How long does recovery take after an intraocular lens implant?

Visual recovery is fast. Most patients notice an improvement in vision within a few days, with complete stabilization within a few weeks.

How long do I need to stay in Turkey for an intraocular lens implant?

A stay of 3 to 5 days is generally sufficient for the procedure, postoperative check-ups, and a safe return to your home country.

What is the difference between an intraocular lens implant and laser surgery?

An intraocular lens implant is recommended when laser surgery is not suitable, particularly in cases of high correction or thin cornea. It provides long-lasting correction without altering the cornea.

Can an intraocular lens implant be removed or replaced?

Yes, the implant is reversible. It can be removed or replaced if necessary, depending on the specialist’s decision.

Is an intraocular lens implant painful?

No, the procedure is performed under local anesthesia and is generally painless. Mild discomfort may occur after the surgery but usually resolves quickly.

Intraocular lens implant (IOL)

Intraocular Lens Implant Type	Turkey	France	Germany	United States
Monofocal Intraocular Lens Implant	From 3700 $	3525 $	3290 $	5288 $
Multifocal Intraocular Lens Implant	From 2400 $	4465 $	4113 $	5875 $
Toric Intraocular Lens Implant	From 2200 $	3764 $	3525 $	5664 $

How do intraocular lenses (IOLs) work?

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are miniature lenses with properties similar to contact lenses. Made of biocompatible soft plastic, they permanently correct vision defects by changing the way light enters the eye. In fact, they differ from other vision correction techniques in their approach and applications.

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are clear artificial lenses that are surgically implanted into the eye. They are placed between the cornea (the clear surface that covers the eye) and the iris (the colored part),or just behind the iris.

The IOL acts as a new internal lens, replacing the focusing function of the crystalline lens or weakened crystalline lens.

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) can correct a wide range of refractive errors, including severe cases of nearsightedness (-3 to -20 diopters) and astigmatism. They are an effective option for patients whose corneas are too thin for LASIK or who have corneal problems.

These lenses can be used to correct presbyopia, the age-related loss of near vision.

Types of intraocular lenses

There are several types of intraocular lenses used in refractive surgery in Turkey:

IOL types	Characteristics
Phakic intraocular lenses	Phakic IOLs are used to correct visual defects in patients with astigmatism, high myopia and hyperopia. Phakic IOLs are placed directly in front of the natural lens of the eye. This makes the surgery reversible, meaning the implant can be removed if needed.
Monofocal intraocular lenses	These IOLs correct vision at a single focal point, usually for distance vision. This means that patients may still need glasses or contact lenses for near tasks such as reading.
Toric intraocular lenses	Toric lenses are a type of intraocular implant used to correct astigmatism, a common refractive error that causes blurred or distorted vision. These special lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to help correct the irregular shape of the cornea associated with astigmatism.
Multifocal intraocular lenses	Multifocal IOLs correct vision at multiple focal points, allowing patients to see clearly at different distances without the need for glasses. Multifocal IOLs are a popular option for those who want to reduce their dependence on corrective eyeglasses for near and distance vision. Multifocal IOLs offer several benefits, including: Optical precision. Corneal integrity. Glasses-free correction at all distances.
Accommodating IOLs	Accommodating lenses mimic the natural movement of the eye's crystalline lens, allowing for better focus at different distances.
Extended depth-of-field (EDoF) lenses	Implants (EDoF) are a type of intraocular lens that provide better vision at different distances than monofocal lenses, but not as good as multifocal lenses.

Intraocular lens implantation in Turkey

Before the intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted, eye drops are instilled to temporarily reduce the size of the pupil. An instrument called a retractor is used to hold the eyelids open during surgery, while a local anesthetic is administered to numb the surface of the eye.

A careful incision is made in the eye to allow the intraocular lens to be inserted. This artificial lens is then attached to the iris, the colored part of the eye.

At the end of the procedure, the incision is closed with a dissolvable suture that will naturally resorb over time.

After the procedure, we recommend that you wear an eye shield for a short period of time, usually no more than 30 minutes, to protect the operated eye.

IOL implant: When is it needed?

When it comes to cataract surgery, the IOL implant is the only solution to the visual problem. In the case of presbyopia, this surgery is more recommended than LASIK since it prevents the appearance of cataracts. In case of a refractive error, the first option is the treatment with laser surgery which is characterized by its simplicity.

However, when this type of intervention is not possible, the only effective alternative is the implantation of phakic intraocular lenses.

Opinions of ophthalmologists in Turkey

An ophthalmologic consultation is essential before considering intraocular lens implantation. This consultation allows the eye doctor to make a complete and personalized diagnosis, taking into account your medical history, current eye condition, and specific vision needs.

In fact, intraocular lens implantation is not suitable for all patients. There are certain contraindications, such as corneal disease or autoimmune disorders. In these cases, the ophthalmologist may suggest more appropriate therapeutic alternatives, such as eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Are there any risks?

Intraocular lens implant does not lead to any side effects in Turkey. Thanks to the flexibility of this type of lens, the surgery is minimally invasive. However, as with any surgical treatment, some complications must be considered. Although they are synthetic components, the substance that the IOL are made of does not cause any discomfort to patients.

The first intraocular lenses were too hard and needed a large incision to be inserted during surgery.

Today, this limit has been overcome with the advent of the latest generation of intraocular lenses. We can mention those that are used in the partner clinics and hospitals of Turquie santé. Their flexibility and extraordinary lightness make them easier to introduce into the eyes through a small incision.

Surgical site infections are the possible risks of any type of surgery. For this reason, it is important to find an accredited clinic or hospital that is equipped with appliances in perfect conditions. Our partner hospitals and clinics have many ophthalmologists and doctors with a great experience in refractive surgery work.

Verified patient reviews

Clémence D.
The Lokman Hakim Clinic in Istanbul is of very high quality, with professional service and attentive staff. The doctors have great..Read more
03/11/2025
Treatment carried out Intraocular lens implant
Treated by ACIBADEM

Clémence D.
The Lokman Hakim Clinic in Istanbul is of very high quality, with professional service and attentive staff. The doctors have great..Read more
31/10/2025
Treatment carried out Intraocular lens implant
Treated by ACIBADEM