PRK Eye Surgery in Turkey

PRK Eye Surgery in Turkey

Turkey has become one of the most popular destinations for refractive eye surgery, and PRK eye surgery is among the most requested procedures by international patients. Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) offers a safe, bladeless alternative to LASIK and is particularly well suited for patients with thin corneas. With world-class ophthalmology clinics, internationally trained surgeons, and treatment costs that are a fraction of what patients pay in the UK or USA, Turkey delivers outstanding value without compromising on quality. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting PRK laser eye surgery in Turkey in 2026, including procedure details, pricing, clinic recommendations, and all-inclusive packages through A-Medical.

Cost of PRK Eye Surgery in Turkey (2026)

One of the main reasons patients travel to Turkey for vision correction is the affordability of treatment. The PRK eye surgery price in Turkey typically ranges from $800 to $1,500 per eye, depending on the clinic, the surgeon's experience, the laser technology used, and whether the package is all-inclusive. For both eyes, most patients pay between $1,200 and $2,500 in total. This is significantly lower than the prices quoted in Western Europe or North America, even though Turkish eye clinics use the same FDA-approved excimer laser platforms found in top hospitals worldwide.

When considering how much does PRK surgery cost in Turkey, it is important to understand what is included. Many clinics in Istanbul and Antalya offer bundled packages that cover pre-operative examinations, the surgical procedure for both eyes, post-operative medications, accommodation, airport transfers, and interpreter services. Through A-Medical, patients can access verified all-inclusive PRK packages starting from €1,190 for both eyes, making Turkey one of the most cost-effective destinations for laser vision correction in the world.

PRK Surgery Cost in the United Kingdom

In the UK, PRK and LASEK procedures are priced between £750 and £2,950 per eye, with most patients paying around £1,500 to £2,200 per eye at reputable clinics. For both eyes, the total typically falls between £3,000 and £5,000. These prices usually include initial consultation, the procedure itself, and a limited number of follow-up appointments. However, some clinics charge separately for pre-operative diagnostics and post-operative care, which can push the real cost higher. National Health Service (NHS) coverage for laser eye surgery is extremely rare, as it is considered an elective procedure.

PRK Surgery Cost in the United States

The PRK laser eye surgery price in the United States ranges from $1,500 to $5,500 per eye. The national average sits around $2,250 to $2,500 per eye, with premium wavefront-guided and topography-guided PRK procedures costing even more. For both eyes, American patients commonly pay between $4,500 and $6,000. Insurance rarely covers PRK because it is classified as elective surgery, although HSA and FSA accounts can be used. When compared to Turkey, American patients can save 60% to 80% on the total procedure cost by traveling abroad for treatment.

Why Is PRK Surgery Cheaper in Turkey?

The lower laser eye surgery Turkey price does not reflect lower quality. Turkey's cost advantage comes from several structural factors:

• Lower operational and labor costs compared to Western Europe and North America
• Favorable exchange rates that benefit patients paying in GBP, USD, or EUR
• High patient volume at specialized eye hospitals, which allows clinics to offer competitive pricing
• Government incentives and infrastructure investments that support medical tourism
• Intense competition among JCI-accredited clinics, driving both quality improvements and price reductions

Turkish ophthalmologists are trained at internationally recognized universities, hold memberships in organizations such as ESCRS and ASCRS, and use the same excimer laser systems (Wavelight EX500, VISX Star S4, Schwind Amaris) found in leading clinics in London and New York.

PRK Eye Surgery Cost Comparison Table (2026)

What Is PRK Eye Surgery?

Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a type of laser refractive surgery designed to correct common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. PRK was the first laser eye surgery approved by the FDA and has been performed successfully since the late 1980s. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, the surgeon gently removes the thin outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) and then uses an excimer laser to reshape the underlying corneal tissue. The epithelium regenerates naturally within a few days after the procedure.

