KERATOPLASTY COSTS • TURKEY PRICES, ISTANBUL – ANTALYA

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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

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CORNEA TRANSPLANT 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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Istanbul and Antalya are among most popular destinations for procedures like keratoplasty (corneal transplant) medical tourism in Turkey. Turkey has become a global hub for medical tourism due to the high quality of healthcare, skilled Turkish surgeons, modern medical facilities, and significantly very lower costs compared to many Western countries.

  • Istanbul is the primary destination for medical tourists, with many world-renowned hospitals and eye centers offering advanced keratoplasty procedures. The city hosts a very large number of international patients due to its accessibility, top-tier medical services, and experienced ophthalmologists.
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  • Antalya, while primarily known as a popular tourist destination for its resorts and beaches, has also developed into a medical tourism hub, especially for patients from Europe and the Middle East seeking affordable healthcare options. The city is home to reputable private clinics and hospitals that offer a variety of procedures, including eye surgeries like keratoplasty.
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  • According to Turkey’s Ministry of Health and reports from the Turkish Health Tourism Associationi more than 1 million 700,000 international patients visited Turkey for medical treatments in recent year, and the number continues to rise each year. This includes a variety of specialties like ophthalmology, dental care, cosmetic surgery, and more.
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  • Ophthalmology is one of leading specialties for medical tourism in Turkey. While exact numbers for keratoplasty are not typically broken out from broader ophthalmic procedures, its likely that significant portion of the international patients come for corneal transplants, cataract surgeries, and LASIK treatments.
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A major reason why patients travel to Istanbul and Antalya for keratoplasty surgery is the cost-effectiveness of the procedure in Turkey. On average, keratoplasty costs between $2,000 and $4,000 USD in Turkey, while the same procedure can cost upwards of $10,000 to $20,000 USD in countries like the US or Western Europe. The combination of high-quality medical care and cheap pricing has made Turkey an attractive destination. Turkey has highly trained and internationally recognized ophthalmologists, some of whom are well affiliated with major medical universities and research centers, which adds to the appeal for patients seeking advanced medical care.

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International Patient Demographics:

  • Europe: Many patients come from Germany, the UK, France, and other parts of Europe due to the proximity and lower costs.
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  • Middle East: Countries like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have a large number of patients seeking medical treatments in Turkey, especially for corneal transplants.
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  • Asia and North America: Some patients also travel from regions such as Asia and North America, attracted by the reputation of Turkish hospitals and the cost savings.
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While specific statistics on the number of international patients coming to Istanbul and Antalya specifically for keratoplasty surgery are not readily available, it is clear that these cities are significant destinations for medical tourism, including ophthalmology. With the combination of high-quality healthcare, skilled surgeons, and lower costs, Turkey remains one of the leading choices for patients seeking corneal transplants.


TOP CORNEA TRANSPLANT PROCEDURES AVAILABLE IN TURKEY EYE CENTERS

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:

  • 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
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  • 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:

  • Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): Only the front layers of cornea are replaced, preserving the inner layers (which are important for preventing rejection).
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  • 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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  1. 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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  2. 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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  3. 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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  4. 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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TURKEY MEDICAL SERVICES TO HELP YOU BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER YOUR STAY

✓ Scheduling medical appointments in Turkey.
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✓ Assisting with eVisa, sticker Visa, Visa-exempt procedures.
✓ Estimating cost of services in Turkey.
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✓ Facilitating communication with Turkish physicians after departure from Turkey.

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President of Organ Transplant Center, MedicalPark Hospital Antalya

Turkey's world-renowned organ transplant specialist Demirbaş who has 104 international publications and 102 national publications.

Physician's Resume:

Born on August 7, 1963 in Çorum, Prof. Dr. Alper Demirbaş has been continuing his work as the President of MedicalPark Antalya Hospital Organ Transplantation Center since 2008.

Prof. who performed the first tissue incompatible kidney transplant in Turkey, the first blood type incompatible kidney transplant, the first kidney-pancreas transplant program and the first cadaveric donor and live donor liver transplant in Antalya. Dr. As of August 2016, Alper Demirbaş has performed 4900 kidney transplants, 500 liver transplants and 95 pancreas transplants.

In addition to being the chairman of 6 national congresses, he has also been an invited speaker at 12 international and 65 national scientific congresses. Dr. Alper Demirbaş was married and the father of 1 girl and 1 boy.

Awards:

Eczacibasi Medical Award of 2002, Akdeniz University Service Award of 2005, Izder Medical Man of the Year Award of 2006, BÖHAK Medical Man of the Year Award of 2007, Sabah Mediterranean Newspaper Scientist of the Year Award of 2007, ANTIKAD Scientist of the Year Award of 2009, Social Ethics Association Award of 2010, Işık University Medical Man of the Year Award of 2015, VTV Antalya's Brand Value Award of 2015.

Certificates:

Doctor of Medicine Degree Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine Ankara, General Surgeon Ministry of Health Turkey EKFMG (0-477-343-8), University of Miami School of Medicine Member of Multiple Organ Transplant, ASTS Multiorgan Transplant Scholarship. Lecturer at Kyoto University. Lecturer at University of Essen, Research assistant at the University of Cambridge .

Professional Members:

American Society of Transplant Surgeons, American Transplantation Society Nominated, Middle East and Southern Africa Council Transplantation Society 2007, International Liver Transplantation Association, Turkish Transplantation Association, Turkish Society of Surgery, Turkish Hepatobiliary Surgery Association.

