Corneal Transplant in Turkey

By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Prof. Akif Ozdamar, on Feb 03, 2025

Corneal Transplant in Turkey - Comprehensive Guide

A detailed guide to corneal transplant in Turkey, including procedures, recovery, costs, and benefits of choosing Turkish clinics.

What Is a Corneal Transplant?

A corneal transplant, or keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface covering the front of your eye, which is vital in focusing light and enabling clear vision.

Your vision can be significantly impaired if the cornea becomes scarred, swollen, or misshapen due to injury, infection, or conditions like keratoconus. A corneal transplant restores clarity and improves eye function by replacing the affected tissue.

Corneal Transplant Recovery

Recovering from a cornea transplant Turkey is a gradual process that requires patience and adherence to post-operative care. The corneal transplant healing time varies depending on the type of procedure—whether it’s a full-thickness transplant or a partial corneal transplant in Turkey like DSEK or DMEK. On average, it can take several months to a year for the eye to fully heal and for vision to stabilize.

Key Phases of Recovery

1. Initial Healing: In the first few weeks, swelling and discomfort are common but manageable with prescribed medications. You’ll need to avoid strenuous activities and protect your eye from potential injury.
2. Intermediate Phase: Your vision will gradually improve over the next few months. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor progress and address issues, such as signs of infection or rejection.
3. Long-Term Healing: Full recovery and final visual outcomes may take up to 12 months, especially for full-thickness transplants. However, patients undergoing partial cornea transplant Turkey procedures often experience shorter recovery times.

Preventing Complications

One of the most critical concerns during recovery is the potential rejection of corneal transplant Turkey. Symptoms such as redness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or pain could indicate rejection and require immediate medical attention. Using prescribed anti-rejection medications and attending all follow-ups can significantly reduce this risk.

Tips for a Successful Recovery

• Adhere to your doctor’s instructions for eye care and medication use.
• Avoid rubbing your eye or exposing it to irritants.
• Report any unusual symptoms promptly to prevent complications.

While the corneal transplant recovery time can feel lengthy, following your care plan ensures the best chance for restored vision and long-term success.

Corneal Transplant Types

When considering a corneal transplant operation, it’s important to understand the different types available, as each is tailored to specific conditions and levels of corneal damage. The primary types of corneal transplant surgeries are:

• Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) is a full-thickness corneal transplant Turkey surgery in which the entire damaged cornea is replaced with healthy donor tissue. PK is often recommended for severe cases of scarring or disease that affect all layers of the cornea.
• Endothelial Keratoplasty (EK): This partial-thickness transplant targets the innermost layers of the cornea. EK includes procedures like Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSEK) and Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK). These options involve minimal tissue removal and typically lead to faster recovery.
• Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK): This approach replaces only the cornea's outer layers, preserving the healthy inner layers. ALK is suitable for conditions primarily affecting the cornea's surface, like advanced keratoconus.
• Artificial Corneal Transplant: When a donor cornea isn't viable, an artificial cornea (keratoprosthesis) may be used.

The corneal transplant cost in Turkey varies widely depending on the type of surgery, the complexity of your case, and the location. On average, the corneal transplant cost in Turkey includes expenses for the procedure, donor tissue, and post-operative care. Your doctor will guide you on the best type for your condition and help you understand the associated costs so that you can make an informed decision.

Corneal Transplant Rejection Symptoms

After undergoing an eye corneal transplant Turkey, it's crucial to stay vigilant for any signs of rejection. Recognizing the symptoms early can make a significant difference in preserving your vision and preventing complications. Common signs of cornea transplant Turkey rejection include:

• Redness in the eye
• Increased pain or discomfort
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Blurred or hazy vision
• Swelling of the eye or cornea

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately for evaluation and treatment. Proper post-operative care, including attention to your corneal transplant stitches and regular use of prescribed medications, helps reduce the risk of rejection.

While the corneal transplant cost in Turkey can vary, addressing rejection symptoms ensures better outcomes and minimizes the need for additional treatments. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are essential for monitoring your healing and safeguarding the success of your transplant.

Corneal Transplant Causes

A cornea transplant Turkey is often recommended when the cornea becomes damaged or diseased to the point where vision is significantly impaired. The need for a transplant arises from various conditions, each with unique challenges and potential corneal transplant risks. Common causes include:

• Keratoconus: A progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges outward, distorting vision.
• Corneal Scarring: This can result from injuries, infections, or surgeries, affecting the cornea’s transparency.
• Fuchs' Dystrophy: A genetic disorder causing the cornea’s inner layer to deteriorate over time, leading to swelling and vision loss.
• Infections or Ulcers: Severe infections or untreated ulcers can damage the cornea beyond repair.
• Previous Surgery Complications: In rare cases, prior eye surgeries can result in scarring or damage requiring a transplant.

