Quick reference
How do I know if I'm a good candidate for breast augmentation?
Good candidates are women in good general health, of legal age (18+), with realistic expectations and stable weight. Specific medical contraindications include uncontrolled diabetes, active infections, advanced heart or lung disease, autoimmune disorders affecting wound healing, current pregnancy or breastfeeding (must wait 6 months after stopping), and active smoking that cannot be paused for 4 weeks pre/post-op. Body anatomy factors evaluated in consultation: chest wall width, existing breast tissue, skin elasticity, nipple position, and asymmetry.
Should I choose smooth or textured implants?
Modern practice favors smooth round implants with a SmoothSilk or BioCell-textured surface. Macro-textured (BioCell) implants were associated with rare cases of BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) and have been recalled in many countries. Most experienced surgeons today prefer smooth or nano-textured implants (Motiva SmoothSilk, Mentor MemoryGel). The choice depends on your anatomy and surgeon's recommendation.
Above the muscle (subglandular) or below (submuscular)?
Most patients benefit from dual-plane placement, where the upper portion of the implant sits behind the pectoralis major muscle and the lower portion behind the breast tissue. This combines coverage (less rippling, lower capsular contracture rate) with natural lower-pole shape. Pure subglandular is reserved for patients with adequate breast tissue and athletic concerns. Subfascial placement is sometimes used as a middle option.
What is BIA-ALCL and should I be worried?
Breast Implant Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma is a rare type of T-cell lymphoma associated with macro-textured breast implants (Allergan BIOCELL, in particular). Estimated incidence ranges from 1 in 2,000 to 1 in 30,000 depending on the implant type. Smooth and most micro/nano-textured implants have not been definitively linked. Symptoms typically appear 7–10 years post-op as sudden swelling. Annual check-ups can detect it early. We use only modern, low-risk implant options.
How do I choose implant size?
Implant size is best determined in consultation, considering chest measurements, breast tissue, body proportions, and your goals. We use sizers, computer simulation, and 3D imaging during consultation. Bra cup size is not a reliable measurement (cup sizing varies by manufacturer). We discuss volume in cubic centimeters (cc) — most patients choose between 250cc and 400cc. Going too large for your frame increases capsular contracture and skin stretch risk.
Will I be able to breastfeed after augmentation?
Most patients can breastfeed successfully after augmentation, especially when inframammary or infra-areolar incision is used. The periareolar incision carries slightly higher risk of milk duct disruption. Submuscular implant placement does not affect milk supply because milk glands remain intact. If breastfeeding is a priority, discuss this with your surgeon to optimize technique selection.
Can I have a mammogram with implants?
Yes. Mammograms are safe and effective with implants but require Eklund displacement views — a specialized technique where the breast tissue is gently pushed forward and the implant pushed back, allowing the mammogram to image the breast tissue without interference from the implant. Tell your radiology technician you have implants when scheduling. We recommend annual breast ultrasound and mammography from age 40 (or earlier per local guidelines).
How long do breast implants last?
Modern silicone implants do not have a fixed expiration date. Many last 15–25 years without complications. Manufacturer warranties typically cover 10 years for rupture and lifetime for implant failure. Reasons for revision include capsular contracture, rupture, malposition, asymmetry, size change desire, or aging-related ptosis. Most patients keep implants without issue for decades.
Do I need to replace implants every 10 years?
No, this is a myth. If your implants are intact, asymptomatic, and you're happy with appearance and feel, there's no medical reason to replace them. The 10-year warranty period is a manufacturer guarantee, not an expiration. Replacement is needed only if there's rupture, capsular contracture, dissatisfaction, or other complication.
What is capsular contracture?
Your body forms a thin protective capsule of scar tissue around any foreign object, including breast implants. In most cases this capsule remains soft and unnoticeable. In 5–10% of patients, the capsule thickens and contracts, causing the implant to feel firm or look distorted. Baker classification grades it I (soft) to IV (hard, painful, distorted). Treatment for grades III–IV is surgical capsulectomy with implant exchange.
