Corneal Transplant Turkey

Most patients considering Corneal Transplant in Turkey choose this route to reduce cost, access experienced ophthalmic teams and avoid long local waiting lists — all of which can affect vision if treatment is delayed.

A cornea transplant is a complex surgical procedure; prioritise care from a skilled overseas surgeon rather than a less experienced local practitioner, and contact our team for an initial consultation to discuss your options.

The Benefits of Choosing Cornea Transplant Turkey Clinic

The Procedure Is More Affordable Abroad

Healthcare costs in countries such as the US, UK and Australia have risen substantially; many patients find that similar eye surgery abroad can be significantly cheaper — often by tens of percent depending on the procedure, clinic location and included services.

You Can Access More Treatment Options

Travelling for care often gives patients access to a broader range of techniques — from full‑thickness grafts to advanced partial‑thickness procedures and corneal cross‑linking — so you can discuss the best treatment for your condition.

Highly Skilled And Experienced Surgeons

Many Turkish eye surgeons specialise in corneal procedures and have extensive operating experience. Reputable clinics frequently hold international accreditations (for example, JCI or ISO) — always confirm individual clinic accreditation and the surgeon’s ophthalmology credentials before booking.

Treatment That’s Worth Your Money

Choosing a surgeon with specialist experience can reduce complications and improve results — an important consideration when comparing overall value rather than price alone.

You Get Access To Superior Patient Care Services

International clinics that see patients from abroad often provide structured support: pre‑op assessments, multilingual coordinators and longer consultation times. That extra attention can make a difference in planning your surgery and follow‑up care.

It Is Safe To Have The Procedure Abroad

Many clinics operate to international standards and use established protocols to minimise infection and surgical risks. Still, check surgeon case‑volumes, clinic accreditation and patient reviews to ensure safety and quality.

Corneal Transplant Cost In Turkey

A typical corneal transplant price in Turkey starts at around €12,000 per eye. The exact cost depends on factors such as clinic location, the surgeon’s experience and case volume, the type of procedure (full‑thickness versus partial‑thickness), whether donor corneal tissue is required, and the length of post‑operative care and follow‑up.

Flexible Payment Plans for Corneal Transplant

At DGS Healthcare, we make high‑quality healthcare more accessible with flexible instalment options tailored to your country. Payments can be spread over up to 72 months (6 years), subject to eligibility and local lending rules.

Financing Options by Country
United Kingdom: up to £50,000
Germany: up to €50,000
New Zealand: up to NZD 75,000
Australia: up to AUD 75,000
Canada: up to CAD 100,000
United States: up to USD 100,000
Romania, France, Spain, Italy: up to €1,500 (max 3 months)
Financing is also available in Denmark, the Netherlands, Sweden, and other European countries (limits vary).

Interest Rates

Rates depend on individual credit assessment and the financing partner’s terms.

Credit card option (Visa, MasterCard, AMEX, Discover): 3, 6 or 12 months instalments may be available; a processing fee can apply (check the Payment Plan page for current terms).

For a personalised quote, to check what is included in the price (for example: surgeon fee, hospital stay, donor tissue, anaesthesia, post‑op visits) or to see estimated instalments, please contact our team or visit the Payment Plan page.

The Best Candidate For Keratoplasty In Turkey

Keratoplasty (corneal transplant) is recommended for patients whose cornea is damaged or diseased to the point that vision cannot be restored by less invasive measures. Typical candidates include people with the following conditions:

Corneal scarring from trauma or previous infection
Non‑healing corneal ulcers or severe infections
Keratoconus with progressive thinning and distortion of the cornea
Significant thinning, clouding or persistent corneal swelling
Inherited endothelial disorders such as Fuchs’ dystrophy
Vision‑limiting damage following previous eye surgery

The Next Steps If You Plan To Have Corneal Transplant In Turkey

Check regulation and clinic credentials: confirm clinic accreditation and that the surgeon is certified by an ophthalmology board (for example, the national ophthalmology board or equivalent). Avoid advice that refers to non‑ophthalmic boards for corneal surgery.
Prepare questions for your surgeon: ask about the surgeon’s corneal surgery experience, annual case volume, complication and success rates, whether donor tissue is provided and what follow‑up care is included.
Trust your instincts and expect clarity: a reputable clinic will answer questions plainly, provide patient testimonials and explain risks and alternatives.
Verify the surgeon’s experience: request details of fellowship training, years in practice and the number of keratoplasty procedures performed.
Schedule an online consultation: most international clinics offer virtual assessments — use these to review your history and ask for a provisional treatment plan.

