The Ultimate Guide to Doctors in Istanbul



Cost of Medical Care in Istanbul (Prices)

Medical Departures' large network of partner clinics and hospitals in Istanbul provides patients with cost savings between 50% and 70% compared to prices in the UK and other Western European countries:

Plastic Surgery for Face

UK Price

(GBP)

Istanbul Price

(GBP)

Full Facelift (face+neck+forehead)£10,000£4,000

 

Hair Transplant (No. of Grafts)FUE Price in UK (GBP)FUE Price in Istanbul (GBP)
900 - 1200£2,350 - 3,000 £780 - 1,000 
1300 - 1800£3,300 - 4,500 £1,100 - 1,500 
1900 - 2500£4,800 - 6,300 £1,600 - 2,100 
2600 - 3500£6,000 - 9,000 £2,200 - 3,000 
3600 - 4500£9,300 - 11,200 £3,100 - 3,800 

 

 

Plastic Surgery for Body

UK Price

(GBP)

Istanbul Price

(GBP)

Arm Lift    £3,550 - 7,595          £1,500 - 2,292
Mommy Makeover    £14,000 - 24,000                £3972 - 8710
Tummy Tuck    £8,370 - 9,800.      £1,600 - 3,500

 

Bariatric Surgery

UK Price

(GBP)

Istanbul Price

(GBP)

Gastric Band      £5,900 -8,600        £2,750 -3,972
Gastric Bypass        £8,995 15,000        £2,674 -3,590
Sleeve Gastrectomy         £7,000 - 15,000        £2,672 - 3,820

Note: All of the above prices are based on average estimates at the time of writing.




Istanbul Medical Tourism


Last fact-checked: July 2024

Feel your absolute best by getting the look you want in Istanbul, Turkey–with a wide range of cosmetic and plastic surgery options available at fully-certified clinics and hospitals for up to 70% less than in the UK and US.  

Istanbul has been a booming cosmetic surgery hotspot for the past decade. As well as low prices and world-class quality of care, its close proximity to the UK and other European countries make Turkey’s culture-packed gem on the Bosphorus one of the top global destinations for medical tourism. 

The high cost of healthcare and long waiting times in the UK have made Istanbul the top choice for various medical procedures. Thanks to the country’s world-renowned healthcare system, Turkey is expected to earn an estimated $20 billion in 2023  from medical tourism. 

When you book with Medical Departures, we’ll help you save 50%-70% on your cosmetic treatment such as hair transplants, facelifts, tummy tucks, bariatric surgeries and many more. Keep reading to find out how much you can save, travel tips and more.

Types of Medical Treatment Available in Istanbul


With a small saving, just about anyone can afford high-quality cosmetic surgery. Even when combining round-trip airfare and lodging, the cost could still be less than undergoing the same procedure back home. 

An all-inclusive type of package is offered by many clinics for patients having a surgical procedure. The package usually comes with local transportation, such as airport-hotel and hotel-clinic pick-ups, high-end accommodation, private hospital room, meals, translation service and medicine. Some packages may include excursions around town before the surgery or after the patient is healed and healthy.

Not only is Istanbul one of the most affordable destinations, but the city also offers a wide variety of treatments. You can find the same type of treatment in the UK and the US as you would in Istanbul. 

You can select from our list of many partner clinics that are equipped with modern technology and facilities comparable to UK hospitals (sometimes even more modern) and are staffed with some of the most experienced surgeons and medical professionals. 

Popular cosmetic treatments in Istanbul include:

Plastic Surgery for the Face and Body

  • Facelift: one of the best ways to turn back time and achieve a youthful appearance. 

Excess skin and tissues are removed from under the skin, then the skin is pulled back on both sides of the patient’s face correcting problem areas such as jowls, sagging skin and double chins.

