A keratoprosthesis is an artificial cornea implant that restores vision in patients with severe corneal scarring or damage when traditional corneal transplants have failed or are not suitable. This surgical procedure replaces the damaged cornea with a bioengineered or synthetic device to restore functional vision.
In Turkey, keratoprosthesis technology offers patients with complex eye conditions a proven option to regain sight after other treatments have been unsuccessful, including previous failed corneal grafts. The procedure is particularly suited for those who have exhausted conventional treatment options and require an advanced surgical solution.
Risks and Side Effects
Infection and implant rejection.
Glaucoma and implant extrusion.
Dry eye.
Temporary blurriness.
Post-operative pain or discomfort.
Light sensitivity and corneal scarring.
Why choose Keratoprosthesis with Turquie Santé ?
Expert surgeons and internationally certified hospitals
Substantial savings compared with European prices
Medical stay organized from A to Z
Transparent pricing, itemised before your stay
Free assistance
All about your Keratoprosthesis in Turkey
Overview
Alternative care
Benefits
Payment
Intervention or treatment's duration :
One to two hours
Alternative treatments
Corneal transplant
Highly qualified professionals in accredited institutions.
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Honestly, it was an amazing experience for me — everything was perfect from the moment I arrived. The care was excellent; I have nothing negative to say. If I were to have another surgery, I would choose Turquie Santé without hesitation.
Bálint
12/07/2026
An excellent experience from start to finish. From the very first moment we felt accompanied and cared for in every detail, as if we were the protagonists of a well-organized film where nothing was left to chance. I write this review in detail because I believe anyone considering it deserves to know not only that everything went well, but why.
COORDINATION: From the beginning Emily coordinated everything for us—always attentive, approachable, and available for any question. In addition, throughout the process we had an online assistant who guided us continuously. We had all the necessary information at our disposal, both to find our way and for our comfort. At no point did we feel lost.
TRANSFERS: Impeccable. We never had to wait even once. The quality and treatment were exceptional; the transfer vehicle itself was on the level of a luxury hotel. Transfers to follow-up appointments were also always punctual and in clean vehicles.
THE HOSPITAL: A modern, attractive building with top-level staff and equipment. The room was comparable to a luxury hotel. The stay includes full board, with three substantial meals a day for both the patient and the companion. The hospital even has its own café.
THE PROCESS: We spent 3 nights in the hospital (plus the night of arrival, since we landed after 8 p.m.). That first night they carried out all the preparatory tests without delay. The next morning we met the doctor and everything proceeded as planned, precisely on time. The doctor worked excellently and was very kind. Recovery was quick, painless, and without complications.
OUR LOCAL ASSISTANT, ISMAEL: He deserves a special mention. He helped us with everything and was always available when we needed him. It makes a real difference to feel that someone is looking out for you at all times.
THE SURROUNDINGS: Around the hospital there are shops, a pharmacy, and green areas with parks where the companion can relax. If desired, you can also get to know some of the local culture.
THE HOTEL: After the hospital we were moved for 3 nights to a lovely, quiet, and clean 4-star hotel, ideal for the recovery period. The food was delicious, varied, and of good quality. Less than 500 meters away there were shops and restaurants, so everything needed was within easy reach.
THE CARE: Everyone was very kind, including people on the street. Before we left they gave us all the information about the medication, and contact remains ongoing: if you have any doubts, they help immediately.
In short: professionalism, warmth, and impeccable organization at every stage. Thanks to Emily and the whole team at Turquie Santé. I recommend them wholeheartedly.
InTHE Era
28/06/2026
This is the best Hospital for all your needs, and it exceeds my expectations. Bravo to the entire team that made this trip for me seamless. From the driver to the Doctor, everyone was extremely welcoming and managed my condition well. All were well prepared despite certain hiccups along the way, but they rectified everything swiftly. No other complaints. Thank you so much, and I can't wait to come back for my review soon.
Achraf Noufile
17/06/2026
Very satisfied, thank you for your professionalism.
