Phacoemulsification in Turkey: Cost, Procedure, and Benefits for Cataract Surgery

Phacoemulsification is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive cataract removal surgery that allows for the implantation of an intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.

This advanced procedure is now the gold standard for cataract surgery, offering smaller incisions, faster recovery, and fewer complications compared to traditional methods.

In Turkey, cataract surgery is mostly performed using the phacoemulsification method. People from all around the world choose to undergo this surgery in Turkey due to the low-cost and high-quality treatments offered by Turkish clinics.

In this article, we’ll explore how phacoemulsification works, its benefits, costs in Turkey, and why international patients choose Turkey for this procedure.

If you're considering cataract surgery, International Clinics offers comprehensive treatment packages with top ophthalmologists. Contact us today to regain your clear vision!

What is Phacoemulsification?

Phacoemulsification is a modern technique used in cataract surgery to remove a cloudy lens from the eye.

It involves using ultrasound waves to break the affected lens into tiny fragments, which are then suctioned out through a very small incision in the cornea.

After removing the damaged lens, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to restore vision.

This technique is minimally invasive, promotes faster recovery, and reduces complications compared to traditional cataract removal surgeries.

What is Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery?

Phacoemulsification cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove cataracts and restore clear vision.

The surgeon makes a tiny incision in the cornea, inserts a specialized probe that emits ultrasound waves to fragment the affected lens, and then suctions out the pieces.

Once the cataract is removed, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in its place.

This surgical technique is preferred due to its faster recovery time, reduced risk of complications, and improved visual outcomes compared to traditional cataract surgery.

Why Choose Phacoemulsification in Turkey?

There are multiple factors and reasons that make Turkey a preferred destination for those who seek safe and reliable eye surgeries, including phacoemulsification procedures. In sum, people choose Turkey for the following main reasons:

Cheap Phacos

This might be the most important reason, especially for people who are short on cash. Turkish clinics provide cheap phacoemulsification surgery for international patients who can’t afford the cost of this surgery in their home countries.

In Turkey, you can get this surgery at a price nearly half (or even less!) of what you can get in your home country, particularly If you live in Northern Europe or North America.

Experienced Eye Doctors

Turkish ophthalmologists have reserved and maintained a solid reputation for themselves in the industry.

Therefore, don’t worry; you will be in safe hands. Above all, we speak here about your eyes, which are among the most sensitive organs in your body.

Every eye deserves the best, and it is the responsibility of all surgeons to perform phacoemulsification to reap the best possible results without causing any major risks to the patients.

State-of-Art Technology

Modern phacoemulsification has completely changed the way surgeons perform cataract surgery.

The new technology and innovations have allowed surgeons to provide seamless and safe treatment to people.

Indeed, cataract surgery has become the most performed refractive surgery in the world.

Turkish clinics compete heavily to acquire the latest and most accurate phacoemulsification devices to increase quality and patient satisfaction.

Thanks to their effectiveness and high demand, the market share of phacoemulsification devices is expected to increase dramatically in the next few years according to reports.

Safe & Effective Practice

Turkish clinics comply with strict safety policies that guarantee the maximum level of safety for patients.

Of course, they know how precious the eyes are and how to keep them safe during phacoemulsification.

As an international patient, you will get both cheap and safe treatment. Surgeons are accountable and hold responsibility for their actions. So, expect a high degree of commitment and care.

Exclusive Packages

International patients often prefer clinics that offer exclusive packages that satisfy all needs of patients.

Such packages not just account for phacoemulsification surgery costs, but also for other services and activities, such as transportation and accommodation.

Here, for instance, at International Clinics our patients can pick a complete package that covers all costs of their treatment, including the surgery, follow-up consultations, language assistance, and many other similar things

Benefits of Phacoemulsification in Turkey

Doctors recommend phacoemulsification to treat cataractous lens that reduces visual acuity. If you choose to undergo phacoemulsification (Phaco) in Turkey, you will receive multiple benefits, such as:

• Regain your ability to perform everyday tasks that were affected by reduced visual acuity,

• Treat other cataract symptoms, such as blurring of vision. photophobia, colorful halos, and diplopia.

• Treat all kinds of cataracts, including traumatic cataracts, brown cataracts, posterior subcapsular cataracts, mature cataracts, and nuclear cataracts.

• Get an excellent visual acuity, which is important for flying, driving, and handling complicated equipment.

• Enjoy discounted packages that cover all your treatment needs.

• Meet eye specialists who know exactly what they’re doing!

