How did I recently experience Istanbul? – Report from Wednesday, 3 August 2016

During my research, it quickly became clear to me that I would have the treatment (Femto Lasik) abroad, mainly due to the cost factor (in Istanbul, it costs less than a third of the price in Switzerland). A quick internet search revealed various providers; the reason I chose SwissLasik’s offer was primarily because of the many positive reviews and the clear communication. Another plus was that a location was available near me, so I could get a personal impression of the people behind the service.

There was some unease in my surroundings when I announced that I was going to Istanbul for an eye laser surgery. On one hand, there were concerns about whether the medical standards would be high enough, and on the other hand, the current political situation raised concerns. I can’t judge how the political situation will develop (as of late July 2016, everything was calm: no soldiers on the streets, normal flight operations), but I can say something about the medical standards. The hospital was only opened six years ago and does not need to fear comparison with other private hospitals. More on that later.

I booked the Levent Hotel ***, which was about 15 minutes away from the hospital. For those looking for a hotel in the mid-range price segment, I can confidently recommend it. The reception was staffed 24/7 with an English-speaking person, and they were also able to provide useful advice about the city. The breakfast buffet was always plentiful, and there were plenty of options for vegetarians/vegans.

My first contact with a staff member from Acibadem Hospital was at the Health Point right after exiting Istanbul Airport. My flight was delayed by three hours, so I missed the original pick-up time. However, the young man at the Health Point was able to arrange a new transfer for me after just a few minutes of waiting. The drive to the hotel went smoothly, as did all the subsequent trips. What was a bit surprising was that the drivers were almost always early, arriving 5 minutes before the agreed time (the traffic can often be quite brutal). By the way, the cars were all clean and well-kept.

The day after my arrival, Tuesday, 26th July, things started right away. After breakfast, I was picked up and taken to the Acibadem Hospital. There, I was greeted directly by my German-speaking interpreter. I was then guided downstairs to the Eye Care Centre. Several examinations followed, with waiting times of about 30 minutes in between. After about two hours, I had a conversation with the treating doctor, who brought the good news that I was eligible for the procedure (Swiss Lasik had already conducted a preliminary examination in Switzerland, but only the treating doctor could give a final assessment).
At this point, a tip: It’s best to bring a book and an MP3 player to pass the waiting time. I then had something like a “lunch break,” as the procedure was scheduled for the afternoon (14:00). Before that, I received eye drops to dilate my pupils (don’t worry, the light sensitivity and slightly blurry vision are normal side effects).

Just before 14:00, I was picked up by my interpreter and taken to the treatment area. I quickly put on a hairnet and surgical gown, and I was ready.
The surgery itself took about 15 minutes for both eyes. The cutting of the “flap” was a little uncomfortable but not painful. The actual laser treatment lasted only about 5 seconds and was also completely pain-free.
After the surgery, my vision wasn’t great for the first four hours. There was a sort of veil over my sight, and I was more sensitive to light. After the doctor performed a quick check, I was given protective glasses and eye drops. The interpreter stayed with me the whole time, explaining what I needed to do and answering all of my questions competently.

In the first four hours after the surgery, the eyes may burn a little and have difficulty focusing, but you quickly start to see the results of the procedure. I spent the rest of the day in my hotel. The next morning, I was picked up for the follow-up examination, which only took a few minutes.

After this examination, the treatment was essentially completed, and I was free to explore the beautiful city of Istanbul. At this point, I highly recommend visiting the Grand Bazaar.

My flight back to Switzerland was on Friday, and the transport was already arranged, so I didn’t have to worry about anything.

It’s been a week since the surgery, and the healing process is going perfectly. It’s wonderful to finally be able to see the world in all its details. Therefore, I can confidently recommend a laser eye treatment with SwissLasik.

Ron-John Dillier 03.08.16