PRK is considered the gold standard for surface ablation procedures and remains the preferred choice for patients whose corneal thickness, curvature, or lifestyle makes LASIK unsuitable. The procedure corrects refractive errors by altering the way light enters the eye and focuses on the retina, resulting in clearer vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Who Is a Good Candidate for PRK?

Not every patient is suitable for every type of laser eye surgery. PRK is specifically recommended for individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Adults aged 18 or older with a stable eyeglass or contact lens prescription for at least 12 months
• Patients with thin corneas that may not safely accommodate a LASIK flap
• Individuals with mild to moderate myopia (up to -12.00 diopters), hyperopia (up to +4.00 diopters), or astigmatism
• People with chronic dry eye syndrome, as PRK carries a lower risk of worsening dry eye compared to LASIK
• Athletes, military personnel, and individuals with active lifestyles who face a higher risk of flap dislocation with LASIK
• Patients with corneal irregularities or previous corneal scarring that makes flap creation risky
• Individuals who are not suitable candidates for LASIK, SMILE, or ICL procedures based on pre-operative assessment

Patients with conditions such as keratoconus, uncontrolled glaucoma, cataracts, autoimmune disorders, or unstable prescriptions are generally not considered suitable for PRK. A thorough pre-operative examination by a qualified ophthalmologist is essential to determine candidacy.

PRK vs LASIK: What's the Difference?

Both PRK and LASIK use an excimer laser to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors, but they differ in how the corneal surface is accessed. In LASIK, the surgeon creates a thin flap in the cornea using a microkeratome blade or a femtosecond laser, lifts the flap, applies the excimer laser to the underlying stroma, and then repositions the flap. In PRK, no flap is created. The epithelium is removed entirely, and the laser is applied directly to the corneal surface. The epithelium then heals naturally over several days.

LASIK offers a faster recovery, with most patients seeing clearly within 24 hours. PRK recovery takes longer, typically one to four weeks for vision to stabilize fully, and patients may experience mild discomfort during the first few days. However, PRK eliminates all flap-related complications, including flap displacement, wrinkles, and epithelial ingrowth. This makes PRK a safer long-term option for patients with thin corneas and those with physically demanding lifestyles.

The visual outcomes of PRK and LASIK are comparable. Studies show that both procedures achieve 20/20 vision or better in approximately 90% to 95% of patients. The choice between the two depends on corneal thickness, lifestyle, occupation, and individual risk factors. For a broader comparison of laser eye surgery costs globally, see our detailed guide on how much LASIK costs in 2026.

How PRK Eye Surgery Is Performed

The PRK procedure is an outpatient surgery that is performed under topical anesthesia (numbing eye drops) and typically takes 10 to 15 minutes per eye. The key steps are:

• Step 1: Pre-operative assessment. The ophthalmologist conducts a comprehensive eye examination, including corneal topography, pachymetry (corneal thickness measurement), pupil dilation, wavefront analysis, and refraction testing. These measurements are used to program the excimer laser for a customized treatment.
• Step 2: Epithelium removal. After numbing the eye with anesthetic drops, the surgeon removes the epithelium (the outermost layer of the cornea). This can be done manually with a surgical instrument, with a diluted alcohol solution (LASEK technique), or with the laser itself (transepithelial PRK / No-Touch PRK).
• Step 3: Laser reshaping. The excimer laser is applied to the exposed corneal stroma, removing microscopic amounts of tissue with extreme precision to correct the curvature of the cornea. The laser is guided by pre-programmed data and uses an eye-tracking system to compensate for any eye movement during the procedure.
• Step 4: Bandage contact lens placement. A soft bandage contact lens is placed on the eye to protect the treated surface and promote healing. This lens remains in place for four to six days until the epithelium has fully regenerated.
• Step 5: Post-operative monitoring. The patient is observed for approximately 30 minutes after the procedure and then discharged with a prescription for antibiotic eye drops, anti-inflammatory drops, and artificial tears.