Tevaearai Klint
06/05/2026
Hello,
I had a nasal reconstruction and I'm torn between being "happy with the result" and "disappointed with the result" because, aesthetically, the nose looks good but when I touch it a piece of bone hasn't fully integrated — it cracks and you can feel it move when I touch my nose. Also, around the nostrils the nose is very hard because the doctor added cartilage horizontally without asking me.
I therefore have to have another surgery to remove that cartilage and reinforce the part that keeps cracking.
Carly PETIT
20/04/2026
Very good care. Very well organized, no unpleasant surprises. I am very satisfied.
Shanel Lebegge
17/04/2026
Hospital!!!! LOKMAN HEKIM ISTANBUL!!! AVOID!!! I took my direct return flight and left that hospital — they did a blood draw. They paralyzed my hand. Terrible reception, they only talk about money and they treat you like crap. I went back home, and don't anyone try to tell me otherwise, because I have proof: my hand was all blue and paralyzed from a simple blood draw. My cousin and I bailed!! Don't make the mistake of going there! We arrived; I was supposed to be fasting. I didn't even get a drop of water, and when I asked, they grumbled!!!
Edwon Freitas
16/01/2026
I’m very grateful from start to finish communication and for the care I received during my operation. The medical team was professional, kind, and reassuring throughout the entire process. Everything was clearly explained, and my recovery has been going well. Thank you for the excellent care.
Elisabeth OGRODZKI
14/11/2025
I had an exceptional experience with Turquie-santé for my eye surgery in Turkey. They offer very competitive prices, and I would especially like to thank Nassim. His professionalism and availability were remarkable, and he brilliantly corrected the mistakes of his predecessor. I highly recommend their services!
jolie mbuyi
14/11/2025
I would like to thank all the staff at this hospital for their excellent welcome and impeccable care. A special thank you to Emily, who demonstrated great efficiency, genuine understanding, and immense availability. She listened attentively and supported us from beginning to end; she is a truly lovely woman. Don't hesitate to trust them; you will be in good hands!
Kevin Amrani
11/11/2025
Go there with your eyes closed, stop listening to what they tell you in France.
The service is so impeccable, not a single misstep, from the airport pick-up upon arrival in Turkey to the return to the airport after the operation.
The medical staff is very kind, the surgeon is extremely competent, a brand new 4-star hotel with a Turkish breakfast. A 24-hour translator, a rate two and a half times cheaper than in France... I'll stop there, no need to go any further.
This content complies with the editorial policy of Turquie Santé. It was written by Emily White, Head of the Editorial Team, who has over 11 years of experience in scientific research and clinic management in Turkey. She ensures the reliability of medical information while making complex data accessible to everyone.
Main Specialty : Ophthalmology Years of Experience : 17 years. Notable Trainings : Uludag University, Bursa; Kartal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul; Vance Thompson Vision Center, SD, USA; Beyoglu Eye Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul Mastered ... Read more
Spec. MD. Deniz Marangoz
Main Specialty : Ophthalmology
Notable Trainings : Uludag University, Bursa; Kartal Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul; Vance Thompson Vision Center, SD, USA; Beyoglu Eye Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul
Mastered Techniques : Intraocular ... Read more
Verified CV: Ophthalmology. Training: Istanbul Faculty of Medicine (2005); Ophthalmology specialization at Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk (2010). Expertise: cataract, corneal transplantation, PRK/LASIK/SMILE refractive surgery, strabismus, oculoplastic surgery, ... Read more
Op.Dr. Omer Kocabayık
Main Specialty : OphthalmologyYears of Experience : 10 years.Notable Education : Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Çanakkale 18 Mart University Faculty of MedicineMastered Techniques : Cataract surgery, blepharoplasty, treatment of refractive errors, ... Read more
Main Specialty: OphthalmologyYears of Experience: 25 years.Notable Trainings: İstanbul University (1994 – 2000),Beyoğlu Eye Training and Research Hospital (2001 - 2005)Mastered Techniques: Cataract, Refractive Surgery, Oculoplasty, Strabismus, Glaucoma, ... Read more
Main specialty : Ophthalmology Years of experience : 35 years. Notable training : Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Specialist training at SSK Istanbul EH Ophthalmology Clinic Techniques mastered : Intravitreal injection, LASER photocoagulation and ... Read more
Assoc. Prof. MD. Ali Olgun
Main Specialty : Ophthalmology Years of Experience : 15 years. Notable Training : Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, 2005; Istanbul Göztepe Training and Research Hospital, Medical Specialization, 2011; FEBO (May 2018); FICO (November 2018); ... Read more
Main specialty: Ophthalmology, refractive surgery, and cataract
Years of experience: Over 14 years since her specialization in 2010
Notable training: Medicine at Ege University (1997–2003),specialization in ophthalmology at Marmara University ... Read more
Prof.Dr.Yilmaz Ozyazgan
Main specialty: Ophthalmology, with particular expertise in uveitis and ocular inflammatory diseases.
Years of experience: Over 40 years
Notable training: Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of Ege University in 1974, he obtained his specialization in ... Read more
Main Specialty : Ophthalmology Years of Experience : 24 years. Notable Training : Specialization in ophthalmology at the Ankara Education and Research Hospital (1999-2002),Medical training at Ankara University (1992-1998). Notable Achievements : Publications ... Read more
Main Specialty : Ophthalmology Years of Experience : 16 years. Notable Education : Medical degree from Istanbul University, specialization in ophthalmology at Dr. Lütfi Kırdar Kartal City Hospital. Mastered Techniques : Cataract surgery, refractive surgery, ... Read more
Main specialty: Ophthalmology
Years of experience: Over 28 years
Notable training: Graduate of Hacettepe Faculty of Medicine (1996),ophthalmology specialization at Ankara Numune Hospital (2000),cornea fellowship at Wills Eye Hospital, USA ... Read more
Main specialty: Ophthalmology (orbital-palpebral surgery, oculoplasty) Years of experience: 31 years Notable training: Graduated in medicine from Akdeniz University (1989),specialization in ophthalmology Professional background / Notable achievements: ... Read more
Op. Dr. Mehmet Tahir Şam
Main Specialty : Ophthalmology Years of Experience : 26 years. Notable Education : Hacettepe University, Faculty of Medicine (English) 1996 Mastered Techniques : Artisan Iris, Claw Lens Application, EVRS Vitroretinal Surgery Applications, iSCRS, AAO Notable ... Read more
Main specialty: Refractive surgery (LASIK, ReLEx SMILE),cataract surgery, treatment of presbyopia Years of experience: 21 years Notable training: Graduate of Robert College in Istanbul, Faculty of Medicine at Istanbul University, clinical training at the ... Read more
Assoc. Prof. MELIKE GEDAR, MD
Main Specialty : OphthalmologyYears of Experience : 31 years.Notable Trainings : Hacettepe University, School of Medicine; Bahçeşehir University, School of Medicine (Education Commission Membership)Mastered Techniques : Anesthesia in glaucoma surgery, ... Read more
Main Specialty : OphthalmologyYears of Experience : 30 years.Significant Training : Hacettepe University, Faculty of Medicine (1984-1991),Erciyes University, Specialty Training in Eye Diseases (1991-1996)Mastered Techniques : Refractive surgery, cataract ... Read more
Dr. Burak TANRIVERDİ
Main specialty : OphthalmologyYears of experience : 11 years.Notable training : Ankara University, Yıldırım Beyazit University Ataturk Training and Research HospitalsMastered techniques : FFA – ICG (Eye Angio),Cataract surgery, Corneal and conjunctival ... Read more
Keratoprostheses are made of transparent plastic, designed to mimic the optical characteristics of the natural cornea. Their design, size, and implantation method can vary based on the patient's needs and the medical facility. In Turkey, this procedure is performed by qualified ophthalmologists, often on an outpatient basis for rapid and effective recovery.
Several models of keratoprostheses are available in Turkey, each offering specific advantages depending on the type of corneal pathology. Some of the most common options include:
Boston Keratoplasty: A widely used model that addresses a wide range of corneal disorders.
