Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery in Turkey 2025 : Cost, Procedure and Recovery

Diabetic retinopathy surgery in Turkey offers an affordable, high-quality solution, performed by experienced ophthalmologists using advanced techniques such as laser photocoagulation and vitrectomy.

The cost of diabetic retinopathy laser treatment in Turkey starts at $300 per session, while vitrectomy surgery begins at $2,000. These procedures can achieve anatomical success rates of up to 95%, with vision improvement reaching around 68%.

If you are diabetic and experiencing blurred vision, contact Turkey Luxury Clinics for expert evaluation and personalized treatment options.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy and How is It Treated?

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of several eye complications that can arise from diabetes mellitus. It occurs when prolonged high blood sugar damages the blood vessels in the retina. Common symptoms include blurred vision, floaters, dark spots, and difficulty seeing at night.

In the early stage, known as non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the retinal blood vessels may leak fluid or blood, causing mild vision problems. In the advanced stage, called proliferative diabetic retinopathy, new abnormal blood vessels grow, which can bleed into the eye or lead to retinal detachment.

Treatment options for diabetic retinopathy depend on the severity of the disease. Laser therapy is a non-surgical, minimally invasive option for milder cases, helping prevent further vision loss by controlling abnormal blood vessel growth and leakage. In more advanced cases, diabetic retinopathy surgery, such as vitrectomy, may be required to remove blood, scar tissue, or repair retinal detachment.

For patients seeking vision correction in addition to DR treatment, LASIK therapy is also available in Turkey, including options like LASIK eye surgery, Femto LASIK, and PRK.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery?

Diabetic retinopathy surgery, vitrectomy, is performed when advanced diabetic retinopathy causes vision loss due to blood or scar tissue in the eye. During a vitrectomy, the surgeon removes the eye's vitreous gel, which can become cloudy from bleeding or filled with scar tissue, and then replaces it with a clear fluid. A vitrectomy allows the surgeon to remove blood and scar tissue, repair retinal detachments, and improve vision by clearing the path for light to reach the retina

When Do Patients Need Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery?

Patients may need diabetic retinopathy (DR) surgery when the disease progresses to an advanced stage and non-surgical treatments are no longer sufficient. The best candidates are typically those who:

1. Have proliferative diabetic retinopathy, where abnormal blood vessels grow and risk bleeding or retinal detachment.
2. Experience persistent vitreous hemorrhage that does not clear on its own.
3. Have scar tissue or retinal detachment that threatens vision.
4. Do not respond adequately to laser therapy or anti-VEGF injections.

Surgery, such as vitrectomy, aims to remove blood, repair retinal damage, and prevent further vision loss. Patients with controlled diabetes and stable overall health usually have better outcomes.

How to Prepare for Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery?

Considering vitrectomy as an invasive surgery, Proper preparation is essential for a safe and successful procedure. Key steps include:

1. Consult Your Ophthalmologist: Discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected results.
2. Medical Disclosure: Inform your doctor about any other health conditions, allergies, and medications, especially blood thinners.
3. Health Evaluation: Ensure diabetes and overall health are stable. Maintain controlled blood sugar levels in the days leading up to surgery.
4. Use Prescribed Eye Drops: Follow instructions if your doctor has prescribed any drops before surgery.
5. Arrange Transportation: Plan for someone to drive you home, as you may not be able to drive immediately after the procedure.

How is Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery Performed?

Diabetic retinopathy surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, where the eyes are numbed to prevent discomfort. Small specialized instruments are inserted into the eye to remove the vitreous gel, and in some cases, laser treatment is applied during surgery to prevent further vision loss.Here what to expect before and during the Diabetic Retinopathy surgery

1. Anesthesia: Your eyes are numbed with local anesthesia, usually through eye drops, to prevent pain or discomfort.
2. Head Stabilization: Your head is secured to prevent sudden movements and ensure safety.
3. Incisions and Vitreous Removal: Small incisions are made, and the surgeon removes the vitreous gel and any scar tissue.
4. Laser Photocoagulation: Laser treatment may be performed during surgery to target abnormal blood vessels and prevent further vision deterioration.
5. Retina Support: If the retina is detached, a gas bubble or silicone oil may be placed in the eye to hold it in position and promote healing.
6. The vitrectomy procedure take around 1 to 2 hours
7. The vitrectomy procedure usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity and whether additional steps, like laser treatment or retina repair, are needed.

What to Expect After Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery?

After the diabetic retinopathy surgery, you pass through a recovery period that lasts for weeks or even months. Recovery involves wearing an eye patch, using eye drops, avoiding heavy lifting, and refraining from certain activities until the vision improves, which can take several weeks or months.

Full recovery can take several months, with vision improving gradually, and regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring healing and detecting complications

Diabetic retinopathy surgery recovery time

Day 1 & 2: Side effects after vitrectomy are expected and often subside within a few days these side effects include mild to moderate pain is expected and can be managed with medications.

Your vision may be blurry for a few days after surgery, and your eyes may be swollen, red, or tender for several weeks. You may need to wear a patch or shield over the eye for a day or more.

