Corneal transplant surgery (keratoplasty) in Turkey: Best costs

What is a cornea transplant?

A corneal transplant, also known as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing part or all of a damaged cornea with healthy corneal tissue from a donor. This procedure is recommended when the cornea, the eye's transparent outer layer, becomes distorted, swollen, or cloudy, leading to impaired vision.

A corneal transplant may be indicated in the following conditions:

• Corneal edema or severe corneal distortion.
• Failure of a previous corneal transplant.
• Keratoconus: a progressive condition in which the cornea thins and bulges into a cone shape.
• Corneal scarring: resulting from infections, injuries, or ulcers
• Fuchs' dystrophy: a genetic disorder that causes corneal swelling and blurred vision.
• Bullous keratopathy: a condition characterized by fluid-filled blisters on the cornea, leading to vision loss.
• Keratitis: inflammation of the cornea due to viral, bacterial, or parasitic causes, which may leave permanent damage.
• Complications following cataract surgery.

This procedure aims to restore corneal clarity and significantly improve visual quality when other treatments are no longer effective.

Corneal diagnosis: In which cases?

A damaged cornea can lead to a variety of visual problems. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see an eye care professional:

• Decreased visual acuity: blurred or double vision that does not improve with glasses or contact lenses.
• Sensitivity to light: Severe discomfort when exposed to bright light.
• Halos or glare around lights: Colored circles or beams of light around light sources.
• Chronic eye pain: A burning, scratching, or squeezing sensation in the eye.

Although these symptoms can be signs of other eye problems, your ophthalmologist can determine whether keratoplasty is needed to restore your vision.

Different types of corneal transplant procedures in Istanbul, Turkey

In Istanbul, corneal transplant procedures are classified into several categories, depending on the depth of the corneal layers that need to be replaced. The most appropriate technique is selected based on the patient's condition and the extent of corneal damage:

• Penetrating keratoplasty (PK): The most traditional and widely used method, this procedure involves replacing the full thickness of the cornea, including all its layers.
• Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK): This technique allows surgeons to replace only the anterior (outer) layers of the cornea while preserving the patient's healthy endothelium. It is commonly used in the treatment of keratoconus.
• Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK/DMEK): This procedure targets only the innermost layer of the cornea, known as the endothelium. It is particularly well-suited for conditions such as Fuchs' dystrophy and other endothelial disorders.

Each technique is chosen to maximize visual outcomes while minimizing surgical risk and recovery time.

How the procedure is performed in Istanbul, Turkey

Under local or general anesthesia, surgeons in Istanbul remove the damaged portion of the cornea and replace it with healthy donor corneal tissue, which is secured in place using extremely fine sutures. Visual recovery occurs gradually and is supported by close clinical follow-up.

Preparation

Before the procedure, you will have a detailed consultation with the surgeon. During this visit, the condition of your eye will be thoroughly evaluated, and the most appropriate surgical technique will be selected based on your specific needs. Preoperative tests such as corneal topography and ocular ultrasound are routinely performed to ensure precise planning.

The surgery

The corneal transplant is performed under local or general anesthesia and typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours. The surgeon removes the affected portion of the cornea and replaces it with donor tissue, which is then carefully fixed in place with microscopic sutures.

Recovery and postoperative follow-up

Your stay in Turkey generally lasts around one to two weeks. After surgery, you will remain in the hospital overnight to allow for immediate postoperative monitoring. The ophthalmic surgeon will prescribe medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce the risk of graft rejection.

Visual recovery may take several months. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor eye health, assess graft integration, and adjust treatment if necessary. Before returning home, you will receive all the necessary instructions and information to ensure effective long-term follow-up with your local ophthalmologist.

Postoperative care after a corneal transplant (Keratoplasty)

In the first few days following a corneal transplant, it is common to experience redness, eye irritation, and sensitivity to light. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate and can be effectively relieved with pain medication prescribed by your ophthalmologist.

For endothelial keratoplasty, maintaining an upright head position is often recommended for several days to promote proper healing and graft adherence.

A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. During this visit, the surgeon will assess the condition of your eye and may adjust your treatment, including prescription eye drops and ophthalmic ointments. These local treatments are essential to ensure optimal healing and a gradual improvement in vision.

Recovery after a corneal transplant

Postoperative care varies depending on the surgical technique used. If sutures were placed during the procedure, their removal will be performed by your surgeon at the appropriate time.

Immediately after surgery, your eye will be protected with a dressing. During the first few days, it is recommended to wear an eye shield while sleeping and during personal hygiene routines to prevent any accidental rubbing or pressure on the eye.

Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions regarding activities to avoid in order to promote optimal healing. Wearing protective glasses for a certain period is often advised.

Throughout the recovery phase, you must avoid rubbing or pressing on the operated eye, as this could compromise the surgical outcome.

Why choose Turkey for a corneal transplant?

Turkey has become a leading destination for medical tourism, particularly for advanced ophthalmic procedures. Partner clinics of Turquie Santé provide high-quality care that meets international medical standards.

• Experienced surgeons: You will be treated by highly qualified ophthalmic surgeons, often internationally trained and specialized in corneal surgery.
• State-of-the-art technology: Our partner facilities are equipped with the latest medical technologies to ensure safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.
• Competitive costs: Surgical procedures in Turkey are significantly more affordable than in Europe or North America, without compromising quality or patient safety.
• Personalized care: Comprehensive support is provided throughout your journey from the initial consultation to recovery, including assistance with travel and accommodation arrangements.

Contact Turquie Santé today for a free teleconsultation and receive your personalized treatment quote quickly and transparently.