• Enjoy traveling and immerse yourself in an entertaining experience during your recovery.

Phacoemulsification Surgery Cost in Turkey

The cost of phacoemulsification cataract surgery with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in Turkey ranges between $1,000 and $2,500.

This price tag is remarkably cheap when compared with prices in other countries. The cost of cataract surgery in the United Kingdom is $3700 and in the United State cataract surgery costs around $3500.

This price typically includes cataract removal surgery, IOL implantation, and pre- and post-operative tests and care.

The total cost of phacoemulsification surgery depends on several factors, including the type of intraocular lens (IOL).

The most affordable option is a monofocal lens, while premium lenses such as Panoptix Toric or Vivity Toric have a higher price.

Other factors affecting the price include:

• The clinic’s location and reputation

• The surgeon’s expertise and experience

• Additional expenses like post-surgery medications, extra eye tests, imaging, or follow-up visits

Turkey is a top destination for cataract surgery due to its high success rates, experienced ophthalmic surgeons, and world-class medical services.

The cost-effectiveness of phacoemulsification cataract surgery in Turkey makes it an attractive option for international patients seeking affordable yet high-quality treatment.

With comprehensive medical packages, patients traveling for cataract surgery in Turkey can benefit from cost savings, state-of-the-art technology, and expert eye care specialists.

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The Phacoemulsification Procedure

Steps of the Phacoemulsification Procedure include

Surgery preparation:

Surgery preparation before phacoemulsification includes an eye exam, medical review, and possible medication adjustments are needed. Antibiotic drops may be prescribed, and fasting could be required. Arrange transportation as vision may be blurry post-surgery.

During surgery:

1. Anesthesia Application: The eye is numbed using local anesthesia or eye drops to ensure a painless procedure.

2. Creating a tiny incision: A small cut (2-3 mm) is made in the cornea to access the lens.

3. Opening the lens membrane: A small circular opening is made in the thin outer layer of the natural lens.

4. Phacoemulsification process: Ultrasound waves from a phaco probe break the cloudy lens into tiny fragments for easy removal.

5. Lens Removal: The emulsified lens pieces are gently suctioned out of the eye.

6. IOL implantation: A clear artificial lens (IOL) is inserted to restore clear vision after the cataract removal.

7. Incision Closure – The small incision self-seals without the need for stitches.

This minimally invasive cataract surgery allows for quick recovery, reduced complications, and improved vision.

Post-Operative Care

After phacoemulsification surgery the patient receives antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops and is monitored for recovery.

In home, rest your eyes, use prescribed drops, avoid rubbing or straining, and protect them from dust and bright light. Follow your doctor’s instructions for a smooth recovery.

Phacoemulsification with Intraocular Lens (IOL) Implant

The goal of cataract surgery is to replace the cataractous, damaged lens, which becomes cloudy due to the natural aging process.

Before implanting a new lens, the first essential step is to remove the damaged one.

In phacoemulsification with an intraocular lens, the cataractous lens is removed using ultrasound waves and replaced with a clear synthetic lens.

Various types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) are available, differing in accuracy, functionality, and price, allowing patients to choose the option that best suits their visual needs and budget.

Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) for Phacoemulsification

1. Monofocal IOLs : Provide clear vision at a single distance (near or far), requiring glasses for other distances.

2. Multifocal IOLs: Offer multiple focus points for near, intermediate, and distance vision, reducing the need for glasses.

3. Toric IOLs: Designed for patients with astigmatism, correcting both cataracts and corneal irregularities.

4. Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs: Provide a continuous range of vision from far to intermediate with minimal glare.

5. Accommodative IOLs: Mimic the natural movement of the eye’s lens, adjusting focus for different distances.

Phacoemulsification Devices and Equipment

The effectiveness of phacoemulsification relies on a sophisticated irrigation and aspiration system, which ensures precise removal of the cataract while maintaining eye stability. The key components include:

1. Irrigation System – Maintains intraocular pressure by delivering a balanced salt solution.

2. Aspiration System – Removes the emulsified lens fragments from the eye.

3. Aspiration Pumps:

• Peristaltic Pumps (Flow-Based) – Control fluid movement by regulating flow rate.
• Vacuum Pumps (Venturi-Based) – Generate suction by creating a vacuum, enhancing efficiency.

4. Aspiration Flow Rate – Determines the speed at which lens material is removed.

5. Aspiration Port – The entry point through which lens fragments are extracted.

Each of these components plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe, efficient, and precise cataract removal process.

