Corneal transplant in Turkey

Price of a corneal transplant in Turkey

The price of a corneal transplant in Turkey varies between €5900 and €7300. This price includes a consultation with an ophthalmologist, a biochemical blood test, a blood count, language assistance, a general anaesthetic, a follow-up examination, airport-hotel-clinic transfers, a stay in a 4-star hotel and a corneal transplant.

Transverse bonding of the cornea	1400 €
Implantation of a corneal ring	5800 €
Corneal transplant	6200 €
Keratoplasty	900 €

Introduction

The cornea is a thin, transparent membrane located at the front of the eye. It is the layer that covers the iris. Its role is to protect our eyes from environmental damage. But it also helps to direct light towards the retina, which sends images to the brain.

Damage to this tissue can affect our vision. Corneal treatments have evolved considerably. In some cases, to restore visual function, it is possible to consider a transplant or transplant surgery.

Did you know that one of the most popular countries in the world for eye transplants is Turkey? This destination, particularly Istanbul, attracts many international patients and medical tourists. Turkish hospitals and clinics not only offer high-quality treatment. They also promise high success rates.

What’s more, you can take advantage of their modern techniques and state-of-the-art equipment at costs that are much more affordable than elsewhere.

What is a corneal transplant?

Every year, around 185,000 corneal transplants are carried out worldwide. In France, some 3,500 patients receive a new cornea every year. This demonstrates the significant advances that have been made in the field of ocular medicine. But what exactly does it involve? The damaged cornea is removed and replaced by another taken from a donor.

The new cornea is inserted using ultra-fine stitches. The aim of this operation is to make the corneal tissue clear and smooth again, so that the patient can see properly again and enjoy sharper vision.

In Turkey, there are three main types of corneal transplant. The choice depends on the patient’s needs.

• Anterior keratoplasty involves transplanting the anterior layers of the cornea (anterior lamellar graft).
• Endothelial keratoplasty focuses solely on transplanting the inner layer of the cornea (posterior lamellar graft DMEK or DSAEK).
• Penetrating keratoplasty involves transplantation of the entire thickness of the cornea.

Who should have a corneal transplant?

There is no strictly defined minimum age for this type of eye surgery. Turkish hospitals and clinics assess each case individually. They study the severity of the disease and the patient’s medical conditions. However, people with the following symptoms are not eligible for this surgical procedure:

• Severe optic nerve disease (advanced glaucoma, detached retina, etc.)
• Severe inflammation of the inside of the eye
• With a history of graft rejection

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When is a corneal transplant possible?

The ophthalmic surgeon prescribes “keratoplasty” to repair damage caused by disease, injury or infection. Here are some of the reasons why an ophthalmologist may prescribe a corneal transplant:

• The cornea takes on an abnormal conical shape making vision blurred and distorted (Keratoconus)
• Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy (hereditary disease that causes the cornea to swell and become cloudy)
• Corneal trauma that cannot be repaired in any other way.
• Scarring caused by severe corneal infections.
• Problems arising after cataract surgery or other eye operations.

What are the risks, complications and side effects?

Risks and complications during the operation:

• Perforation of one of the layers of the cornea.
• Poor placement of the graft.
• Damage to the graft.
• Damage to the lens (this is rare).
• Significant bleeding inside the eye.
• Damage to the iris (rare)

Risks and complications after the operation:

• The body can sometimes reject the new cornea (rejection)
• Astigmatism (blurred or distorted vision).
• Problems with the stitches
• Scar reopening.
• The cornea may become irritated (keratitis).
• Temporary drop in tension in the eye (hypotonia)
• Increased pressure in the eye (glaucoma).
• Serious infection (endophthalmitis).
• The retina may swell.
• Opacification of the lens of the eye (cataract).
• Retinal detachment

Side effects

• Pain and redness related to graft rejection.
• Runny eye
• Increased sensitivity to light(Photophobia)

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How does a corneal transplant work in Turkey?

One day to one week before the operation, the ophthalmologist will see you for a pre-operative examination. He or she will need to know more about your health: current treatments, allergies, recent or current infections, etc.

It is important to note that corneal transplants are often carried out under local anaesthetic, so you remain awake but feel no pain.

Here are the steps involved in a corneal transplant:

• Stage 1: A disc 8.25 mm in diameter is removed from the healthy cornea of a deceased donor
• Step 2: An 8.00 mm diameter disc is removed from the diseased cornea of the patient’s eye.
• Step 3: The graft is sutured using a very fine, non-absorbable nylon thread using the continuous suture technique (overjet), separate stitches (16 or 32 stitches), or a combination of the two.

During this operation, the surgeon may also perform other surgical procedures if necessary, such as :

• Cataract or glaucoma surgery
• A change of intraocular implant,
• Vitrectomy,

How long will I stay in Turkey for this operation?

Your stay in Turkey for corneal replacement surgery will not exceed 1 month. This period includes :

• 1 to 2 days for pre-operative consultations and tests before the operation
• 1 to 6 days in hospital, i.e. 1 day for the operation.
• Approximately 20 days for post-operative follow-up and regular check-ups.

Why choose Turkey for a corneal transplant?

There are several advantages to choosing Turkey for corneal surgery:

• A corneal transplant in Turkey can cost up to 40-50% less.
• Many clinics are recognised by renowned institutions such as the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).
• Turkish clinics use state-of-the-art technology and surgical techniques, which improve results and reduce recovery times.
• Waiting times for operations are often shorter.
• Turkish medical services offer tailor-made care.
• Turkey is an attractive destination for medical tourism enthusiasts

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Frequently asked questions about corneal transplants in Turkey