  • Forehead Lift: also known as forehead rejuvenation or a brow lift, it improves the areas around the forehead, brow and eyes. The soft tissue and skin around the forehead are raised to reduce forehead wrinkles, sagging eyebrows and frown lines, thus restoring youthful contour to the forehead. 
  • Neck Lift: this treatment helps improve the ageing appearance around the neck by removing excess fat and sagging skin to create a firmer and more defined neck, chin and jawline. A neck lift can be done in combination with a face-lift procedure. 
  • Rhinoplasty: commonly known as a nose job, this surgery is performed to change the shape of the nose, which may involve changes to the bridge of the nose as well as cartilage at the tip. Rhinoplasty can also help improved breathing for those with a severe case of deviated septum.
  • Arm Lift: targets the upper arm area between the elbow and underarm. An arm lift procedure involves removing the sagging skin, excess fat and tissues - caused by ageing or significant weight loss - for a more toned and sculpted shape.
  • Body Lift: typically targets lower body parts such as the abdomen, buttocks, hips and thighs. It’s an extensive procedure that removes fat and tissues and excess skin typically left sagging after a major weight loss.
  • Tummy Tuck: also known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure to sculpt the abdomen area by removing excess fat and skin. The procedure helps restore weakened muscles to create a flatter and firmer abdominal profile. 
  • Mommy Makeover: the procedure is custom-tailored to the patient’s needs. It helps restore the shape of a woman's body after giving birth and generally targets the breasts and abdomen for loose skin, excess fat and sagging or deflated breasts.
  • Liposuction: is a procedure that removes excessive fat using a suction technique targeting accumulated fat in specific areas of the body, such as the face, abdomen, upper arms, buttocks, hips, legs and thighs. Liposuction can be combined with other procedures.

Surgery for Hair

  • Hair Transplant: the procedure generally involves extracting healthy hair follicles from the donor area at the back of the scalp and implanting them into the recipient area, which is the area with thinning or baldness. A hair transplant procedure is an effective hair loss solution that usually results in giving patients a natural-looking full head of hair.

Bariatric Surgery

  • Gastric Band: is a weight loss surgery that reduces the stomach size by placing an adjustable band in the upper portion of the stomach. The band is adjustable and can be tightened or loosened to control the amount of food a patient can eat at a time.

The gastric band can be easily removed when necessary. 

  • Gastric Bypass: is a weight loss surgery that permanently changes the digestive system to restrict food intake and reduces the way food is absorbed. Staples are used to divide a portion of the upper stomach into a small pouch. The newly formed pouch is then directly connected to the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach - which causes the body to absorb fewer nutrients and calories from food. 
     
  • Sleeve Gastrectomy: the permanent weight loss procedure involves removing around 75% of the stomach, leaving behind a stomach in the shape of a narrow sleeve. The reduction in stomach size restricts food intake portion and reduces the production of the hunger hormone called ghrelin, which help reduces the patient’s desire to eat.

Why Choose Istanbul for Medical Treatment?


Turkey has become one of the most trusted countries for plastic surgery. Some of the main components for their success are utilizing advanced medical technology and the best-trained doctors. Dedicated surgeons and their team work diligently to provide superior patient service from the time of initial consultation through the post-recovery period. 

A Highly competitive healthcare market plays a major role in keeping the cost of medical procedures low. Competitions among private clinics and hospitals help bring down surgical costs making a variety of treatments more accessible.

The Turkish government strongly promotes and help facilitates medical tourism which is another contributing factor to the country’s low-cost surgical procedures. Subsidies and tax breaks are offered to clinics and hospitals that cater to international patients. 

Turkey is also beginning to produce medical supplies domestically instead of purchasing them from overseas. This recent development has started to contribute to the ongoing decrease in medical care costs, while the costs in the UK and the US continue to rise.

Other reasons to help you choose Istanbul for your next treatment.

Highly Skilled Doctors

Our network of medical professionals in Istanbul is highly qualified and possesses many years of plastic surgery experience. To become a plastic surgeon in Turkey, doctors must go through the intensive Cosmetic Surgery Specialist Program and residency takes up to almost seven years before they can obtain the title of Certified Plastic Surgeon, MD.

Turkish plastic surgeons are registered with domestic boards like the Turkish Medical Association and the Turkish Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (TSAPS); many are also certified internationally by EBOPRAS (European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery).

Additionally, most plastic surgeons in Turkey have completed part of their training in the UK, Europe or the US - some surgeons are American board-certified - making most surgeons in Istanbul effective in English communications.

