Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment (Vitrectomy) in Turkey in 2025

Are you experiencing blurred vision, seeing spots or floaters, or having difficulty with your night vision due to diabetes? Discover hope and effective solutions for diabetic retinopathy in Turkey. AZPO Health connects you with leading medical facilities for advanced treatment, ensuring the best possible care to protect your eyesight.


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What is it?

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Advantages

Retinal Care

Specialized treatment for vision-threatening conditions that affect the retina

Vision Protection

Expert services to maintain and enhance eyesight in retinal complications

Diabetic Treatment

Specialized care for diabetes-related vision damage and eye complications

Description

  • Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that can threaten vision health. High blood sugar levels associated with diabetes can affect the eyes, damaging the small blood vessels in the retina and causing fluid leakage. This can lead to retinal swelling and blurred vision. Diabetic retinopathy can occur in both eyes.

How It Works

  • Vitrectomy involves the removal of the vitreous gel inside the eye to address conditions such as retinal detachment, macular holes, or diabetic retinopathy. The vitreous is replaced with a saline solution, gas bubble, or silicone oil to maintain eye shape and allow healing. Advanced tools enable precise work on delicate retinal tissue.

Who It’s For

  • Patients with severe retinal issues, such as detachment or holes. Individuals with diabetic retinopathy causing bleeding or scarring.

Are you ready for a health checkup?

Pre-operative Guidelines


Control blood sugar levels consistently

Schedule a comprehensive eye exam

Inform doctor about all medications

Avoid blood thinners if instructed

Adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Avoid smoking

Post-operative Care Instructions


Use prescribed eye drops or medications

Monitor vision changes closely

Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting

Attend regular follow-up exams

Control diabetes to prevent further damage

Wear sunglasses and avoid bright lights.

Avoid smoking as it harms eye health.

Conclusion


Vitrectomy is a critical option for treating severe retinal conditions, often preserving or significantly improving vision. Though recovery can be intensive, the procedure’s effectiveness makes it a vital tool in advanced ophthalmology.

Frequently Asked Questions


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Why Choose Turkey for Your Diabetic Retinopathy Treatment?

Choosing the right location for medical treatment is a significant decision, and Turkey has emerged as a leading destination for individuals seeking high-quality and affordable healthcare, particularly in specialized fields like ophthalmology and the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. Here's why Turkey stands out as an excellent choice for your treatment journey:

Access to Experienced Specialists: Turkey boasts a large number of highly skilled and experienced ophthalmologists who specialize in retinal diseases, including diabetic retinopathy. These specialists are proficient in the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities, ensuring you receive expert care tailored to your specific condition. Many have international training and stay updated with the most recent advancements in the field.

Advanced Medical Facilities: Hospitals and clinics in Turkey that AZPO Health partners with are equipped with cutting-edge technology and advanced medical equipment necessary for the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of diabetic retinopathy. This includes state-of-the-art imaging systems like optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus photography, as well as advanced laser treatment options and surgical facilities.

Comprehensive and Personalized Care: The approach to diabetic retinopathy treatment in Turkey emphasizes comprehensive and personalized care. Specialists take the time to thoroughly evaluate your condition, understand your medical history, and develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. This patient-centric approach ensures you are well-informed and actively involved in your care.

Affordable Treatment Costs: Compared to many other countries, the cost of medical treatments, including specialized eye care like diabetic retinopathy treatment, is 50%-70% cheaper in Turkey. This cost-effectiveness does not compromise the quality of care; rather, it reflects the favorable economic conditions and healthcare system in Turkey, making advanced treatments accessible to a wider range of patients.

Convenient Medical Tourism Experience: Turkey has become a popular destination for medical tourism due to its ease of access, streamlined processes for international patients, and hospitable culture. AZPO Health facilitates a seamless experience by assisting with travel arrangements, accommodation, and coordination of your medical appointments, allowing you to focus entirely on your treatment and recovery.

A Chance for Recovery in a Vibrant Country: Undergoing treatment in Turkey also offers the opportunity to recover in a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Istanbul, in particular, is a captivating city with world-renowned landmarks and a vibrant atmosphere, providing a pleasant backdrop for your medical journey.

Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy and Its Treatment

Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that can occur in people with diabetes (both type 1 and type 2). It happens when high blood sugar levels damage the tiny blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Over time, this damage can lead to vision loss and even blindness if left untreated. Early detection and timely intervention are crucial in managing diabetic retinopathy and preserving your vision.

Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy:

  • Non-proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (NPDR): This is the earliest stage, where the blood vessels in the retina may weaken and small bulges called microaneurysms can appear. Fluid and blood may leak into the retina. In more advanced NPDR, blood vessels may become blocked.

  • Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy (PDR): This is a more advanced stage where the retina starts to grow new blood vessels (neovascularization) in an attempt to get more oxygen. However, these new blood vessels are fragile and can bleed into the vitreous (the gel-like substance that fills the eye), causing floaters, blurred vision, or even severe vision loss. Scar tissue can also form, potentially leading to retinal detachment.

Treatment Methods for Diabetic Retinopathy:

The primary goals of diabetic retinopathy treatment are to slow down or stop the progression of the disease and prevent vision loss. The specific treatment approach will depend on the stage and severity of your condition. The experienced ophthalmologists that AZPO Health can connect you with utilize several effective treatment methods:

  • Laser Photocoagulation: This is a common procedure used to treat both NPDR and PDR. In focal laser treatment, small leaks in blood vessels are sealed to reduce fluid buildup in the retina. In scatter (panretinal) photocoagulation, laser burns are applied to areas of the retina away from the macula (the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision). This helps to shrink the abnormal new blood vessels in PDR and prevent further growth. Laser treatment is typically performed in an outpatient setting.

  • Anti-VEGF Injections: Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a protein that stimulates the growth of new blood vessels. In diabetic retinopathy, particularly in cases involving macular edema (swelling in the macula) and PDR, anti-VEGF medications can be injected directly into the vitreous gel of the eye. These medications help to block VEGF, reducing the growth of abnormal blood vessels and decreasing fluid leakage. Several anti-VEGF drugs are available, and the frequency of injections will depend on your individual response and the specific medication used.

  • Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases of diabetic macular edema, corticosteroids may be injected into the eye to reduce inflammation and fluid buildup. However, these injections can have potential side effects, such as increased eye pressure and cataract formation, so they are typically used when anti-VEGF treatment is not sufficiently effective or suitable.

  • Vitrectomy: This is a surgical procedure performed in more advanced cases of PDR, particularly when there is significant bleeding in the vitreous that doesn't clear on its own, or when retinal detachment occurs due to scar tissue. During a vitrectomy, the surgeon removes the vitreous gel that is clouded with blood and replaces it with a clear solution. They can also remove any scar tissue and repair retinal detachments. Vitrectomy is usually performed under local or general anesthesia.

Real Stories, Real Hope: Patient Testimonials

Sarah's Story: "Living with diabetes for many years, I started noticing my vision becoming blurry, making it difficult to read and see clearly. My local doctor diagnosed me with diabetic retinopathy and recommended treatment options that were quite expensive. I started researching alternatives and came across AZPO Health. They connected me with a fantastic eye clinic in Istanbul. The doctors were incredibly knowledgeable and explained everything clearly. I underwent laser treatment, and the care I received was exceptional. My vision has stabilized, and I am so grateful to AZPO Health for making this accessible to me."

John's Experience: "The floaters in my vision became increasingly bothersome, and I was worried about the impact of diabetic retinopathy on my ability to work. Traveling abroad for medical treatment seemed daunting at first, but AZPO Health made the entire process smooth and stress-free. The clinic they recommended in Turkey had the latest technology, and the ophthalmologist was a true expert. I received anti-VEGF injections, and my vision has improved significantly. The follow-up care has also been excellent. I highly recommend considering treatment in Turkey through AZPO Health."

Maria's Journey: "When I was diagnosed with proliferative diabetic retinopathy, I was scared about the possibility of losing my sight. AZPO Health connected me with a specialized surgical team in Istanbul. I had a vitrectomy, and the surgery was a success. The care team was supportive throughout my recovery, and my vision has been preserved. I am so thankful for the expertise and affordability of treatment in Turkey. AZPO Health was instrumental in guiding me through this challenging time."

AZPO Health: Your Partner in Vision Preservation

AZPO Health is committed to connecting you with reputable and experienced medical professionals and facilities in Turkey for your diabetic retinopathy treatment. We understand the importance of clear vision and the anxieties that can arise with eye conditions. Our mission is to provide you with a seamless and supportive medical tourism experience, ensuring you receive the best possible care to protect your eyesight.

When you choose AZPO Health, you benefit from:

  • A Network of Qualified Specialists: We partner with leading ophthalmologists and clinics specializing in diabetic retinopathy treatment in Turkey.

  • Personalized Assistance: Our dedicated team will assist you with every step of your medical journey, from initial consultation to travel arrangements and post-treatment support.

  • High-Quality Care: We ensure that the facilities we recommend adhere to international standards of medical excellence and utilize advanced treatment modalities.

  • Affordable Options: We strive to connect you with cost-effective treatment solutions without compromising on quality.

  • Confidentiality and Trust: Your privacy and well-being are our top priorities. We handle your information with the utmost confidentiality and ensure a trustworthy experience.

Don't let diabetic retinopathy threaten your vision. Contact AZPO Health today for a free consultation and take the first step towards preserving your sight with expert treatment in Turkey.