Will my breasts feel natural?
Modern cohesive silicone gel implants closely mimic the feel of natural breast tissue, especially in submuscular placement. Saline implants feel slightly firmer. Patients with adequate native breast tissue have the most natural feel. Patients with thin tissue may feel implant edges or rippling. The Motiva Ergonomix line is specifically designed for natural-feeling, position-adapting behavior.
How much does breast augmentation cost in Istanbul?
Pricing varies based on implant brand, technique, hospital, and additional procedures (lift, fat transfer). Turkish Ministry of Health regulations prohibit publishing prices on websites. We provide written quotations after a free consultation (in-person or video). For comparison: Istanbul prices are typically 40–60% lower than the UK, Germany, or Netherlands for equivalent quality.
Is breast augmentation in Turkey safe?
Yes, when you choose a properly licensed surgeon in an accredited hospital. We hold the T.C. Ministry of Health International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate (No: 2026034015610080000444996), Dr. Erdal is FACS and FEBOPRAS certified, and operations are performed in accredited private hospitals (JCI-equivalent standards). Always verify a surgeon's USHAŞ authorization before booking.
How long do I need to stay in Istanbul?
We recommend a 7-day stay: arrival day 1, consultation and pre-op tests day 2, surgery day 3, hospital overnight day 3–4, hotel rest day 4–6, follow-up day 7, fly home day 7. Patients with combined procedures (lift + augmentation) may stay 8–10 days. We coordinate with local hotels in Nişantaşı and Şişli for convenience to the clinic.
What if there are complications after I return home?
We provide direct WhatsApp access for ongoing post-operative questions, photo reviews, and concerns. For minor issues (scar care, swelling questions), we can manage remotely. For complications requiring local care, we coordinate with international plastic surgeons through the IPRAS network. Major complications are rare (<2%) but we do not abandon patients after surgery.
Are pregnancy and breastfeeding safe with implants?
Yes. Pregnancy and breastfeeding are safe and not contraindicated. The breast may temporarily enlarge during pregnancy, then return to its post-op size after weaning. Some patients experience post-pregnancy breast changes (more sagging, volume loss) that may benefit from revision later. We recommend completing your family before augmentation if possible, but it's not mandatory.
Can I exercise normally with implants?
Yes — except for the first 6 weeks. After full recovery, you can do all forms of exercise: cardio, weightlifting, yoga, swimming, contact sports. Some athletes prefer subglandular placement to avoid muscle distortion ('animation deformity') with chest contraction. We discuss this in consultation if you're a competitive athlete.
How do I avoid having an over-done, fake look?
Choose a moderate volume (most patients are happiest at 250–350cc), submuscular or dual-plane placement, smooth round implants, and a surgeon focused on natural proportions over dramatic results. Beware of 'IG-famous' surgeons who specialize in extreme volumes — these results often look bad after 5 years as skin stretches and tissue thins.
What's the youngest age for breast augmentation?
FDA-approved age for silicone augmentation is 22+ (saline 18+). In Turkey, the legal minimum is 18 with developmental maturity. We do not operate on patients younger than 22 except for reconstructive cases (Poland syndrome, post-mastectomy, severe asymmetry). Breast development is usually complete by age 18, but we prefer waiting until 21–22 for purely cosmetic cases.
Is there an upper age limit?
No fixed age limit, but candidacy depends on overall health rather than chronological age. We have safely operated on healthy women into their 60s. Cardiology and pulmonary clearance is mandatory for patients over 50. We do not operate on patients with significant cardiovascular disease, regardless of age.
International Patients
What does the all-inclusive package for international patients include?
For patients travelling from the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland and the Gulf, the package includes: VIP private airport pickup and return transfers (via IST or SAW), 5-7 nights at a 4-5 star hotel in Nişantaşı, Şişli or Maslak, all hotel-clinic-hospital transfers, surgery at a JCI-accredited private hospital, board-certified anaesthesia, the first inpatient night, all medications, pre-operative laboratory and imaging tests, and a personal English-speaking patient coordinator throughout your stay. You receive a single written quotation after consultation.