Location

The close proximity to the UK and Europe makes this Istanbul an easy and convenient destination for medical tourism. The best way to get there is to fly to Istanbul International Airport (IST), which serves more than 110 countries worldwide. A direct flight to Istanbul from London takes about four hours, three hours from Frankfurt and just under ten hours from New York.

Combined Treatment With a Holiday

Another good reason to travel overseas for cosmetic surgery is the chance to get away from the stress of your daily life, which could potentially speed up your recovery time. And what better place to combine the two than Istanbul? Where East meets West makes a perfect blend of traditions and modernity, you’ll find Istanbul to be one of the most culturally unique places to visit as there are currently 19 UNESCO Heritages sites in Turkey, with some sites outdating the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge.

So is it in Asia or Europe? Actually, it’s both, Istanbul is the only city in the world split between two continents. The Bosphorus Strait separates the Asian and European sides. You’ll most likely spend time exploring the European side as the Asian side is largely residential. Keep in mind to do most activities pre-surgery as you’ll need to take it easy after your procedure. 

Best Clinics and Hospitals in Istanbul Recommended by Medical Departures


Our partner clinics and hospitals have excellent reputations, and they’ve gone through a rigorous screening process to ensure our patients achieve their desired results while getting the best care possible. 

Here are Istanbul's first-rate medical centres we highly recommend:

Plastic Surgery, hair transplant:

- American Aesthetic Surgical Medical Center

- Memorial Healthcare Group

- Estherian Clinic

Plastic Surgery, hair transplant, bariatric surgery, fertility treatment:

- HealthPoint World Clinic

Bariatric surgery:

- General Surgeon Prof. Dr Umut Barbaros

Other Top Destinations in Turkey for medical treatment

Medical Departures has a large network of verified clinics across Turkey. Take a look at other top destinations for cosmetic procedures.

Izmir

Izmir is the third most populous city in Turkey. It overlooks the Aegean Sea on the western coast of the country. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, hosting many festivals and events throughout the year. One of the major highlights is the International Izmir Festival featuring performances by popular artists from around the world.

- Click here to check out our top clinics in Izmir

Antalya

Another popular city is located on the Turkish Mediterranean coast in the southwestern part. It is the largest city in that region and is known for its picturesque beaches and ancient ruins. The area is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including the Taurus Mountains and the crystal-clear turquoise-blue water of the Mediterranean Sea, thus making it very popular with tourists.

- Click here to check out our top clinics in Antalya

Why Use Medical Departures to Book with an Istanbul Doctor?


It is our commitment to connect patients to high-standard and experienced medical specialists across the world where treatment is affordable; as for cosmetic treatment, we only partner with the top experts in Turkey who can provide you with top-quality treatment.

With a strict verification process, every clinic must pass a series of vigorous background checks before it's listed on our site, this includes patient reviews, verifying surgeons’ qualifications and professional memberships, and carrying out investigations into any legal proceedings or complaints against the clinic, if any. We even make onsite visits to some of the clinics.

What Are the Risks to Undergoing Surgery in Istanbul?


Going to Istanbul for cosmetic surgery is a great option for many patients, but it is important to do a bit of research before hopping on a plane as surgery anywhere in the world involves risks. Undergoing surgery in Istanbul is safe and effective as long as you book through a reputable company and your doctor is a board-certified plastic surgeon with training from an accredited medical institution.

However, in the rare case that something does go wrong and you experience a problem related to your treatment, Medical Departures will step in on your behalf to help you get a resolution.

You may also want to consider getting travel insurance in case of medical complications, which covers additional travel and accommodation charges, in case you have to stay longer than expected or are required to make a return trip to your clinic.  

How Long Will I Need to Stay in Istanbul?


Depending on the procedure, you’ll need to discuss the length of your stay with the doctor. A  day or two of rest may only be required for minor surgery- but you may be confined in the hotel room for several days following a major surgery.

Travelling to Istanbul as a Medical Tourist


Visa Requirements 

UK and EU citizens do not require an entry visa if staying less than 90 days as they’ll be given a visa on arrival, but travellers must have a valid passport. Citizens from other countries may be eligible for the online e-Visa requirements. The length of stay granted by the e-Visa varies from 30 to 90 days depending on the patient’s nationality. Read here for more details.

