Erdem Healthcare Group at Expomed
Achieving Glasses-Free Vision with Personalized Techniques at Erdem Hospital
Laser Eye Surgery corrects refractive errors (Myopia, Hyperopia, and Astigmatism) by permanently reshaping the cornea so that light focuses correctly on the retina, often eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. The field has advanced significantly, moving from older surface treatments (PRK) to high-precision, personalized methods (Custom LASIK, Femto LASIK, and SMILE).
At Erdem Hospital, our Ophthalmology Department offers the full range of modern laser techniques, allowing our specialists to select the safest and most effective procedure based on your unique corneal thickness, prescription, and lifestyle.
Turkey is a prime destination for laser eye surgery, providing rapid access to the latest technology (including Femtosecond and Excimer lasers) and highly experienced surgeons. International patients achieve excellent visual results at competitive, all-inclusive prices.
Key Laser Surgery Methods
Laser procedures are primarily categorized by how the surgeon accesses the corneal tissue being reshaped (the stroma).
| Procedure | Technique | Primary Advantage | Recovery Time | Suitable for |
| Femto LASIK | Bladeless flap creation using a Femtosecond laser; Excimer laser reshapes the stroma. | Quickest Visual Recovery; Minimal discomfort post-op; High precision. | 1–3 days to resume most activities. | Standard prescriptions, thicker corneas. |
| iLASIK / Custom LASIK | Uses Wavefront Technology to create a personalized "fingerprint map" of the eye's optical defects (Higher-Order Aberrations). | Superior Visual Quality; Corrects glare and halos; Tailored for unique eyes. | Quick recovery, similar to Femto LASIK. | Patients seeking the sharpest vision, those with night vision issues. |
| ReLEx SMILE | Flapless, keyhole surgery. A femtosecond laser creates and removes a lens-shaped piece (lenticule) through a tiny incision. | Least Invasive; Better biomechanical stability; Lowest risk of dry eye; Ideal for contact sports. | Fast (days); Full net vision takes 2–3 weeks. | Myopia and mild Astigmatism; thinner corneas. |
| PRK / LASEK | Surface Ablation procedures (no flap). PRK removes the corneal skin (epithelium); LASEK moves it aside. | No risk of flap complications; Suitable for thin corneas. | Longest and most uncomfortable (1–2 days of pain, 1–2 weeks for clear vision). | Patients with thin corneas, high-contact sports athletes. |
What's Included in the Laser Eye Surgery Journey
Our "all-in-one" approach is designed for a convenient, seamless experience:
- VIP airport-hotel-hospital transfers so you're never navigating on your own.
- A three-night stay in premium accommodation.
- Pre-surgery consultation and detailed diagnostic assessments (Wavefront mapping, corneal thickness, etc.).
- The Surgical Procedure itself (both eyes treated sequentially on the same day is common).
- A full aftercare kit with required antibiotic and steroid eye drops.
- One year follow-up support to check visual stability and answer questions.
- English-speaking staff and interpreters so nothing gets lost in translation.
Recovery and Aftercare
- Immediate Post-Op (LASIK/SMILE): Mild discomfort, tearing, and blurriness are temporary, often subsiding within the first few hours or a day. Patients can often drive or return to work the next day.
- Immediate Post-Op (PRK/LASEK): The first 1–2 days are generally painful (managed with prescribed medication) as the surface heals. Patients usually take 1–2 weeks off work.
- Long-Term: Dry Eye symptoms are the most common temporary side effect, requiring artificial tear drops for the first 3–6 months. Vision stabilization can take a few weeks to several months.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between Femto LASIK and iLASIK? iLASIK is Femto LASIK combined with Wavefront Customization.
- Is SMILE better than LASIK? SMILE is less invasive and has a lower risk of dry eye and flap complications, making it a preferred choice for certain patients, like those with high myopia.
- How long does the procedure take? The laser part is very fast, with the entire procedure taking about 10–20 minutes per eye.
- Can I still get 20/20 vision with PRK? Yes, the final visual results are often similar to LASIK after the long healing process is complete.
- How long must my prescription be stable before surgery? Typically, for at least one year.
- What are 'Higher-Order Aberrations'? Irregularities in the eye's optical system that Custom LASIK corrects to reduce issues like glare and halos at night.
Restoring Confidence Through World-Class Vision Correction
Laser eye surgery is a life-changing step toward freedom from corrective lenses. At Erdem Hospital, we understand that precision and patient comfort are paramount. With 37 years of experience in patient care, we guide you to the safest and most effective technique for your unique eyes. Our goal is for you to feel looked after, supported, and confident from your consultation through to achieving your sharpest possible vision.