Bring to your consultation: recent eye scans (OCT, topography), prescription history, a list of current medications and previous surgical records. These documents help the surgeon assess suitability for keratoplasty and recommend the most appropriate procedure.

Once you decide on a clinic, DGS Healthcare can arrange an all‑inclusive treatment package in Turkey tailored to your needs, including clinic selection, consultations and post‑operative coordination.

Corneal Transplant in Turkey – Comprehensive Guide

A concise, patient‑focused guide to corneal transplant in Turkey covering the procedure, recovery, typical costs and why many patients choose Turkish clinics for treatment.

What Is a Corneal Transplant?

A corneal transplant, also called keratoplasty, is a surgical transplant of healthy donor corneal tissue to replace a damaged or diseased cornea. The cornea — the transparent dome at the front of the eye — focuses light onto the retina; when it becomes scarred, swollen or misshapen, vision is affected and a transplant can restore clarity and function.

Common causes include injury, infection, keratoconus and endothelial disorders such as Fuchs’ dystrophy. Your surgeon will recommend the most suitable type of corneal transplant based on the extent and layer(s) of corneal damage.

Corneal Transplant Recovery

Recovery after a corneal transplant is gradual. Healing time varies by procedure: full‑thickness transplants generally take longer to stabilise than partial‑thickness procedures such as DSEK or DMEK. Expect an improvement in weeks to months, with final visual outcomes often taking several months to a year.

Key Phases of Recovery

Weeks 0–4 (Initial healing): expect mild discomfort, light sensitivity and swelling. Protective shields are used and prescribed eye drops (antibiotic and anti‑inflammatory) reduce infection and inflammation.
Months 1–6 (Improving vision): vision slowly improves; follow‑up appointments monitor for complications such as infection or rejection and adjust medications as needed.
Months 6–12+ (Stabilisation): final visual acuity may take up to a year (or longer for full‑thickness grafts). Suture removal or adjustment may occur during this period.

Preventing Complications

One primary concern is graft rejection. Symptoms such as redness, increased pain, light sensitivity, sudden blurring or watering should prompt immediate contact with your surgeon. Adherence to prescribed anti‑rejection eye drops (typically topical steroids) and all scheduled follow‑ups markedly reduce rejection risk.

Tips for a Successful Recovery

Follow your surgeon’s guidance on eye care and use prescribed eye drops exactly as directed.
Avoid rubbing the eye and protect it from dust, water and strenuous activity during initial recovery.
Report any sudden symptoms immediately — early treatment can often reverse rejection.

Although recovery can feel slow, diligent post‑operative care improves the chances of restored vision and long‑term success. If you would like a simple recovery timeline or a downloadable “red flags” checklist for your phone, contact our team and we’ll send it to you.

Corneal Transplant Types

When considering a corneal transplant operation, it’s important to understand the different types available — each targets specific corneal layers and conditions. Below are the primary corneal transplant procedures, when they are used and their typical advantages.

Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK) — a full‑thickness corneal transplant where the entire cornea is replaced with healthy donor tissue. Used for severe scarring or disease affecting all layers. Pros: suitable for complex, full‑thickness damage; cons: longer visual recovery and a slightly higher rejection risk.
Endothelial Keratoplasty (EK) — a partial‑thickness operation targeting the inner corneal layer. Includes DSEK (Descemet’s Stripping Endothelial Keratoplasty) and DMEK (Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty). Used for endothelial failure such as Fuchs’ dystrophy. Pros: faster visual recovery and smaller wound; cons: technically demanding (especially DMEK).
Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK / DALK) — replaces the front layers of the cornea while preserving healthy inner layers. Indicated for surface disease and advanced keratoconus. Pros: avoids replacing healthy endothelium, reducing some rejection risk; cons: may be unsuitable if inner layers are affected.
Artificial Cornea (Keratoprosthesis) — an option when donor cornea is unsuitable or previous grafts have repeatedly failed. Pros: possible vision restoration in otherwise untreatable cases; cons: carries unique long‑term risks and requires specialised follow‑up.

