LASIK Eye Surgery in Turkey:
Clear Vision, Permanent Results
What is LASIK Eye Surgery?
LASIK, an acronym for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, is the most widely performed and highly successful laser eye surgery for correcting refractive errors. This advanced procedure offers a life-changing alternative to glasses and contact lenses by precisely reshaping the cornea to correct common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. By allowing light to focus properly on the retina, LASIK delivers a significant improvement in vision clarity, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better. Our clinic in Antalya, Turkey combines cutting-edge technology with a patient-first approach to provide exceptional LASIK eye surgery for a global clientele.
How LASIK Eye Surgery Works: A Closer Look at the Procedure
The fundamental principle of LASIK is to create a new, ideal shape for the cornea, which is the clear, dome-shaped front surface of the eye. This is achieved in a two-step process that is both quick and precise, typically taking only 10-15 minutes for both eyes.
Creating the Corneal Flap: The first step involves creating a thin, hinged flap on the surface of the cornea. This can be done using a highly precise instrument called a microkeratome blade. The surgeon carefully lifts this flap to expose the underlying corneal tissue. The flap remains attached to the eye, acting as a natural bandage.
Reshaping the Cornea: With the underlying tissue exposed, an excimer laser is used to precisely remove microscopic amounts of corneal tissue. The laser is guided by sophisticated computer mapping of your eye, ensuring the exact amount of tissue is removed to correct your specific refractive error. This process is incredibly fast, often taking less than a minute per eye.
Repositioning the Flap: Once the reshaping is complete, the surgeon gently repositions the corneal flap back into its original place. It adheres naturally within minutes, without the need for stitches. The rapid self-adhesion of the flap is one of the key reasons for the incredibly fast recovery time associated with LASIK.
Key Benefits of Choosing LASIK
Patients worldwide choose LASIK eye surgery in Turkey for its numerous benefits, which offer a significant improvement in quality of life.
Remarkably Fast Recovery: One of the most compelling advantages of LASIK is the rapid recovery. Most patients notice a dramatic improvement in their vision within 24 hours of the procedure and can return to their daily routines almost immediately. This allows international patients to enjoy their recovery while exploring the beautiful city of Antalya.
High Success Rate: With modern technology, the success rate of LASIK is exceptionally high. An impressive 96% or more of patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, with the vast majority becoming independent of glasses and contact lenses.
Minimal Discomfort: The procedure is virtually painless. Numbing eye drops are used to ensure you are comfortable throughout the surgery. Post-operative discomfort is generally mild and short-lived, with most patients only experiencing a feeling of grittiness for a few hours.
Permanent Results: For most patients, LASIK provides a permanent correction for their vision. While natural aging may cause slight vision changes later in life, the effect of the LASIK procedure itself is long-lasting.
Is LASIK Right for You? Candidacy and Suitability
While LASIK is a fantastic option for many, it’s not suitable for everyone. A thorough consultation is essential to determine if you are a good candidate. Ideal candidates for LASIK eye surgery in Turkey typically meet the following criteria:
Age and Vision Stability: You must be at least 18 years old, with stable vision for a minimum of one year prior to the procedure.
Good General and Ocular Health: Candidates should be free from serious eye conditions like keratoconus, advanced glaucoma, or severe cataracts. Your overall health is also a factor.
Sufficient Corneal Thickness: The cornea must be thick enough to allow for safe reshaping by the laser. Patients with thin corneas may be better suited for alternative procedures like No Touch Laser (TransPRK).
Lifestyle Factors: Individuals who are not pregnant or breastfeeding, as hormonal changes can affect vision stability, are ideal candidates.
LASIK vs. No Touch Laser (TransPRK)
We offer both LASIK and No Touch Laser (TransPRK). While both are highly effective in correcting refractive errors, they differ in their approach and are suited for different patients. LASIK involves creating a corneal flap for faster recovery, making it the preferred choice for many patients. However, No Touch Laser (TransPRK) is a completely contactless procedure, which involves a slightly longer initial recovery period but may be safer for patients with thin corneas or those with a higher risk of dry eyes. During your consultation, Dr. Selim Güldiken will carefully assess your eye health to determine the most suitable option for you.
What to Expect During the LASIK Procedure
The process is straightforward and performed in our state-of-the-art facility in Antalya.
Preparation: You will be asked to lie on a comfortable bed. Numbing eye drops will be applied to ensure you feel no pain.
Flap Creation: A specialized device will be used to hold your eyelids open. A precise microkeratome or femtosecond laser creates the corneal flap. This takes only a few seconds.
Laser Reshaping: You will be asked to focus on a light. The excimer laser will then reshape your cornea. This step is incredibly fast, lasting only seconds for most corrections.
Repositioning: The surgeon carefully repositions the flap, and it immediately begins to adhere. The entire procedure is quick and efficient.
Aftercare and Recovery
The recovery from LASIK eye surgery is remarkably quick. Most patients experience improved vision almost immediately.
Immediate Improvement: You will notice a significant improvement in your vision within the first few hours.
Post-Op Care: Follow-up appointments are scheduled. You will be provided with prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and manage any dryness. It is crucial to avoid rubbing your eyes, rest for the first day, and limit screen time.
Long-Term Results: Full visual stabilization may take a few weeks, but the results are long-lasting, providing a permanent solution for your vision.
Why Choose Dr. Selim Güldiken in Antalya, Turkey?
Dr. Selim Güldiken is a highly respected ophthalmologist and a leading authority on LASIK eye surgery in Turkey. His clinic in Antalya is equipped with the most advanced diagnostic tools and laser technology available, ensuring unparalleled precision and safety. International patients choose Dr. Güldiken for his:
Extensive Experience: With a history of performing countless successful LASIK procedures, Dr. Güldiken’s expertise is a source of confidence for patients seeking reliable results.
Personalized, Patient-First Approach: Every patient’s eyes are unique. Dr. Güldiken performs a thorough evaluation to create a personalized treatment plan that is both safe and effective.
Transparent and Trustworthy Care: We believe in complete transparency, providing detailed information about the procedure, recovery, and what to expect.
Affordable LASIK in Turkey: World-Class Care, Accessible Pricing
Patients from the UK, Europe, and the Middle East are increasingly choosing Turkey for their laser eye surgery. This is due to the perfect combination of world-class medical standards and significantly more affordable pricing. We provide cost-effective LASIK eye surgery without ever compromising on quality or safety. Our competitive pricing allows international patients to receive premium care and enjoy their recovery in the beautiful setting of Antalya.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LASIK painful?
No. The procedure uses numbing eye drops and is typically painless.
How soon can I return to work?
Most people resume work within 1–2 days, depending on their job.
Will I still need glasses after LASIK?
Most patients achieve clear vision without glasses. However, age-related conditions like presbyopia may require reading glasses later in life.
Is the result of LASIK permanent?
Yes, the correction is permanent, with a 96% success rate. However, natural aging may affect vision over time.
Can both eyes be treated on the same day?
Yes, both eyes are usually treated in one session for convenience.