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Patient Guide·15 May 2026·5 min read

Istanbul for International Patients: Your Practical Guide

Illuminated Ottoman building on the Bosphorus at night

Istanbul is one of the world's great cities, and one of the most accessible for international patients travelling for aesthetic surgery. Here is everything you need to plan a smooth, comfortable stay.

Getting Here

Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. The clinic is located in Kadıköy on the Asian side, so Sabiha Gökçen is often the more convenient option, a 20-minute transfer versus 60–90 minutes from IST during peak hours.

Direct flights are available from most major European cities. From Amsterdam, London, or Frankfurt the flight is approximately three to four hours.

Accommodation

Kadıköy itself offers excellent boutique hotels within walking distance of the clinic. For patients who prefer a larger hotel, Bağdat Avenue, a five-minute taxi ride, has several well-regarded options.

We recommend staying within 15 minutes of the clinic for the first few days post-surgery, when you may need to come in for a quick check.

What to Bring

Pack loose, front-opening clothing, shirts that pull over the head are uncomfortable after rhinoplasty or breast surgery. Bring slip-on shoes. A small travel pillow for your return flight is worthwhile.

Leave valuables at home. Istanbul is a safe city but, as with any major city, sensible precautions apply.

Your Recovery Time

Most procedures require you to remain in Istanbul for seven to eight nights before it is safe to fly. Use this time gently, short walks, local cafés, and the view from Moda Pier are all perfectly manageable after the first few days.

Avoid the Grand Bazaar crowds and long walking tours until you are home and fully recovered.

We Handle the Details

Our team arranges private airport transfers, liaises with your hotel, and is reachable on WhatsApp throughout your stay. If you need a pharmacy run, a restaurant recommendation, or a quick medical question answered, send us a message.

Istanbul is an easy city to fall in love with. Many of our patients return, not for surgery, but simply because they enjoyed it so much the first time.

Ready to begin?

Book a private consultation with Dr. Gamze Eren — online or in clinic.

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