Benefits of PRK Eye Surgery

PRK offers several advantages that make it the preferred refractive surgery for many patients:

• No corneal flap creation, eliminating the risk of flap-related complications such as displacement, wrinkles, and epithelial ingrowth
• Suitable for patients with thin or irregular corneas who are not eligible for LASIK
• Long-term visual outcomes equivalent to LASIK, with over 95% of patients achieving 20/20 vision or better
• Lower risk of post-operative dry eye compared to LASIK
• Safe for patients with active lifestyles, including athletes and military personnel
• Can treat a wide range of refractive errors, including high myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism
• Well-established procedure with over 35 years of clinical data supporting its safety and efficacy

Risks and Side Effects of PRK

Like any surgical procedure, PRK carries certain risks. However, serious complications are rare when the surgery is performed by an experienced ophthalmologist using modern equipment. Potential risks and side effects include:

• Temporary discomfort, burning, or tearing during the first two to three days after surgery
• Blurred or hazy vision during the initial healing period (typically resolves within one to four weeks)
• Dry eye symptoms, which are usually temporary and managed with artificial tears
• Corneal haze, a rare complication that may occur in cases of high correction but can be minimized with mitomycin C application during surgery
• Infection or delayed epithelial healing, which is very rare with proper post-operative care
• Over-correction or under-correction, which may require an enhancement procedure
• Glare, halos, or starbursts around lights at night, which typically improve as the cornea heals

The overall complication rate for PRK is very low, and the vast majority of patients achieve stable, clear vision within three to six months of the procedure.

Recovery Timeline After PRK Surgery

Recovery after PRK is gradual, and patients should set realistic expectations. Here is a general timeline:

• Days 1 to 3: The most uncomfortable phase. Patients may experience tearing, light sensitivity, and a gritty sensation. The bandage contact lens protects the healing epithelium. Pain medication and prescribed eye drops help manage discomfort.
• Days 4 to 7: The epithelium typically regenerates, and the bandage contact lens is removed at a follow-up appointment. Vision begins to improve, though it may still be blurry.
• Weeks 2 to 4: Vision continues to clear. Most patients can return to work and daily activities, although some fluctuation in vision quality is normal.
• Months 1 to 3: Vision stabilizes progressively. Minor haze, if present, diminishes. Final visual acuity is usually achieved within this period.
• Months 3 to 6: Complete healing and stabilization. The ophthalmologist confirms the final prescription and determines whether any enhancement is needed.

Post-Operative Care and Healing Process

Proper post-operative care is critical to achieving the best possible outcome after PRK surgery. Patients should follow these guidelines:

• Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops exactly as directed by the surgeon
• Apply preservative-free artificial tears frequently to keep the eyes lubricated
• Wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors to shield the healing cornea from sunlight
• Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes during the healing period
• Refrain from swimming, hot tubs, and saunas for at least two weeks
• Avoid eye makeup and cosmetics around the eyes for at least one week
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments (typically at 1 day, 4 to 7 days, 1 month, and 3 months post-surgery)

Patients traveling to Turkey for PRK through A-Medical receive a detailed post-operative care plan and have access to remote follow-up support after returning to their home country.

All-Inclusive PRK Surgery Packages in Turkey

A-Medical partners with leading eye hospitals in Turkey to offer transparent, all-inclusive PRK eye surgery packages that eliminate hidden costs and logistical stress for international patients. Below are the current package options:

LASIK / PRK / No-Touch / Intralase - €1,190 (Atasehir, Istanbul & Antalya)

Available at partner hospitals in Atasehir (Istanbul) and Antalya. This package includes a pre-operative examination fee of €125. Services included in the price:

• Transfer from the airport to the hospital
• Pre-operative and post-operative examinations
• Two nights of full-board accommodation in a standard hospital room with one accompanying person (if surgery is performed)
• The surgical procedure recommended by the doctor
• Interpreter services
• Return transfer to the airport

Note: Post-operative medications are not included in the package.

