CORNEAL CROSS LINKING COSTS • TURKEY PRICES, ANTALYA – ISTANBUL

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Revised April, 2025 – Resource: Turkey Medicals, International Patient Center
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BEST 3 PRICES ▷ CORNEAL CROSS-LINKING IN ISTANBUL AND ANTALYA ▷ COST AND REVIEW

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CORNEAL COLLAGEN CROSS-LINKING (CXL) IS TECHNIQUE USED TO TREAT THE CONDITIONS LIKE KERATOCONUS, POST-LASIK ECTASIA, AND CORNEAL MELTING DISORDERS. IT IS AN EFFECTIVE METHOD TO STRENGTHEN THE CHEMICAL BONDS IN THE CORNEA USING UV LIGHT AND A PHOTOSENSITIZER. BY DOING SO, IT CAN GREATLY HELP STABILIZE AND STRENGTHEN THE CORNEA, POTENTIALLY PREVENTING FURTHER PROGRESSION OF THESE CONDITIONS.
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International patients who visit Istanbul and Antalya for Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) eye surgery is in tens of thousands for the region’s popularity for medical tourism, and the global interest in the treatment. We can make a general estimate based on broader trends in Turkey’s medical tourism and ophthalmology sector.

  • Istanbul has established itself as a major medical tourism hub for ophthalmology treatments, including Corneal Cross-Linking. It’s estimated that thousands of patients visit Istanbul each year for various eye surgeries, with CXL being one of key procedures for treating keratoconus and other corneal conditions.
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  • Many medical tourists from USA, Europe (Germany, the UK), the Middle East (particularly from Iraq and Saudi Arabia), and Eastern Europe choose Istanbul for its affordable yet high-quality eye care.
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  • The city’s hospitals are equipped with the latest technology for Corneal Cross-Linking procedures, and many prominent clinics have internationally recognized ophthalmologists, which further enhances its appeal.

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Antalya, while not as large as Istanbul, is also a popular destination for Turkish medical tourism, particularly in combination with leisure tourism.

  • Many patients combine medical treatments with the tourism experience in Antalya, which is famous for its beaches and historical sites.
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  • Hospitals in Antalya are offering best Corneal Cross-Linking to patients from countries like Russia, Germany, and other European and Middle Eastern countries. Thus the number of international patients coming to Antalya for CXL is growing, but it is still much smaller compared to Istanbul.
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Istanbul: Given its position as a medical tourism hub, Istanbul likely sees several thousand patients annually for Corneal Cross-Linking surgery. The demand for this procedure is high due to Istanbul’s reputation for offering high-quality care at competitive prices. It’s reasonable to estimate that over 5,000 patients from various countries might visit Istanbul each year for CXL. Antalya: While smaller than Istanbul, Antalya is still a significant player in the medical tourism market. The number of patients visiting Antalya for CXL is likely in the hundreds annually, as more international patients seek out the combined benefit of Turkey medical treatment and vacation. Antalya rough estimate could be around 500 to 1,000 patients per year for Corneal Cross-Linking.

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Istanbul likely sees thousands of international patients annually for Corneal Cross-Linking due to its role as a leading medical tourism hub. Antalya, though a smaller destination, is growing in popularity and may see hundreds of patients for the procedure each year. Both cities attract patients from Europe, the Middle East, and surrounding regions, thanks to the high standard of care and the availability of advanced ophthalmic technologies.


TOP CORNEAL CROSS LINKING PROCEDURES IN TURKEY EYE CENTERS

Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) is a medical procedure primarily used to treat keratoconus and other corneal ectatic disorders. It involves strengthening the cornea by creating new bonds between collagen fibers within the eye. This helps to stabilize and prevent the progression of conditions that cause the cornea to become thin and misshapen.

Corneal cross-linking is designed to improve the strength and rigidity of the cornea, preventing it from continuing to bulge forward as in keratoconus. The procedure involves the application of riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops and the use of ultraviolet (UV) light to stimulate the formation of new collagen bonds in the cornea. The goal is to stabilize the cornea and slow or stop the progression of vision deterioration caused by keratoconus or other corneal thinning disorders.

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Procedures of CXL:

Keratoconus

A progressive thinning of the cornea, causing it to bulge outward into a cone shape, distorting vision.

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Post-refractive surgery ectasia

A complication that can occur after LASIK or other refractive surgeries, leading to corneal thinning.

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Corneal ectasia

A condition where the cornea weakens and thins, leading to vision problems.