The procedure involves using healthy tissue from a corneal transplant donor, although an artificial corneal transplant Turkey may be an option for those who cannot receive donor tissue. While highly effective, the procedure does carry potential corneal transplant complications like infection, rejection, or vision issues.

The cornea transplant time can vary based on the type of surgery, typically taking between 1 to 2 hours. However, recovery and long-term care are crucial for reducing risks and ensuring the best outcomes. Your doctor will evaluate your condition to determine the most suitable approach for restoring your vision.

Alternative to Corneal Transplant in Turkey

While a keratoplasty corneal transplant in Turkey is the standard treatment for severe corneal damage or disease, there are alternatives available for certain conditions that may help restore vision without a full transplant. These options depend on the specific cause and extent of the damage.

Corneal Cross-Linking (CXL)

Corneal cross-linking is a minimally invasive procedure for conditions like keratoconus that strengthens the cornea and prevents further thinning or distortion. This treatment can delay or eliminate the need for a corneal transplant Turkey.

Topography-Guided Contact Lenses

Specialized contact lenses, such as scleral lenses, can improve vision by creating a smooth surface over the damaged cornea. These lenses are often used for mild to moderate corneal irregularities.

Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK)

This laser removes damaged tissue from the cornea and can effectively treat superficial scars or irregularities.

Artificial Cornea (Keratoprosthesis)

An artificial cornea might be an option for individuals who cannot undergo traditional transplants. While not as common as donor transplants, this approach is advancing in technology and success.

Though these alternatives can be effective in specific cases, corneal transplants' success rate remains high, with many patients achieving significant improvements in vision. However, it’s essential to weigh the success rate of corneal transplants against the potential risks and benefits of alternative treatments. Additionally, the time required for recovery from cornea transplant Turkey may be longer, but the outcomes are often more definitive for severe conditions.

Your ophthalmologist can help you explore these options and determine the best action for your eye health and vision goals.

Stem Cell Corneal Transplant

A stem cell corneal transplant is an innovative approach to treating corneal damage that involves using stem cells to regenerate and repair the corneal surface. This method particularly benefits patients with conditions like limbal stem cell deficiency, where the eye’s natural ability to heal and maintain a healthy corneal surface is impaired.

How It Works

The procedure involves harvesting stem cells from a healthy area of the patient’s eye or a donor. These cells are then cultivated and transplanted onto the damaged cornea, promoting tissue regeneration and restoring functionality. Unlike traditional keratoplasty cornea transplant Turkey procedures, stem cell transplants focus on repairing rather than replacing the cornea.

Corneal Transplant Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

The cornea transplant Turkey procedure is a highly specialized surgery to replace damaged or diseased corneal tissue with healthy donor tissue. Whether you’re undergoing a full-thickness transplant or a partial corneal transplant Turkey, the process is carefully designed to restore vision effectively.

Steps of the Procedure

Pre-Surgical Preparation

Before surgery, your eye will be thoroughly examined to determine the extent of damage and the type of transplant required. You may need additional tests to assess your overall eye health. On the day of the procedure, local or general anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.

Donor Tissue Placement

During the surgery, the damaged portion of your cornea is carefully removed. For a full-thickness transplant (penetrating keratoplasty), the entire cornea is replaced, while in a partial transplant (e.g., DSEK or DMEK), only specific layers are replaced. The healthy donor tissue is then precisely shaped and secured in place.

Stitching and Adjustment

The new corneal tissue is attached using fine sutures, known as corneal transplant stitches or, in some cases, an adhesive. These stitches ensure the tissue stays in place during the healing process.

Post-Surgical Care

Once the transplant is complete, a protective shield is placed over the eye. Patients are given detailed instructions, including medication, to prevent infection and rejection.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery time varies depending on the type of transplant. You’ll need regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and detect potential complications, such as rejection or infection.

The cornea transplant Turkey procedure is a highly effective solution for many eye conditions. It offers a high success rate and the potential to restore vision and improve quality of life.

