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Aesthetic surgery in Istanbul: your journey, step by step
Every step of the journey is planned in advance for patients travelling from abroad. Below you will find the operational flow from first message to final check-up, what is included in your package and the recovery protocol we follow.
Operation Guide: 6 Steps
Online Consultation
Your photos are assessed via WhatsApp or video call; the procedure, technique, timing and package options are discussed. Please share any chronic conditions and regular medication at this stage.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
- Smoking: stop 2 weeks before surgery and do not smoke for 2 weeks after.
- Aspirin and blood thinners: stop 1 week before (with your doctor's approval) and do not restart until 2 weeks after.
- Alcohol: stop 1 week before surgery.
- Patients with chronic conditions need clearance from the relevant specialist; blood tests are planned if there is a history of anaemia.
- Shower on the morning of surgery; no make-up, hair gel or nail polish.
- Eat a light meal the day before; nothing after midnight.
Surgery Day
You are collected by VIP car at your admission time. Nothing is eaten, including chewing gum, for 6 hours before surgery; small sips of still water (about 30 ml per hour) are allowed up to 2 hours before. At the hospital you have an anaesthesia assessment, any required blood tests and surgical markings, followed by the operation.
Hospital and Discharge
Pain control, nutrition and first mobilisation are managed by the hospital team. Once you can walk and use the toilet comfortably you move to the hotel, the same day or the next depending on the procedure. Thrombosis prophylaxis and pneumatic compression are used for longer operations.
Recovery in Istanbul (S.A.F.E. Protocol)
- Nutrition: high-protein nutritional support, more than 2 litres of water a day and supplements aimed at reducing swelling.
- Activity: leg exercises and assisted walking from the day of surgery, increasing gradually over 6 days.
- Breathing: hourly deep-breathing and coughing exercises with a triflow device to prevent lung collapse.
- Daily dressings, lymphatic drainage massage where indicated and assisted showers; coordinator available 24/7.
Follow-up and Control Consultations
An online check-up takes place on day 14 after you return home. Between week 6 and month 6 the surgeon reviews your results and gives final aftercare advice. You can reach the team by WhatsApp and email at every stage.
How Long Should I Stay?
Flights and Travel
To reduce thrombosis risk on long flights, drink plenty of water, wear compression stockings and walk regularly on both your arrival and return flights. The surgeon confirms the appropriate date for your return flight; as a rule, flights are not planned before the stays above are complete.
After You Return Home
- Do not smoke; it delays healing.
- No swimming, sea or pool for 3–4 weeks.
- Take prescribed medication exactly as directed.
- No alcohol for 1–2 weeks.
- Start regular walking after about 2 weeks; no heavy sport before week 4 (8–10 weeks for body contouring).
- Wear garments and compression wear for the full period advised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring a companion?
Yes. A double hotel room can be planned; companion stays in hospital follow the hospital's rules.
Do I need a visa?
It depends on your nationality. Where required, an invitation letter with appointment and hotel confirmation is issued.
How do I pay?
Your date is secured with a deposit during planning; the balance is paid in Istanbul. Payment options are explained by your coordinator.
Who do I contact if something goes wrong?
Throughout your stay you have a coordinator reachable 24/7 and, when needed, direct contact with your surgeon.
Assessment based on your photos
Share your photos and goals on WhatsApp; Dr. Göktuğ Esmer will explain the plan that suits you and what the journey looks like.