Transport in Istanbul

This largest city in Turkey has a well-integrated transport system used by local residents and tourists. Istanbul offers various modes of transportation to help travellers navigate its busy streets. The best transportation options available are:

Buses: Istanbul has extensive bus routes covering the entire city. Buses offer one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. A bus map and timetable can be picked up at any terminal. However, avoid riding the bus during rush hours as they can be subject to traffic congestion.

Metro: a rapid transit railway system in Istanbul efficiently connects different parts of the city. The metro system is fast, clean and modern - making it another convenient choice for getting around. There are currently six metro lines in operation, mostly running on the European side of Istanbul.

Trams: are another popular mode of transportation. Jump on the T1 line, also known as the "Bagcilar-Kabatas" line, if you are going to must-see tourist attractions, including the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower and the Hagia Sophia Museum. 

Dolmuş: are shared minibuses that operate on set routes. They are a common sight around town and provide a flexible and low-cost mode of transportation. Dolmuşes can stop to pick up and drop off passengers along the way.

Taxis: they are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to many other big cities. You can wait at a designated taxi stand, hail one on the street, or preferably, book through Uber. If you catch a taxi from the street, make sure that a taxi meter is used or negotiate a fare before starting your ride. It’s also a good idea to know which route the taxi should take, while it is not uncommon for drivers to take the longer route to earn more money.

Ferries: take the ferry across the scenic Bosporus Strait available between the European and Asian sides and also to the Princes' Islands located in the Sea of Marmara. Ferries are affordable but ferry times are not as regular; waiting time may take up to an hour, so be sure to plan ahead.

Accommodations

Many clinics offer an all-inclusive package including accommodations to patients having surgery. Otherwise, there are plenty of options on the European side of the city, particularly the areas of Karaköy and Galata that are part of the general area called Beyoğlu. This neighbourhood offers a wide selection of budget and mid-range accommodations. 

Check out nearby Taksim for luxury and boutique hotels as it is a very popular area full of cafés, bars and shops along its extended walking street - with easy access to metro stations and trams. Go further up the coast to Beşiktaş for more quiet and spacious luxury hotels and resorts; you can relish the tranquil gardens, relax by the pool as well as indulge in stunning sea views.

Read here for more great places to stay in Istanbul.

Things To Do

Take a few days before your surgery to explore. Discover remnants of a few empires and more than 1,700 years of history in this ‘City on Seven Hills.’ Here are some popular activities and attractions:

Visit the Hagia Sophia: This architectural marvel was built in 537 AD as a Byzantine cathedral until the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, which converted the cathedral into a grand mosque. It now serves as a museum that showcases a blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.

Find bargains at the Grand Bazaar: There’s much shopping to be done. Get lost in the mythical maze of over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewellery, textiles, souvenirs and spices. Don’t be afraid to haggle; it’s customary and expected at markets in Istanbul - particularly if you are buying multiple items from the same vendor as you can get away with deeper discounts. It's a fun place to experience a lively atmosphere and pick up some gifts for yourself and people back home.

Take a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus: Enjoy a sunset tour on a yacht along the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Istanbul between the two continents. You'll get to see picturesque historic landmarks, extravagant waterfront mansions and Istanbul’s iconic skyline. You can also enjoy the same view from the ferry at a fraction of the cost - but without champagne and delectable snacks.

Visit Topkapi Palace: Served as the administrative and educational centre and former residence of Ottoman sultans. Today, it is a museum that displays artefacts such as clothing, jewellery and weapons from the Ottoman era. Topkapi Palace is one of the must-see tourist attractions of Istanbul, and while on the palace grounds - don't miss the spectacular views of the Golden Horn. 

- Click here for more fun things to do in Istanbul

How Do I Get Started?


Browse through our list of treatments and clinics and hospitals, or contact our Customer Care Team (free of charge) to obtain a no-obligation quote for treatment at your chosen clinic or to book an appointment. 