How does an online (video) consultation work?
Conducted via WhatsApp video or Zoom. Before the call, you send 3-angle photos (front, profile, oblique) and basic measurements (chest circumference, current bra size, cup size). Dr. Erdal personally meets you for 30-45 minutes, reviews your medical history and goals, and recommends a suitable implant range. The first consultation is free; planning notes and an initial written quotation are sent by email within 24 hours.
What payment methods do you accept?
Bank transfer (in EUR, GBP, USD or TRY), credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Amex — single payment or instalments), and cash payments are accepted. International transfers via Wise or Revolut work well due to lower fees. International patients typically pay a 20-30% deposit to reserve the surgery date and the balance on the day of surgery in Istanbul. Cryptocurrency is not accepted. All payments are documented with an official invoice.
Is medical tourism in Turkey safe and legally regulated?
Yes. The Turkish Ministry of Health has tightly regulated medical tourism through USHAŞ (International Health Services Inc.) since 2017. Only clinics holding the official Health Tourism Authorization Certificate may legally serve international patients. Our certificate number: 2026034015610080000444996. The certification requires a minimum SKS quality score of 85, an active International Patient Department, annual government audits, and formal financial guarantees.
How are follow-up appointments handled after I return home?
For the first 6 weeks you have direct WhatsApp access to Dr. Erdal — share photos, ask questions, get same-day responses. Video follow-ups are scheduled at 3, 6 and 12 months. If a complication requires local care, we coordinate with a trusted plastic surgeon in your country through our FACS and FEBOPRAS international networks — we have established colleagues in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands, the UK and the Gulf states.
Do I need a translator? Which languages does your team speak?
No translator needed. Dr. Erdal is fluent in English. Our patient coordinator speaks English and German fluently. The nursing team has working English. Written materials (consent forms, discharge instructions, prescriptions) can be provided in English or German. WhatsApp communication is available in English, German or Turkish around the clock.
Do I need a visa to enter Turkey?
EU citizens (Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium, etc.) enter Turkey visa-free for up to 90 days. UK citizens obtain an e-visa online (about 30 USD, approved within 24 hours). US, Canada, Australia citizens — e-visa or visa-free depending on agreement. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from entry. No special medical entry document is required, but bring your appointment confirmation.
Is the hospital JCI-accredited? What does that mean for me?
We operate at private hospitals that are JCI-accredited or hold equivalent international quality certifications. Joint Commission International (JCI) is the gold-standard US-based independent body that certifies hospital quality on patient safety, infection control, anaesthesia protocols, and emergency response. JCI accreditation means international protocols and standards equivalent to leading hospitals in London, Berlin or New York.
Pricing & Payment
How is the breast augmentation price calculated?
The total includes: surgeon's fee, anaesthesia fee, hospital and operating room costs, implant cost (varies by brand and model), pre-operative tests, first inpatient night, medications, and post-operative follow-ups. International patients also receive hotel + transfers + coordinator. Per Turkish Ministry of Health regulation, specific prices cannot be published on websites; a written quotation is provided after consultation.
Why is breast augmentation cheaper in Istanbul than in the UK or Germany?
Three main reasons: (1) lower operating costs (staff salaries, hospital rents, currency advantage); (2) 0% VAT advantage on services to international patients under Turkish health tourism law; (3) high case volume of qualified surgeons keeps per-case costs down. Quality is not compromised — same Motiva, Mentor, Polytech implants; same FDA/CE-approved equipment; the same surgical standards. Typical savings: 40-60% versus equivalent quality in Western Europe.
Do I pay a deposit? What is the cancellation policy?
