Patient guide
LASIK / Eye Surgery
Laser vision correction reshapes the cornea to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
What this guide covers: This guide covers candidacy, what happens during treatment, recovery timelines, red flags, and questions to ask before you travel.
Browse Ophthalmology providersQuick facts
- Typical stay
- 2–4 days
- Anaesthesia
- Topical drops
- Both eyes
- Often same day
Last reviewed: June 2026
Overview
What is lasik / eye surgery?
LASIK and PRK use excimer lasers to change corneal curvature and correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Turkey offers high-volume refractive centres with modern topography-guided platforms. Candidacy depends on corneal thickness, dry-eye status, and refractive stability — not everyone qualifies.
Directory
Compare licensed hospitals, clinics, and practices in Turkey that list lasik / eye surgery among their treatments.
Candidacy
Who is it for?
Adults over 18 with stable prescription for at least one year
Patients with adequate corneal thickness and healthy ocular surface
Those accepting that reading glasses may still be needed with age (presbyopia)
Contact-lens intolerant individuals seeking spectacle freedom for distance
Treatment day
What happens
Comprehensive eye exam
Topography, pachymetry, pupil size, and tear film testing determine LASIK vs PRK vs contraindication.
Corneal flap or surface preparation
LASIK creates a thin flap; PRK removes surface epithelium. Both proceed to laser ablation.
Laser ablation
Computer-guided laser reshapes stromal tissue in seconds per eye. Flap repositioned in LASIK.
Immediate post-op care
Antibiotic and steroid drops prescribed. UV-protective glasses advised initially.
After treatment
Recovery timeline
Hours 0–24
Gritty sensation and tearing common. Avoid rubbing eyes.
Next: Days 2–7Days 2–7
Vision fluctuates then clarifies. LASIK patients often drive within days; PRK takes longer.
Next: Weeks 1–4Weeks 1–4
Dry eye symptoms may peak; use lubricants as directed.
Next: Months 3–6Months 3–6
Residual prescription assessed; enhancement considered only after stability.
Warning signs
Risks and red flags
These are warning signs that should give you pause — or cause you to walk away entirely. No reputable provider will object to being asked these questions.
Operating without modern topography to screen for ectasia risk
Guaranteeing 20/20 without discussing enhancement rates
Dismissing severe dry eye or large pupils pre-operatively
Before you commit
Questions to ask
- Am I a better candidate for LASIK, PRK, or SMILE?
- What is your enhancement rate at 12 months?
- How do you screen for post-LASIK ectasia?
- What drop regimen is required after I fly home?
Next steps
Research providers with confidence
This guide is for general information only and does not replace advice from a qualified clinician. Use our rankings and directory to compare licensed organisations before you commit.
Ready to research LASIK / Eye Surgery providers?
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