Refractive errors affect 2.7 billion people globally. LASIK corrects myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism with 94–98% achieving 20/20 vision. Cost abroad: $800–$2,000 (both eyes) versus $3,000–$6,000 in the US. Turkey is the leading destination — same laser platforms (Alcon, Zeiss, Schwind) as US and European clinics.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Murat Ustun, M.D., Founder & Medical Director, Flytocure Healthcare.
Vision problems include refractive errors (myopia/short-sight, hyperopia/long-sight, astigmatism, presbyopia) and age-related conditions (cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma). Refractive errors are correctable by LASIK, PRK, SMILE, or phakic lens implantation. Cataracts require surgical lens replacement (phacoemulsification). Glaucoma is managed with drops, laser, or surgery.
| Category | Criteria | Recommended Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Mild myopia | -0.5 to -3 dioptres | LASIK, PRK, or SMILE — excellent outcomes |
| Moderate myopia | -3 to -6 dioptres | LASIK, PRK, SMILE — safe and effective |
| High myopia | -6 to -10 dioptres | LASIK (if cornea adequate), SMILE, or phakic ICL |
| Very high myopia | Above -10 dioptres | Phakic ICL implant (Implantable Collamer Lens) — LASIK not suitable |
| Hyperopia (long-sight) | +1 to +4 dioptres | LASIK or PRK — effective for mild/moderate hyperopia |
| Astigmatism | Any degree | Toric LASIK, toric PRK, or toric ICL |
| Presbyopia (age 45+) | Near vision loss from ageing lens | PRELEX (lens exchange), reading glasses, monovision LASIK |
| Cataract | Cloudy lens — typically age 60+ | Phacoemulsification + IOL implant (monofocal or premium) |
LASIK eligibility requires: stable prescription for at least 1 year; age 21+ (ideally 25+); corneal thickness ≥500 microns (measured by pachymetry); no active corneal disease (keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration); not pregnant or breastfeeding; pupil size within normal range. Approximately 80% of glasses wearers are suitable candidates. If you have thin corneas, PRK or SMILE may be alternatives.
Leading Turkish laser eye clinics use the same internationally trusted platforms as US and UK centres: Alcon WaveLight (EX500 excimer + FS200 femtosecond), Zeiss MEL 90 + VisuMax (also used for SMILE), Schwind Amaris, Bausch & Lomb Technolas. Verify the specific equipment with your clinic — it should be listed on their website.
LASIK requires the shortest stay of any treatment abroad: Day 1 — pre-operative assessment (corneal mapping, refraction, pachymetry). Day 2 — LASIK procedure (15–20 minutes both eyes). Day 3 — 24-hour post-op check. Most patients can fly home on day 3 or 4. Wear protective goggles on the flight.
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