Laser Eye Surgery Price Guide: Turkey vs the UK, USA & Canada
Talk to our team
In this article 10 sections
Laser eye surgery can free you from glasses and contacts for good — but if you're researching it, you've quickly discovered two things: there are several different types (LASIK, ReLEx SMILE, PRK and more), and the price varies enormously depending on where you have it.
This is a straightforward price guide covering all the main laser eye procedures, what each costs in Turkey compared with the UK, USA and Canada, whether insurance covers any of it, and how patients typically save 50–70% by travelling — using the very same laser platforms found in London or New York.
In short: laser eye surgery in Turkey typically costs $1,000–$2,500 per eye depending on the technique, with all-inclusive packages for both eyes often around €1,300–€1,600. That's roughly 50–70% less than the UK, USA or Canada — where the same procedures can run $2,000–$3,600 per eye. And since laser eye surgery is elective, it's almost never covered by insurance anywhere, so the cost usually comes out of your own pocket wherever you have it.
The types of laser eye surgery
"Laser eye surgery" is really an umbrella term for several procedures, each suited to different eyes. Here's the quick version before we get to prices:
| Procedure | In a nutshell | Often suits |
|---|---|---|
| LASIK | Creates a corneal flap, reshapes underneath; fast recovery | Most people; the most common choice |
| Femto-LASIK | Bladeless LASIK — flap made with a femtosecond laser | Those wanting bladeless precision |
| ReLEx SMILE | Flapless, tiny incision; minimally invasive | Higher myopia, dry-eye-prone patients (not for hyperopia) |
| PRK | Surface laser, no flap; slower recovery | Thinner corneas |
| LASEK | Variation for thinner corneas | Selected cases |
The one that's right for you depends on your prescription, your corneal thickness, and your lifestyle — which is why a proper eye exam comes before any recommendation.
Cost comparison: Turkey vs UK, USA & Canada
This is the comparison most people come for. Prices are approximate 2026 ranges:
| Where | Typical cost (per eye) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🇹🇷 Turkey | $1,000–$2,500 | All-inclusive; both eyes often €1,300–€1,600 |
| 🇬🇧 UK | ~£2,000–£2,500+ | SMILE at the higher end |
| 🇺🇸 USA | $2,000–$3,600 | LASIK averages ~$2,800 |
| 🇨🇦 Canada / Gulf | High — Turkey ~1/4 of the cost | Similar Western pricing |
A useful detail: in Turkey the price is typically fixed regardless of how strong your prescription is, whereas in some Western clinics a stronger prescription (say, high myopia) can push the cost up considerably. And Turkish packages usually fold in the pre-operative tests, post-op eye drops, transfers and often a couple of hotel nights — so the comparison is even more favourable once you count everything a UK or US quote might bill separately.
What's Included in the Laser Eye Surgery Price – and Hidden Costs to Watch For
Two quotes can look very different on paper, even if the headline cost of laser per eye is similar. Let's have a look at the cost breakdown.
Commonly included in a standard package:
- Pre-operative assessments and scans (corneal topography, pachymetry, dry eye screening)
- The surgery itself (both eyes)
- Medications and eye drops for the first 1–3 months - medications prescribed after surgery are included in the price at most reputable eye clinics
- Scheduled follow up appointments - aftercare appointments are included for the first 3 months at minimum, and follow-up care is typically included for 12 months post-surgery
- Some clinics include enhancement treatments if clinically required within a defined time window
Potential hidden costs to watch for:
- Initial consultations may be included or require a deposit that is not always deducted from the surgery fee
- Extra scans or tests for complex eye conditions
- Aftercare visits beyond 3–12 months (example UK fees: ~£100 per optometrist visit, ~£200 per consultant visit)
- Travel, hotels, and time off work - relevant for both UK and overseas eye treatment
- Management of rare complications if not covered by a guarantee or protection plan
The cost of laser eye surgery may include pre-operative consultations and post operative care, but never assume - patients should ask for a clear, itemized quote.
Always compare "all-in" costs, not just the advertised per-eye price.
Does insurance cover laser eye surgery?
Almost universally, no — and this is the same wherever you live. Laser eye surgery is considered an elective (cosmetic/lifestyle) procedure, so it isn't covered by the UK's NHS, by public health systems across Europe, or by most private insurance plans in the USA and Canada.
In practice that means you're paying out of pocket for it at home anyway. Once people realise that, the maths of having it done to the same standard for 50–70% less becomes a lot more compelling — you're not giving up an insurance benefit you'd otherwise have.
Why is it cheaper in Turkey?
It's a reasonable thing to be sceptical about, so here's the honest explanation. A well-equipped clinic in Turkey buys the exact same laser machines — Alcon WaveLight, Carl Zeiss VISUMAX for SMILE, VISX STAR — used in London, Munich or Beverly Hills. The difference is overheads: lower clinic rent, lower staffing costs, lower malpractice insurance, and a very high volume of refractive procedures.
When you pay $5,000 for LASIK in New York, a big chunk of that keeps the lights on and covers insurance, not the surgery itself. Turkish clinics have a fraction of those overheads and pass the saving on. Same FDA-approved and CE-certified lasers, much lower cost base — not lower standards.
Which type is right for me?
