Why Canada patients come to Istanbul
- Surgical quality. Istanbul-based plastic surgeons with FACS, FEBOPRAS, and academic affiliations match the credentials available domestically in Canada, often with significantly higher facial surgery volumes.
- Cost differential. Canadian private aesthetic surgery for buccal fat is typically CAD 5,500–9,000. Istanbul costs including flights and hotel are typically meaningfully less for equivalent quality.
- Direct flights. Multiple daily direct flights between Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver (1 stop) and Istanbul Airport (IST).
- English-speaking environment. Our entire patient-facing team works in English; you will not need a translator.
What's practically different from having surgery at home
- Pre-op consultation is partly remote. Initial photo consultation happens via WhatsApp; the in-person consultation happens the day before surgery. This is normal for international patients and works well for buccal fat (a procedure where physical examination adds modest information beyond photos).
- Recovery happens in Istanbul. We ask you to stay 5–6 nights post-arrival, with the surgery typically on day 2 or 3.
- Follow-up is remote after you return home. WhatsApp check-ins at week 1, week 4, month 3, and month 6.
- If a complication develops at home, we coordinate with you via WhatsApp and, if needed, with a local physician in Canada who can examine you in person.
What we've learned working with Canada patients
Some practical observations specific to Canada-based patients:
- You typically have done significant research before contacting — questions tend to be specific and detailed
- You often want explicit cost transparency upfront, which we provide via private quote
- Most Canada patients combine the surgery with a short Istanbul visit (3–4 days of light tourism after recovery)
- The follow-up engagement rate is high — most Canada patients send 3-month and 6-month photos as agreed
Booking your surgery
The process is:
- Send a WhatsApp message with 3 facial photos and basic information
- Receive Doç. Dr. Erdal's personal assessment within 1–2 business days
- If candidate, receive a written quote covering surgery + theatre + anaesthesia
- Pay a small refundable deposit to secure your surgery date
- Book your own flights and hotel near our Nişantaşı clinic
- Arrive in Istanbul; we handle the airport transfer and the rest
We recommend 3–4 weeks notice as a minimum.
Frequently asked questions
Will my Canadian provincial health card cover anything?
Elective aesthetic surgery is not covered by Canadian provincial health insurance. Some private supplementary plans cover complications from overseas elective surgery — check your specific policy.
Are direct flights available?
Direct flights are available from Toronto (Turkish Airlines, Air Canada). From Montreal and Vancouver, most options involve one stop. Flight times: 10–12 hours total from eastern Canada, 14+ hours from western Canada.
Not sure if you're a candidate?
Buccal fat pad removal is the right choice only for the right face. Send 3 facial photos (front, profile, three-quarter) and Doç. Dr. Erdal will give you an honest, no-pressure suitability assessment before you decide anything.
Ready to discuss buccal fat removal?
Schedule a free WhatsApp consultation with Doç. Dr. Erdal. Send a few facial photos and your questions — typical response within 2 hours during business hours.