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Revised April, 2025 – Resource: Turkey Medicals, International Patient Center
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BEST 4 PRICES ▷ CORNEA TRANSPLANT IN ISTANBUL AND ANTALYA ▷ COST AND REVIEW
Corneal transplants generally have a high success rate. For example, the success rate of a penetrating keratoplasty is around 90% for full graft survival after one year. The success rate can be higher with partial-thickness transplants like DSEK-DMEK, which are associated with fewer complications and quicker recovery.
However, long-term success may depend on factors such as the underlying cause of the corneal problem, the patient’s overall health, the quality of donor tissue, and whether patient adheres to prescribed medications and follow-up care.
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How it works:
Donor Tissue: The donor cornea is typically obtained from an eye bank, and tissue is screened for diseases. The donor tissue must be healthy and free from infectious diseases.
Surgical Technique: The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, with the patient awake but numb around the eye. In some cases, general anesthesia may be used, especially in children or those who cannot remain still. The surgeon removes the damaged cornea and replaces it with the donor cornea, securing it with sutures.
Postoperative Care: After the surgery, the eye is bandaged, and the patient may be prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications to prevent infection and reduce swelling. The eye is carefully monitored during recovery.
Recovery: Recovery can take several months to a year. Vision may improve gradually over time, but it may take a year for eye to heal completely. During this time, patient must follow up with their ophthalmologist for routine check-ups.
Rejection: The body’s immune system may attempt to reject the transplanted tissue, especially in the early months after surgery. To reduce the risk of rejection, patients are given immunosuppressive eye drops. Rejection symptoms may include pain, redness, light sensitivity, or blurred vision, and immediate treatment is necessary if rejection occurs.
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Indications for a Cornea Transplant:
Corneal transplants are performed for a variety of reasons, including:
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Corneal scarring from injury, infection, or previous eye surgery
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Corneal dystrophies such as Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy
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Keratoconus, a condition where the cornea becomes thin and bulges outward
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Infections like herpes simplex virus keratitis, which can leave scars on the cornea
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Corneal edema, where the cornea becomes swollen and cloudy due to endothelial dysfunction
. - Congenital defects or hereditary conditions affecting the clarity or shape of the cornea
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CORNEA TRANSPLANT PRICE RANGES AVAILABLE IN TURKEY EYE CENTERS
A cornea transplant (also known as corneal grafting or keratoplasty) is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased cornea, the clear, dome-shaped outer surface of the eye, is replaced with healthy corneal tissue from a donor. This surgery is typically performed to restore vision in individuals whose cornea is scarred, weakened, or otherwise compromised due to injury, disease, infection, or congenital conditions.
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Types of Cornea Transplants:
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Full-thickness corneal transplant (Penetrating Keratoplasty, PK): In this type of transplant, the entire thickness of the cornea is replaced with the donor cornea. It’s used when the corneal damage is widespread and involves all layers of the cornea.
Partial-thickness corneal transplant:
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Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): Only the front layers of cornea are replaced, preserving the inner layers (which are important for preventing rejection).
. - Descemet Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK) or Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK): These are used for conditions affecting the innermost layer of the cornea (the endothelium), such as Fuchs’ dystrophy or endothelial failure. Only the endothelial layer is replaced, leaving the rest of the cornea intact.
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Turkey offers cheap pricing combined with high-quality medical services, advanced technologies, and experienced surgeons, making it an attractive destination for patients seeking the corneal transplants. The cost of Keratoplasty top surgery in Istanbul and Antalya typically ranges from $2,000 to $7,000 USD per eye, depending on transplant type (penetrating, lamellar, endothelial) and the complexity of the procedure. Keratoplasty and their Price Ranges in Turkey:
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Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) Cost: Approximately $2,000 to $4,500 USD per eye.
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In this type of transplant, the entire thickness of the damaged cornea is replaced with donor tissue. It’s often used for severe corneal scarring or trauma. Recovery can take several months, and the risk of rejection is higher compared to other types of corneal transplants.
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Lamellar Keratoplasty (Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty – DALK) Cost: $3,000 to $5,500 USD per eye.
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In lamellar keratoplasty, only the superficial or deep layers of the cornea are replaced, leaving the inner layers intact. This can be done for conditions like keratoconus, where the inner cornea remains healthy. DALK is considered a more complex and delicate procedure, often requiring specialized surgical techniques and more experience from the surgeon.