A 20-30% deposit secures your surgery date. If cancelled or rescheduled at least 14 days before surgery, the deposit is refunded or transferred to a new date. Cancellations within 14 days may forfeit a portion of the deposit (covering hotel and hospital reservation costs). Medical-reason cancellations (sudden illness, visa issue) are handled flexibly. Full payment of the balance is on the day of surgery in Istanbul.
Is there a charge for revision surgery?
For complications attributable to our team (e.g. early hematoma drainage, capsular issue) within the first year, the surgeon's fee is waived. Patient-requested changes (size adjustment, brand swap) follow standard pricing. Issues covered under implant manufacturer warranty (rupture, BIA-ALCL) — the implant cost is covered by the manufacturer. We provide written warranty terms in the consultation package.
Will my health insurance cover breast augmentation?
Most private and public insurance plans worldwide do not cover purely cosmetic breast augmentation. Reconstructive cases (post-mastectomy reconstruction, Poland's syndrome, congenital asymmetry) may be covered — check your policy. We provide detailed itemised invoices that can be submitted to insurance for any reconstructive portions or if your policy includes cosmetic coverage.
How does the 0% VAT advantage work?
Turkish Ministry of Finance regulation (2017) exempts services rendered by Health Tourism Authorisation-licensed clinics to non-resident patients from VAT (KDV). When you provide a foreign passport showing non-Turkish residency, your invoice is automatically issued without VAT. This is the legal framework that makes Istanbul 40-60% cheaper than equivalent Western European care — it is not a discount, it is a tax exemption granted by Turkish law.
Is the implant warranty included in the package price?
Yes. All modern silicone implants we use (Motiva, Mentor, Polytech, Sebbin) come with the manufacturer's lifetime rupture warranty. Motiva also covers Baker III/IV capsular contracture and BIA-ALCL up to 10 years post-op. To activate your warranty, keep the implant card you receive after surgery. Q Inside Safety Technology chips on Motiva implants allow any future clinic to scan and identify your implant data — anywhere in the world.
More Detailed Medical Questions
What are hematoma and seroma, and how often do they occur?
Hematoma: blood collection in the surgical pocket (incidence 1-3%). Recognized by sudden swelling, pain, and skin discoloration; requires surgical drainage. Seroma: clear fluid accumulation (incidence 1-2%). Usually resolves spontaneously or with needle aspiration. Both are early-stage (within 7 days) complications that resolve fully with prompt management — no lasting effect on the cosmetic result.
What is the infection risk and which symptoms should I watch for?
Modern sterilisation and prophylactic antibiotic protocols keep infection risk to 1-2%. Watch for: fever above 38°C (100.4°F), increasing redness or warmth at the breast, unexpected swelling, foul-smelling discharge, sudden severe pain. Be vigilant the first 4 weeks. Early antibiotic treatment resolves most cases; severe infections may require temporary implant removal with replacement after 3-6 months.
Is nipple sensation loss permanent?
Temporary sensation change occurs in 80-90% of patients and fully normalises within 6-12 months. Persistent reduced sensation in around 10% of patients — more common with larger implants or periareolar incisions. Complete loss of sensation is rare (1-2%). Early-phase massage, warm showers, and nerve-stimulation exercises support recovery. Discuss your priority on sensation preservation during consultation — incision choice can be optimised accordingly.
Is mild asymmetry normal? How much is acceptable?
Natural breasts have some asymmetry — pre-op photos document existing differences. Post-op, up to 1 cm volume difference and 0.5 cm height difference is within acceptable limits. Visible asymmetry (>1.5 cm) warrants revision evaluation after 6 months. Perfect symmetry is medically unattainable; the goal is balanced, natural appearance, not mirror-image identicality.
What is implant rotation, and when does it happen?
Rotation only matters with anatomical (teardrop) implants. Round implants look the same regardless of rotation — not a problem for them. Anatomical rotation incidence is 1-14% across studies, dropping below 1% with meticulous pocket dissection. Rotation creates visible shape distortion; manual repositioning or surgical revision is needed. This is one reason we prefer round Motiva Ergonomix for most patients.