LASIK / PRK / No-Touch / Intralase - €1,390 (Etiler, Istanbul)

Available at the Etiler branch in Istanbul. This package includes a pre-operative examination fee of €125. Services included in the price:

• Transfer from the airport to the hospital
• Pre-operative and post-operative examinations
• Two nights of full-board accommodation in a standard hospital room with one accompanying person (if surgery is performed)
• The surgical procedure recommended by the doctor
• Interpreter services
• Return transfer to the airport

Note: Post-operative medications are not included in the package.

These packages reflect the true PRK laser eye surgery price in Turkey for medical tourists and represent exceptional value when compared to standalone procedure costs in the UK or USA. For a broader overview of treatment costs across medical categories in Turkey, visit our laser eye surgery in Turkey page.

Why Choose Turkey for PRK Eye Surgery?

Turkey has positioned itself as a global leader in medical tourism, hosting more than 1.5 million international patients annually. For PRK eye surgery, the country offers a compelling combination of clinical excellence, cost savings, and patient support services.

Advanced Eye Clinics

Turkey is home to some of the largest and most technologically advanced eye hospitals in the world. Clinics such as Dunyagoz Hospital Group operate across multiple cities with dedicated refractive surgery units equipped with the latest excimer laser platforms, wavefront analyzers, corneal topographers, and femtosecond laser systems. Many of these facilities hold JCI accreditation and ISO certifications, ensuring that they meet international standards for patient safety and care quality.

Experienced Ophthalmologists

Turkish ophthalmologists are among the most experienced refractive surgeons globally. Many have completed fellowships and training programs in Europe, the United States, or Canada, and are active members of international bodies such as the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS) and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). High patient volumes mean that leading surgeons in Istanbul and Antalya perform thousands of laser eye procedures each year, building unmatched clinical expertise.

Affordable Treatment Costs

As outlined in the pricing section above, how much does PRK surgery cost in Turkey is a question with a very favorable answer. Patients can save 50% to 80% compared to the UK and USA while receiving treatment at internationally accredited facilities. This affordability extends to all-inclusive packages that bundle surgery, accommodation, transfers, and interpreter services into a single transparent price.

Modern Laser Technology

Leading Turkish eye clinics invest heavily in the latest refractive surgery technology. Platforms used include the Wavelight EX500 Excimer Laser, the Schwind Amaris 1050RS, the VISX Star S4 IR, and the Zeiss VisuMax femtosecond laser. These systems offer sub-second treatment times, advanced eye-tracking, wavefront-guided customization, and topography-guided ablation profiles that maximize visual outcomes and minimize corneal tissue removal.

Medical Tourism Services

Turkey's medical tourism infrastructure is mature and well organized. Hospitals and medical travel agencies such as A-Medical provide end-to-end support for international patients, including visa assistance, airport transfers, hotel or hospital accommodation, multilingual coordinators, and post-operative care planning. Istanbul and Antalya are served by major international airports with direct flights from most European, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian cities, making travel convenient and affordable.

Best Clinics for PRK Eye Surgery in Turkey

Choosing the right clinic is one of the most important decisions for any patient considering PRK eye surgery abroad. Below are some of the top-rated eye clinics in Turkey with proven track records in refractive surgery.

Dunyagoz Hospital Group

Dunyagoz (World Eye Hospital) is the largest eye hospital group in the world, with over 30 branches across Turkey and international locations in Europe and the Middle East. Founded in 1996, Dunyagoz has treated more than 30 million patients and performs over 110,000 procedures for international patients from 160 countries each year. The hospital offers all major refractive surgery methods, including PRK, LASIK, Intralase, iLASIK, and ReLEx SMILE. Its refractive surgery department is staffed by professors and senior ophthalmologists who are members of ESCRS and ASCRS, and the hospital uses Wavelight, VISX, and Zeiss laser platforms. Dunyagoz has branches in Atasehir, Etiler, Atakoy, Altunizade, and Antalya, all of which accept international patients through A-Medical. View Dunyagoz Hospital profile on A-Medical.