The chosen procedure determines the operation complexity, expected recovery time and cost. For example, partial‑thickness procedures (DSEK/DMEK) typically lead to faster recovery and earlier visual improvement than full‑thickness PK. Discuss with your surgeon which type of corneal transplant and which donor tissue options best match your cornea’s condition and visual goals.

Corneal Transplant Rejection Symptoms

After a corneal transplant, early recognition of rejection is essential to protect your vision. Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice any worrying changes — prompt treatment often reverses early rejection.

Redness or persistent redness of the eye
Increasing pain or soreness
Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Sudden blurred, hazy or reduced vision
Swelling of the cornea or the operated eye

If you see any of the above, stop using contact lenses (if you wear them), avoid rubbing the eye and contact your surgeon or local emergency eye service straightaway. Typical first‑line treatment for suspected rejection is prompt escalation of topical steroid eye drops and closer follow‑up; earlier intervention improves the likelihood of saving the graft.

Corneal Transplant Causes

A corneal transplant is recommended when the cornea is damaged or diseased enough to significantly impair vision. Common causes that may lead to a transplant include:

Keratoconus — progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea that distorts vision
Corneal scarring from injury, previous surgery or severe infection
Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy — an inherited inner‑layer disorder causing swelling and reduced clarity
Severe infections or non‑healing ulcers that leave the cornea irreparably damaged
Complications from previous eye operations that result in vision‑limiting damage

Most transplants use healthy donor corneal tissue; in selected cases an artificial cornea (keratoprosthesis) may be considered. The operation time varies by procedure and complexity — discuss expected theatre time with your surgeon, who will also explain recovery timelines and potential risks such as infection and rejection.

Alternative to Corneal Transplant in Turkey

While keratoplasty (corneal transplant) is the standard surgical solution for severe corneal damage, several less invasive alternatives may be appropriate for specific conditions. Your ophthalmologist will advise which option is most suitable based on the cause and extent of damage to the cornea.

Corneal Cross‑Linking (CXL)

CXL is a minimally invasive procedure used primarily for progressive keratoconus. It strengthens corneal collagen to halt further thinning and distortion, often delaying or preventing the need for a corneal transplant. Typical outcome: stabilisation of the cornea and reduced progression; limitation: it does not usually reverse existing scarring.

Topography‑Guided and Scleral Contact Lenses

Specialist lenses (for example, scleral lenses) vault over an irregular corneal surface to provide a smooth optical surface. They can dramatically improve vision for mild to moderate corneal irregularities and are often tried before considering surgical options.

Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK)

PTK uses an excimer laser to remove superficial corneal scarring and irregularities. It is effective for surface scars and can improve surface regularity and vision without replacing corneal tissue; it is unsuitable for deep, full‑thickness damage.

Artificial Cornea (Keratoprosthesis)

When donor tissue is unsuitable or previous grafts have repeatedly failed, a keratoprosthesis may be considered. This artificial cornea can restore vision in selected, otherwise untreatable cases but requires lifelong specialist follow‑up and carries specific long‑term risks.

Each alternative has advantages and limitations. Often a staged approach is used — for example, trying cross‑linking or specialist lenses before recommending a surgical corneal transplant. Discuss expected outcomes, risks and recovery time with your surgeon to choose the best treatment pathway.

Stem Cell Corneal Transplant

Stem cell therapy can regenerate the corneal surface for patients with limbal stem cell deficiency. The procedure involves harvesting stem cells (from the patient or a donor), cultivating them and applying them to the damaged surface to promote regeneration. It is a specialised treatment with growing evidence of benefit in selected cases; availability and suitability should be discussed with an expert ophthalmic centre.

Corneal Transplant Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

If a transplant is recommended, here is a concise overview of the typical surgical procedure and what to expect before, during and after the operation.

Steps of the Procedure

Pre‑Surgical Preparation

Before surgery you will have a thorough examination and likely imaging (OCT, topography). Bring your previous eye records. Your surgeon will explain the chosen procedure, expected theatre time and whether local or general anaesthesia is required.