Sources

Turkish Medical Association. Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://www.ttb.org.tr/

The EBOPRAS, European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery). Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://ebopras.eu/

UNESCO Heritage Sites in Turkey. Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/tr

Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (TSAPS). Web accessed 13 July 2023. https://find.plasticsurgery.org

Turkey visa requirement. Web accessed 13 July 2023. https://www.turkeyvisaeasy.com/requirements#eligible-countries

Where to stay in Istanbul. Web access 15 July 2023. https://santorinidave.com/best-places-istanbul

Top 15 things to do in Istanbul. Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://theistanbulinsider.com/top-15-things-to-do-in-istanbul/

Istanbul Medical Tourism
Types of Medical Treatment Available in Istanbul
Why Choose Istanbul for Medical Treatment?
Best Clinics and Hospitals in Istanbul Recommended by Medical Departures
Why Use Medical Departures to Book with an Istanbul Doctor?
What Are the Risks to Undergoing Surgery in Istanbul?
How Long Will I Need to Stay in Istanbul?
Travelling to Istanbul as a Medical Tourist
How Do I Get Started?

Istanbul Medical Tourism


Last fact-checked: July 2024

Feel your absolute best by getting the look you want in Istanbul, Turkey–with a wide range of cosmetic and plastic surgery options available at fully-certified clinics and hospitals for up to 70% less than in the UK and US.  

Istanbul has been a booming cosmetic surgery hotspot for the past decade. As well as low prices and world-class quality of care, its close proximity to the UK and other European countries make Turkey’s culture-packed gem on the Bosphorus one of the top global destinations for medical tourism. 

The high cost of healthcare and long waiting times in the UK have made Istanbul the top choice for various medical procedures. Thanks to the country’s world-renowned healthcare system, Turkey is expected to earn an estimated $20 billion in 2023  from medical tourism. 

When you book with Medical Departures, we’ll help you save 50%-70% on your cosmetic treatment such as hair transplants, facelifts, tummy tucks, bariatric surgeries and many more. Keep reading to find out how much you can save, travel tips and more.

Types of Medical Treatment Available in Istanbul


With a small saving, just about anyone can afford high-quality cosmetic surgery. Even when combining round-trip airfare and lodging, the cost could still be less than undergoing the same procedure back home. 

An all-inclusive type of package is offered by many clinics for patients having a surgical procedure. The package usually comes with local transportation, such as airport-hotel and hotel-clinic pick-ups, high-end accommodation, private hospital room, meals, translation service and medicine. Some packages may include excursions around town before the surgery or after the patient is healed and healthy.

Not only is Istanbul one of the most affordable destinations, but the city also offers a wide variety of treatments. You can find the same type of treatment in the UK and the US as you would in Istanbul. 

You can select from our list of many partner clinics that are equipped with modern technology and facilities comparable to UK hospitals (sometimes even more modern) and are staffed with some of the most experienced surgeons and medical professionals. 

Popular cosmetic treatments in Istanbul include:

Plastic Surgery for the Face and Body

  • Facelift: one of the best ways to turn back time and achieve a youthful appearance. 

Excess skin and tissues are removed from under the skin, then the skin is pulled back on both sides of the patient’s face correcting problem areas such as jowls, sagging skin and double chins.

  • Forehead Lift: also known as forehead rejuvenation or a brow lift, it improves the areas around the forehead, brow and eyes. The soft tissue and skin around the forehead are raised to reduce forehead wrinkles, sagging eyebrows and frown lines, thus restoring youthful contour to the forehead. 
  • Neck Lift: this treatment helps improve the ageing appearance around the neck by removing excess fat and sagging skin to create a firmer and more defined neck, chin and jawline. A neck lift can be done in combination with a face-lift procedure. 
  • Rhinoplasty: commonly known as a nose job, this surgery is performed to change the shape of the nose, which may involve changes to the bridge of the nose as well as cartilage at the tip. Rhinoplasty can also help improved breathing for those with a severe case of deviated septum.
  • Arm Lift: targets the upper arm area between the elbow and underarm. An arm lift procedure involves removing the sagging skin, excess fat and tissues - caused by ageing or significant weight loss - for a more toned and sculpted shape.
  • Body Lift: typically targets lower body parts such as the abdomen, buttocks, hips and thighs. It’s an extensive procedure that removes fat and tissues and excess skin typically left sagging after a major weight loss.
  • Tummy Tuck: also known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure to sculpt the abdomen area by removing excess fat and skin. The procedure helps restore weakened muscles to create a flatter and firmer abdominal profile. 
  • Mommy Makeover: the procedure is custom-tailored to the patient’s needs. It helps restore the shape of a woman's body after giving birth and generally targets the breasts and abdomen for loose skin, excess fat and sagging or deflated breasts.
  • Liposuction: is a procedure that removes excessive fat using a suction technique targeting accumulated fat in specific areas of the body, such as the face, abdomen, upper arms, buttocks, hips, legs and thighs. Liposuction can be combined with other procedures.