The procedure typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes and is done on an outpatient basis.

The patient’s eye is numbed with local anesthetic drops to ensure comfort during procedure. The epithelium (outer layer of the cornea) may be removed in some cases (known as epithelium-off cross-linking), though newer techniques allow for the procedure to be done without removing the epithelium (epithelium-on cross-linking).

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Application of Riboflavin

Riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops are applied to the cornea, which helps to sensitize the cornea to UV light. The riboflavin also helps in the formation of stronger collagen fibers. The drops are typically applied for 20-30 minutes, allowing the cornea to absorb the riboflavin.

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UV Light Exposure

After the riboflavin is applied, a UV light is directed onto the cornea for about 10-30 minutes, depending on the protocol. The UV light activates the riboflavin, causing it to cross-link collagen fibers within the cornea. This process strengthens and stabilizes the cornea.

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Post-Procedure Care

After the procedure, a bandage contact lens may be placed over the eye to protect the cornea while it heals. Patients are given antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops and may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a period of time. Vision may be blurry in the days following the procedure, but this typically improves over time as the cornea heals.

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Benefits of CXL:

Prevents Progression of Keratoconus

The procedure strengthens the cornea and slows or halts the progression of keratoconus, reducing the need for more invasive treatments like a corneal transplant.

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Improves Corneal Stability

Cross-linking stabilizes the cornea, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision in patients with corneal ectasia.

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Minimizes the Need for Transplantation

In many cases, cross-linking can help avoid the need for a corneal transplant, which is a more invasive and complex procedure.

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Is CXL Effective:

Corneal cross-linking has been shown to be highly effective in stabilizing the cornea and preventing the progression of keratoconus and other corneal ectatic disorders. In many cases, patients experience improved vision over time, although it may not restore perfect vision. The procedure has a high success rate and is considered the gold standard for treating keratoconus in its early stages.

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CORNEAL CROSS-LINKING PRICE RANGES IN TURKEY EYE MEDICAL CENTERS

Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL) is a safe and effective procedure used to stabilize the cornea and prevent the progression of keratoconus and other corneal diseases. It strengthens the cornea by using riboflavin and ultraviolet light to create new bonds between collagen fibers. This procedure has helped many patients avoid the need for more invasive surgeries like corneal transplants. The recovery process is typically straightforward, with most patients experiencing significant improvement in their vision over time. If you are experiencing symptoms of keratoconus or corneal thinning, it’s important to consult with an ophthalmologist to determine if corneal cross-linking is a suitable treatment for you.
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The cost of Corneal cross-linking surgery in Istanbul and Antalya generally ranges from $800 to $2,500 USD per eye, depending on the technique used and the complexity of the case. Here’s a general price range for corneal cross-linking surgery in Turkey:

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  1. Basic Corneal Cross-Linking Cost: Approximately $800 to $1,500 USD per eye.
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    This is the standard treatment, using the traditional riboflavin and UV light method. This price generally includes the cost of the procedure itself, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative care.

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  2. Advanced Cross-Linking Cost: (Topography-Guided CXL or Epi-off Cross-Linking) Approximately $1,500 to $2,500 USD per eye.
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    Advanced techniques like topography-guided cross-linking use a detailed map of the cornea to guide the procedure, which may be more effective for certain cases of keratoconus or other irregularities. Epi-off involves the removal of the corneal epithelium (the outermost layer) before applying the riboflavin, which may lead to a more thorough cross-linking effect but requires longer recovery time.

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  3. Combined Treatments Costs: Our clinics offer combined treatments (e.g., cross-linking with intacs or other devices) if you have advanced keratoconus or need additional correction. Can range from $2,000 to $3,500 USD per eye, depending on the combination of procedures.

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BENEFITS OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY SURGERY

  • Prevention of Vision Loss: Diabetic retinopathy surgery helps reduce the risk of permanent vision loss by addressing damage to the retina caused by diabetes.
  • Improved Visual Acuity: In some cases, surgery can improve or stabilize vision, particularly when diabetic retinopathy has caused macular edema or retinal hemorrhages.
  • Reduction of Retinal Edema: Surgery can help reduce swelling and fluid buildup in the macula, improving central vision.
  • Treatment of Retinal Detachments: Surgical intervention can treat or prevent retinal detachment, a complication of advanced diabetic retinopathy.
  • Long-Term Stabilization: For patients with advanced diabetic retinopathy, surgery can provide long-term control of retinal conditions, reducing the need for repeated treatments.
  • Minimized Need for Laser Treatment: Surgery may reduce the frequency of laser treatments needed to manage diabetic retinopathy.

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SUITABLE PATIENTS FOR DIABETIC RETINOPATHY SURGERY

  • Severe Diabetic Retinopathy: Ideal for patients with advanced diabetic retinopathy, including proliferative retinopathy (characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth) or diabetic macular edema.
  • Retinal Detachment or Vitreous Hemorrhage: Surgery is often necessary for patients with retinal detachment or significant bleeding within the vitreous humor due to diabetic retinopathy.
  • Vision Impairment: Suitable for individuals with significant vision loss due to retinal damage or swelling from diabetic retinopathy.
  • Failed Laser Treatments: Surgery may be considered when laser treatments (such as laser photocoagulation) have not effectively controlled the progression of diabetic retinopathy.
  • Stable Diabetes: Candidates should have well-controlled diabetes, as uncontrolled blood sugar levels can affect healing and increase the risk of complications.
  • Realistic Expectations: Patients must understand that surgery may not fully restore lost vision, but it can help prevent further deterioration.

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BEFORE DIABETIC RETINOPATHY SURGERY (PREPARATION)

  • Comprehensive Eye Exam: A thorough evaluation of the retina using dilated eye exams, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography to assess the extent of diabetic retinopathy.
  • Blood Sugar Control: Ensure blood sugar levels are well-controlled prior to surgery. Patients may be advised to maintain stable blood glucose levels to promote healing.
  • Medical History Review: A review of the patient’s overall health and diabetes management, including any other eye conditions such as cataracts or glaucoma.
  • Surgical Option Discussion: Depending on the severity of the retinopathy, the surgeon will discuss the most appropriate surgical approach (e.g., vitrectomy, laser surgery, or retinal detachment repair).
  • Pre-Surgical Testing: Blood tests or imaging studies may be required to assess overall health and readiness for surgery.
  • Discontinuation of Certain Medications: Patients may need to stop taking blood thinners or medications that affect clotting prior to surgery to reduce bleeding risks.
  • Informed Consent: Patients will be given information about the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes, and will need to provide informed consent.

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AFTER DIABETIC RETINOPATHY SURGERY (POST-OPERATIVE CARE)

  • Initial Recovery: Most patients experience some discomfort, mild swelling, or irritation in the eye after surgery. Vision may be blurry initially, but it often improves over time.
  • Post-Surgical Instructions: Instructions include using prescribed eye drops (antibiotic and anti-inflammatory), avoiding rubbing the eyes, and keeping the head elevated during sleep to reduce swelling.
  • Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and activities that could strain the eyes for several weeks after surgery.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are critical to monitor healing, check for any complications, and assess retinal status. These appointments may occur within the first week, one month, and several months after surgery.
  • Vision Fluctuations: Vision may fluctuate in the first few weeks to months as the retina heals, and final visual outcomes may not be apparent immediately.
  • Return to Normal Activities: Most patients can return to work and light activities within 1-2 weeks, but it may take 1-3 months for full recovery, depending on the procedure performed.

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RISKS OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY SURGERY

  • Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection after eye surgery, which could affect healing and lead to vision complications.
  • Retinal Detachment: Surgery, especially vitrectomy, carries a risk of further retinal detachment, which may require additional surgery.
  • Vision Changes: There is a risk of worsening vision, especially if complications arise during or after surgery.
  • Increased Eye Pressure: In some cases, surgery may lead to elevated intraocular pressure, which could increase the risk of glaucoma.
  • Cataract Formation: For patients who undergo vitrectomy or other types of surgery, cataract development may be accelerated.
  • Vitreous Hemorrhage: In some cases, bleeding into the vitreous body can occur during or after surgery, potentially requiring further intervention.
  • Scar Tissue Formation: Abnormal scar tissue can form on the retina after surgery, potentially causing further vision problems or retinal detachment.
  • Macular Edema: Swelling in the macula (the central part of the retina) can recur after surgery, requiring additional treatments like laser therapy or injections.
  • Fluctuating or Poor Vision Outcomes: Vision improvement is not always guaranteed, and patients may experience long-term fluctuations in vision or no significant improvement after surgery.
  • Glare and Night Vision Problems: Some patients may experience difficulty seeing at night or glare from bright lights after surgery.

