision at either a distance or up close. Patients generally choose these lenses to see clearly at a distance and then need reading glasses for near tasks like reading or using a computer.

Another option, Multifocal Lenses, can provide clear vision at far, intermediate, and near distances, significantly reducing dependence on glasses. These lenses have different focal zones, allowing the brain to see different distances. Toric Lenses are designed for patients with astigmatism. These lenses both treat the cataract and correct the astigmatism problem, improving the patient’s distance and near vision. Each lens type has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of lens is determined by the doctor based on the patient’s examination findings and expectations.

What are the Most Up-to-date Surgical Methods in Terms of Technology?

Cataract surgery technology is constantly evolving, and these developments are making the surgery safer and more precise. One of the most up-to-date methods today is Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS). In this technique, some critical steps that are manually performed by the surgeon are carried out by a highly precise femtosecond laser. The laser makes precise incisions of the correct size on the cornea, then opens the front capsule of the cataractous lens (capsulorhexis) in a perfect circle, and finally makes the lens easier to fragment. The fact that the laser performs these procedures automatically with millimeter precision means that the phacoemulsification (PHACO) device uses less energy, which can contribute to a faster post-surgery recovery. This technology can provide more predictable and reliable results, especially in complex cataract cases and with the implantation of premium lenses (multifocal, toric).

What Should I Pay Attention to in the Post-Surgery Period?

The post-cataract surgery recovery process is critically important for your vision to reach its best state. Immediately after the surgery, you may feel a slight itch, watering, or sensitivity in your eye; these are normal. You should absolutely avoid rubbing or scratching your operated eye, as this can damage the newly placed lens and increase the risk of infection. It is very important that you use the eye drops prescribed by your doctor regularly and without interruption, according to the specified schedule.

These drops are specially given to prevent infection, reduce inflammation in the eye, and speed up the healing process. You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a few weeks, as these types of activities can increase intraocular pressure. Additionally, you should protect your eye from dusty and dirty environments and be careful not to get water in your eye when swimming or bathing. Your doctor will generally schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery process.

When Does Vision Become Clear After Surgery?

The improvement in visual clarity after surgery is generally quite fast, although it varies from person to person. Most patients feel a significant improvement in vision quality within the first few days after the surgery. However, it may take a few weeks for the eye to heal completely and adapt to the new lens. In the first few days, it is normal to experience some slight blurriness, light sensitivity, or to see halos. These symptoms will disappear over time as the eye heals from the surgery. Reaching your final and clearest vision generally takes about a month. During this process, it is very important to be patient and to follow all of your doctor’s instructions to achieve the best result.

For How Long Should I Use Eye Drops?

Eye drops are the most important part of post-cataract surgery care and play a vital role in the successful completion of the healing process. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotic drops to prevent infection and anti-inflammatory drops to control inflammation after the surgery. The duration of use for these drops is generally a few weeks and is applied according to a tapering dosage schedule determined by your doctor. Using the drops regularly and at the correct times is critically important for keeping inflammation under control and minimizing the risk of infection. Even if your eye feels good, it is very important that you continue to use the drops for the duration recommended by your doctor. Stopping the drops early or using them irregularly can negatively affect the healing process and lead to unwanted complications.

When Can I Return to Work After Surgery?

The time it takes to return to work varies depending on the type of work you do and your individual recovery speed. Generally, people who work in an office or a profession that does not require physical exertion can return to work within a few days after the surgery. However, if you work in dusty or dirty environments like construction or gardening, or if your job requires heavy lifting, your doctor may recommend taking a longer break from work. Patients who work in these types of jobs need to protect their eyes more against the risk of infection and injury. In any case, the decision to return to work should be made after your doctor’s final check-up, once you are sure your eye has fully healed.

What are the Possible Risks and Complications After Surgery?

Cataract surgery has become an extremely safe procedure thanks to modern medicine. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are some rare risks and complications. Among the most serious, though extremely rare, complications are eye infection (endophthalmitis), bleeding, a significant increase in intraocular pressure (glaucoma), retinal detachment, and the displacement of the implanted lens.

The likelihood of these types of complications occurring is very low and is further reduced by regular check-ups and adherence to the doctor’s instructions. If you experience unexpected pain, vision loss, eye redness, or swelling after the surgery, it is very important that you contact your doctor immediately. Modern surgical techniques and post-operative follow-up processes are designed to minimize potential risks.

What You Need to Know About Cataract Surgery in Turkey

Cataract is an eye disease that occurs when the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, significantly reducing vision quality. The only treatment is surgery. In Turkey, these surgeries are performed with highly advanced methods and by expert doctors.

How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost?

It is not possible to give a precise price for cataract surgery because costs vary depending on many factors:

• Hospital Type: There are large price differences between public hospitals, university hospitals, and private hospitals.
• Surgical Method: Methods such as traditional phacoemulsification (FAKO) or the more advanced femtosecond laser-assisted surgeries affect the cost.
• Intraocular Lens (IOL) Type:
  • Monofocal (Single-Focus) Lenses: Correct vision for only one distance (far or near). This is generally the type of lens covered by the SGK (Social Security Institution) in public hospitals. It has the lowest cost.
  • Smart Lenses (Trifocal/EDOF): Provide clear vision for far, intermediate, and near distances without glasses. Their cost is much higher than monofocal lenses.
• Surgeon’s Experience: The fee of an expert and well-known surgeon may be higher.

To get a general price range, you can make appointments with your preferred hospitals and doctors to determine the most suitable option for your budget.

Do SGK and Private Insurance Cover the Surgery Costs?