Week 1: Patients may still experience mild discomfort, blurry vision, or light sensitivity. Eye drops or pain medication may be prescribed. Avoid strenuous activity.

Weeks 2–3: Vision gradually improves as the eye heals. Avoid strenuous activities and follow your doctor’s instructions.

Weeks 4–6: Most patients fully recover, with vision improvement becoming more pronounced, though mild dryness or irritation may persist.

Beyond 6 Weeks: Maintain stable blood sugar, a healthy lifestyle, and regular eye exams to prevent further complications.

Is Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery Safe?

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) surgery is generally safe and effective for preserving vision. However, like any medical procedure, they carry potential risks that vary between patients and for type of DR surgery. Laser DR is less invasive and safer than Vitrectomy however it is limited to milder conditions.

Risks and Complications of Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery

1. Possible changes in vision.
2. Eye irritation or discomfort.
3. For major surgeries such as vitrectomy, there may be risks related to overall health or systemic complications.

Laser Therapy of Diabetic Retinopathy

Laser therapy for diabetic retinopathy is an outpatient procedure that uses a laser to seal leaking blood vessels or shrink abnormal ones in the retina to prevent further vision loss.

Laser therapy does not restore lost vision or reverse proliferative changes; its primary goal is to prevent further deterioration..

The procedure is less invasive than vitrectomy, typically takes 15–30 minutes, and is performed under local anesthesia.

Laser types used in diabetic retinopathy therapy can be focal/grid laser and panretinal photocoagulation (PRP).

1. Focal/Grid Laser: Targets specific leaking blood vessels in the retina.
2. Panretinal Photocoagulation (PRP): Treats widespread areas of the retina to prevent abnormal vessel growth.

Recovery after laser therapy is generally quick, with minor side effects such as mild eye irritation or temporary blurred vision. Most patients can return to normal activities within a day or two, while full stabilization of vision may take a few weeks.

Results and Success rate of Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery

Results and Success Rate of Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery Success rates for diabetic retinopathy surgery, typically vitrectomy, are generally high, often ranging from 85% to 95%, meaning the retina is successfully reattached.

However, visual success rates are lower, around 62% to 70%, reflecting the extent of vision restoration.

Individual results can vary significantly depending on factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, the stage and type of retinopathy, and the surgeon’s experience. Better outcomes are often observed in patients with good pre-operative vision.

Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery Cost

The cost of diabetic retinopathy treatment varies widely depending on the type of procedure and the location of the clinic. In the U.S., particularly in NYC, laser therapy typically ranges from $744 to $2,400 per session, depending on the severity of the condition and the number of sessions needed.

For more advanced cases requiring vitrectomy surgery, costs in NYC can range from $7,000 to $14,000, with simpler procedures in some regions starting around $2,000.

In Turkey, diabetic retinopathy treatment is generally more affordable. Laser sessions cost between $300 and $1,000, while intravitreal injections range from $150 to $400. Vitrectomy surgery in Turkey typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, and may go up to $7,000 for complex cases.

Factors That Determine Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery Cost

The cost of diabetic retinopathy surgery can vary depending on several factors, including:

1. Type of procedure: Laser therapy is generally less expensive than vitrectomy surgery.
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3. Severity of the condition: Advanced or complex cases often require longer procedures and additional treatments.
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5. Clinic location: Prices differ significantly between countries and cities, for example, in Turkey versus NYC downtown.
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7. Surgeon’s experience: Highly experienced ophthalmologists may charge higher fees, but quality and safety are improved.
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9. Number of sessions or treatments needed: Multiple laser sessions or follow-up procedures can increase the overall cost.
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11. Additional fees: Pre- and post-operative examinations and tests, medications, and therapies may add to the total cost.
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13. Comprehensive package options:

Why Choose Comprehensive Packages for Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery in Turkey

Most clinics offer all-inclusive packages covering evaluation, surgery, post-op care, follow-up visits, and medications, which can affect the overall price.

Diabetic retinopathy surgery comprehensive Packages starting from $400, covering consultation, tests, treatment, and follow-up.These packages offer:

1. Accurate Diagnosis: Advanced tests such as OCT, fundus photography, and retinal angiography.
2. Integrated Treatment: Laser sessions, anti-VEGF injections, or vitrectomy surgery as needed.
3. Full Care: Accommodation in nearby hotels, airport transfers, and post-treatment medical follow-up.
4. Support for International Patients: Translation services, remote consultations, and complete travel coordination.

By considering these factors, patients can plan their diabetic retinopathy surgery in Turkey or elsewhere more effectively, ensuring both affordability and quality care.

Laser Therapy vs Vitrectomy Surgery for Diabetic Retinopathy

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Get Your Affordable Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery Package in Turkey

Protect your vision with expert care at Turkey Luxury Clinics. We offer comprehensive treatment packages for laser therapy and vitrectomy surgery, including pre- and post-operative examinations, medications, and follow-up care.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and secure a personalized, affordable package tailored to your needs. Our experienced ophthalmologists ensure safe and effective treatment for every patient.

FAQs About Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery