
Medical tourism in Turkey : why choose this destination ?
Medical tourism involves traveling to a foreign country to receive medical care. Several factors may drive people to seek treatment abroad: lower costs, access to certain types of care, or faster appointment availability.
Medical tourism has existed since ancient times. Back then, it primarily involved visiting thermal spas outside one's country. In the 18th and 19th centuries, medical tourism grew with the establishment of sanatoriums for treating tuberculosis. From the 1980s onwards, this practice expanded further to include other types of care, particularly major surgeries and cosmetic procedures.
Today, medical tourism is common in fields such as dentistry, optics, and aesthetics. The most popular destinations include the Middle East, North Africa, and South America.
Turkey is one of the top destinations for medical tourism, especially in the field of cosmetic surgery. Here’s why.
Medical tourism : why undergo cosmetic surgery in Turkey ?
Turkey has become a leading destination in medical and aesthetic tourism due to its perfect balance of affordable prices, excellent quality of service, and high success rates.
Are you considering a cosmetic surgery procedure? Discover all the reasons to choose Turkey!
An excellent quality-price ratio
Turkey is highly popular among medical tourists because surgical procedures performed there are cost-effective. The price of cosmetic surgery, regardless of the type, is more affordable in Turkey than in Europe or the United States.
However, this cost reduction does not compromise quality. Surgical procedures in Turkey are conducted in compliance with strict standards and regulations. As a result, Turkish cosmetic surgeries are highly secure and have a high success rate.
Good to know: In France, medical procedures in the aesthetic domain are not reimbursed by Social Security. If you want to save money, medical tourism is the simplest solution.
State-of-the-art hospitals
Turkish hospitals are equipped with high-quality facilities. Medical establishments are modern and adhere to international safety standards. This is an essential factor to consider, as having confidence in the hospital is crucial for approaching your cosmetic surgery with peace of mind.
Highly skilled surgeons
Turkish doctors and surgeons receive international training. They gain extensive expertise in their field before practicing in their home country. In cosmetic surgery, it’s reassuring to know you’re in the hands of a specialist who is skilled and comfortable working with advanced medical equipment!
Shorter waiting times
When you choose to undergo surgery in Turkey, you can secure appointments quickly. Whether it’s for the specialist consultation or the hospital procedure, the waiting time to get an appointment is short.
Personalized service
Many Turkish clinics and hospitals offer five-star, fully tailored services to meet the patient’s needs. For instance, you can request a package that includes airport transfers, accommodation, the surgical procedure, and postoperative care. This ensures that your surgery takes place under the best possible conditions.
An excellent quality-price ratio
Turkey is highly popular among medical tourists because surgical procedures performed there are cost-effective. The price of cosmetic surgery, regardless of the type, is more affordable in Turkey than in Europe or the United States.
However, this cost reduction does not compromise quality. Surgical procedures in Turkey are conducted in compliance with strict standards and regulations. As a result, Turkish cosmetic surgeries are highly secure and have a high success rate.
Good to know: In France, medical procedures in the aesthetic domain are not reimbursed by Social Security. If you want to save money, medical tourism is the simplest solution.
State-of-the-art hospitals
Turkish hospitals are equipped with high-quality facilities. Medical establishments are modern and adhere to international safety standards. This is an essential factor to consider, as having confidence in the hospital is crucial for approaching your cosmetic surgery with peace of mind.
It’s also worth noting that in most Turkish hospitals, staff are trained to accommodate international patients. You can communicate with personnel who speak French or request translator services. Although it might not initially come to mind, language barriers can be a source of stress and make your hospital stay challenging.
Highly skilled surgeons
Turkish doctors and surgeons receive international training. They gain extensive expertise in their field before practicing in their home country. In cosmetic surgery, it’s reassuring to know you’re in the hands of a specialist who is skilled and comfortable working with advanced medical equipment!
Shorter waiting times
When you choose to undergo surgery in Turkey, you can secure appointments quickly. Whether it’s for the specialist consultation or the hospital procedure, the waiting time to get an appointment is short.
Personalized service
Many Turkish clinics and hospitals offer five-star, fully tailored services to meet the patient’s needs. For instance, you can request a package that includes airport transfers, accommodation, the surgical procedure, and postoperative care. This ensures that your surgery takes place under the best possible conditions.
A beautiful country to discover after surgery
Choosing Turkey for your surgery also offers the opportunity to explore the country. Turkey has much to offer: a rich history, a unique culture, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
After your postoperative care, take some time to explore Turkey. Here are a few must-see sites to inspire your itinerary:
- The Cappadocia region
- The ancient city of Ephesus
- Mount Ararat
- The natural pools of Pamukkale
- Istanbul
- Ankara, the capital of Turkey
- Kekova Island
Make the most of your medical tourism experience by planning unforgettable activities. Wander through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, take a hot-air balloon ride, or go horseback riding in Cappadocia, and relax in a traditional Turkish bath.
From timeless archaeological sites to stunning natural landscapes and beautiful beaches, Turkey offers countless options for relaxation after surgery. Plus, the Turkish people are incredibly hospitable, and the local cuisine is excellent!
What are the most popular cosmetic procedures in Turkey ?
Cosmetic surgery represents a significant portion of medical tourism in Turkey. The most popular cosmetic treatments in Turkish hospitals include:
- Rhinoplasty
- Liposuction
- Breast augmentation
- Hair transplants
- Blepharoplasty
- Botox injections
- Facelifts
- Dental implants
- Teeth whitening
- Veneers
These cosmetic procedures are popular because they are more affordable than in Europe and because Turkish clinics and hospitals are equipped with the latest technologies. Rest assured, the results of cosmetic surgery are very natural, thanks to the use of advanced and modern techniques.
Medical tourism in Turkey : tips for a successful trip
If you’re considering undergoing surgery in Turkey, ensure that you prepare for your trip in advance to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
First and foremost, choosing the right clinic is essential. Opt for an establishment with international accreditation. If needed, don’t hesitate to consult reviews from previous patients (available online).
It might also be wise to choose a clinic offering an all-inclusive package, including airport pickup, transportation, and accommodation. This will make it easier to organize your trip and plan your budget.
Before traveling, plan your visits and activities, taking into account the postoperative recovery period. Some cosmetic procedures require significant surgery, which can be tiring. It’s important to rest well before exploring Turkey!
By following these tips, you can approach your cosmetic surgery with peace of mind and make the most of everything Turkey has to offer!

Dr. Levent Acar - Docteur