Surgery for Hair

  • Hair Transplant: the procedure generally involves extracting healthy hair follicles from the donor area at the back of the scalp and implanting them into the recipient area, which is the area with thinning or baldness. A hair transplant procedure is an effective hair loss solution that usually results in giving patients a natural-looking full head of hair.

Bariatric Surgery

  • Gastric Band: is a weight loss surgery that reduces the stomach size by placing an adjustable band in the upper portion of the stomach. The band is adjustable and can be tightened or loosened to control the amount of food a patient can eat at a time.

The gastric band can be easily removed when necessary. 

  • Gastric Bypass: is a weight loss surgery that permanently changes the digestive system to restrict food intake and reduces the way food is absorbed. Staples are used to divide a portion of the upper stomach into a small pouch. The newly formed pouch is then directly connected to the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach - which causes the body to absorb fewer nutrients and calories from food. 
     
  • Sleeve Gastrectomy: the permanent weight loss procedure involves removing around 75% of the stomach, leaving behind a stomach in the shape of a narrow sleeve. The reduction in stomach size restricts food intake portion and reduces the production of the hunger hormone called ghrelin, which help reduces the patient’s desire to eat.

Why Choose Istanbul for Medical Treatment?


Turkey has become one of the most trusted countries for plastic surgery. Some of the main components for their success are utilizing advanced medical technology and the best-trained doctors. Dedicated surgeons and their team work diligently to provide superior patient service from the time of initial consultation through the post-recovery period. 

A Highly competitive healthcare market plays a major role in keeping the cost of medical procedures low. Competitions among private clinics and hospitals help bring down surgical costs making a variety of treatments more accessible.

The Turkish government strongly promotes and help facilitates medical tourism which is another contributing factor to the country’s low-cost surgical procedures. Subsidies and tax breaks are offered to clinics and hospitals that cater to international patients. 

Turkey is also beginning to produce medical supplies domestically instead of purchasing them from overseas. This recent development has started to contribute to the ongoing decrease in medical care costs, while the costs in the UK and the US continue to rise.

Other reasons to help you choose Istanbul for your next treatment.

Highly Skilled Doctors

Our network of medical professionals in Istanbul is highly qualified and possesses many years of plastic surgery experience. To become a plastic surgeon in Turkey, doctors must go through the intensive Cosmetic Surgery Specialist Program and residency takes up to almost seven years before they can obtain the title of Certified Plastic Surgeon, MD.

Turkish plastic surgeons are registered with domestic boards like the Turkish Medical Association and the Turkish Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (TSAPS); many are also certified internationally by EBOPRAS (European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery).

Additionally, most plastic surgeons in Turkey have completed part of their training in the UK, Europe or the US - some surgeons are American board-certified - making most surgeons in Istanbul effective in English communications.

Location

The close proximity to the UK and Europe makes this Istanbul an easy and convenient destination for medical tourism. The best way to get there is to fly to Istanbul International Airport (IST), which serves more than 110 countries worldwide. A direct flight to Istanbul from London takes about four hours, three hours from Frankfurt and just under ten hours from New York.

Combined Treatment With a Holiday

Another good reason to travel overseas for cosmetic surgery is the chance to get away from the stress of your daily life, which could potentially speed up your recovery time. And what better place to combine the two than Istanbul? Where East meets West makes a perfect blend of traditions and modernity, you’ll find Istanbul to be one of the most culturally unique places to visit as there are currently 19 UNESCO Heritages sites in Turkey, with some sites outdating the Pyramids of Giza and Stonehenge.