Disclaimer:

Our website contents consist of articles approved by our Web and Medical Editorial Board with the contributions of our physicians. Our contents are prepared only for informational purposes for public benefit. Be sure to consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Medically Reviewed by Professor Doctor Alper Demirbaş

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KERATOPLASTY FAQ (ISTANBUL AND ANTALYA)

1. What is keratoplasty?

Keratoplasty, also known as a corneal transplant, is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with a healthy donor cornea. It is performed to restore vision, relieve pain, or address damage caused by injury or disease.

2. Who needs keratoplasty?

Patients with conditions such as keratoconus, corneal scarring, corneal infections, Fuchs’ dystrophy, or damage from trauma may benefit from keratoplasty if other treatments are not effective.

3. What are the different types of keratoplasty?

There are several types, including:

  • Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK): Full-thickness corneal transplant.
  • Endothelial Keratoplasty (EK): Transplant of the innermost corneal layers.
  • Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK): Replacement of the outer and middle layers of the cornea.
  • Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK): Replacement of most of the cornea while preserving the endothelium.

4. How is keratoplasty performed?

The damaged cornea is surgically removed and replaced with a donor cornea. The donor tissue is secured with fine stitches or glue. The specific technique depends on the type of keratoplasty being performed.

5. What is the recovery time after keratoplasty?

Recovery varies by type of transplant. Initial healing may take a few weeks to months, but full visual recovery can take up to a year. Regular follow-up appointments are critical for monitoring progress.

6. Is keratoplasty painful?

The surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort or irritation is common during the recovery period but can be managed with medications.

7. What are the risks of keratoplasty?

Risks include rejection of the donor cornea, infection, increased intraocular pressure, astigmatism, or graft failure. However, advancements in surgical techniques have reduced complications significantly.

8. How successful is keratoplasty?

Keratoplasty has a high success rate, particularly for conditions like keratoconus or corneal scars. Success depends on the underlying condition, surgical expertise, and patient adherence to post-operative care.

9. What is corneal rejection, and how is it managed?

Corneal rejection occurs when the immune system attacks the donor tissue. Symptoms include redness, light sensitivity, vision changes, and pain. Early detection and treatment with steroids or other medications can reverse rejection.

10. Is keratoplasty performed in Istanbul and Antalya?

Yes, both Istanbul and Antalya are known for offering high-quality keratoplasty procedures with experienced surgeons and advanced facilities, attracting patients from around the world.

11. How much does keratoplasty cost in Istanbul and Antalya?

The cost of keratoplasty in Istanbul and Antalya ranges from $3,000 to $7,000, depending on the type of transplant, clinic, and surgeon.

12. How do I prepare for keratoplasty?

Preparation involves a thorough eye examination, stopping certain medications as advised, and arranging transportation for the day of surgery. Your surgeon may also recommend avoiding contact lenses before the procedure.

13. What is the role of donor tissue in keratoplasty?

The success of keratoplasty depends on healthy donor tissue. Donor corneas are typically obtained from eye banks, where they are rigorously screened for quality and safety.

14. Can keratoplasty correct myopia or hyperopia?

While keratoplasty is primarily for restoring corneal health, it may also improve refractive errors like myopia or hyperopia depending on the underlying condition. Additional treatments may be needed for precise correction.

15. Can I work after keratoplasty?

Most patients return to work within a few weeks, but the timeline depends on your job type and healing progress. Activities that strain the eyes or expose them to irritants should be avoided initially.

16. Can keratoplasty be combined with other surgeries?

Yes, keratoplasty can be combined with other procedures like cataract surgery or lens implantation, depending on the patient’s needs.

17. How do I care for my eyes after keratoplasty?

Post-operative care includes using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, protecting the eyes from trauma, and attending regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

18. Are there lifestyle restrictions after keratoplasty?

Avoid activities like swimming, rubbing the eyes, or heavy lifting for at least 3-6 months. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance tailored to your recovery.

19. Can keratoplasty improve vision immediately?

While some improvement may be noticed soon after surgery, full visual recovery can take several months as the eye heals and adjusts to the new cornea.

20. Can keratoplasty fail?

Graft failure is rare but can occur due to rejection, infection, or other complications. If this happens, a repeat transplant may be required.

21. How long does a corneal graft last?

Corneal grafts can last 10 years or more, but their longevity depends on factors like the patient’s condition, adherence to care, and immune response.

22. What happens if my body rejects the donor cornea?

Rejection can often be treated successfully with medications if detected early. Severe or untreated rejection may require a repeat transplant.

23. Can I wear contact lenses after keratoplasty?

Yes, many patients wear contact lenses after the cornea has healed. Contact lenses may be needed to correct residual refractive errors.

24. How soon can I drive after keratoplasty?

You should not drive until your surgeon confirms that your vision is stable enough. This is typically a few weeks to months after surgery.

25. What should I do if I notice unusual symptoms after keratoplasty?

Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience symptoms like redness, pain, blurry vision, or light sensitivity, as these could indicate rejection or infection.

26. Can keratoplasty prevent blindness?

In many cases, keratoplasty can prevent or delay blindness caused by severe corneal damage or disease, restoring functional vision and improving quality of life.

27. What alternatives are available to keratoplasty?

Alternatives include corneal cross-linking, specialized contact lenses, or artificial corneas in specific cases. Your ophthalmologist will recommend the best option based on your condition.

28. Can children undergo keratoplasty?

Yes, children can undergo keratoplasty if needed, but careful monitoring and management are required to ensure optimal outcomes.

29. Is keratoplasty safe for older adults?

Yes, keratoplasty is safe for older adults, provided they are in good health and meet the eligibility criteria.

30. How do I choose a surgeon for keratoplasty?

Choose an experienced, board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in corneal transplants. Research their qualifications, patient reviews, and success rates to ensure the best possible care.

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