Cataracts are a condition, in which the eye's natural lens becomes opaque and cloudy. In a healthy eye, the lens is clear and transparent, directing the light onto the retina to allow for a clear vision. When a cataract develops, the lens becomes cloudy, preventing light from passing through and reducing the quality of vision.
Cataract surgery remains a widely performed procedure that helps patients regain visual clarity and carry on with daily life more comfortably. A cataract is a visual impairment caused by the clouding of the eye's lens. As the disease progresses, vision can become increasingly difficult. Turkey is among the top destinations for cataract surgery, offering advanced technology, internationally accredited care, and highly experienced ophthalmologists.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is performed when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to a decline in vision quality. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is performed using advanced laser technology and microsurgical techniques, allowing patients to regain their vision.
The procedure is usually quick and painless. Recovery after cataract surgery depends on the patient's general health and the procedure performed. Still, most patients can resume their everyday lives after just a few days.
Who Needs Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is recommended for people with vision loss and difficulty performing their daily activities. Since one of the most common causes of cataracts is aging, getting the necessary eye exams as you age is important. The below symptoms may indicate that cataract surgery is necessary:
Blurred or cloudy vision
Inability to see clearly despite glasses or lenses
Low light vision problems
The colors appear pale and dull
Deterioration of night vision and sensitivity to glare
Double vision or eyestrain
Although cataracts typically develop with age, factors such as diabetes, eye trauma, or long-term use of corticosteroids can also contribute to their development. The cataract surgery cost can vary depending on the patient’s needs and the scope of the procedure.
How Painful is Cataract Surgery?
Since cataract surgery is carried out under local anesthesia, the patient does not feel any pain. During the procedure, the area is anesthetized with eye drops so the patient feels no discomfort. After surgery of cataract, the patient may experience a slight burning sensation or dry eye. Still, these symptoms subside on their own within a few days.
Most patients recover quickly after the surgery. If the drops recommended by the ophthalmologist are used regularly, the cataract surgery recovery time is significantly reduced.
How is Cataract Surgery Done?
Cataracts surgery is performed safely and quickly using modern techniques. The most commonly used method is phacoemulsification (PHACO). The process includes the following stages:
Preparation and Anesthesia: Regional anesthesia is administered with eye drops.
Removal of the Cloudy Lens: The natural lens is broken through a small incision in the eye and removed using ultrasound waves.
Insertion of the Artificial Lens: A transparent intraocular lens is inserted once the cloudy lens has been removed.
Recovery Process: The operation usually takes 15-20 minutes, and the patient can go home on the same day.
Although patients begin to see immediately after surgery, it can take a few days to weeks to regain full vision. The cataract surgery recovery period depends on the eye's health and the individual healing process.
What are the Benefits of Cataract Surgery?
For many older adults, cataract surgery plays a key role in preserving independence and maintaining quality of life. This condition, which can occur in infants and children due to congenital causes, can also occur in cases such as genetic factors and diabetes.
Blurred vision disappears, and colors are perceived more vividly.
Activities such as watching TV, reading and driving are more enjoyable.
Glare and light scattering are reduced.
The artificial lens offers a lifelong, permanent solution.
Better vision enhances self-confidence and life quality.
Cataract Surgery Cost in İstanbul
Cataract surgery costs depend on the lens type used, the hospital's equipment, and the surgeon's experience. In Istanbul, cataract surgery prices are much more affordable than in Europe and the US, while offering high standards of care. Factors that affect the pricing of cataract surgery are:
Type of intraocular lens used (standard or premium lenses)
Medical infrastructure and technical equipment of the hospital
Surgeon's expertise and experience
Postoperative care and aftercare
Health tourists often choose cataract surgery in Turkey due to its cost advantages and high-quality service.