Osteo-odonto-keratoplasty (OOKP): A more complex method, ideal for the most severe cases where other solutions are not viable.
AlphaCor: Designed for long-term retention and optimal visual comfort.
KeraKlear Prosthetic Keratoplasty: An innovative model providing an alternative for patients with advanced corneal disorders.
When to resort to a keratoprosthesis?
Keratoprostheses are generally used when conservative treatments such as rigid contact lenses, lasers, or intrastromal rings are no longer sufficient. They are indicated for patients suffering from severe corneal pathologies, such as:
Corneal edema
Post-traumatic or infectious scars (e.g., in cases of herpes)
Shape abnormalities that alter the structure of the cornea
If you are facing a loss of corneal transparency or a shape irregularity that compromises your visual acuity, a keratoprosthesis can provide you with an effective alternative, restoring your eye's visual function to near-normal levels.
Preoperative examination for keratoprosthesis
Prior to any surgical procedure, a thorough preoperative examination is crucial to ensure a successful outcome. In the case of keratoprosthesis, the process begins with a consultation with a specialized ophthalmologist. During this consultation, the doctor will conduct a detailed assessment of your vision and perform specific tests to evaluate the condition of your eye.
The ophthalmologist will consider your medical history, as well as any previous eye treatments, to gain a better understanding of your situation. This comprehensive evaluation enables the doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks of keratoprosthesis surgery with you. Once you decide to proceed, several medical and laboratory tests will be required to ensure that you are ready for surgery. These tests may include an X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG),slit lamp examination, and B-scan or A-scan ultrasound to assess the overall health of your eye and body.
Based on the results of these tests, the practitioner will determine the appropriate date and time for the procedure.
Prerequisites for keratoprosthesis surgery
Certain conditions must be met before proceeding with keratoprosthesis surgery. Here are the selection criteria:
Visual acuity: The patient's vision should not be better than 20/200.
Retinal condition: The retina must be in place, and there should be no severe retraction of the optic nerve.
Advanced glaucoma: If the patient suffers from advanced glaucoma, a more thorough evaluation may be required, and in some cases, conversion to another treatment might be considered.
This thorough examination ensures that keratoprosthesis surgery is suitable for your needs, thus maximizing the chances of success. If you are ready to take the next step and determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure, contact our specialists in Turkey to schedule your preoperative consultation.
Procedure of keratoprosthesis surgery in Turkey
On the day of the procedure, you will be welcomed at the hospital or specialized ophthalmic surgery center, where the keratoprosthesis procedure will take place. After a final physical examination to check your health status, you will be prepared for the operating room. Depending on your specific situation, the procedure will be performed under either general or local anesthesia to ensure maximum comfort and safety.
A blepharoscope will be used to keep your eye open throughout the procedure, ensuring optimal visibility for the surgeon. Ocular lubricants may also be used to prevent dryness during the procedure. Depending on the type of keratoplasty chosen, the surgery may involve either a full-thickness corneal replacement (full-thickness keratoplasty) or the placement of an intra-lamellar implant.
Specificities of Keratoprosthesis Techniques
For the AlphaCor method, a manual incision is made to create a corneal pocket. A punch is then used to open the posterior cornea, allowing the insertion of the implant into the corneal sinus. This process allows for the gradual bio-integration of the device. After several months, a second procedure is performed to remove part of the anterior cornea, thus facilitating the entry of light to the retina.
In the case of the KeraKlear keratoprosthesis, a corneal pocket is also created. After a few months, a second procedure will remove part of the anterior cornea, promoting light penetration and improving visual clarity.
Post-operative follow-up
After the surgery, a follow-up session will be scheduled a few days after the procedure. During this consultation, the doctor will check the health of your eye and adjust treatments if necessary to ensure the best possible recovery.
By choosing keratoprosthesis in Turkey, you benefit not only from high-level medical expertise but also from personalized care at every step of your journey.
If you are considering a keratoprosthesis procedure in Turkey, contact us now to learn more about the surgical process. Our experts are here to guide you through every step and help you regain clear and functional vision.