What is rippling and how is it prevented?
Rippling — visible or palpable folds of the implant edge under the skin — affects 5-10% of patients, especially thin patients. Prevention strategies: cohesive gel implants like Motiva Ergonomix, dual-plane or submuscular placement (muscle adds coverage), correctly sized implants for your frame, and hybrid technique with autologous fat grafting. Treatment for established rippling: implant exchange, plane change, or fat grafting at the visible area.
What is animation deformity?
When submuscular (subpectoral) implants visibly distort or shift sideways during pectoral muscle contraction — most noticeable in athletic women during chest exercises. Solutions: dual-plane technique reduces it; subglandular (above-muscle) placement eliminates it but may cause more rippling in thin patients; pectoral tendon release is a revision option. Mild animation is normal and unproblematic; significant cases can be revised.
Lifestyle & Daily Life
When can I fly safely after breast augmentation?
Short flights (2-3 hours) are safe from day 5-7 post-op. Long-haul flights (4+ hours) — wait 7-10 days to reduce DVT risk. International patients typically take their return flight on day 7. In-flight DVT precautions: stay well-hydrated, wear compression stockings, walk every hour, avoid alcohol. Your patient coordinator schedules return flights with these factors in mind.
When can I use a sauna, hot tub, or swim in the sea or pool?
General rule: no hot water, chlorinated water, or salt water until incisions are fully healed (4-6 weeks). Sauna and hot tub from week 6. Sea and pool swimming from weeks 6-8. Continue protecting scars with silicone tape for 3 months. Strict 50+ SPF sunscreen on scars for the first 6 months — UV exposure causes scars to darken permanently.
Can I have an MRI? Will it damage my implants?
Yes, MRI is fully safe with modern silicone implants — they are non-magnetic and do not interact with the MRI machine. MRI is in fact the most sensitive method for detecting silent implant rupture; the FDA recommends an MRI screening at 5-6 years post-op for asymptomatic patients. Q Inside Safety Technology chips in Motiva implants are MRI-compatible (FDA/CE certified).
Can I do strength training and weightlifting?
Yes — after the first 6 weeks. No upper-body lifting in the first 6 weeks. Light weights (5-10 kg) from week 6-8; full strength training from week 12. Bench press, push-ups, and dips heavily activate pectoral muscles and may produce animation in subpectoral implants — dual-plane placement reduces this. Professional athletes receive a customised return-to-sport plan.
Will the scale show my implant weight?
Bilateral 350cc implants add roughly 700-750 grams total — about 1.5 lb. The scale will show this as a small permanent increase, well within normal day-to-day weight fluctuation (1-2 kg). Post-op, mild fluid retention causes 2-3 kg temporary weight gain in the first 2 weeks; this resolves. Implant weight does not interfere with weight loss or weight gain plans afterwards.
When can I lift my children or carry heavy bags?
Nothing over 5 kg in the first 4 weeks — including children. Weeks 4-6: cautious lifting up to 10 kg. Full normal activity from week 6. Babies under 4 months should be placed in your lap rather than lifted directly. Mothers of young children should plan surgery with realistic childcare support — partner, parents, or a temporary nanny — to fully respect the recovery timeline.
Surgeon Selection and Clinic Safety
How do I verify my surgeon is USHAŞ-authorised?
The USHAŞ (Turkish International Health Services) Health Tourism Authorization Certificate is issued by the Turkish Ministry of Health and verifiable by certificate number on the e-Devlet portal. Clinics without this certificate are not legally permitted to serve international patients. Our certificate number: 2026034015610080000444996.
Is the hospital JCI-accredited and how do I check?
The JCI (Joint Commission International) accredited hospital list is publicly searchable at jointcommissioninternational.org with country filter. Turkey has ~70 JCI-accredited hospitals. Our operations are performed at JCI-standard hospitals such as Memorial Şişli, Acıbadem Maslak, and Florence Nightingale.
