Why the United States patients come to Istanbul
- Surgical quality. Istanbul-based plastic surgeons with FACS, FEBOPRAS, and academic affiliations match the credentials available domestically in the United States, often with significantly higher facial surgery volumes.
- Cost differential. US private aesthetic surgery for buccal fat is typically $5,000–10,000. Istanbul costs including flights and hotel are typically meaningfully less for equivalent quality.
- Direct flights. Multiple daily direct flights between New York (JFK, EWR) or major hubs 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 the United States who can examine you in person.
What we've learned working with the United States patients
Some practical observations specific to the United States-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 the United States 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 the United States 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
Is jet lag a concern for recovery?
Mild jet lag (3+ time zones) doesn't significantly affect recovery. We schedule surgery for at least 24 hours after your arrival to allow sleep recovery first.
Will my US health insurance cover anything?
Elective aesthetic surgery is not covered by US health insurance. Specialised medical travel insurance is recommended for international travel.
What documents do I need to fly with prescribed analgesics?
Bring your prescription label and a copy of the discharge documents. Standard travel-quantity prescribed analgesics are routinely permitted on international flights.
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.