So is it in Asia or Europe? Actually, it’s both, Istanbul is the only city in the world split between two continents. The Bosphorus Strait separates the Asian and European sides. You’ll most likely spend time exploring the European side as the Asian side is largely residential. Keep in mind to do most activities pre-surgery as you’ll need to take it easy after your procedure. 

Best Clinics and Hospitals in Istanbul Recommended by Medical Departures


Our partner clinics and hospitals have excellent reputations, and they’ve gone through a rigorous screening process to ensure our patients achieve their desired results while getting the best care possible. 

Here are Istanbul's first-rate medical centres we highly recommend:

Plastic Surgery, hair transplant:

- American Aesthetic Surgical Medical Center

- Memorial Healthcare Group

- Estherian Clinic

Plastic Surgery, hair transplant, bariatric surgery, fertility treatment:

- HealthPoint World Clinic

Bariatric surgery:

- General Surgeon Prof. Dr Umut Barbaros

Other Top Destinations in Turkey for medical treatment

Medical Departures has a large network of verified clinics across Turkey. Take a look at other top destinations for cosmetic procedures.

Izmir

Izmir is the third most populous city in Turkey. It overlooks the Aegean Sea on the western coast of the country. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene, hosting many festivals and events throughout the year. One of the major highlights is the International Izmir Festival featuring performances by popular artists from around the world.

- Click here to check out our top clinics in Izmir

Antalya

Another popular city is located on the Turkish Mediterranean coast in the southwestern part. It is the largest city in that region and is known for its picturesque beaches and ancient ruins. The area is surrounded by dramatic landscapes, including the Taurus Mountains and the crystal-clear turquoise-blue water of the Mediterranean Sea, thus making it very popular with tourists.

- Click here to check out our top clinics in Antalya

Why Use Medical Departures to Book with an Istanbul Doctor?


It is our commitment to connect patients to high-standard and experienced medical specialists across the world where treatment is affordable; as for cosmetic treatment, we only partner with the top experts in Turkey who can provide you with top-quality treatment.

With a strict verification process, every clinic must pass a series of vigorous background checks before it's listed on our site, this includes patient reviews, verifying surgeons’ qualifications and professional memberships, and carrying out investigations into any legal proceedings or complaints against the clinic, if any. We even make onsite visits to some of the clinics.

What Are the Risks to Undergoing Surgery in Istanbul?


Going to Istanbul for cosmetic surgery is a great option for many patients, but it is important to do a bit of research before hopping on a plane as surgery anywhere in the world involves risks. Undergoing surgery in Istanbul is safe and effective as long as you book through a reputable company and your doctor is a board-certified plastic surgeon with training from an accredited medical institution.

However, in the rare case that something does go wrong and you experience a problem related to your treatment, Medical Departures will step in on your behalf to help you get a resolution.

You may also want to consider getting travel insurance in case of medical complications, which covers additional travel and accommodation charges, in case you have to stay longer than expected or are required to make a return trip to your clinic.  

How Long Will I Need to Stay in Istanbul?


Depending on the procedure, you’ll need to discuss the length of your stay with the doctor. A  day or two of rest may only be required for minor surgery- but you may be confined in the hotel room for several days following a major surgery.

Travelling to Istanbul as a Medical Tourist


Visa Requirements 

UK and EU citizens do not require an entry visa if staying less than 90 days as they’ll be given a visa on arrival, but travellers must have a valid passport. Citizens from other countries may be eligible for the online e-Visa requirements. The length of stay granted by the e-Visa varies from 30 to 90 days depending on the patient’s nationality. Read here for more details.

Transport in Istanbul

This largest city in Turkey has a well-integrated transport system used by local residents and tourists. Istanbul offers various modes of transportation to help travellers navigate its busy streets. The best transportation options available are:

Buses: Istanbul has extensive bus routes covering the entire city. Buses offer one of the most convenient and affordable ways to get around town. A bus map and timetable can be picked up at any terminal. However, avoid riding the bus during rush hours as they can be subject to traffic congestion.

Metro: a rapid transit railway system in Istanbul efficiently connects different parts of the city. The metro system is fast, clean and modern - making it another convenient choice for getting around. There are currently six metro lines in operation, mostly running on the European side of Istanbul.

