Istanbul has emerged as one of the world’s leading destinations for plastic and cosmetic surgery. Each year, hundreds of thousands of international patients travel to the city for procedures ranging from rhinoplasty and facelifts to body contouring and breast surgery. The reasons are clear: internationally trained surgeons, modern hospitals and clinics, comprehensive medical‑tourism services, and prices that are often 50–70% lower than in Western Europe or North America.
This guide brings together the most important details you need to know if you are considering plastic surgery in Istanbul, based on the clinics, hospitals, and surgeons discussed above.
Why Istanbul Is a Global Hub for Plastic Surgery
Istanbul’s success in aesthetic medicine is not accidental. Over the past two decades, Turkey has invested heavily in private healthcare, international accreditation, and medical tourism infrastructure.
Key advantages include:
- 👨⚕️ Highly experienced surgeons – Many Turkish plastic surgeons are board‑certified, members of ISAPS or European boards, and trained in Europe or the United States.
- 🏥 Advanced facilities – From boutique aesthetic clinics to JCI‑accredited hospitals with ICUs, operating rooms meet international standards.
- 💰 Competitive pricing – Surgical fees, hospital costs, and aftercare are significantly lower than in most Western countries.
- ✈️ Medical tourism services – Airport transfers, hotel accommodation, interpreters, and personal coordinators are typically included.
- 📈 High procedure volume – Surgeons perform thousands of procedures annually, which directly contributes to technical expertise and consistent results.
Top Plastic Surgery Clinics and Hospitals in Istanbul
Estetik International
Estetik International is one of the most well‑known names in Turkish aesthetic medicine. Founded by Dr. Bülent Cihantimur, the clinic is widely recognized for innovation, luxury service, and a holistic approach to beauty.
What makes it stand out:
- ✨ Broad range of procedures, from facial and body surgery to non‑surgical treatments and hair transplantation
- 🛎️ Premium clinic environment with concierge‑level service
- 🌍 Surgeons with decades of experience and international recognition
- 🌐 Strong focus on international patients with multilingual staff and VIP transfers
Estetik International is often chosen by patients seeking a high‑end experience, advanced techniques, and personalized treatment plans.
Istanbul Aesthetic Center
Istanbul Aesthetic Center operates as a specialized cosmetic surgery hospital and is one of the most popular choices among international patients.
Key strengths:
- 👨⚕️ Led by senior surgeons such as Prof. Dr. Gürhan Özcan and Dr. Ergin Er
- ⭐ Very high patient satisfaction ratings from international platforms
- 🎯 Strong expertise in rhinoplasty, body contouring, breast surgery, and hair transplantation
- 📦 Competitive all‑inclusive packages that often include hotel and transfers
The clinic is particularly attractive for patients looking for excellent results, clear communication, and strong value for money.
Dr. MED Clinic
Dr. MED Clinic is a modern, JCI‑accredited aesthetic clinic located in central Istanbul. It combines plastic surgery, cosmetic dermatology, bariatric surgery, and dentistry under one roof.
Highlights:
- 🏅 JCI accreditation and ISO quality standards
- ⚙️ Advanced techniques such as VASER liposuction, endoscopic facelifts, and ultrasound‑assisted rhinoplasty
- 📊 Transparent pricing and published success rates
- 🤝 Boutique‑style service with strong international patient coordination
Dr. MED is often chosen by patients who want a balance between hospital‑grade safety and a personalized, modern clinic experience.
Dr. Safa Manav Clinic
Dr. Safa Manav’s clinic represents a more boutique, surgeon‑centered approach. Patients work directly with Dr. Manav, a European Board‑certified plastic surgeon known for natural‑looking results.
Why patients choose this clinic:
- 👤 Direct access to the surgeon throughout the process
- 🧠 Strong reputation in facial surgery, rhinoplasty, and breast procedures
- 🗣️ Fluent English and French communication
- ❤️ Highly personalized care before, during, and after surgery
This option is ideal for patients who prioritize individual attention and a strong surgeon‑patient relationship.
Lokman Hekim Istanbul Hospital
Lokman Hekim is a full‑service, JCI‑accredited private hospital with a strong plastic surgery department.
Advantages:
- 🏥 Large hospital setting with ICU and multidisciplinary support
- 💸 Very competitive prices for aesthetic procedures
- 🌍 High volume of international patients
- 🚗 Free airport transfers, interpreters, and organized patient services
It is particularly suitable for patients who prefer the safety and resources of a large hospital rather than a standalone clinic.
Hisar Intercontinental Hospital
Hisar Intercontinental Hospital is another JCI‑accredited institution known for treating international patients across many specialties, including plastic surgery.
Key features:
- 🌐 Internationally trained surgeons and advanced surgical technology
- 💎 Strong reputation for body contouring and facial surgery
- 🧭 Comprehensive international patient department
- 🛡️ High standards of safety and post‑operative care
Hisar is often chosen by patients who want hospital‑level care with internationally recognized quality standards.
Most Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures in Istanbul
While almost every cosmetic procedure is available, certain surgeries are especially popular among international patients:
- 👃 Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) – One of the most requested procedures, with Turkey recognized globally for nose surgery expertise
- 👙 Breast augmentation, reduction, and lift – High demand due to experienced surgeons and modern implant options
- 🔥 Liposuction and body contouring – Including VASER and high‑definition techniques
- 🩺 Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) – Often combined with liposuction or as part of a mommy makeover
- 😊 Facelift and eyelid surgery – Increasingly popular among patients over 40 seeking natural rejuvenation
- 💇 Hair transplantation – Frequently combined with cosmetic surgery trips
Prices: What Does Plastic Surgery Cost in Istanbul?
Prices vary depending on the clinic, surgeon experience, and procedure complexity, but general ranges are:
- 💵 Rhinoplasty: $2,500 – $5,500
- 💵 Breast augmentation: $3,000 – $4,500
- 💵 Liposuction (multiple areas): $2,500 – $4,000
- 💵 Tummy tuck: $3,500 – $5,000
- 💵 Facelift: $5,000 – $8,000
Most clinics offer all‑inclusive packages covering:
- 🧑⚕️ Surgeon and hospital fees
- 💉 Anesthesia
- 💊 Medications
- ✈️ Airport transfers
- 🏨 Hotel accommodation
- 🌍 Translation and patient coordination
Language, Safety, and Patient Support
One of the strongest aspects of plastic surgery in Istanbul is the international patient experience. English is widely spoken by surgeons and coordinators, and many clinics also offer Arabic, Russian, French, German, and Spanish support.
Safety is addressed through:
- 🏅 JCI or ISO‑certified facilities
- 👨⚕️ Board‑certified surgeons
- 🧪 Pre‑operative testing and medical screening
- 🔄 Structured aftercare and follow‑up, including online check‑ins after returning home
How to Choose the Right Clinic or Surgeon
When selecting where to have plastic surgery in Istanbul, consider:
- 🎯 The surgeon’s specialization and experience with your specific procedure
- 🏥 Clinic or hospital accreditation
- 📸 Before‑and‑after results and verified patient reviews
- 💬 Communication quality during the consultation phase
- 🔍 Transparency in pricing and aftercare support
Choosing the right provider is more important than choosing the lowest price.
Final Thoughts
Istanbul offers one of the most advanced, accessible, and cost‑effective plastic surgery ecosystems in the world. Whether you prefer a luxury aesthetic clinic, a boutique surgeon‑led practice, or a large internationally accredited hospital, the city provides options that meet the highest global standards.
With careful research, realistic expectations, and the right medical team, plastic surgery in Istanbul can be both a safe and highly rewarding experience for international patients.