BestClinic.co.uk provides information on corneal transplants in Turkey and helps you book an operation with qualified Turkish surgeons. This content is provided for information purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of a healthcare professional.
- Preço de um transplante de córnea na Turquia
- Introdução
- O que é um transplante de córnea?
- Quem deve efetuar um transplante de córnea?
- Quando é possível efetuar um transplante de córnea?
- Quais são os riscos, complicações e efeitos secundários?
- Como é que um transplante de córnea funciona na Turquia?
- Quanto tempo é que vou ficar na Turquia para esta operação?
- Porquê escolher a Turquia para um transplante de córnea?
- Perguntas mais frequentes sobre os transplantes de córnea na Turquia
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
Read our file on thyroid cancer treatment in Turkey.
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)
Read our file on the treatment of retinal detachment in Istanbul.
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
Enjoy a FREE evaluation!
On request and
with no obligation on your part.
100% free consultation. We analyse your situation, your needs and your expectations. And we estimate the budget required for : Flight + Hotel + Taxi + Treatment.
At all times, you retain complete control over the process. Total peace of mind.
Frequently asked questions about corneal transplants in Turkey
Does a corneal transplant hurt?
You will feel no pain during the operation, whether it is carried out under general or local anaesthetic. Following the operation, you may experience slight eye pain. The sutures may cause tingling.
What is the success rate for a corneal transplant in Turkey?
Corneal transplants are generally successful in Turkey. The success rate is around 90%. This percentage can fluctuate depending on the initial condition of the patient’s cornea and the rigour of post-operative care.
Where is the best country for a corneal transplant?
Corneal transplants in Turkey benefit from advanced medical expertise. The medical facilities are equipped with cutting-edge technology. Care is of the highest quality, despite being affordable. Its medical tourism offer also attracts customers.
What is the minimum age for a corneal transplant?
There is no specific age limit for a corneal transplant. The decision is mainly based on the patient’s state of health and the doctor’s opinion. Corneal transplants can therefore be carried out on both children and adults, depending on specific needs and medical recommendations.
What is the minimum length of stay in Turkey for a corneal transplant?
Your stay in Turkey for a corneal transplant will last a minimum of approximately 8 to 12 days if there are no complications. This includes a 1-day pre-operative examination, 1 to 2 days in hospital and 5 to 8 days post-operative follow-up.
What are the risks of a corneal transplant?
The immune system may attack the new transplanted eye, especially in the first two years. There is a risk of infection in the eye or around the sutures, and vision problems such as astigmatism, glaucoma and cataracts. The retina may swell, a condition known as retinal oedema.