Phacoemulsification vs. Laser Cataract Surgery

Both laser cataract surgery and phacoemulsification are advanced techniques for cataract removal, but they differ in their approach:

• Phacoemulsification: This traditional method uses ultrasound energy to break the cloudy lens into small fragments, which are then suctioned out through a small incision.
• Laser Cataract Surgery: This method also involves phacoemulsification, but instead of an ultrasonic instrument, a femtosecond laser is used to break up and soften the lens. This reduces the amount of ultrasound energy needed, resulting in a quicker procedure with less tissue disturbance and potentially faster recovery.

While both phacoemulsification and laser-assisted cataract surgery involve intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, laser-assisted surgery provides greater precision and a gentler approach.

However, laser therapy is generally more expensive than phacoemulsification, which is considered the standard cataract surgical choice

Applications of Phacoemulsification

Phacoemulsification is the gold standard and preferred method for the removal of a cataractous lens.
Using ultrasonic energy to break up the cataractous lens into small fragments during cataract surgery is a minimally invasive, safe, and effective way to accelerate the recovery period and effectively remove the damaged lens.

The main application of phacoemulsification is in age-related cataract treatment, where phaco is performed to restore vision by fragmenting the cataract-affected lens into smaller pieces, facilitating their aspiration, and implanting a new, artificial, clear lens instead.

Other applications of phacoemulsification include:

1. Traumatic Cataracts: Used to treat cataracts caused by eye injuries, ensuring minimal trauma to surrounding tissues.

2. Congenital Cataracts: In select pediatric cases, phacoemulsification is performed to improve vision in children born with cataracts.

3. Secondary Cataracts (Posterior Capsular Opacification - PCO): Though not a true cataract, phaco may be used alongside YAG laser capsulotomy to address post-surgical lens clouding.

4. Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): Phacoemulsification is used in vision correction surgeries for patients who want to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, especially those with presbyopia or extreme refractive errors.

Risks and Complications of Phacoemulsification

Most side effects of phacoemulsification with IOL surgery are mild and improve with time, but it’s essential to follow post-operative care instructions and attend follow-up visits to ensure proper healing.

The general risks of phacoemulsification may include:

• Discomfort: Mild pain, dryness, or itching for a few days after surgery.

• Increased Eye Pressure: Temporary or prolonged elevation in intraocular pressure.

• Persistent Pain or Inflammation: Some patients may experience prolonged discomfort or swelling.

• Blurry or Decreased Vision: Temporary blurriness is common, but in rare cases, vision may not fully recover.

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals might have an allergic response to anesthesia or post-operative medications.

• Redness and Discharge: Post-surgical irritation and mild discharge may occur but typically resolve with proper care.

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Medical Coding and Terminology for Phacoemulsification

Phacoemulsification is a surgical procedure performed to remove cataracts (cloudy lenses) from the eye.

It involves using ultrasound waves to break up the cataract, which is then removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL).

Accurate medical coding is essential for documenting the procedure and facilitating billing and insurance coverage.

Accurate medical coding is essential for documenting the procedure and facilitating billing and insurance coverage.

CPT Code for Phacoemulsification with Intraocular Lens Implant

The CPT code for Phacoemulsification with Intraocular Lens Implantation is 66984, which is used to document cataract removal via phacoemulsification, along with the implantation of an intraocular lens (IOL).

ICD-10 Code for Phacoemulsification

ICD-10 codes for Phacoemulsification include:

• H25.9 – Unspecified cataract.
• H26.9 – Age-related cataract.

FAQ

What Type of Energy is Used During Phacoemulsification?

Phacoemulsification uses ultrasonic energy to break up the cloudy lens inside the eye. A high-frequency ultrasound probe emulsifies the cataract, making it easier to remove through a small incision.

What is Phacoemulsification with IOL?

Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is a modern cataract surgery technique. After the cataract is broken down and removed using ultrasound energy, an artificial lens (IOL) is implanted to restore clear vision.

What Conditions Does Phacoemulsification Correct?

Phacoemulsification is primarily used to treat cataracts, a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to vision impairment. It is also used in refractive lens exchange (RLE) for correcting severe refractive errors.

Is Phacoemulsification in Turkey the Right Choice for You?

Turkey is a leading destination for affordable and high-quality cataract surgery. With experienced surgeons, advanced medical technology, and cost-effective treatment packages, phacoemulsification in Turkey offers excellent results for international patients seeking vision correction.