EVERYTHING WAS NORMAL ON THE STREETS IN ISTANBUL! – Report from Wednesday, August 3, 2016

During my initial research, it quickly became clear that I would have the treatment (Femto LASIK) done abroad, primarily due to cost (in Istanbul it costs less than a third compared to Switzerland). A brief internet search revealed a wide variety of providers; my decision to accept SwissLasik’s offer was mainly based on the numerous positive customer reviews and their clear communication. Another advantage was the availability of a location near me, allowing me to personally meet the people behind the treatment.

My announcement that I was traveling to Istanbul for laser eye surgery was met with some unease in my circle of acquaintances. This stemmed partly from concerns that the medical standards might not be high enough, and partly from the current political situation. While I can’t assess how the political situation develops (at the end of July 2016, everything was relatively calm: no soldiers on the streets/normal flight operations), I can comment on the medical standards. The hospital only opened six years ago and easily compares favorably to other private hospitals. More on that later.

I booked the Levent Hotel ***, which was about 15 minutes from the hospital. I can wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a mid-range hotel. The reception was staffed 24/7 with an English-speaking person who was also able to provide helpful advice about the city. The breakfast buffet was always plentiful, and there were plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans as well.

My first contact with an employee of Acibadem Hospital was at the Health Point right after exiting Istanbul Airport. My flight was delayed by three hours, so I missed my original pickup time. However, after a short wait, the young man at the Health Point was able to arrange a new transfer for me. The ride to the hotel went smoothly, as did all subsequent transfers. What was a little surprising was that the drivers were almost always early, arriving five minutes before the agreed time (the traffic is often horrendous). The cars, by the way, were all clean and tidy.

The day after my arrival, Tuesday, July 26th, things got underway. After breakfast, I was picked up and taken to the Acibadem Hospital. There, I was immediately greeted by my interpreter, who spoke standard German. Right after, I was led downstairs to the eye surgery center. Several examinations followed, with approximately 30-minute waits between each one. After about two hours, I had a consultation with the attending physician, who gave me the good news that I was a suitable candidate (Swiss Lasik had already conducted a preliminary examination in Switzerland, but only the attending physician could make a definitive assessment). A tip: Bring a book and an MP3 player to pass the time while waiting. I then had something like a “lunch break” since the procedure was scheduled for the afternoon (2:00 PM). Beforehand, I was given eye drops to dilate my pupils (don’t worry, light sensitivity and slightly blurred vision are normal side effects).

Shortly before 2:00 PM, my interpreter picked me up and took me to the treatment area. I quickly put on a hairnet and surgical gown, and I was ready.
The surgery itself took about 15 minutes for both eyes. Cutting the flap was a little uncomfortable but not painful. The laser treatment itself only took about 5 seconds and was also completely painless. For the first four hours after the surgery, your vision isn’t as good; there’s a sort of veil over your eyes, and you’re more sensitive to light. After the doctor performed a quick check, I was given protective goggles and eye drops. The interpreter stayed with me the whole time, explaining what I should do and answering all my questions competently.

For the first four hours after the surgery, your eyes might burn a little and have difficulty focusing, but you’ll see the results very quickly. I spent the rest of the day at my hotel. The next morning, I was picked up for a follow-up appointment, which only took a few minutes.
After this appointment, the treatment was complete, and I was free to explore the beautiful city of Istanbul. The Grand Bazaar is highly recommended.

My flight back to Switzerland was on Friday, and the transport had already been arranged, so I didn’t have to worry.

It’s been a week since the surgery and the healing process is going perfectly. It’s wonderful to finally be able to see the world in all its facets. Therefore, I can wholeheartedly recommend laser eye surgery with SwissLasik.

Ron-John Dillier 03.08.16