Mediglobe collaborates with hospitals in Turkey for Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures performed in modern medicine, helping millions of people each year restore clear vision. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cataracts, understanding what the surgery involves, the benefits it offers, and what to expect during recovery can help you approach the procedure with confidence. Therefore, Mediglobe recommends affordable, high-quality treatments. Moreover, Mediglobe is in cooperation with hospitals in Turkey that work to European and American standards and have accreditation.

What is a Cataract and How is it Diagnosed?

A cataract is the painless clouding of the eye’s natural lens. This lens is a transparent structure that sits behind the iris and focuses light onto the retina, similar to a camera lens. When it becomes cloudy, vision becomes blurred, hazy, and less colourful.

Cataracts are most commonly caused by the ageing process, but they can also result from eye trauma, prolonged inflammation, certain medications like corticosteroids, or illnesses such as diabetes.

Diagnosis is made through a comprehensive eye examination. Key diagnostic factors include a patient reporting a gradual, painless decrease in vision, along with an eye exam that shows opacity in the lens. An ophthalmologist will typically perform a dilated fundus examination and a slit lamp examination to confirm the presence and extent of the cataract. Mediglobe recommends you a Cataract Surgery package according to your needs.

When is Surgery Necessary?

The decision to have surgery is based on how much the cataract affects your quality of life. Surgeons consider surgery when vision problems interfere with daily activities like reading, driving (especially at night), or working. There is no need to wait for a cataract to be “ripe” before removing it; surgery can be performed at any stage once it is affecting your life.

The Cataract Surgery Procedure

Cataract surgery is a same-day procedure typically performed under local anaesthetic, meaning you are awake but your eye is numb and you will feel no pain. The operation itself is quick, often taking only 10 to 30 minutes to complete.

Step-by-Step Overview of Phacoemulsification

The vast majority of modern cataract surgeries are performed using a technique called phacoemulsification, or “phaco” for short. Here is a breakdown of the typical steps:

• Anaesthesia and Preparation: The eye is numbed with drops or a gel. The area around your eye is cleaned and sterilised, and a small clip is used to gently hold your eyelids open.
• The Incision: The surgeon makes a tiny, self-sealing incision (about 2-3 mm) in the cornea.
• Capsulotomy: A small circular opening is created in the thin capsule that holds the natural lens.
• Lens Removal: A small ultrasound probe is inserted through the incision. It emits high-frequency sound waves to break the cloudy lens into tiny pieces, which are then gently suctioned out.
• Lens Implantation: A clear, foldable artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL), is folded and inserted through the same tiny incision. Once inside, it unfolds and is positioned securely within the capsular bag, where it becomes a permanent part of your eye.
• Incision Seal: The small incision is designed to be self-sealing and typically does not require stitches.

Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

The type of IOL implanted can have a significant impact on your vision after surgery. Our ophthalmologist will discuss the best option for your lifestyle and visual needs.

Lens Type:

• Standard Lenses: Corrects distance vision (most common). Still need glasses for near vision.
• Monofocal Lenses: Clear vision at a single focal point, usually distance. Patients who are happy to wear glasses for reading or other close-up tasks.
• Toric Lenses: Corrects pre-existing corneal astigmatism in addition to the cataract. Patients with moderate to high astigmatism who want to reduce their dependence on glasses for distance.
• Multifocal Lenses: Aims to provide clear vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, and far). Patients who wish to be as independent from glasses as possible for most activities

Alternative Surgical Techniques

While phacoemulsification is the standard, other techniques exist. Extracapsular cataract extraction involves a larger incision to remove the lens in one piece and is used for very advanced cataracts. Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) uses a laser to perform some of the initial steps, offering an alternative approach that may be preferred in certain cases. Mediglobe collaborates modern hospitals with Turkey, experienced specialists, and recommend personalised treatment plans.

Benefits, Risks, and Recovery

Cataract surgery has a very high success rate, with studies showing that over 95% of patients experience improved vision. The benefits extend beyond just clearer eyesight; they include improved colour vision, increased independence, and a reduced risk of falls in older adults.

Potential Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, though serious complications are rare. Approximately 1 in 1,000 patients may develop a serious complication leading to severe vision loss.

• Common Minor Issues: These affect about 1 in 20 patients and often resolve on their own or with simple treatment. They can include temporary dryness, discomfort, swelling, or inflammation.
• Rare Serious Complications: These can include infection inside the eye, retinal detachment, dislocation of the new lens, or bleeding inside the eye.
• Long-term Consideration: In the months or years after surgery, the lens capsule can become cloudy, causing vision to blur again. This common condition is easily and painlessly treated with a quick laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from modern cataract surgery is typically quick and straightforward. Most patients notice improved vision within a few days.

Immediately After:

• You will rest for a short while before being allowed to go home. You must arrange for someone to collect you, as you will not be able to drive.
• Your eye may feel gritty, watery, or itchy. It might also look red or bloodshot. These sensations are normal and will fade.

At Home:

• Use Eye Drops: You will be prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and aid healing. Use them exactly as directed.
• Protect Your Eye: Wear the protective shield at night to avoid accidentally rubbing your eye while sleeping. Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce glare.
• Avoid Strenuous Activity: Do not do heavy lifting, bend over, or swim for a few weeks.
• Hygiene: Be careful not to get soap or water directly in your eye while bathing.

You will have follow-up appointments to monitor your healing, usually within a day or week of surgery. Your vision will continue to stabilise over 4-6 weeks, at which point you may be due for a new glasses’ prescription. Mediglobe cooperates with hospitals in Turkey with high success rates for Cataract Surgery (Cataract Surgery is highly successful, with general success rates cited between 95% and 98%).

Conclusion

Cataract surgery is a safe, effective, and life-changing procedure that restores vision for millions of people every year. With advanced techniques like phacoemulsification and a range of artificial lens options, the surgery can be tailored to meet individual visual needs and lifestyle goals. If you are experiencing symptoms of cataracts, consult Mediglobe team to discuss whether this procedure is right for you.

As a result, Mediglobe offers you access to high standard and quality service to meet your treatment needs. Treatments are always client centred and providers have in-debt experience, are highly qualified, and use the latest technology, all within well maintained hospitals.

Mediglobe offer medical tourism packages that include airport transfers, accommodation, translation services, and aftercare. This all-in-one approach helps international patients feel more at ease, especially those who may be visiting for the first time. There is no waiting period and healthcare personal can speak different foreign languages.

This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation.