Experience report on laser eye surgery in Istanbul – Report from Wednesday, November 30, 2011

I am 52 years old and decided to have my eyes lasered on October 18, 2011. I had worn glasses since I was 12, and over the years my prescription became so strong that I could hardly see anything without them. For the past four years, I had been using progressive lenses (Varilux), and for sports I used contact lenses, which were often uncomfortable.
This past summer, my daughter decided to have her eyes lasered, and I promised to accompany her to Istanbul. She repeatedly encouraged me to have my eyes treated as well. I hesitated for a long time but eventually thought I could at least have my eyes examined in Istanbul. Since my daughter was already in contact with Mr. Karaagacli from Swisslasik, I asked him if it would be possible to have my eyes checked there. He immediately suggested scheduling an examination on the same day as my daughter, along with a potential surgery appointment, which I could cancel if I decided against the operation. Mr. Karaagacli had already arranged the flight and hotel for me as her companion; I only needed to pay for these before departure, while the surgery could be paid directly at the clinic if I proceeded.
During the examination in Istanbul, the doctor explained that due to my age, I would still need glasses for reading and computer work even after the surgery. Since I had already used lenses for sports and couldn’t read with them, I had a general idea of what to expect post-operation. I decided to go ahead with the surgery. We had about three hours for lunch before the operation, giving me time to reconsider. The surgery was only paid for at the clinic, which confirmed my final consent.
The procedure itself was similar to my daughter’s experience. We were both unprepared for how intensely our eyes would burn afterward, but the next morning made it all worthwhile. From the seventh floor of our hotel, we could enjoy the city without glasses.
The entire stay in Istanbul was flawlessly organized, and I greatly appreciated Swisslasik’s flexibility. Upon returning, I could choose whether to take the Premium package, with follow-up in Switzerland, or the Standard package. I opted for the Standard package and had my follow-up with my ophthalmologist, who confirmed that the surgery had been very successful.
When asked if I would do it again, I always answer: it is truly wonderful to go into nature or play sports without glasses—I thoroughly enjoy it. I wore a standard reading glasses for four weeks after the surgery, as many tasks required close-up vision—working at the computer, reading, cooking, shopping, etc. After a one-month waiting period (to allow my eyes to fully recover), I had my personal glasses made. I chose progressive lenses again, as I dislike constantly putting glasses on and taking them off.
Conclusion: I still wear glasses quite often. The advantage is that I no longer need two separate pairs as before. Previously, in addition to my progressive glasses, I had a dedicated pair for computer work because my correction made it difficult to see clearly at the screen. I also no longer need glasses outdoors, which I especially appreciate during cold weather since my lenses no longer fog up.
The downside is that I cannot read anything without glasses anymore. Most people over 50 are familiar with this. As someone who was nearsighted, I was used to being able to read without glasses or with minimal correction. Now reading in bed without glasses is no longer possible, and reading in general is somewhat more tiring.
For someone my age who manages well with only one pair of glasses, I would advise against the surgery. However, for those who, like me, rely on two pairs, it is worth considering. Younger people will likely benefit even more, as they do not yet face presbyopia.
—Margrit Camenzind, 29 November 2011