7 Myths about Plastic Surgery in Turkey

Apr 9, 2023
4 min read

Updated: Apr 11, 2023

Turkey is the world’s leading medical tourism destination, with over seven million foreign medical tourists each year! However, there are some misconceptions about Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery in Turkey that need to be addressed.

Surgery is a risky process no matter the destination. If you are uneducated and don’t do your research prior to your travels, you can find yourself in an unregistered clinic with unqualified “surgeons”.

Ignorance will lead you into these dangerous circumstances, not just in Turkey but anywhere in the world. It is absolutely vital that you do extensive research if you are uncertain, or better enquire with a trusted medical tourism agency like GoldenSands who can organise your medical holiday for you.

Some Misconceptions About Surgery in Turkey – Debunked:

1.”You will get Botched Surgery in Istanbul”

Yes, you can get Botched Surgery in Istanbul – I bet you didn’t think we would say that!

Like anywhere, even here in the UK or the USA it is possible to get a surgical outcome that is aesthetically unsuccessful and even considered “botched”. So this is why it is critically important you do your research the hospital’s, accreditations and surgeons. Choosing a highly regarded cosmetic surgery agency that only uses the best will also help to reduce the risk of an unsuccessful surgery.

Turkey has world-class healthcare, technology and services, and in some cases much better than our own health systems and definitely better service of care. The current standards of hospitals such as the American Hospital or Memorial Hospital Group are of the highest possible Joint Commission International accreditation (American Standard) met by the highest international standards.

Walking into any of the JCI hospitals today feels like you’ve stepped into a five-star hotel rather than a hospital ward. There is no “backyard botched surgery” occurring in these highly credible hospitals by these highly experience world-renowned surgeons.

2. “Turkey is a 3rd World Country”

A false cliché –3rd world is the assumption for those that have not travelled and read misinformed media/ forums etc. Sure there is poverty in some areas of Turkey, but poverty exists worldwide – even here in the UK. Turkey is home to a select group of world-class, Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited hospitals, with state of the art facilities, accompanied by internationally trained Plastic Surgeon. The standards are equivalent, if not better, than the hospitals here in the UK.

3.“There is no one to help you when you get back to the UK if you have issues”

The greatest advantage of travelling through a reliable Medical Tourism Agency like GoldenSands is that we care about our client’s well-being throughout their entire medical travel journey, and long after you return home. We are also the only agency that offers a Breast Surgery Travel Warranty which will cover you for post-surgery complications and even Capsular Contracture, and also covers return flights and luxury accommodation with any revision surgery provided by the hospital.

4. “They don’t speak English and there is no support once you’re over there.”

We have GoldenSands management and staff including medical personnel based in all of our surgery travel destinations, so you’re never left to fend for yourself in a foreign country. We also have Client Relations personnel on site in all our partner hospitals. All surgeons and hospital coordinators associated with us speak fluent English.

5. “Low prices mean low Quality”

Do not assume that low prices equal low quality when considering Plastic Surgery in Turkey. Western countries are tied up in immense administrative and insurance costs and surgeons in the UK charge much higher rates for their skills.

The main reasons for the discounted rates are:

Lower cost for Plastic Surgeons
Exchange rates
Lower Government taxes
Lower Hospital costs
Lower salary demands by Nurses and Plastic Surgeons
Competitive pricing due to the vast amount of surgeons in Turkey

6. “Plastic Surgery in Turkey is Unsafe”

Like any surgical or non-surgical procedure, Plastic Surgery involves risk no matter the destination. The key to a safe and successful treatment is finding an experienced and certified Plastic Surgeon who performs surgery in an accredited hospital.

When you meet with your surgeon make sure to ask plenty of questions and discuss any potential risks. GoldenSands only uses accredited hospitals in Turkey, and Plastic and reconstructive surgeons who have collectively performed thousands of successful operations on our own GoldenSands patients.

7. "You Will Get Scammed"

Traveling to a foreign country and paying for your procedure in cash can be very scary. Cash transactions may lead to you being scammed because in case you don't receive the service you were promised you will have no legal recourse or protection.

At GoldenSands we offer you the option to pay for your medical treatment in Turkey using a credit card so your transaction is protected by Section 75 of the UK Consumer Protection Act, or your local credit card transaction protection act if you live outside of the UK.

In addition to this, se offer you a variety of financing options such as interest free laybys, introduction to lenders and payment plans.

So why should you choose Turkey for your treatment?

By opting to head to Turkey for your surgical procedure/s you will not only be in the hands of some of the world’s most renowned, highly experienced Plastic Surgeons, your procedure will take place in an Internationally Accredited Hospital and you also have the chance to travel and recover in some of the most luxurious resorts and hotels and still save money!

When you choose a UK Surgery Consultant who organises your treatment travel plan and accompanies you through every step of the way you can relax and feel happy and confident about your treatment. The team at GoldenSands place your safety and well being as our top priority, therefore we will provide you with ongoing support throughout your entire journey.

Don’t let the media and online chatter hold you back from receiving an outstanding surgical outcome in beautiful Turkey!