Donor Tissue Placement

During the operation the damaged corneal layer is removed and healthy donor tissue is placed and secured. For partial procedures only the affected layer(s) are replaced, reducing surgical trauma and often shortening recovery.

Stitching and Adjustment

The graft is attached with fine sutures or, in some cases, adhesives. Sutures may remain for months and can be adjusted or removed as vision stabilises.

Post‑Surgical Care

After surgery you will receive a protective shield and a course of medications (commonly antibiotic and steroid eye drops) to prevent infection and reduce rejection risk. Expect follow‑up visits in the first days, at several weeks and over subsequent months.

Recovery and Follow‑Up

Recovery varies by procedure: partial‑thickness operations usually offer faster visual recovery than full‑thickness grafts. Keep scheduled appointments, follow medication instructions and ask your surgeon for a personalised recovery timeline and a list of questions to ask before the operation (graft source, expected stay, anaesthesia plan, and follow‑up schedule).

If you would like help comparing alternative treatments or a tailored procedure plan, contact our team for a virtual consultation with a specialist clinic.

What to Expect After a Corneal Transplant in Turkey

Recovering from a corneal transplant requires patience and careful post‑operative care. Knowing the typical course of recovery, common side effects and important precautions will help you get the best possible outcome and reduce the risk of complications.

Protection: after the procedure your eye will be covered with a protective shield to reduce irritation and accidental rubbing.
Early symptoms: mild discomfort, light sensitivity and blurred vision are common in the first days; your doctor will prescribe eye drops to control inflammation and help prevent infection or rejection.
Healing timeline: many patients notice gradual visual improvement within weeks, but full clarity may take several months to a year depending on the procedure (partial‑thickness grafts often recover faster than full‑thickness).
Follow‑up: regular clinic visits are essential to monitor healing, adjust medications and check sutures — attend every appointment your surgeon schedules.
Sutures: if you have corneal stitches these may need adjustment or staged removal as vision stabilises.

Corneal Transplant Side Effects

Possible complications after a corneal transplant include:

Inflammation of eye layers
Recurrence of the original disease in some cases
Wound problems or re‑opening of the surgical site
Infection (internal eye infection is rare but serious)
Raised intraocular pressure or glaucoma
Astigmatism or other refractive errors
Persistent red eye, photophobia or eye pain
Residual vision problems requiring spectacles or further treatment

Corneal Transplant Success Rate

Reported success rates vary by procedure, indication and patient factors; many first‑time grafts achieve good long‑term clarity. Published studies report overall graft survival commonly in the range of around 70–90% depending on diagnosis and follow‑up time — discuss published outcomes for your specific condition with your surgeon (see the cited literature for details).

How To Prepare For Corneal Transplant

Medication review: speak with your surgeon and prescribing doctor before stopping aspirin or any anticoagulant — never stop prescribed medication without clinical advice.
Smoking and alcohol: avoid tobacco for at least two weeks before surgery and limit alcohol as advised to reduce anaesthesia‑related risks.
Antibiotic eye drops: your surgeon may recommend pre‑op antibiotic drops — follow instructions exactly to reduce infection risk.
Practical preparations: arrange transport for your discharge, pack any medical records and scans (OCT/topography) and prepare a clean, dust‑free space at home for early recovery.

Benefits of Corneal Transplant Instalment Payment Plan

For many patients, instalment plans make it easier to access timely treatment abroad without the burden of a large upfront payment. Typical advantages include spreading out costs, accessing higher‑quality clinics and avoiding delays that could otherwise worsen eye health.

Affordable Access to Quality Care

Spread‑out costs: instalment payments allow patients to pay over time rather than a single upfront sum.
Access to premium services: manageable payments can make higher‑quality clinics and experienced surgeons more affordable.

Improved Financial Flexibility

Manageable payments: predictable monthly instalments help budgeting without exhausting savings.
Reduced debt pressure: instalment terms can be preferable to high‑interest loans or credit card debt.

If you would like a personalised estimate of costs, expected recovery time and potential instalment plans available for your country, contact our coordinators for a tailored quote and recovery checklist.