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Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK or DMEK) and the Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty, Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty Cost: $4,000 to $7,000 USD per eye.
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In these advanced techniques, only the inner layer of the cornea (the endothelium) is transplanted, typically used for conditions like Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy or other disorders affecting the corneal endothelium. These procedures generally offer faster recovery times and lower risk of rejection compared to full-thickness transplants.
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Corneal Cross-Linking with Keratoplasty (for treating Keratoconus) Cost: $2,500 to $5,000 USD.
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Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is sometimes done in combination with lamellar keratoplasty for keratoconus, a condition where the cornea becomes thin and bulges outwards. The goal of cross-linking is to strengthen the cornea and slow or halt the progression of the disease. If transplant is needed due to advanced keratoconus, it is typically done after cross-linking treatment.
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BENEFITS OF KERATOPLASTY (CORNEAL TRANSPLANT)
- Improved Vision: Keratoplasty can significantly improve vision in patients with corneal scarring, keratoconus, or other corneal diseases.
- Restores Corneal Clarity: The procedure replaces the damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea, improving visual acuity.
- Alleviates Pain: For patients with corneal ulcers or severe scarring, keratoplasty can relieve pain and discomfort.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Correcting vision impairment can improve daily activities such as reading, driving, and socializing.
- Long-Term Results: The results are often permanent, with many patients experiencing stable vision for many years post-surgery.
- Cosmetic Improvement: Restores a more natural appearance to the eye by replacing a cloudy or distorted cornea.
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SUITABLE PATIENTS FOR KERATOPLASTY
- Severe Corneal Damage or Disease: Ideal for individuals with corneal scarring, keratoconus, or other corneal conditions that cannot be corrected with glasses, contacts, or other treatments.
- Vision Impairment: Suitable for those experiencing significant vision loss or discomfort due to corneal issues.
- Failed Other Treatments: For patients who have not responded to non-surgical treatments like contact lenses or medications.
- Good General Health: Patients should be generally healthy and free of systemic diseases that could impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes.
- Realistic Expectations: Candidates must understand the procedure’s benefits, recovery timeline, and potential for vision improvement.
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BEFORE KERATOPLASTY (PREPARATION)
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: A thorough evaluation of the eye, including measurements of corneal thickness, curvature, and overall eye health.
- Medical History Review: Assessment of any systemic health issues or eye conditions that may affect surgery.
- Blood Tests: Lab tests may be required to ensure that you are healthy enough for surgery and to check for any infections.
- Corneal Evaluation: Detailed imaging and mapping of the cornea will be performed to determine the exact location of the damage.
- Donor Tissue Matching: A donor cornea is selected based on compatibility with the recipient’s eye.
- Pre-Operative Instructions: You may be instructed to stop wearing contact lenses for a period before the procedure to allow your eye to return to its natural shape.
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AFTER KERATOPLASTY (POST-OPERATIVE CARE)
- Initial Recovery: Vision may be blurry immediately after surgery and can take several weeks to stabilize. The eye may feel irritated or uncomfortable.
- Post-Surgical Instructions: You will be prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, swimming, and rubbing your eyes during the early healing period.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Frequent check-ups are necessary to monitor healing, ensure proper graft alignment, and detect any potential complications.
- Vision Adjustment: Vision may fluctuate in the first few months as the eye heals, with gradual improvement over time.
- Return to Normal Activities: Most patients can resume light activities after 1-2 weeks, but it may take several months to return to full activities.
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RISKS OF KERATOPLASTY (CORNEAL TRANSPLANT)
- Rejection of Donor Tissue: The body may reject the transplanted cornea, requiring additional treatment or another transplant.
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection, which can lead to serious complications if untreated.
- Corneal Graft Failure: The donor cornea may fail over time due to scarring or other issues, requiring additional surgery.
- Vision Fluctuations: Vision may not fully stabilize for several months, and some patients may experience long-term fluctuations.
- Glaucoma: Increased eye pressure can develop after surgery, potentially leading to glaucoma.
- Astigmatism: The corneal transplant may result in an uneven curvature of the cornea, leading to astigmatism.
- Scarring: There is a risk of scarring in the donor cornea or surrounding tissue, which may affect vision.
- Double Vision: Some patients may experience double vision (diplopia) due to changes in the shape or structure of the cornea.