What red flags should I watch for when choosing a surgeon?
Concerning signs include: (1) social-media before/after photo flooding (banned in Turkey), (2) "guaranteed price" given over the phone before any consultation, (3) only one implant brand promoted, (4) verbal "lifetime guarantee" without written documentation, (5) consultation rushed in less than a day before surgery, (6) "coordinator"-led process bypassing direct surgeon contact, (7) "100% guaranteed result" claims. These are typical signs of marketing-heavy, safety-light operations.
Is a plastic surgeon different from an aesthetician?
Yes — a clear difference. Plastic surgery requires 6 years of medical school plus 5 years of specialty training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery. An "aesthetician" in Turkey holds no medical degree and is permitted only to perform permanent makeup, laser hair removal and certain superficial filler applications. Breast augmentation can only legally be performed by a Plastic Surgery or General Surgery specialist. Anyone else doing this procedure is operating illegally and creates serious risk to life.
Should I get a second opinion?
Absolutely. Aesthetic surgery is irreversible. If you feel pressured at the first consultation, hear "this price is only valid today" urgency tactics, or feel uncertain about the proposed implant or technique — get a second or third surgical opinion. A qualified surgeon supports your wish to seek a second opinion rather than becoming defensive.
Implant Safety and Long-Term
What is BIA-ALCL — should I be worried?
BIA-ALCL (Breast Implant Associated — Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma) is a very rare T-cell lymphoma associated with breast implants. Estimated incidence: 1 in 30,000 to 1 in 100,000 per implant, and almost exclusively reported with macrotextured implants (Allergan BIOCELL, Eurosilicone Cristalline). In 2019 the FDA recalled Allergan BIOCELL. Modern smooth or nano-textured implants (Motiva, Mentor MemoryGel smooth, Sebbin) have no reported BIA-ALCL cases. We use only the safer category in our practice.
Is Breast Implant Illness (BII) real?
BII (Breast Implant Illness) refers to a cluster of non-specific symptoms — fatigue, joint pain, brain fog — reported by some women with implants. To date there is no scientifically established pathophysiology; randomised controlled studies have not demonstrated a causal link between implants and these symptoms. Patient subjective complaints are real and deserve to be heard, however. Where suspected, en-bloc capsulectomy (removing implant and capsule together) is an option. The FDA maintains an information page on this topic.
How will I know if my implant has ruptured?
Modern silicone implants contain "cohesive gel" — even if torn, the gel does not leak, creating what is called a "silent rupture." Signs: unilateral shape change, hardness, mild pain, asymmetry. MRI is the most sensitive diagnostic method (ultrasound second). FDA recommends a check-up MRI starting 5-6 years post-implant, then every 2-3 years. Saline implants deflate visibly upon rupture and are immediately apparent.
What happens if I want my implants removed?
Implant removal (explantation) is always possible. Three scenarios: (1) implant only — breast appears slightly emptier and looser than the original; (2) en-bloc removal of implant + capsule together — cleaner, preferred when BII is suspected; (3) explant + simultaneous lift (mastopexy) — restores shape after volume loss. The choice depends on individual anatomy and patient preference.
How is mammography performed with implants?
Mammography in breasts with implants uses the Eklund technique — the implant is pushed back, breast tissue brought forward, allowing tissue visualisation. This is a standard technique performed by every radiology centre. Important: at the appointment, state "I have silicone implants." Annual mammography over age 40 is standard for implant-bearing women, often with ultrasound added.
Do pregnancy and breastfeeding affect implants?
Most patients can breastfeed normally — implants are placed behind/below the milk glands, leaving the milk ducts untouched. With periareolar (around-nipple) incision there is slightly higher risk of milk-duct disruption; the inframammary incision carries the lowest risk. Breasts enlarge during pregnancy and return to baseline afterward — the implant is not damaged but breast tissue distribution may shift, potentially requiring later mastopexy.
Complication Signs and Emergency
Which symptoms warrant an immediate call?
