Where To Get Laser Eye Surgery: Turkey Vs. Australia
Laser eye surgery fixes vision and stops needing glasses or contact lenses. In this article, we will compare where to get laser eye surgery: Turkey and Australia. This way, you can make the best decision for your eyes.
What Is Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery is a treatment that helps correct common refractive errors. These problems include:
- Short-Sightedness: This means you can’t see things that are far away very well.
- Long-Sightedness: This means it’s hard to see things up close.
- Astigmatism: This makes your vision blurry or fuzzy.
In the surgery, doctors use a powerful and precise laser to gently reshape the cornea. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of your eye. By changing its shape, the laser helps light focus on the back of your eye, making your vision clearer.
Imagine waking up and seeing the world without reaching for your glasses. It’s a quick procedure that can make a big difference in everyday life.
Laser Eye Surgery In Turkey: What To Know
Turkey is a place for medical tourism, including laser eye surgery. The surgery costs much less in Turkey than in Australia. While laser eye surgery costs are good there, you should know some things before choosing surgery in Turkey.
Risks Of Surgery In Turkey
While Turkey offers cheaper surgery, it’s important to know that the rules might not be the same as in Australia. In Australia, there are strict rules to keep you comfortable. The doctors are highly trained and can do their best to make sure the surgery works well. In Australia, doctors make sure you heal well after laser treatment. If something goes wrong, you can get help quickly.
Types Of Laser Refractive Surgery
Doctors use different types of laser vision correction surgery to help people see better. Each one works in a different way. Here are the most common laser eye surgery techniques and types:
LASIK Eye Surgery
During this treatment, doctors make a small flap in the front of the eye, called the cornea, and use an excimer laser to reshape it. LASIK surgery can fix problems like short-sightedness, long-sightedness, or blurry vision.
PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)
In this surgery, the very thin top layer of the cornea is taken off so the laser can reshape the eye underneath. PRK can help people with thinner corneas.
PRESBYOND
This type of laser eye surgery helps people who have trouble seeing things up close as they get older. The laser reshapes the cornea so you can see both near and far more clearly.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
This newer method uses a tiny cut to remove a small piece of the corneal tissue. It’s a gentle way to fix short-sightedness and blurry vision from astigmatism.
Each surgery works best for different types of eye problems. Your doctor can help you pick the one that’s right for you! Other vision correction surgeries don’t use lasers that your doctor can tell you about.
Why Do People Love Laser Eye Surgery?
People love laser eye surgery for many reasons. It helps them see better without needing glasses or contact lenses. But there are even more reasons why laser eye surgery is so popular. Let’s explore them all!
Clear Vision Without Glasses Or Contacts
Imagine seeing the world without searching for your glasses or using contact lenses. Laser eye surgery can make that possible, freeing you from these struggles.
Enjoy Your Favourite Activities
Laser eye surgery makes life easier. You can do things without worrying about glasses slipping or contacts drying out. It’s perfect for people who love an active lifestyle.
Quick And Easy Procedure
The surgery itself doesn’t take long. In most cases, it takes less than 30 minutes per eye. You may notice a big difference in your vision within a day or two and return to normal routines.
Long-Lasting Results
For people, the results of laser eye surgery last a very long time—sometimes even for life. This means you can enjoy clear vision for years without needing more treatments.
Saves Money Over Time
Think about how much money you spend on glasses, contact lenses, and eye check-ups. Laser eye surgery is a one-time cost that can save you money in the long run.
No More Hassle
Say goodbye to foggy glasses, broken frames, or the frustration of losing your lenses. After laser eye surgery, you can enjoy life without those little annoyances.
Established Procedure
Laser eye surgery has been used for many years, and the technology keeps getting better. It’s a proven way to improve your vision.
Boosts Confidence
When you can see clearly, you feel better about yourself. You might feel more confident at work, with friends, or even just walking down the street.
Better Night Vision
Some people see better at night or in low light after laser eye surgery. This can be especially helpful for driving at night.
Great For Travellers
If you love to travel, laser eye surgery can make it easier. You won’t have to pack glasses, contact lenses, or cleaning solutions. You can just enjoy the journey.