- Suture-Related Complications: The stitches used to hold the cornea in place may cause irritation, infection, or delayed healing.
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Keratoplasty (corneal transplant) is a highly effective procedure for restoring vision and relieving pain in patients with corneal diseases or damage. While the surgery offers significant benefits, it is important to be aware of the risks and recovery process. Careful preparation and adherence to post-operative instructions are crucial to achieving the best possible outcomes.
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WHICH RELATED EYE SURGERIES ARE FREQUENTLY ASKED BY PATIENTS IN TURKEY?
Lasik In Istanbul Is Laser-assisted In-situ Keratomileusis Surgery To Correct Vision
Lasik Is Laser-assisted In-situ Keratomileusis An Eye Surgery In Turkey That Corrects Certain Eye Vision Problems And Reduces Or Eliminates The Need Of Glasses Or Corrective Lenses. The Surgery Works By Reshaping The Cornea, So The Light Traveling Through Is Focused Properly Onto The Retina. Lasik Turkey Is The Most Common Type Of Refractive Surgery. Lasik Eye Surgery Is Performed Using Laser That Is Programmed To Remove An Amount Of Tissue From The Cornea. With Each Pulse Of The Laser Beam Small Amount Of Corneal Tissue Will Be Removed. Laser Allows The Surgeon To Flatten The Curve Of Cornea Or Make It Much Steeper.
Intralasik Surgery Called Intralase And Most Popularly Called Ilasik In Istanbul Turkey
Intralasik In Turkey Called Intralase And Most Popularly Called Ilasik, Is Completely Blade Free Technique That Is Used In The First Step Of The Lasik Procedure, Which Is To Create The Corneal Flap. Once The Corneal Flap Is Prepared, An Excimer Laser Is Used On The Inner Cornea To Correct The Vision. The Intralase Method Uses Tiny Rapid Pulses Of Laser To Create The Corneal Flap In The Eye Instead Of Using Metal Blade Or Scalpel Like In The Classic Lasik Technique. The Intralase Laser Creates The Flap Below The Surface Of The Cornea Without The Need Of Cutting The Cornea.
Cataract Surgery In Turkey Is Clouding Of The Eyes Natural Lens, Behind The Pupil.
Cataract In Turkey Is The Clouding Of The Eyes Natural Lens, Which Is Behind The Iris And The Pupil. For Most Cataracts Develop Slowly And That Do Not Disturb The Eyesight Earlier, But In Time Cataract Will Eventually Interfere With Vision. Cataract Eye Laser Surgery In General Is Safe And Effective Procedure.
Lasek Eye Surgery In Turkey Or Epi-lasek Is Without The Need Of Surgery To The Eye
The Best Lasek Surgery In Turkey Is Laser Assisted Subepithelial Keratomileusis Also Known As Turkey Epi-lasek. Lasek Involves Lasering The Surface Of The Cornea Under The Epithelium Without The Need Of Surgery To The Eye. Lasek Is Variation Of The Techniques Turkey Prk Lasik. When The Cornea Is Not The Ideal Thickness, Lasek Decreases The Chance Of Complications That Can Occur When Creating The Flap With Respect To Traditional Microkeratome Lasik.
Relex In Turkey Is The Refractive Lenticule Extraction Smile And Lenticule Extaction
Relex In Turkey Is The Refractive Lenticule Extraction Smile (Small Incision Lenticule Extaction) Is The Latest Laser Eye Surgery Technique Available Used To Treat Shortsightedness With Or With Out Astigmatism. Relex Smile Uses State Of The Art Femtosecond Technology To Create A High Precision Lenticule, Which Is Removed Through Small Incision In An Intact Cornea. Relex Smile Is A Flapless And Minimally Invasive Surgery.
Corneal Collagen Cross Link Is Technique In Turkey For Uv Light And Photo Sensitizer
Corneal Collagen Cross Link Is Technique In Turkey Which Is Used In 1998 To Treat Patients With Keratoconus. Corneal Collagen Cross Linking Uses Uv Light And Photo Sensitizer To Strengthen Chemical Bonds In The Cornea. The Corneal Cross Linking Is Used To Treat The Following Corneal Diseases.