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Diabetic retinopathy surgery is often necessary for patients with advanced stages of the condition or those who have not responded well to laser treatments. While surgery can help prevent further vision loss and improve vision in some cases, it is not a cure for diabetic retinopathy. Close monitoring of blood sugar levels, adherence to post-operative care, and regular follow-up visits are essential for achieving the best 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.
✓ Assisting with International insurance companies.
✓ Making hotel arrangements in Turkey.
✓ Ground transportation from International Airport.
✓ Assisting with eVisa, sticker Visa, Visa-exempt procedures.
✓ Estimating cost of services in Turkey.
✓ Assisting with Turkish hospital admissions and Turkish physicians.
✓ Ensuring that you understand the instructions from Turkish physicians.
✓ Obtaining and delivering copies of medical reports after consultations.
✓ Assisting with discharge and medical payment procedures.
✓ First wash in hospital.
✓ 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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CORNEAL CROSS LINKING FAQ (ISTANBUL AND ANTALYA)

1. What is corneal cross-linking surgery?

Corneal cross-linking (CXL) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat keratoconus and other corneal ectasia conditions. The surgery strengthens the cornea by using a special solution of riboflavin (Vitamin B2) and ultraviolet (UV) light to increase collagen cross-links in the corneal tissue, improving its stability and preventing further deterioration.

2. Why is corneal cross-linking surgery performed?

Corneal cross-linking is typically performed to:

  • Stop the progression of conditions like keratoconus, where the cornea thins and bulges.
  • Improve corneal strength and prevent the need for a corneal transplant.
  • Enhance vision by stabilizing the shape of the cornea.

3. How is corneal cross-linking performed?

During the procedure, the eye is numbed with local anesthesia drops. The outer layer of the cornea is carefully removed (epithelium) to allow the riboflavin solution to penetrate the cornea. After the solution is applied, the cornea is exposed to a specific dose of UV light for about 30 minutes to stimulate the formation of new collagen cross-links, strengthening the cornea.

4. What is the recovery time after corneal cross-linking?

After the procedure, patients can usually go home the same day. The epithelial cells of the cornea will regenerate in 3 to 4 days, though it may take several weeks for full recovery. Vision may initially be blurry but should improve as the cornea heals. Full stabilization of vision can take 3 to 6 months.

5. Is corneal cross-linking surgery painful?

The procedure is generally not painful due to the use of local anesthesia. However, some discomfort, such as a scratchy feeling, light sensitivity, or mild burning, is common after the surgery. This typically subsides after a few days.

6. What are the risks and complications of corneal cross-linking surgery?

While corneal cross-linking is a safe procedure, there are potential risks, including:

  • Infection.
  • Corneal scarring.
  • Pain or discomfort after the procedure.
  • Temporary vision changes, such as blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
  • In rare cases, the procedure might not halt the progression of the condition.

7. Who is a good candidate for corneal cross-linking surgery?

Ideal candidates for corneal cross-linking are those with conditions like keratoconus or corneal ectasia who have:

  • Progressive thinning or bulging of the cornea.
  • A stable prescription that is no longer changing significantly.
  • No advanced scarring in the cornea.

A comprehensive eye examination by your surgeon will help determine if corneal cross-linking is appropriate for you.

8. Can corneal cross-linking cure keratoconus?

Corneal cross-linking does not cure keratoconus, but it is highly effective at stopping its progression. The procedure stabilizes the cornea, preventing further deterioration and improving the patient’s vision. It is often a key intervention before more invasive treatments, such as a corneal transplant, become necessary.

9. Can corneal cross-linking be performed on both eyes at the same time?

In most cases, each eye is treated separately, typically a few weeks apart, to allow healing in between procedures. However, in some cases, both eyes can be treated on the same day, depending on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s recommendation.

10. What is the cost of corneal cross-linking surgery in Istanbul and Antalya?

The cost of corneal cross-linking surgery in Istanbul and Antalya generally ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 per eye, depending on the clinic, surgeon’s experience, and technology used.

11. Why is corneal cross-linking surgery more affordable in Istanbul and Antalya?

Turkey offers affordable medical services due to lower operating costs, favorable exchange rates, and a robust medical tourism industry. This allows patients to access high-quality eye care at a much lower cost than in many Western countries.

12. How soon will I see results after corneal cross-linking?

Patients may notice blurry vision during the first few days following surgery, but vision should gradually improve over the course of several weeks to months. The cornea may take up to 6 months to fully stabilize and show the full benefits of the procedure.