Perfect For Busy Lifestyles
If you have a busy life, laser eye surgery can save you time and effort. No more cleaning lenses, replacing frames, or making time for eye appointments.
With all these wonderful benefits, it’s no surprise that people feel so happy after laser eye surgery. It’s a life-changing choice that helps you see the world more clearly and live life to the fullest!
Laser Eye Surgery In Australia: What To Expect
Getting laser eye surgery in Australia is a smooth and well-organised process. Doctors and clinics work hard to make sure you feel calm and comfortable. Let’s take a closer look at what happens step by step:
Step 1: Your First Visit To The Doctor
The first step is meeting with an eye doctor who will check your eyes and talk to you about the surgery.
- Eye Check: The doctor will carefully examine your eyes, check your vision, and look for any problems that might make surgery more difficult.
- Talk About The Surgery: The doctor will explain the surgery, the risks, and the results you can expect. You can ask any questions you have!
This step is important because it helps you and your doctor decide if the surgery suits you.
Step 2: Getting Ready For Surgery
Before the day of your surgery, you might need to follow some instructions.
- No Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, your doctor might ask you to stop using them before surgery. This helps your eyes get ready.
- Relax And Prepare: On the day of the surgery, wear comfortable clothes and bring someone to drive you home.
Step 3: The Day Of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, things move quickly and smoothly.
- Quick Procedure: The surgery usually takes about 30 minutes per eye.
- Pain: The doctor will use numbing drops so you don’t feel much pain. You might feel a little pressure, but it’s not uncomfortable.
- Using A Laser: The doctor will use a laser to gently reshape the front part of your eye (the cornea). This helps light focus better, improving your vision.
You should find the process easy and stress-free.
Step 4: Right After Surgery
Once the surgery is done, your doctor will give you some care tips to help your eyes heal.
- Protect Your Eyes: You might need to wear protective glasses or an eye shield to keep your eyes guarded.
- Use Eye Drops: Eye drops will help stop infections and keep your eyes comfortable as they heal.
- Take It Easy: Rest your eyes as much as possible for the first day or two.
Step 5: Healing And Recovery
Your eyes will start healing immediately, but it takes time to see the full results.
- Mild Discomfort: Your eyes might feel a little bit dry or itchy, but this usually goes away in a few days.
- Clearer Vision: You may notice better vision, but full healing can take a few weeks.
- Avoid Certain Activities: Avoid swimming, exercising, or rubbing your eyes for a while.
Step 6: Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up visits are important to make sure your eyes are healing properly.
- Regular Check-Ups: Your doctor will check your vision during follow-ups. They will also look for any problems.
- Ask Questions: If you have any worries or questions, your doctor will help.
Laser eye surgery is a simple and life-changing experience. With the help of doctors and technology, you can look forward to a clearer vision and a brighter future!
Risks Of Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery is very great for most people, but like any surgery, there are some risks. Knowing about these risks is important so you can make the best choice for your eyes.
Dry Eyes
After surgery, some people feel like their eyes are dry or scratchy. This happens because the surgery can affect the way your eyes make tears.
Glare Or Halos
At night, you might see bright lights, like street lights or car headlights, as halos or glare.
Infection Or Healing Problems
In rare cases, your eyes might get infected or take longer to heal than expected.
Over- Or Under-Correction
Sometimes the surgery might not fix your vision perfectly. You might still need glasses or another procedure to make it just right.
Vision Changes
In very rare cases, vision might not improve as expected or become blurry again over time.
Your doctor can answer all your questions and explain how they keep you comfortable during the surgery.
Choosing The Right Doctor For Your Surgery
When it comes to laser eye surgery, picking the right doctor is very important. A good doctor can help you feel calm and make sure your surgery goes well. Here’s what to look for when choosing a doctor:
Experience
You want a doctor who knows a lot about laser eye surgery. Make sure they have trained in this type of surgery and have done it many times. It’s also important that the doctor is registered. This means they follow the safety rules in Australia and are trusted to do the surgery.