There's no universally "best" laser procedure — only the best one for your eyes. LASIK and Femto-LASIK are the most requested for their fast recovery and suit most common prescriptions. ReLEx SMILE, being flapless and minimally invasive, is often a good fit for higher myopia and people prone to dry eyes, though it isn't suitable for hyperopia (long-sightedness).
PRK and LASEK come into their own for people with thinner corneas, at the cost of a slower recovery. The only way to know which is right is a thorough eye examination measuring your corneal thickness, tear production and prescription — and a good clinic will recommend based on that, not on what's most profitable.
The procedure and recovery
Laser eye surgery is quick — usually just minutes per eye — and done under numbing eye drops, so you're awake but comfortable. For flap-based procedures (LASIK, Femto-LASIK) the surgeon creates a thin corneal flap, reshapes the tissue with the laser, and repositions the flap; SMILE achieves the correction through a tiny incision instead.
Afterwards you'll have some mild discomfort, watering, blurred vision and light sensitivity for a short while, managed with antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops. Recovery is fast for LASIK and SMILE (many people see clearly within a day or two), and a little slower for PRK/LASEK. Most international patients stay in Turkey for around two nights and fly home glasses-free.
Am I a candidate?
Most people with a stable prescription are — but not everyone. Suitability depends on having a stable prescription, adequate corneal thickness, healthy eyes and being over 18. Encouragingly, only around 2% of people turn out to be unsuitable, usually due to conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, keratoconus or a cornea that's too thin.
Because there's a small chance of being found ineligible, a pre-travel eye check with a local optometrist or ophthalmologist is a sensible precaution before booking — and we can guide you on what to have checked.
Laser Eye Surgery Price Guide — FAQ
How much does laser eye surgery cost in Turkey?
Typically $1,000–$2,500 per eye depending on the technique, with all-inclusive both-eyes packages often around €1,300–€1,600 — roughly 50–70% less than the UK, USA or Canada.
How much is LASIK compared to ReLEx SMILE?
LASIK is usually the most affordable; Femto-LASIK adds around 20–30%; ReLEx SMILE is typically the premium tier due to its advanced flapless technology. Your surgeon recommends the right one for your eyes.
Does insurance cover laser eye surgery?
Almost never. It's an elective procedure, so it's not covered by the NHS, most European public systems, or most US/Canadian private insurance — you pay out of pocket wherever you have it.
Why is laser eye surgery so much cheaper in Turkey?
Lower overheads — rent, staffing, malpractice insurance — and high procedure volumes, using the same FDA-approved lasers (Alcon, Zeiss, VISX) as Western clinics. Lower cost base, not lower standards.
Which laser eye procedure is best for me?
It depends on your prescription, corneal thickness and lifestyle. LASIK/Femto-LASIK suit most; SMILE suits higher myopia and dry-eye-prone patients; PRK/LASEK suit thinner corneas. An eye exam decides.
How long do I stay in Turkey?
Usually around two nights — for the pre-op checks, the procedure, and a follow-up before flying home, often glasses-free.
Is it safe?
Laser eye surgery has a strong safety record (LASIK success rates around 96%, complications in fewer than 1 in 100 at well-equipped clinics). Choose a JCI/ISO-accredited clinic, a board-certified surgeon and proper screening.
The Last Word from The More Clinics
Laser eye surgery is one of the clearest examples of where travelling makes sense: it's elective, so you're paying out of pocket at home anyway, and Turkey offers the same lasers and techniques for 50–70% less.
The keys are choosing the right procedure for your eyes rather than the cheapest, using an accredited clinic and experienced surgeon, and getting a proper eye assessment first. We're happy to give you an honest recommendation and a clear, all-inclusive quote — and to tell you if you're not a suitable candidate. No pressure.
Free Consultation → WhatsApp Us →
Related: Vitrectomy surgery · Retinal detachment symptoms · Meet Op. Dr. Halil İbrahim Kaya
Medical disclaimer: This page is for general information only. Prices are indicative 2026 ranges and vary by clinic, technique, prescription and individual case. Laser eye surgery is elective and carries risks; suitability and the right procedure are determined only after individual assessment by a qualified eye surgeon. Not everyone is a candidate.
SOURCES:
Bookimed
Placidway
LasikIstanbul
BookimedAffordable
HOW THE MORE CLINICS KEEP THE CONTENT UP TO DATE:
Our dedicated medical and editorial teams work tirelessly to stay informed about the ever-evolving world of health news. By rigorously tracking the latest research, clinical guidelines, and significant developments across various medical fields, they ensure that our content remains accurate, relevant, and up-to-date.
This includes reviewing peer-reviewed studies, consulting with healthcare professionals, and monitoring advancements in medical technology. Their meticulous efforts and attention to detail allow us to provide you with trustworthy, reliable information that you can depend on to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
However, we still insist on getting a healthcare professional's opinion before you make any decision about your health. Consulting with a qualified expert ensures that the choices you make are informed, safe, and tailored to your individual needs.
Last Updated: [31 August 2026]
Written by The More Editorial Team and Medically Reviewed by Op. Dr. Halil İbrahim Kaya, Ophthalmologist. See our Editorial Process.
This article provides general information and does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss decisions about your health and treatment with your treating clinician.