The following are emergencies: (1) rapid unilateral swelling or hardness (haematoma), (2) fever above 38°C, (3) heavy or foul-smelling drainage (infection), (4) one-sided leg swelling or pain (DVT), (5) sudden shortness of breath or chest pain (pulmonary embolism), (6) significant suture-line dehiscence, (7) sensation that the implant has clearly displaced. Contact WhatsApp +90 544 850 72 32 — available 24/7.
What is capsular contracture and how is it prevented?
Capsular contracture is the excessive hardening and shrinkage of the thin capsule that naturally forms around any implant — making the implant feel hard and look distorted. Incidence is 3-7%. Prevention: (1) atraumatic surgical technique, (2) submuscular plane preference, (3) sterility (Keller funnel, no-touch implant placement), (4) post-op massage (with surgeon's clearance), (5) avoiding overexertion in early healing. Treatment: capsulotomy (releasing the capsule) or capsulectomy (removing the capsule) + new implant.
What is a seroma — is it serious?
Seroma is clear fluid that accumulates in the implant pocket post-surgery. Mild seroma (50-100ml) usually resorbs spontaneously. Late-onset (more than 1 year post-op) or chronic seroma is a warning sign for BIA-ALCL and must be aspirated under ultrasound guidance and sent for pathology. Our clinic applies a "BIA-ALCL exclusion" protocol to all late-onset seromas.
Will nipple numbness be permanent?
Temporary numbness or reduced sensation occurs in most patients (~80%) within the first 6 months. Sensation largely recovers within 6-12 months. Permanent numbness is reported at 5-15%, varying by incision technique (periareolar carries highest risk). Effect on sexual function is limited and usually returns to baseline.
I feel like my implant has rotated — is that normal?
In an anatomical (teardrop) implant this is a critical finding — rotation distorts shape. In a round implant, rotation does not change shape. Sudden distortion, asymmetry or palpable hardness is evaluated with MRI. A rotated anatomical implant is surgically repositioned or exchanged for a round implant.
Travel and Practical Details
Do I have to bring a companion?
Not medically required — after the 1-night hospital observation, you can return to the hotel independently. However, the first 48-72 hours benefit from psychological and practical support: meals, medication, dressing. A partner, parent, sister or close friend is recommended. If you travel alone, our patient coordinator checks in at your hotel and arranges room service and other amenities.
Which Istanbul airport should I fly into — IST or SAW?
Both are options. Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side, ~45 min to Nişantaşı; most international flights land here. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side, ~1 hour 15 min to Nişantaşı; common for Pegasus, Ryanair and some charters. VIP transfer covers both — you can choose freely.
Can I stay alone at the hotel?
Yes. The recommended 4-5★ hotels (Nişantaşı/Şişli/Maslak) have 24/7 room service and are 5-10 minutes from the clinic. Our patient coordinator liaises with the hotel and handles any need (medication, meals, additional transfer). WhatsApp is open 24/7. Most of our solo international patients pass through comfortably.
Will I pay in Turkish Lira or Euros/USD?
For international patients, payment is usually in EUR or USD — to avoid exchange-rate surprises, the contract is written in foreign currency. Bank transfer (SWIFT/IBAN), credit card (1-3 instalments with select banks) or cash are accepted. Cryptocurrency is not accepted. All payments are documented with official receipts/invoices.
What about passport and visa?
EU citizens (Germany, Netherlands, Belgium etc.) enter Turkey visa-free for 90 days with passport only. UK citizens are also visa-free. US citizens obtain an e-Visa online ($50, takes minutes). Passport must be valid for at least 6 months. No special "medical visa" is needed. We can issue an invitation letter for Schengen visa applications if requested.
Can I show my surgical reports to my doctor in the UK/Germany?
Yes — on request, the surgical report, anaesthesia report and implant passport (brand, model, serial number, lot number, warranty document) are prepared in English or German. These give your home physician all the information needed for follow-up. Manufacturer warranties are international per EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR).