LASIK
Laser vision correction for short-sight, long-sight and astigmatism — quick, bladeless, with same-day vision improvement.
LASIK reshapes the cornea with a precise laser to correct short-sight, long-sight and astigmatism. It is bladeless, the laser stage takes minutes per eye and many patients notice clearer vision within a day or two, although final results settle over weeks and suitability depends on a full eye assessment.
Quick answer
LASIK is laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to correct short-sight, long-sight and astigmatism. A femtosecond laser creates a thin flap and an excimer laser reshapes the tissue beneath. It suits adults with a stable prescription and healthy, thick-enough corneas. An ophthalmologist confirms suitability after detailed eye tests.
Suitability is always confirmed by an ophthalmologist after a full eye examination.
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Who is it for?
- Adults, usually 18 or older, whose glasses or contact-lens prescription has been stable for at least a year.
- People with short-sight, long-sight or astigmatism within the range the surgeon considers safe to treat.
- Patients whose corneas are thick enough and regular in shape on corneal mapping (topography/tomography).
- People who find glasses or contact lenses impractical for work, sport or daily life.
- Anyone who accepts that reading glasses are still likely to be needed from the mid-40s onwards (presbyopia).
Who it isn't for
- People with keratoconus or signs of corneal weakness, or corneas too thin for safe treatment.
- Anyone whose prescription is still changing, or who is pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Severe dry eye, active eye infection or inflammation, until treated.
- Some uncontrolled autoimmune or connective-tissue conditions, and certain medications that affect healing.
- Very high prescriptions outside safe laser limits — lens-based options may be discussed instead.
- People in contact sports or jobs with high risk of eye injury, where a flap-free method may be preferred.
How it works
- 1
Pre-assessment and contact-lens pause
You share your current prescription and eye history. Contact lenses are commonly paused before the examination — often around a week for soft lenses and longer for rigid lenses — because they can alter the shape of the cornea.
- 2
Full eye examination
Tests commonly include refraction, corneal mapping, corneal thickness, pupil size, tear film and a dilated check of the retina. The ophthalmologist decides whether LASIK, another laser method or a lens option is safest for you.
- 3
Flap creation
After numbing drops, a femtosecond laser creates a thin corneal flap, which is gently lifted. You may feel pressure and your vision will dim briefly.
- 4
Excimer laser reshaping
The excimer laser reshapes the corneal tissue according to your measurements, usually in under a minute per eye. The flap is then laid back, where it bonds without stitches.
- 5
Next-day check
The surgeon checks your eyes the following day. You receive antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops, lubricating drops and written aftercare before flying home.
How long you stay
Most patients stay in Antalya for about three to four days: examination, surgery (usually both eyes on the same day) and a check the following day. One trip is normally enough. Later follow-up is commonly arranged with an optometrist or ophthalmologist at home, with results shared with the treating clinic.
Recovery
Vision is often clear enough for daily tasks within a day or two, though it can fluctuate for several weeks. Expect some grittiness and light sensitivity at first. Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, eye make-up and dusty environments for the period your surgeon advises, commonly one to two weeks. Many people return to desk work within a few days; driving resumes only once you meet the legal vision standard and your surgeon agrees.
Risks and how they are managed
- Dry eye is common in the first months and is usually managed with lubricating drops; in some people it persists longer.
- Glare, halos or starbursts around lights at night are common early on and usually lessen over months, but can persist in a minority.
- Under- or over-correction may leave some residual prescription; an enhancement is sometimes possible once the eye is stable.
- Flap complications — such as wrinkles, displacement after injury, or cells growing under the flap — are uncommon but may need further treatment.
- Infection and inflammation are rare and are treated with drops; follow the drop schedule carefully.
- Corneal ectasia (progressive weakening of the cornea) is rare, which is why careful pre-operative corneal screening matters.
- LASIK does not prevent age-related reading difficulty or cataract later in life.
Technology and instruments
- Corneal topography/tomography to map the shape and thickness of the cornea.
- Femtosecond laser for bladeless flap creation.
- Excimer laser with eye tracking for reshaping the cornea.
- Wavefront or topography-guided planning where the surgeon considers it helpful.
Technology types only — the exact devices used are named in your written treatment plan.
Frequently asked questions
Am I suitable for LASIK?
That depends on your age, the stability of your prescription, your corneal thickness and shape, and your general eye health. Only a full eye examination can confirm it; some people are advised to have SMILE, surface laser or a lens procedure instead.
Does LASIK hurt?
Numbing drops are used, so most people feel pressure rather than pain. For a few hours afterwards the eyes can sting or water; this usually settles by the next day.
How quickly will I see clearly?
Many people see well enough for everyday tasks within a day or two. Vision can fluctuate for several weeks while the eye heals.
Will I get dry eyes?
Dry eye is common after LASIK, especially in the first months, and is usually managed with lubricating drops. If you already have dry eye, it is assessed and treated before surgery is considered.
Will I see halos at night?
Halos and glare around lights are common early on and usually improve over time. A minority notice them long-term, particularly with large pupils or higher prescriptions.
Are the results permanent?
The corneal reshaping is permanent, but eyes continue to change with age. Most people need reading glasses from their mid-40s, and a small shift in prescription can occur over the years.
When can I fly home?
Most people fly after the next-day check, once the surgeon is happy with healing. Use lubricating drops during the flight.
LASIK or SMILE — which is better?
Both give good results for suitable patients. LASIK treats a wider range, including long-sight; SMILE avoids a flap. Your ophthalmologist recommends one after your examination.
Included in your package
- Free eye examination & suitability check
- Often lower cost than UK & EU prices
- Free VIP airport transfers & a hotel near the clinic
- LASIK, SMILE, Smart Lens & cataract by eye surgeons
- A dedicated patient coordinator at every step
Treatments we offer