13. Can I wear contact lenses after corneal cross-linking surgery?

After surgery, you may be advised to avoid wearing contact lenses until the cornea has fully healed. This healing process can take several weeks to months. Once your eye has healed and your vision stabilizes, your eye doctor will determine when it’s safe to resume wearing contact lenses.

14. Are there any special aftercare instructions for corneal cross-linking?

After the surgery, you will need to follow post-operative care instructions, which may include:

  • Using antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
  • Avoiding rubbing or touching the eyes.
  • Wearing protective sunglasses or goggles to prevent accidental injury.
  • Attending follow-up visits to monitor healing and ensure proper corneal stability.

15. Is corneal cross-linking surgery covered by insurance?

In many countries, health insurance may cover corneal cross-linking if it is deemed medically necessary, especially in cases of keratoconus. However, this can vary by policy and region, so it is important to confirm coverage with your insurance provider before the procedure.

16. Can I have corneal cross-linking if I have other eye conditions?

Corneal cross-linking can generally be performed on patients with keratoconus or corneal ectasia and is safe for those with other eye conditions, such as dry eyes or mild astigmatism. However, patients with advanced corneal scarring or uncontrolled infections may not be suitable candidates.

17. What is the ideal age for corneal cross-linking surgery?

Corneal cross-linking is typically recommended for patients between 18 and 40 years of age, when the progression of keratoconus is more likely to occur. However, it can be performed in older adults as well, as long as the cornea is still elastic enough for the procedure.

18. How long does the procedure take?

Corneal cross-linking surgery usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes per eye. The procedure is relatively quick, but the healing process will require more time.

19. Can I drive after corneal cross-linking surgery?

You may need to wait several days to weeks before driving, as your vision may be blurry during the recovery period. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations and ensure that your vision is clear before resuming driving.

20. Can corneal cross-linking be combined with other procedures?

Yes, corneal cross-linking can be performed in conjunction with other vision correction procedures, such as LASIK or PRK, in some cases. However, it is important to discuss the potential benefits and risks with your eye surgeon to determine the best treatment plan for you.

21. What happens if corneal cross-linking doesn’t stop the progression of keratoconus?

In rare cases, corneal cross-linking may not be effective at halting the progression of keratoconus. If this occurs, other options, such as corneal transplant surgery or additional cross-linking treatments, may be considered.

22. Can corneal cross-linking improve my vision immediately?

While some patients experience immediate improvement, vision may still be blurry in the initial days after surgery. The full benefits, including clearer vision, typically become more noticeable over the next few months as the cornea heals and stabilizes.

23. How do I prepare for corneal cross-linking surgery?

Preparation typically involves a thorough eye exam to assess the condition of the cornea. Your surgeon may recommend stopping the use of contact lenses a few weeks before the surgery, and you may be instructed to avoid certain medications. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

24. Can I have corneal cross-linking surgery if I wear contact lenses?

If you wear rigid gas-permeable contact lenses, it is important to stop wearing them for at least 3 to 4 weeks before surgery to allow the cornea to return to its natural shape. Soft contact lenses should be avoided for 2 weeks before the procedure.

25. What happens during the follow-up appointments after corneal cross-linking?

Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring the healing process and ensuring that the cornea is stabilizing properly. Your doctor will check for infection, inflammation, and any other complications, as well as assess your vision progress.

26. Can corneal cross-linking be performed on both eyes at the same time?

While it’s possible to treat both eyes on the same day, most patients undergo corneal cross-linking on one eye at a time, with the second eye treated after several weeks. This helps ensure that the first eye heals properly before the second treatment.

27. How long does the effect of corneal cross-linking last?

The effects of corneal cross-linking are generally permanent, meaning the cornea will remain stable and less likely to progress. However, patients with advanced keratoconus may need additional treatments down the road.

28. Can corneal cross-linking improve vision?

While the primary goal of corneal cross-linking is to stop progression of keratoconus, many patients notice improvements in their vision as the cornea becomes more stable. However, if your cornea has already undergone significant changes, additional treatments, such as glasses, contact lenses, or vision correction surgery, may still be needed.

29. How much does corneal cross-linking cost in Istanbul and Antalya?

The cost of corneal cross-linking surgery in Istanbul and Antalya generally ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 per eye, depending on the clinic, the surgeon’s experience, and the technology used.

30. Is corneal cross-linking available in Istanbul and Antalya?

Yes, Istanbul and Antalya are leading destinations for high-quality corneal cross-linking surgery. Many clinics in these cities offer advanced technology and experienced surgeons, making it an affordable and attractive option for patients seeking treatment for keratoconus.

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