Learn about Retinoblastoma Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Retinoblastoma and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a rare, aggressive eye cancer that primarily affects young children, typically under the age of five. It originates in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. An ophthalmologist specializing in ocular oncology performs a comprehensive evaluation using advanced imaging like ultrasound and MRI to confirm the diagnosis and stage the tumor. Treatment is highly individualized and aims to save the child's life, preserve vision, and minimize long-term side effects. Options range from localized therapies like laser photocoagulation, cryotherapy, and chemotherapy injections for smaller tumors to more intensive treatments like intravenous chemotherapy, radiation, or enucleation (surgical removal of the eye) for advanced cases. Early detection and prompt, specialized care are critical for the best possible outcomes.

Key Highlights

    Life-saving treatment for a pediatric eye cancer.Multidisciplinary approach tailored to the child's specific condition.Focus on vision preservation whenever possible.Utilizes advanced, targeted therapies to minimize damage to healthy tissue.Critical for preventing the spread of cancer to the brain and other parts of the body.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Diagnosis of retinoblastoma confirmed via eye examination and imaging.
  • Presence of a white pupil reflex (leukocoria) in flash photography.
  • Eye misalignment (strabismus) or redness and swelling.
  • Poor vision or apparent vision loss in the affected eye.
  • Family history of retinoblastoma (hereditary form).
  • To prevent metastasis (spread) of the cancer.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive eye examination under anesthesia (EUA) for accurate diagnosis and mapping.
  • Advanced imaging studies, including ultrasound (B-scan) and MRI of the orbits and brain.
  • Pediatric oncology consultation and systemic health evaluation.
  • Discussion of all treatment options, goals, and potential outcomes with the family.
  • Pre-operative blood tests and assessments as required for planned anesthesia.
  • Psychological preparation and support for the child and family.

Risks & possible complications

  • Vision loss or complete loss of the eye (enucleation).
  • Side effects from chemotherapy or radiation, including fatigue, nausea, and increased infection risk.
  • Damage to surrounding eye structures affecting future eye growth or function.
  • Risk of secondary cancers later in life, especially with the genetic form of retinoblastoma.
  • Facial bone growth abnormalities if radiation is used.
  • Anesthesia risks associated with multiple procedures in young children.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Post-procedure monitoring in a recovery area until the effects of anesthesia wear off.
  • For localized treatments, the eye may be patched, and medicated drops are prescribed.
  • Pain management and instructions to avoid rubbing the eye.
  • Regular follow-up examinations under anesthesia to monitor treatment response and check for new tumors.
  • Long-term follow-up with an ophthalmologist and oncologist for surveillance of recurrence or secondary cancers.
  • Support for the child's overall development and, if needed, fitting for an ocular prosthesis after enucleation.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: Varies (Often outpatient for focal therapy; 2-5 days for major surgery/chemo)
  • checked Expected recovery time: Varies by treatment (Weeks for focal therapy; months for systemic treatment)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering retinoblastoma in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for retinoblastoma compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 1,632 – USD 8,701 Varies (Often outpatient for focal therapy; 2-5 days for major surgery/chemo) ~ Varies by treatment (Weeks for focal therapy; months for systemic treatment) Know More
Turkey USD 12,079 – USD 64,420 Varies (Often outpatient for focal therapy; 2-5 days for major surgery/chemo) ~ Varies by treatment (Weeks for focal therapy; months for systemic treatment) Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

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 Retinoblastoma

Explore experienced ophthalmologists who regularly perform retinoblastoma and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.

Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ilker Incebıyık
  • 22 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated