Experience report of my laser eye treatment at Acibadem, Istanbul, Turkey – report from Wednesday, 30 May 2012

The Decision: I had been considering laser eye surgery for a long time, as glasses got in the way during various hobbies such as swimming, hiking, and mountaineering. Constantly managing daily lenses was cumbersome and expensive. Since my short-sightedness (-5 and -5.5) had not changed for years, I was determined to go ahead with it. However, the operation in Switzerland would have cost around CHF 8000, which was beyond my comfort zone. Through the internet, I came across Swisslasik, and the costs were significantly lower than anything available in Switzerland. I had also long wanted to visit Istanbul to explore the city. It was, of course, important to me that the service and advice were professional, and that I would have a doctor in Switzerland to consult in case of any problems or questions. After my initial contact, I was quickly contacted in return and soon had an appointment at the Zurich practice, which left a very good impression. Once all findings were considered acceptable there (steep cornea), I registered for Femto-Lasik. The organisation was handled very quickly and professionally. Additional requests (longer stay in Istanbul and a companion) were accommodated without difficulty. On request, I received a reference list and had a long conversation with a very friendly lady about her experience with Swisslasik. This helped me greatly and gave me confidence that my decision was correct. Later I learned that two colleagues had also had surgery with Swisslasik.
The Trip: Finding the taxi driver at Istanbul airport at midnight took a little while but eventually worked out. Early the next morning came the examination including the operation. Everything went very quickly (so any questions are best clarified in Switzerland beforehand or written down). After the preliminary examination, “standard” LASIK was recommended as it could be done without Femto. This made me a little uncertain, but I realised that more expensive does not necessarily mean better. I spent the time until the operation (about four hours) in a very nice shopping centre. Afterwards, we returned to the clinic for the procedure. Only a small communication misunderstanding caused the operation to take a little longer (the eye could not be fixed). Once resolved, it went very quickly. After the operation, my eyes watered and felt scratchy. Bringing an audiobook and arranging meals (or room service) in advance helps. The follow-up the next day was brief, and afterwards I was able to fully enjoy sightseeing. Transport and support by the translator at the hospital worked seamlessly and perfectly. Even the transport to the airport three days later, outside the normal programme, was punctual. The hotel (Taksim City Park Hotel) was very well located, and on the third night, thanks to an intervention by Swisslasik, we received a very nice, large room. (The first room was very small for two people.)
General Feedback: One and a half weeks later, after the first follow-up in Zurich, everything looked perfect, except that the “communication misunderstanding” had left a small bruise in the eye, which is slowly disappearing. The eyes are still very dry (I work all day at the computer), and the feeling of “dry, dirty lenses,” especially in the evenings, should hopefully disappear completely with time. Some patience is required here. Otherwise, everything is excellent. The information in the Swisslasik pass was very helpful and practical. Definitely take it with you! The only thing that could perhaps be added is the eye drop information, so you can read it before your eyes start watering. Istanbul is worth visiting even without LASIK.
Vera Henggeler