Planning Your Medical Trip to Istanbul: A Step-by-Step Checklist for International Patients

Travelling abroad for dental care, a hair transplant or cosmetic surgery involves more planning than an ordinary trip. Good preparation keeps you safe, avoids surprises and lets you focus on your recovery. Use this checklist from your first enquiry until you are back home.

Step 1: Research and shortlist

• Look for clinics that clearly name their doctors and their specialties

• Check that the facility holds a Turkish Ministry of Health International Health Tourism Authorisation Certificate

• Read independent information from professional bodies, not only clinic marketing

• Be cautious of offers that promise results or quote a final price before an assessment

Step 2: Remote assessment

• Send recent photos, X-rays or test results the clinic asks for

• Share your full medical history and a list of medications

• Ask for a provisional written plan and an explanation of options

• Arrange a call with the doctor or a coordinator to ask questions

Step 3: Talk to your doctor at home

• Tell your GP, dentist or specialist about your plans

• Ask for copies of relevant records and recent test results

• Discuss who will support your aftercare once you return

Step 4: Documents and insurance

• Check your passport validity and the entry requirements for Turkey for your nationality

• Arrange travel insurance that covers medical treatment abroad and possible complications, and tell the insurer about your planned treatment

• Keep digital and paper copies of your treatment plan, insurance and the clinic's contact details

Step 5: Book travel with enough recovery time

• Confirm treatment dates before booking flights

• Add buffer days, especially after surgery

• Choose accommodation close to the clinic

• Arrange airport transfers, which many clinics help coordinate

• Plan to travel with a companion after surgery

Step 6: Pack for treatment and recovery

• Comfortable, loose clothing, including front-opening tops after facial or upper-body surgery

• Any regular medication in its original packaging, with a prescription copy

• A phone charger, adapter and a power bank for the plug type used in Turkey

• A neck pillow and compression socks for the flight if advised

Step 7: In Istanbul

• Attend the in-person consultation and ask all your remaining questions

• Make sure you understand and sign the consent form before treatment

• Follow pre-treatment instructions such as fasting or stopping certain medications

• Rest as advised and attend every follow-up appointment

Step 8: Before you fly home

• Get your doctor's written approval to fly

• Collect your medical report, X-rays or scans, prescriptions and aftercare instructions

• Confirm how to reach the clinic and how follow-up will work remotely

Step 9: After you return

• Follow your aftercare plan and attend check-ups with your local doctor or dentist

• Send progress photos to the clinic when requested

• Contact your doctor promptly if anything does not feel right

Getting around Istanbul

Istanbul has two main international airports, Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. Traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time for transfers to appointments and to the airport on your departure day.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Turkey?

It depends on your nationality, and the rules can change. Check the official Republic of Türkiye e-Visa website or your government's travel advice before booking.

Should I travel alone?

For dental work or a hair transplant many people travel alone. After surgery under general anaesthesia, travelling with a companion is strongly recommended.

Can the clinic help with accommodation and transfers?

Many clinics, including ours, help international patients arrange practical details. Always confirm in writing what is included.

Let us help you plan

Our international patient team supports you from the first message to your follow-up at home. Visit our International Patients page or start with a consultation request.

This article is general information and does not replace a personal consultation with a doctor.