What to Expect After a Corneal Transplant in Turkey

Recovering from a cornea transplant Turkey requires patience and diligent care. Understanding what to expect can help you navigate the process and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

• After the procedure, your eye will be covered with a protective shield to minimize irritant exposure.
• In the initial days, mild discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurry vision are normal. Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to manage inflammation and prevent infection or rejection of the corneal transplant Turkey.
• Corneal transplant healing time varies. For many, vision gradually improves within the first few weeks, but full clarity may take several months to a year.
• Partial cornea transplant Turkey procedures, such as DSEK or DMEK, often lead to quicker visual recovery compared to full-thickness transplants.
• Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and detect any signs of complications.
• Symptoms like redness, pain, light sensitivity, or sudden vision changes could indicate rejection and require immediate medical attention.
• If you have cornea transplant Turkey stitches, these may need adjustment or removal during the recovery process.

Corneal Transplant Side Effects

Some of the possible complications you can develop after a cornea transplant in Turkey include: 

• Inflammation on the middle layer of the eye
• Recurrence of the original eye disease
• Surgery reopening resulting in wounds
• Internal infection due to open wounds
• Glaucoma due to pressure building up in the eye
• Astigmatism 
• Red eye
• Light sensitivity or photophobia
• Vision problems 
• Eye pain

Corneal Transplant Success Rate 

Most patients report a high satisfaction rate, and cornea transplant surgery in Turkey has a success rate of 70% - 90%.

How To Prepare For Corneal Transplant Turkey 

• Stop Aspirin and other medications that might contain blood thinners weeks before the procedure.   

• Do not smoke tobacco at least two weeks before the procedure.

• Use the antibiotic drops before the procedure to prevent an infection.

• Avoid alcohol and other drugs that might affect anesthesia.

Benefits of Corneal Transplant Installment Payment Plan

Medical tourism is an increasingly popular option for individuals seeking high-quality, cost-effective healthcare. For many, the financial burden of upfront payments can be a barrier to accessing treatment abroad. Opting for installment payment plans offers several advantages that make medical treatments more accessible and manageable.

Affordable Access to Quality Care

• Spread-Out Costs: Installment payments allow patients to spread the cost of medical procedures over a period of time, reducing the immediate financial pressure.
• Access to Premium Services: Patients can afford higher-quality treatments, facilities, or specialists they might not otherwise consider.

Improved Financial Flexibility

• Manageable Payments: Small, predictable monthly payments make it easier to plan and budget without depleting savings or emergency funds.
• Minimized Debt Risk: Installment plans often have lower interest rates and manageable terms than taking a high-interest loan or maxing out credit cards.

Opportunities for Early Treatment

• Reduced Delays: Installment options remove the need to wait until the full amount is saved, enabling patients to receive timely medical care.
• Better Outcomes: Early treatment can prevent health conditions from worsening, often reducing overall healthcare costs in the long run.

Peace of Mind

• Financial Security: Knowing payments are spread out and manageable reduces stress and allows patients to focus on their recovery.
• Transparent Agreements: Many installment plans have clear terms, ensuring no hidden fees or unexpected financial surprises.

By leveraging installment payment plans, individuals can access high-quality medical care abroad while maintaining financial stability. This approach ensures a balance between receiving the best treatment and managing personal finances responsibly.

How Can Flymedi Help with Payment Plan Options

We’ve created payment plans to fit the needs of patients in different regions, with varying terms and limits:

Payment Plan Options by Region:

• United Kingdom: Up to 36 months, maximum £5,000
• United States: Up to 36 months, maximum $30,000
• Germany: Up to 36 months, maximum €5,000
• Canada: Up to 36 months, maximum CAD 30,000
• France, Spain, Italy, Romania: Up to 3 months, maximum €1,500
• Other Countries: Financing is available in Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden, and more (specific limits available on request).

Interest Rates:

• 3-month plans: Interest-free
• Up to 36-month plans: Interest rates range from 7.5% to 15%, depending on your credit history and employment status.

You can choose installment plans with VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover if you have a high credit card limit. Terms include 3, 6, or 12 months. We’re here to help! Contact us for guidance or to find the best plan for your needs. Your health is important, and we’re committed to making care accessible.

Corneal Transplant Quick Facts

Procedure	Corneal Transplant
Duration	Less than an hour
Stay	2 - 3 nights
Cost in Turkey	€12,000 per eye
Anesthesia	Local anesthesia
Recovery	2 - 3 weeks
Final Results	18 months
Side Effects	Red eye, light sensitivity or photophobia, vision problems
Risks	Glaucoma, Astigmatism, Internal infection
Success Rate	90%
Exercise	After 3 - 4 months
Back To Work	After 2 - 3 weeks
Scars	No
Pain	No
Related Procedures	Bandage contact lenses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which country is best for cornea transplants?