Glaucoma In Turkey For Is Eye Optic Nerve Disease For Eye Damages To Optic Nerve
Glaucoma In Turkey Is Disease That Damages The Eye Optic Nerve. This Usually Happens When Fluid Builds Up In Front Of The Eye That Increases The Pressure In The Eye, Damaging The Optic Nerve. In Healthy Eye, A Clear Fluid Called Aqueous Humor Circulates Inside The Front Of The Eye. If Patients Have Glaucoma The Aqueous Humor Will Not Flow Out Of The Eye Properly As It Should. Fluid Pressure In The Eye Builds Up And Eventually By Time Will Cause Damage To The Optic Nerve Fibers.
Strabismus In Turkey Is Eye Condition That Eye Deviates When Looking At An Object
Strabismus In Turkey Is An Eye Condition That Eye Deviates When Looking At An Object Of Regard. An Object Of Regard Is The Target That The Patient Looks At. There Are Several Types Of Strabismus.
Blepharospasm Or Eyelid Twitch Surgery In Antalya Is For Muscle Involuntary Spasm
Blepharospasm Or Eyelid Twitch In Turkey Is A Repetitive And Involuntary Spasm Of The Eyelid Muscles. Twitching Usually Occurs In The Upper Eyelid But Can Appear On Both Eyelids Up And Down. Spasms Can Be Felt Differently On Everyone, Some Patients Feel The Spasms Very Mild And Some Experience It Strong Enough To Close The Eyelid Completely. Some Patients Have No Noticeable Signs. Spasms Occur Every Few Seconds For Minute Or So. Times When The Spasm Is Going To Occur Cannot Be Predicted But They Often Occur On And Off For Several Days And They May Not Be Experienced For Many Days Or Weeks. There Is No Pain Or Harm Caused By The Twitching But It Can Be Nuisance.
Intra Corneal Ring Segments In Turkey Is Also Called Intacs A Type Of Eye Surgery
Intra Corneal Ring Segments In Turkey (ICRS) Are Also Called Intacs, Which Is A Type Of Eye Surgery That Incorporates Positioning Of Plastic Rings On The Cornea. This Is Done To Influence The Corneas Shape So That Vision Is Improved. The Rings Are Made Of Acrylic And Are Carefully Inserted Into The Cornea.
Diabetic Retinopathy Is Diabetes Complication In Turkey That Affects Eyes Tissue,
Diabetic Retinopathy Is Diabetes Complication In Turkey That Affects Eyes. It Is Caused By Damage To The Blood Vessels Of The Light Sensitive Tissue, Which Is Placed At The Back Of The Retina. Diabetic Retinopathy May Not Have Any Symptoms Or Mild Visions But It Eventually Can Cause Blindness. Diabetic Retinopathy Can Occur In Patients With Type 1-type 2 Diabetes. The Longer And Less Controlled Diabetic Patients Are More Likely To Develop Diabetic Retinopathy.
Retina In Turkey Is Light Sensitive Membrane And Which Is Located At Back Of Eye
Retina In Turkey Is Light Sensitive Membrane, Which Is Located At Back Of Eye. When Light Passes Through The Eye, The Lens Focuses The Image Onto The Retina And The Retina Converts The Image To Signals That Are Sent To The Brain Via The Optic Nerves. Retina Works With The Cornea, Lens And Other Parts Of The Eye To Create The Visions In The Brain. Retinal Detachment Happens When The Retina Separates From The Back Of The Eye. Retinal Detachment Can Cause Partial Or Complete Vision Loss Depending On The Amount Of Retina Detached. Retinal Detachment Is Medical Emergency And When It Occurs The Cells May Be Deprived Of Oxygen. Untreated Or Delayed Treatment Can Result In Permanent Vision Loss.
Cornea Transplant In Turkey Is Surgical Procedure To Replace Part Of The Cornea
Cornea Transplant In Turkey Called Keratoplasty Is Surgical Procedure To Replace Part Of The Cornea With Corneal Tissue From A Donor. The Cornea Is The Transparent Dome Shaped Surface Of The Eye, Which Accounts For A Large Part Of The Eyes Focusing Power. With A Cornea Transplant The Vision Can Be Restored, Pain Can Be Reduced And Appearance Of Damaged Or Diseased Cornea Can Be Improved. Mostly All Cornea Transplant Procedures Are Success But Of Course There Can Be Some Complications. Cornea Transplant Is Often Used To Restore Vision For Patients With A Damaged Cornea.
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