Reviews From Other Patients
Before you choose a doctor, it’s a good idea to see what other people say about their experience. You can read online reviews or ask the doctor for patient stories. If other people had good results, it can give you confidence in your choice.
The Right Technology
Laser eye surgery needs tools and lasers. The doctor should use the newest lasers to help make your surgery more successful. This means the doctor uses the best technology to give you the best chance for good vision.
Comfort And Care
When you meet the doctor, see if they make you feel comfortable. A good doctor will listen to your questions and explain everything clearly. They should take the time to make sure you understand the surgery and feel confident.
Clear Communication
The doctor should talk to you in a way you can understand. They should explain the surgery step by step so you know what will happen. If you have any worries, a good doctor will answer your questions patiently and kindly.
Choosing the right doctor is an important part of having a successful surgery. Take your time to pick someone who is experienced, trustworthy, and who makes you feel at ease.
Common Questions
Can everyone get laser eye surgery?
Not everyone is a good candidate for laser eye surgery. You need to have healthy eyes and a stable prescription. Your doctor will do a full eye exam to see if laser surgery suits you.
How long do the results last?
The results of laser eye surgery are long-lasting. Most people enjoy clear vision for many years after the surgery. Yet, your eyes may change as you age, and some people may need reading glasses as they age.
Will I need a second surgery?
Sometimes, a second surgery, called an enhancement, may be needed if your vision changes over time. But, people typically don’t need a second surgery after their first one.
Sometimes, the cost of travel, where you stay, or extra care after surgery is not included in the price. Make sure to think about all these costs before making your choice.
Can I drive after laser eye surgery?
It’s best to avoid driving on the day of the surgery because your vision might still be blurry. Most people can drive in a day or two, but make sure to follow your doctor’s advice for the best results.
How do I know I’m a good candidate for laser eye surgery?
To find out if laser eye surgery is right for you, visiting an experienced eye doctor is important. They will do a thorough check of your eyes and talk to you about your vision problems.
The eye doctor will look at things like your age, the health of your eyes, and whether your eyes are stable enough for surgery. The doctor might suggest other treatments for certain eye conditions or health problems. They will help you understand if laser eye surgery is your best choice.
Can laser eye surgery be done on both eyes at the same time?
Yes, most people can have both eyes done on the same day. The surgery for each eye only takes about 30 minutes, and recovery time is usually quick. Your doctor will decide on the best treatment plan.
The Bottom Line
Laser eye surgery can change your life by helping you see better. While Turkey might be cheaper, Australia offers higher quality and care. With skilled doctors and technology, Australia makes sure your eye health is in good hands.
If you want to learn more about how laser eye surgery can help you see better, we’re here in Melbourne to help! Our doctors are trained and ready to explain everything to you.
Call Mornington Peninsula Eye Clinic today at (03) 9070 3580 to find out how we can help you see better.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Sources:
About the Clinical Care Standards. Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Available at: https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/clinical-care-standards/about-clinical-care-standards [Accessed December 10, 2024]
Cleveland Clinic 2023. SMILE Eye Surgery. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25076-smile-eye-surgery [Accessed December 10, 2024]
Healthdirect Australia 2022. Laser Eye Surgery. healthdirect. Available at: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/laser-eye-surgery [Accessed December 10, 2024]
Mayo Clinic Staff 2023. LASIK Eye Surgery. Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/lasik-eye-surgery/about/pac-20384774 [Accessed December 10, 2024]
Meštrović T 2023. LASIK Complications. News-Medical. Available at: https://www.news-medical.net/health/LASIK-Complications.aspx [Accessed December 10, 2024]
National Eye Institute 2021. Finding an Eye Doctor. National Eye Institute. Available at: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/healthy-vision/finding-eye-doctor [Accessed December 10, 2024]
The Healthline Editorial Team 2019. How Long Does LASIK Last? Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/eye-health/how-long-does-lasik-last [Accessed December 10, 2024]
Williams F 2021. What to Know About LASIK and Dry Eyes. Medical News Today. Available at: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lasik-dry-eyes [Accessed December 10, 2024]
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