Many people consider vision correction, especially if glasses or contact lenses have long been part of their daily life. In Cyprus, such procedures are quite common: medical technologies are modern, and clinics offer several treatment options. However, one of the main questions people have is whether these procedures are covered by the public healthcare system GESY.
Let’s go through it step by step.
What types of vision correction procedures exist
Today, there are several main methods of surgical vision correction. All of them aim to reshape the cornea so the eye can properly focus images. The most well-known procedure is LASIK laser eye surgery. During this operation, the doctor uses a laser to reshape the cornea, which can significantly improve vision. The procedure usually takes just a few minutes, and recovery is relatively quick—often within a few days, patients begin to see much better. Another common method is PRK. It is similar to LASIK but differs in technique. This option is sometimes recommended for people with thinner corneas or in cases where standard laser correction is not suitable. There is also SMILE, a more advanced laser technology that involves minimal вмешательство in the eye tissues. It is considered a gentler option and is suitable for treating myopia and astigmatism.
Other methods are sometimes used as well, such as lens replacement or the implantation of special lenses inside the eye. However, these procedures are usually performed not only to improve vision but also for medical reasons.
How much vision correction costs in Cyprus
The cost depends on the clinic, the technology used, and the complexity of the case. On average, prices on the island are approximately:
- laser vision correction - about €1,500 to €3,000 for both eyes
- more advanced methods may cost €3,000 to €4,000
- lens replacement surgeries can be even more expensive
Typically, the price includes the initial examination, the procedure itself, and several follow-up visits with the doctor after surgery.
Does GESY cover vision correction
It is important to understand the main principle of the GESY system. It covers the treatment of medical conditions but does not pay for procedures considered cosmetic or not medically necessary. Therefore, standard laser vision correction to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses is usually not covered by GESY. These procedures are typically paid for by the patient in a private clinic.
However, there are exceptions.
If the procedure is required for medical reasons, the system may partially or fully cover the treatment. For example:
- serious corneal diseases
- complications after eye injuries
- cataracts (clouding of the lens)
- other conditions that genuinely threaten vision
In such cases, a doctor refers the patient for treatment through GESY, and the procedure is carried out within the public healthcare system.
What GESY usually covers for eye care
Even if laser vision correction is not covered, the system still provides many other services.
Through GESY, patients can receive:
- ophthalmologist consultations
- eye diagnostics and examinations
- treatment of eye diseases
- cataract surgery
- medical procedures related to vision impairment
In other words, if the issue is medical rather than simply a desire to stop wearing glasses, the system will usually help cover treatment.
What to do before the procedure
If you are considering vision correction, it is best to start with a full consultation with an ophthalmologist. The doctor will assess the condition of your cornea, the thickness of the eye tissues, and your overall eye health. After the examination, it will become clear whether laser surgery is suitable for you and which method would be the safest. Sometimes it turns out that vision can be corrected with less invasive methods, while in other cases surgery becomes the best solution.
The most important thing to remember is that the eyes are one of the most sensitive organs, so any procedures should only be done after a professional diagnosis and in trusted clinics.
