Planning Your Medical Trip to Istanbul
Travelling abroad for plastic surgery is a significant decision. This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of planning your medical trip to Istanbul with Prof. Dr. Mehmet Veli Karaaltin's clinic.
Step 1: Initial Consultation (6–8 Weeks Before)
Your journey begins with a virtual consultation. Share your photos and medical history securely through our patient portal. Prof. Dr. Karaaltin will review your case, discuss options, and provide a personalised treatment plan with transparent pricing.
Step 2: Travel Arrangements (4–6 Weeks Before)
Visa Requirements
Most nationalities can enter Turkey visa-free for 90 days or obtain an e-Visa online at evisa.gov.tr. Processing takes minutes. Check your country's specific requirements before booking flights.
Flights
Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW). Direct flights connect Istanbul to major cities worldwide. Budget airlines offer competitive fares from European hubs.
Accommodation
The clinic partners with select 4–5 star hotels near the surgical facility. Packages typically include 3–7 nights depending on the procedure. Post-operative patients benefit from proximity to the clinic for follow-up visits.
Step 3: Pre-Operative Preparation (2 Weeks Before)
- Complete required blood tests and medical clearances in your home country
- Stop smoking and discontinue blood-thinning medications
- Arrange post-surgery assistance at your hotel
- Pack compression garments, comfortable clothing, and prescribed medications
Step 4: Arrival in Istanbul
Day 1: VIP airport transfer to your hotel. Rest and acclimatise.
Day 2: In-person consultation with Prof. Dr. Karaaltin. Physical examination, 3D imaging, final treatment planning, and pre-operative blood work at the clinic.
Step 5: Surgery Day
A private transfer takes you to the hospital. After admission and anaesthesia consultation, surgery proceeds in a fully equipped operating theatre. Post-surgery, you'll recover in a private room with dedicated nursing care.
Step 6: Recovery in Istanbul (2–7 Days)
Post-operative follow-ups are scheduled daily or as needed. The clinical team monitors your healing, manages pain, and removes drains or dressings as appropriate. Between appointments, enjoy the comfort of your hotel with room service and optional concierge assistance.
Step 7: Return Home & Follow-Up
Before departure, a final check-up ensures you are safe to fly. You'll receive:
- Detailed written post-operative instructions
- Medication prescriptions
- Emergency contact information for the surgical team
- A schedule for remote follow-up consultations via video call
What's Included in Our Medical Tourism Package
- VIP airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Hotel accommodation (partner 4–5 star hotels)
- All hospital and surgical fees
- Anaesthesia and operating theatre costs
- Post-operative medications and garments
- Multilingual patient coordinator throughout your stay
- 1-year post-operative follow-up program
Prof. Dr. Karaaltin's clinic has welcomed thousands of international patients, providing a seamless, safe, and transformative experience in Istanbul.
Considering this procedure?
Book a private consultation with Prof. Dr. Mehmet Veli Karaaltın for a personalised surgical plan.
Speak to the clinic
Patients travel from the UK, Ireland and the United States for treatment in Istanbul. Video consultations are held before you book any travel.
Teşvikiye, Sakayık Sk. No:47
34365 Şişli / Istanbul, Turkey