Why Choose DGS Healthcare for Corneal Transplant?

Corneal transplant procedures can restore vision and relieve discomfort caused by damaged or scarred corneas. DGS Healthcare connects you with specialised eye clinics and experienced ophthalmic surgeons in Turkey, coordinating care from pre‑op assessment through post‑operative follow‑up.

DGS Healthcare offers:

Access to clinics performing DALK, DSAEK, DMEK and full‑thickness grafts
Clear treatment options and compatibility evaluations tailored to your eye condition
Transparent costs, no hidden fees and help with instalment options
Multilingual support, travel assistance and lodging coordination
Post‑transplant care coordination to help optimise recovery and outcomes

Trust your vision to expert hands — DGS Healthcare helps make advanced eye surgery accessible and easier to navigate for international patients.

Corneal Transplant Quick Facts

Procedure	Corneal transplant (keratoplasty)
Typical theatre time	Approximately 1–2 hours (varies by procedure)
Hospital stay	Day case to 1–3 nights depending on the operation
Cost in Turkey	From €12,000 per eye (depends on procedure and inclusions)
Anaesthesia	Local or general, as advised by the surgeon
Initial recovery	2–3 weeks (most patients resume light activities)
Final results	Up to 12–18 months for full stabilisation
Common side effects	Red eye, light sensitivity, variable vision
Risks	Infection, rejection, glaucoma, astigmatism
Reported success rate	Typically 70–90% depending on indication and follow‑up
Exercise	Light exercise after 3–4 months (confirm with surgeon)
Return to work	Often 2–3 weeks for desk work; variable for manual jobs
Scarring	Minimal on the surface; internal healing varies
Pain	Usually mild post‑op discomfort
Related procedures	Bandage contact lenses, corneal cross‑linking

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which country is best for cornea transplants?

Top destinations vary by specialty and patient preference. Turkey is a recognised hub for corneal surgery, offering experienced surgeons, competitive cost and well‑equipped clinics — but always compare surgeon experience, clinic accreditation and patient outcomes.

How long is the waiting list for a corneal transplant?

Waiting times abroad are generally shorter than in many public systems; availability depends on clinic schedules and donor tissue — DGS Healthcare can check current clinic wait times when you request a quote.

How long does a corneal transplant operation take?

Procedure time varies by type: many cases take roughly 1–2 hours. Your surgeon will provide an estimated operation time during the pre‑op consultation.

How long does it take to recover from corneal transplant surgery?

Initial recovery enabling return to light work is often 2–3 weeks; however, final visual stabilisation can take 12–18 months for full‑thickness grafts. Partial‑thickness procedures often stabilise sooner.

Does a corneal transplant cure vision?

A corneal transplant can significantly improve vision for many patients, though outcomes depend on the underlying condition, eye health and post‑op care. Some patients will still need glasses or further procedures for best acuity.

How soon can I drive after a corneal transplant?

Do not drive until your vision is stable and your surgeon confirms it is safe. This may take several weeks to months depending on recovery.

Why do you need a corneal transplant?

A transplant is indicated when corneal damage or disease causes vision impairment that cannot be corrected by other medical or optical treatments.

No vision after corneal transplant – is it normal?

Temporary blurred or reduced vision is common in the immediate postoperative period. If vision does not improve as expected, contact your surgeon to assess for complications such as infection or rejection.

How many times can you have a corneal transplant?

Repeat transplants are possible but carry increasing risk of rejection and surgical complexity; your surgeon will discuss likelihood of success for subsequent grafts.

Does a corneal transplant change eye colour?

No — the cornea is transparent and does not alter the iris pigmentation, so eye colour remains the same.

How long does a corneal transplant last?

With good post‑operative care, many grafts last for decades; individual longevity depends on patient age, underlying disease and adherence to follow‑up.

Is a corneal transplant permanent?

Often long‑lasting, but not guaranteed permanent — replacement may be needed if complications or graft failure occur.

What causes light sensitivity after a corneal transplant?

Light sensitivity commonly occurs during healing due to inflammation or surface irregularities; it usually improves with time and treatment. If sensitivity is severe or accompanied by pain and vision loss, seek urgent advice.