GLOSSARY · TURKEY & TRAVEL
Choosing a surgeon in Turkey
SHORT ANSWER
Choosing a surgeon in Turkey starts with checking their specialist training, registration and experience with your procedure, and that the operation will take place in a licensed facility. A consultation with plenty of time for questions is a good sign.
What should I check about the surgeon?
Ask about specialist qualifications in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery, professional society membership, how often they perform your procedure and whether you can see typical results. Make sure the person who consults you is the person who operates.
What should I check about the facility?
Ask whether the hospital or clinic is licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health, whether it holds any independent accreditation, whether there is an intensive care capability and how emergencies are handled.
What should the consultation cover?
A good consultation covers your medical history, realistic outcomes, alternatives, risks, recovery, costs and what is not included. You should be able to take time to decide.
What are warning signs?
Pressure to book quickly, very large discounts, vague answers about who will operate, no discussion of risks or a reluctance to share qualifications are reasons to pause.
Choosing a surgeon in Turkey and Istanbul
Many people research surgeons in Istanbul and elsewhere in Turkey before travelling. Checking credentials takes time, but it is among the most useful steps you can take.
Questions worth asking when choosing a surgeon in Turkey:
- What is your specialist training and registration, and can I see proof?
- How many times have you performed this procedure?
- Will you personally carry out the operation?
- Which facility will I be treated in and who handles emergencies?
When to consult a doctor
This entry is general information. Discuss your own situation with a qualified surgeon and your own doctor before making decisions.