Memorial Hospital Group

Memorial is one of Turkey's most recognized private hospital chains, with JCI-accredited facilities in Istanbul (Sisli, Bahcelievler, Atasehir) and Antalya. The ophthalmology department at Memorial performs a full range of refractive surgeries, including PRK, LASIK, SMILE, and ICL implantation. The hospital is known for its integrated approach, combining advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans developed by experienced refractive surgeons.

Acibadem Healthcare Group

Acibadem is Turkey's largest private healthcare network and a subsidiary of IHH Healthcare, the world's second-largest hospital operator. With multiple JCI-accredited hospitals across Istanbul and other Turkish cities, Acibadem's ophthalmology departments are equipped with the most advanced excimer laser and femtosecond laser platforms. The group's international patient department provides comprehensive logistical support for medical tourists seeking PRK and other refractive procedures.

How A-Medical Can Help?

A-Medical is a medical tourism platform that connects international patients with top-rated clinics and doctors in Turkey. When you choose A-Medical for your PRK eye surgery in Turkey, you benefit from:

• Direct access to verified, accredited eye clinics with proven refractive surgery track records
• Transparent, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees
• Fast appointment scheduling with no waiting lists
• Airport-to-hospital-to-airport transfer coordination
• Hospital accommodation for you and a companion included in package deals
• Professional interpreter services throughout your stay
• Personalized matching with the best ophthalmologist for your specific condition
• Post-operative support and guidance after you return home

Whether you are looking for the most affordable PRK laser eye surgery price in Turkey or seeking a premium experience at a top-tier Istanbul eye hospital, A-Medical ensures that every step of your medical journey is handled professionally and efficiently. Contact A-Medical today to receive a personalized quote and start planning your treatment.

Conclusion

PRK eye surgery in Turkey offers international patients a rare combination of clinical excellence, cutting-edge technology, experienced surgeons, and dramatically lower costs. Whether you have thin corneas that make LASIK unsuitable, lead an active lifestyle, or simply want a proven, flapless approach to laser vision correction, PRK in Turkey is a smart choice. With all-inclusive packages starting from €1,190 for both eyes through A-Medical, the laser eye surgery Turkey price makes world-class treatment accessible to patients from across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Contact A-Medical today to get matched with the right clinic and surgeon for your needs, and take the first step toward a life without glasses.

Frequently Asked Questions About PRK Eye Surgery in Turkey

How long does PRK eye surgery take?

The PRK procedure takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes per eye. The actual laser application lasts only 30 to 60 seconds, while the remaining time is spent on preparation and positioning.

Is PRK surgery painful?

The procedure itself is painless because numbing eye drops are applied before surgery. After the procedure, patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort, burning, or tearing for two to three days as the epithelium regenerates. Pain medication and lubricating drops are prescribed to manage this.

How long does it take to recover from PRK?

Initial healing takes about five to seven days, during which the epithelium regenerates. Functional vision usually returns within one to two weeks, but full visual stabilization can take one to three months. Most patients can return to work within a week of surgery.

Can I have PRK on both eyes at the same time?

Yes, most surgeons perform PRK on both eyes during the same session. This is standard practice and is safe when performed by an experienced ophthalmologist.

Is PRK permanent?

Yes, PRK permanently reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors. However, age-related changes such as presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects after age 40) or cataracts may affect vision later in life and require separate treatment.

How much does PRK eye surgery cost in Turkey compared to the UK?

The PRK eye surgery price in Turkey ranges from $800 to $1,500 per eye, while UK prices range from £750 to £2,950 per eye. Including all-inclusive packages with accommodation and transfers, Turkey offers savings of 50% to 70% compared to the UK. For patients also considering cataract surgery, our guide on cataract surgery cost in Turkey provides a similar comparison.