Many patients like to travel to medical tourism hubs and believe they provide the best healthcare. Also, geographical location plays a role. Turkey and Hungary have gained a reputation as top destinations for medical treatment. 

The vast number of patients who travel to these destinations adds value to their experience and understanding of international patients' expectations.

How long is the waiting list for a corneal transplant?

One of the significant benefits of having treatment in Turkey is avoiding waiting time. In some countries like the UK and USA, there is a waiting time for a specific procedure, which can take months. But in medical tourism countries, it is reduced drastically. In some cases, with no waiting time.

How long does a corneal transplant operation take?

The procedure takes less than an hour, and you may leave the hospital the same day or stay overnight, depending on the procedure. 

How long does it take to recover from corneal transplant surgery?

The recovery time for a corneal transplant in Turkey depends on the type of procedure. Typically, it can take about 18 months to enjoy the final results of a full-thickness transplant. 

Does a corneal transplant cure vision?

A corneal transplant can restore vision and improve the appearance of a damaged or diseased cornea. 

How soon can I drive after a corneal transplant?

You should avoid driving until your vision stabilizes and your doctor confirms it’s safe. Depending on your recovery, this may take several weeks to months.

Why do you need a corneal transplant?

A corneal transplant is necessary when the cornea becomes damaged or diseased, leading to vision impairment that cannot be corrected through other treatments.

No vision after corneal transplant – is it normal?

Temporary blurred or reduced vision is common during the early healing stages. If vision does not improve, consult your doctor to rule out complications.

How many times can you have a corneal transplant?

While corneal transplants can be repeated, the success rate decreases with each subsequent transplant due to increased rejection risks and scarring.

Does a corneal transplant change eye color?

No, a corneal transplant does not change your eye color, as the cornea is transparent and does not affect the iris's pigmentation.

How long does a corneal transplant last?

A corneal transplant can last for decades with proper care, though factors like age, health, and underlying conditions can influence its longevity.

Cloudy vision after corneal transplant – is it normal?

Cloudy vision can occur during healing but may also indicate swelling or rejection. If it persists, consult your doctor promptly.

How do you sleep after a corneal transplant?

You should sleep on your back or on the side opposite the operated eye to avoid pressure on the eye. Your doctor may recommend wearing an eye shield.

What is corneal transplant failure?

Failure occurs when the cornea does not heal properly or the body rejects the graft. Symptoms include persistent pain, redness, and worsening vision.

How much is a corneal transplant?

The corneal transplant cost in Turkey varies based on location, procedure type, and additional medical needs, typically costing €12000 per eye in Turkey.

What is vision like after a corneal transplant?

Vision improves gradually, often stabilizing within a year. However, corrective lenses may be needed to achieve optimal clarity.

How long after a corneal transplant can I fly?

Most patients can fly within a few weeks, but it’s essential to consult your doctor, as cabin pressure changes could affect healing.

Can corneal transplant rejection be reversed?

Yes, early-stage rejection is often reversible with prompt treatment, such as adjusting medications or using anti-rejection drops.

Is a corneal transplant safe?

Yes, corneal transplants are generally safe and have a high success rate. However, risks like infection, rejection, or graft failure exist.

What are the symptoms of corneal transplant rejection?

Symptoms include redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and swelling. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

Is there an age limit for a corneal transplant?

There is no strict age limit, but eligibility depends on overall health, eye condition, and the likelihood of a successful outcome.

How long does a corneal transplant surgery take?

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether it is a full or partial transplant.

Is corneal transplant painful?

The surgery itself is not painful due to anesthesia, but mild discomfort or soreness is common during recovery.

What is the success rate of a corneal transplant?

The success rate is high, with 80-90% of transplants successfully restoring vision, particularly for first-time procedures.

What is the life expectancy of a corneal transplant?

A corneal transplant can last a lifetime, but some patients may require a replacement due to age-related changes or other factors.

Is a corneal transplant permanent?

While often long-lasting, a transplant is not always permanent and may need replacement if complications or damage occur.

What causes light sensitivity after a corneal transplant?

Light sensitivity is common during healing and can result from inflammation or rejection. It typically improves with time or treatment.