Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism, reducing or removing the need for glasses and contact lenses. Turkey has many well-equipped eye hospitals, and the procedure is popular with visitors because it takes only minutes per eye and recovery is quick. Thorough pre-operative testing is what makes it safe.
The main techniques
| Technique | How it works | Recovery |
|---|---|---|
| LASIK / Femto-LASIK | A thin flap is created (by blade or femtosecond laser), the cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser, and the flap is replaced | Fast; good vision often within 1–2 days |
| PRK / LASEK / trans-PRK | The surface layer is removed and the cornea reshaped; no flap | Slower and more uncomfortable for several days |
| SMILE | A small lens-shaped piece of tissue is removed through a tiny incision; no flap | Fast; less disruption of the corneal surface |
| Lens procedures (ICL, refractive lens exchange) | An artificial lens is implanted or replaces the natural lens | For high prescriptions or age-related changes |
Who is a candidate?
- Usually over 18 with a stable prescription for at least a year
- Healthy eyes without significant corneal disease
- Sufficient corneal thickness for the planned correction
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
Thin corneas, keratoconus, severe dry eye and some autoimmune conditions may rule out laser surgery or point to another option.
Pre-operative tests
A proper assessment includes corneal topography/tomography, corneal thickness measurement, pupil size, tear tests and a full eye examination. Stop wearing soft contact lenses for several days (and rigid lenses longer) before testing, as instructed by the clinic.
Recovery and flying
- A check-up the next day is standard.
- Flying is usually allowed a day or two after LASIK or SMILE, once checked; PRK may need a few more days.
- Use eye drops as prescribed; avoid rubbing the eyes, swimming and dusty environments for at least 1–2 weeks.
- Dry eyes and night glare are common temporarily.
Typical costs in Turkey
Laser vision correction is often priced at about €800–€2,000 for both eyes depending on the technique and hospital; SMILE and lens procedures are usually more expensive.
Questions to ask
- Who is the surgeon, and how many procedures do they perform?
- Which technique do you recommend for me and why?
- Which laser platform do you use?
- What happens if an enhancement is needed later?
Frequently asked questions
Does laser eye surgery hurt?
Numbing drops are used; you may feel pressure. Some discomfort afterwards is common, more with PRK.
Will I still need reading glasses?
Possibly from your mid-40s onwards, as presbyopia develops; ask about options.
Can I combine it with a holiday?
Yes, but avoid swimming and sun glare without sunglasses in the first weeks.
This article is general information, not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.