Trams: are another popular mode of transportation. Jump on the T1 line, also known as the "Bagcilar-Kabatas" line, if you are going to must-see tourist attractions, including the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower and the Hagia Sophia Museum. 

Dolmuş: are shared minibuses that operate on set routes. They are a common sight around town and provide a flexible and low-cost mode of transportation. Dolmuşes can stop to pick up and drop off passengers along the way.

Taxis: they are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to many other big cities. You can wait at a designated taxi stand, hail one on the street, or preferably, book through Uber. If you catch a taxi from the street, make sure that a taxi meter is used or negotiate a fare before starting your ride. It’s also a good idea to know which route the taxi should take, while it is not uncommon for drivers to take the longer route to earn more money.

Ferries: take the ferry across the scenic Bosporus Strait available between the European and Asian sides and also to the Princes' Islands located in the Sea of Marmara. Ferries are affordable but ferry times are not as regular; waiting time may take up to an hour, so be sure to plan ahead.

Accommodations

Many clinics offer an all-inclusive package including accommodations to patients having surgery. Otherwise, there are plenty of options on the European side of the city, particularly the areas of Karaköy and Galata that are part of the general area called Beyoğlu. This neighbourhood offers a wide selection of budget and mid-range accommodations. 

Check out nearby Taksim for luxury and boutique hotels as it is a very popular area full of cafés, bars and shops along its extended walking street - with easy access to metro stations and trams. Go further up the coast to Beşiktaş for more quiet and spacious luxury hotels and resorts; you can relish the tranquil gardens, relax by the pool as well as indulge in stunning sea views.

Read here for more great places to stay in Istanbul.

Things To Do

Take a few days before your surgery to explore. Discover remnants of a few empires and more than 1,700 years of history in this ‘City on Seven Hills.’ Here are some popular activities and attractions:

Visit the Hagia Sophia: This architectural marvel was built in 537 AD as a Byzantine cathedral until the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in 1453, which converted the cathedral into a grand mosque. It now serves as a museum that showcases a blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.

Find bargains at the Grand Bazaar: There’s much shopping to be done. Get lost in the mythical maze of over 4,000 shops selling everything from jewellery, textiles, souvenirs and spices. Don’t be afraid to haggle; it’s customary and expected at markets in Istanbul - particularly if you are buying multiple items from the same vendor as you can get away with deeper discounts. It's a fun place to experience a lively atmosphere and pick up some gifts for yourself and people back home.

Take a sunset cruise on the Bosphorus: Enjoy a sunset tour on a yacht along the Bosphorus Strait, which divides Istanbul between the two continents. You'll get to see picturesque historic landmarks, extravagant waterfront mansions and Istanbul’s iconic skyline. You can also enjoy the same view from the ferry at a fraction of the cost - but without champagne and delectable snacks.

Visit Topkapi Palace: Served as the administrative and educational centre and former residence of Ottoman sultans. Today, it is a museum that displays artefacts such as clothing, jewellery and weapons from the Ottoman era. Topkapi Palace is one of the must-see tourist attractions of Istanbul, and while on the palace grounds - don't miss the spectacular views of the Golden Horn. 

- Click here for more fun things to do in Istanbul

How Do I Get Started?


Browse through our list of treatments and clinics and hospitals, or contact our Customer Care Team (free of charge) to obtain a no-obligation quote for treatment at your chosen clinic or to book an appointment. 

Sources

Turkish Medical Association. Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://www.ttb.org.tr/

The EBOPRAS, European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery). Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://ebopras.eu/

UNESCO Heritage Sites in Turkey. Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/tr

Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (TSAPS). Web accessed 13 July 2023. https://find.plasticsurgery.org

Turkey visa requirement. Web accessed 13 July 2023. https://www.turkeyvisaeasy.com/requirements#eligible-countries

Where to stay in Istanbul. Web access 15 July 2023. https://santorinidave.com/best-places-istanbul

Top 15 things to do in Istanbul. Web accessed 16 July 2023. https://theistanbulinsider.com/top-15-things-to-do-in-istanbul/



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