• SGK (Social Security Institution): In public hospitals and some private hospitals with an SGK agreement, cataract surgery performed with a monofocal (single-focus) lens is completely free of charge. However, smart lens (trifocal/EDOF) surgeries are not covered by SGK, and the cost of these lenses is borne by the patient.
• Private Health Insurance: Depending on your policy’s coverage, it may cover cataract surgery. Most private health insurance policies offer this surgery under their “inpatient treatment” coverage. However, there may be waiting periods and specific conditions, such as the cataract not being diagnosed before you took out the policy. For detailed information, it is important to contact your insurance company.

How to Choose the Best Hospital and Doctor?

You can consider the following criteria to make the right choice:

• Doctor’s Experience: Although cataract surgery is a very common operation, the doctor’s experience in this field and the number of surgeries they have performed are of great importance.
• Hospital Infrastructure and Technology: A hospital with modern technological equipment ensures that the surgery is safer and more successful.
• Patient Reviews: Reading the comments and experiences of other patients who have undergone the surgery can give you an idea.
• Communication: The communication you establish with your doctor is very important for you to feel safe during the pre- and post-operative process.

How to Learn About a Doctor’s Experience and Success Rate

• In-Person Consultation: During your first consultation with the doctor, you can directly ask about their past experience, how many cataract surgeries they have performed, and the techniques they use.
• Professional Organizations: You can research experts who are members of professional organizations like the Turkish Ophthalmology Association.
• Scientific Publications: Getting information about the doctor’s scientific publications or congress participations is important as it demonstrates their expertise.

Doctors generally prefer to talk about their operations and experience rather than sharing success rates in numbers.

What to Consider When Getting a Price Quote for Surgery

When getting a price quote, focus not only on the total cost but also on the package’s content. Be sure to ask what the quote includes:

• Lens Cost: Is it included in the quote? What type and brand of lens will be used?
• Pre-operative Examinations: Are eye exams, biometry, and other tests included in the package?
• Post-operative Check-ups: Is an additional fee charged for regular post-operative check-ups?
• Anesthesia: Is the anesthesia method and its cost included in the price?
• Potential Additional Costs: Ask for information about possible additional costs for unexpected situations.

Clarifying these details will prevent you from facing a surprise cost later on.

Cataract surgery in Istanbul

Istanbul stands out as a medical center with advanced technology and a wide range of eye health services. The city is home to many private hospitals with expert doctors who cater to both local and international patients. In these frequently preferred centers for cataract surgery, pre-operative detailed examinations and post-operative follow-up processes are carried out meticulously. In Istanbul, cataract surgery can be performed using various techniques, including laser-assisted methods.

Cataract surgery in Antalya

Antalya, the pearl of the Mediterranean, draws attention not only with its tourism but also with its developed healthcare facilities. The city’s eye hospitals offer a combination of holiday and treatment opportunities, making it an ideal destination for medical tourism. The centers in Antalya have all the necessary modern equipment and expert staff for cataract surgery and other eye disease treatments.

Cataract surgery in Izmir

As one of the important cities of the Aegean region, Izmir is known for the quality of its eye health services. The prices for cataract surgery in Izmir vary depending on the chosen hospital, the type of lens used (monofocal, smart lens, etc.), and the experience of the surgeon. Therefore, it is not possible to give a precise price, and it is recommended to get information from more than one center to learn the price range.

Cataract surgery in Kusadasi

Kusadasi is one of the regions that offers an opportunity for both treatment and a relaxing holiday for those who want to undergo cataract surgery. The short duration of the surgery and the generally fast recovery process make it possible to combine the treatment with a vacation. The clinics and centers in Kusadasi serve both the local population and tourists in this field. Patients can enjoy the beauties of the Aegean while having their post-operative check-ups.

Cities and cataract surgery prices in Turkey

Turkey has become a popular destination for international patients, especially from Europe and the Middle East, for cataract surgery. The main reasons for this are the high-quality healthcare services offered at much more affordable costs than in Western countries, the presence of experienced surgeons, and the use of modern medical technologies.

Average Price Range

Cataract surgery prices can vary significantly depending on several factors. The prices below provide an average range for a single eye, and it is always recommended to contact the clinic directly for a final quote.

• Single Eye Surgery (with Standard Monofocal Lens): €1,000 – €2,500
  • These packages typically include standard monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). These lenses correct distance vision but may still require glasses for near or intermediate distances. The prices generally cover pre-operative tests and standard post-operative care.
• Single Eye Surgery (with Premium Lenses – Trifocal, Smart Lens etc.): €2,500 – €5,000 and above
  • Surgeries in this category include more advanced lens types such as trifocal or multifocal lenses, which allow the patient to see clearly at near, intermediate, and far distances. These lenses aim to help the patient live a life without glasses after the surgery.

Important Factors Affecting Prices

• City and Location: Private hospitals and clinics in major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, İzmir, and Antalya may charge higher prices due to higher operating costs compared to smaller cities.
• Hospital and Clinic Type: Well-known hospital chains with international accreditations like JCI or private boutique clinics may offer services in a higher price range than standard clinics.
• Type of Lens Used: The lens itself is one of the most important factors determining the price. While monofocal lenses are the most affordable option, toric lenses that correct astigmatism or smart lenses (trifocal/multifocal) that provide clear vision at all distances significantly increase the cost.
• Surgeon’s Experience: The surgeon’s expertise, experience, and success rate play a decisive role in pricing.
• Surgical Technique: While the traditional phacoemulsification method is the most common and affordable technique, laser-assisted (femtosecond laser) cataract surgeries that offer higher precision are more expensive.
• Package Inclusions: Many clinics offer all-inclusive packages for international patients. These packages may include additional services such as airport transfers, accommodation, medications, and interpretation services, which affect the total cost.