Travelling to Istanbul for surgery

In short

Istanbul has two international airports and is served directly from most European cities. Visa requirements depend on your nationality and should be checked with the official Turkish e-visa service. Arrange travel only after your surgery date is confirmed, and book a changeable return flight.

Book travel only after your date is confirmed

Do not book flights before your consultation and written plan. Dates can move for clinical reasons, and a non-refundable booking made too early creates pressure in exactly the wrong direction.

When you do book, make the return leg changeable. Whether you are cleared to fly home depends on how your recovery is going — see flying after surgery.

Airports

Istanbul is served by Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. Both handle international traffic, but they are a considerable distance apart, so check which one your flight actually uses before arranging any onward transport.

Visas and entry

Requirements depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Check the official Turkish e-visa service, and confirm your passport has enough remaining validity for entry. Do not rely on a clinic website — including this one — for the current position.

If you need a letter confirming the reason for your visit, ask and we will provide one.

Airport transfers

Transfer arrangements are confirmed as part of your written plan before you travel. You will be told who is meeting you, where, and how to reach us if a flight is delayed.

What to bring

  • Passport and any visa documentation
  • A list of your current medications, with doses
  • Relevant medical records, test results or imaging, if you have been asked for them
  • Loose, comfortable clothing that does not need to be pulled over your head
  • Compression garments or stockings if you have been told to bring them
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Enough of your regular medication for longer than you plan to stay

Travelling with someone

For most procedures it is worth having someone with you, particularly in the first days after surgery. If you are travelling alone, say so in advance so that the practical side of your recovery can be planned around it.

Practicalities

The currency is the Turkish lira. Card payment is widely accepted. Turkey uses the European two-pin plug and 220V, so a UK or Irish adapter is needed. The time zone is UTC+3 year round — Turkey does not change its clocks, so the difference from the UK varies by season.

Frequently asked questions

Which airport should I fly into?
Either is workable, but check which one your flight uses and tell us in advance — they are on opposite sides of the city and the transfer is not interchangeable.

When should I book my flights?
After your surgery date is confirmed in writing, not before. Make the return leg changeable.

Can you provide a letter for my visa application?
Yes. Ask when your plan is confirmed and we will provide a letter setting out the reason and dates of your visit.

Considering this procedure?

Whether a procedure is appropriate for you depends on your examination, your medical history and your goals. You can send your questions and, if you wish, request an online assessment with Dr. Kayan. There is no obligation to proceed.

Request an online assessment Read the patient journey

Questions are answered by the clinical team in English. Sending an enquiry does not create a doctor–patient relationship.

Written and medically reviewed by , Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon