About Optic Neuropathy
Key Highlights
-
Enables precise identification of the cause of vision loss through advanced diagnostic testing.Tailored treatment plans target the specific underlying condition (inflammatory, ischemic, compressive, etc.).Aims to halt the progression of optic nerve damage and preserve remaining vision.In some cases, such as with certain compressive lesions, surgical intervention can potentially reverse vision loss.Involves a multidisciplinary approach, often coordinating with neurologists, endocrinologists, or neurosurgeons for comprehensive care.
Who is this surgery for?
- Sudden, painless loss of vision (suggestive of ischemic optic neuropathy).
- Pain with eye movement and subacute vision loss (common in optic neuritis).
- Progressive, painless visual field defects or blurred vision.
- Abnormal appearance of the optic nerve head (disc) on examination (e.g., swelling/papilledema or pallor).
- Vision loss associated with conditions like giant cell arteritis, multiple sclerosis, tumors, or thyroid eye disease.
- Signs of optic nerve compression seen on imaging studies like MRI or CT scan.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive eye examination including visual acuity, color vision, and pupillary reflex tests.
- Visual field testing (perimetry) to map areas of vision loss.
- Imaging studies, typically an MRI of the brain and orbits with contrast, to visualize the optic nerve and surrounding structures.
- Blood tests to check for inflammatory markers, autoimmune antibodies, vitamin levels, or signs of infection.
- Detailed medical history review, including any neurological symptoms or family history of eye disease.
- If a surgical procedure (e.g., optic nerve decompression) is planned, standard pre-operative assessments (blood work, ECG, anesthesia clearance) will be required.
Risks & possible complications
- For diagnostic procedures (like imaging): Risks are minimal but may include reaction to contrast dye or claustrophobia during MRI.
- For medical treatments (e.g., corticosteroids): Side effects can include weight gain, elevated blood sugar, mood changes, insomnia, and increased infection risk.
- For surgical interventions: Risks include infection, bleeding, cerebrospinal fluid leak, failure to improve vision, or worsening of vision.
- Progression of the underlying disease leading to permanent, irreversible vision loss despite treatment.
- Recurrence of the condition, particularly in autoimmune or inflammatory types.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Recovery is highly variable and depends entirely on the cause and treatment provided.
- For optic neuritis, vision may begin to improve within a few weeks of starting steroid treatment, but full recovery can take months.
- Post-surgery, patients may need to keep the head elevated and avoid straining. Eye patches or shields may be used temporarily.
- Regular follow-up visits with the ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor visual acuity, visual fields, and optic nerve health.
- Patients may be advised to manage underlying systemic conditions (like diabetes or hypertension) rigorously.
- Low vision aids and rehabilitation services may be recommended if significant vision loss persists.
-
Typical hospital stay: 0-3 days
-
Expected recovery time: 2 weeks to several months
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering optic neuropathy in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with ophthalmology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform optic neuropathy. MediFyr helps you compare ophthalmologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for optic neuropathy compare across other countries where we have data.
I'd been to a couple of...
I'd been to a couple of doctors for this nagging stomach pain and fatigue, and everyone just said it was stress. Dr. Karunakaran actually listened. He asked a lot of questions I hadn't been asked before and ordered some specific tests. Turns out it was a tricky gallbladder issue that wasn't showing up on the standard scans. He explained it in a way that finally made sense. I had the surgery at MGM last month and feel like myself again.
Ophthalmologists for Optic Neuropathy
Explore experienced ophthalmologists who regularly perform optic neuropathy and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara
- 22 Years Experience
- Ophthalmologist
Liv Hospital Ankara