Iridectomy in Turkey: Types, process & recovery

Types of Iridectomy

Depending on your state of health and the pathology to be treated, several types of iridectomy may be performed. Each type has specific objectives and is chosen based on your particular needs.

• Peripheral Iridectomy: This technique is performed at the outer edge of the iris, typically using a laser or a surgical incision. It does not alter the shape of the pupil. It is most commonly used to treat angle-closure glaucoma or to prevent an acute glaucoma attack.
• Sector Iridectomy: This procedure involves removing a section of the iris, resulting in a "keyhole"-shaped pupil. It is often recommended for treating certain types of glaucoma or other conditions that require targeted iris surgery.
• Optical Iridectomy: This highly precise technique aims to improve vision by enlarging the pupil or creating an artificial one, particularly in cases of central corneal opacity. It helps restore clearer vision and prevents symptoms from worsening.

Why have an iridectomy?

It may be necessary to undergo an iridectomy procedure when patients are affected by the following ocular conditions:

• Angle-closure glaucoma: This condition, often hereditary and more common in individuals with smaller eyes, can lead to increased intraocular pressure. If left untreated, it may cause permanent vision damage. Iridectomy can be a solution to prevent vision loss.
• Iris or ciliary body melanoma: These rare ocular tumors often require surgical intervention to prevent their spread and to preserve visual function. When a tumor cannot be treated by other means, iridectomy may be essential.
• Cataract: Although iridectomy is not always necessary for all cataract cases, it may be used in certain situations to help manage cataract-related complications or to prepare the eye for other procedures.

Preoperative preparation & examinations

If you are going to undergo an iridectomy in Turkey, careful preparation is essential to ensure the success of the procedure and your safety. A few days before the surgery, comprehensive tests will be conducted to assess your overall health and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Routine Tests

Before the surgery, you will undergo a series of standard tests, including:

• Blood tests and urine tests to assess your kidney function and other vital parameters.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to analyze the electrical activity of your heart and ensure it is healthy enough to undergo surgery.

Specific Eye Tests

Specialized tests will be performed to evaluate the precise condition of your eyes and tailor the surgery accordingly:

• Tonometry: This test measures intraocular pressure and checks for any excessive pressure buildup in your eyes.
• Gonioscopy: This examination assesses the drainage angle of the eye to determine the type of glaucoma, which is crucial for adjusting the surgical treatment.

During the operation

The iridectomy procedure will be performed in a state-of-the-art ophthalmology clinic in Turkey, under local anesthesia. You will be cared for by our experienced medical team, who will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the entire process.

On the day of the operation, a preliminary health check will be conducted, including the measurement of your oxygen levels and cardiac activity. Once you're prepared, you will be comfortably positioned on the operating table. A sterile drape with an opening will be placed over your eye to provide the surgeon with a clear and unobstructed view.

Our expert surgeons in Turkey use high-precision microscopes and miniature surgical instruments to make a small incision in the cornea, followed by the partial removal of the iris. This technique ensures a precise, quick procedure while minimizing the risk of complications.

The surgery typically takes only a short time, and you will be able to return home the same day. However, you will be advised to wear an eye patch for a few days and avoid strenuous activities for approximately three weeks to support optimal healing.

Follow-up and potential complications

Although iridectomy is a relatively safe procedure, like any surgical intervention, it carries certain risks. It is essential to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to minimize the chances of complications.

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding during or after the operation
• Small scars at the site of the incision or laser application
• Elevated intraocular pressure
• Infections or inflammation that may require medical treatment
• Risk of developing post-surgical cataracts
• Drainage issues in the eye

However, thanks to the expertise of our surgeons and the advanced medical equipment available in Turkey, these risks are significantly reduced. Comprehensive post-operative care is also provided to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.