Welcome, dear readers, to the enchanting city of Istanbul, a city that has been a crossroads of civilizations for thousands of years. From the Byzantine era to the Ottoman Empire, Istanbul has always been a city of culture, history, and diversity. Situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul has been the melting pot of diverse civilizations, religions, and ethnicities for thousands of years. But, what brings us here today is a more recent phenomenon that has put Istanbul on the global map, Medical Tourism.

Yes, you heard it right. Istanbul, with its state-of-the-art hospitals, qualified doctors, and affordable prices, has become a popular destination for medical tourists from all over the world. Whether you need a cosmetic surgery, dental treatment, or even an organ transplant, Istanbul has got you covered.

According to the Turkish Ministry of Health, around 600,000 medical tourists visited Turkey in 2019, and the majority of them came to Istanbul. The most popular treatments among medical tourists are hair transplantation, plastic surgery, and IVF. The medical tourism industry in Istanbul generates billions of dollars in revenue each year and employs thousands of people.

One of the great things about medical tourism in Istanbul is that it offers patients more than just medical treatment. Istanbul is a city of culture and history, and patients can explore its many museums, palaces, and mosques before or after their treatment. The city’s vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and beautiful scenery also make it a great place to relax and recuperate.

Now, let’s talk about the benefits of medical tourism in Istanbul. First and foremost, Istanbul offers world-class medical facilities and technology that is on par with the best in the world. The city is home to some of the most reputed hospitals and medical centres, with highly trained doctors and nurses. The cost of medical treatment in Istanbul is significantly lower than in many western countries, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable medical care.

Furthermore, Istanbul is a city that offers much more than just medical treatment. Its rich history, culture, and cuisine make it a top tourist destination. Patients and their families can enjoy the sights and sounds of Istanbul before or after their treatment, which can help in reducing stress and aiding the healing process.

As an immediate next step, you can request an online Free Consultation or Free Quote to discuss any questions you have regarding treatment or cost with a certified doctor from our Recommended Best Clinics and Hospitals.

But, Really, Why Istanbul?

Istanbul is quickly emerging as a top destination for medical tourism. With its unique blend of history, culture, and modern medical facilities, Istanbul offers medical tourists an unforgettable experience that sets it apart from other destinations.

Here are some of the key factors that make Istanbul stand out as a medical tourist destination:

World-class Medical Facilities

Istanbul is home to some of the best medical facilities in the world, with state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified medical professionals. Many of these facilities offer a wide range of medical treatments, including cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, and fertility treatments.

Affordable Prices

One of the biggest advantages of Istanbul as a medical tourist destination is its affordability. Medical treatments in Istanbul can be up to 70% cheaper than in Western countries, making it a popular choice for those looking for high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost.

Waiting Times

Long waiting times for medical procedures are a common issue in some countries. This is especially true for non-life-threatening treatments, such as cosmetic surgeries. Medical tourism allows people to skip the queue and get their treatments done much faster.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

Istanbul’s rich history and culture make it a unique destination for medical tourists. With world-famous landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, medical tourists can combine their medical treatments with a cultural experience that is second to none.

English-speaking Staff

Most medical facilities in Istanbul have English-speaking staff, making it easy for medical tourists to communicate with their doctors and medical staff. This is particularly important for those who may be travelling to a foreign country for the first time.

Warm Hospitality

Istanbul is known for its warm and friendly hospitality, making it a welcoming destination for medical tourists. Patients can expect to receive excellent care and attention from their medical staff, as well as from the local population.

Privacy

Privacy is a major concern for some people when it comes to medical treatments. By travelling to a foreign country, people can enjoy the privacy they need to undergo their treatments without worrying about running into anyone they know.

Adventure

Who said medical procedures can’t be fun? Medical tourism allows people to combine their healthcare needs with a bit of adventure. Travelling to a new country, experiencing a new culture, and exploring new sights and sounds can make the medical experience much more enjoyable.

International Accreditation

Turkey has become renowned for providing cost-effective yet exceptional hair transplant surgery, attracting patients from all over the world. In addition to hair transplants, Turkey is also a preferred destination for dental treatments and chronic healthcare. This is largely due to the fact that the country boasts over 30 Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited hospitals, which are globally recognized for their high standards of healthcare.

Ease of Access

The Turkish government recognizes the significance of the medical tourism industry and collaborates closely with the local healthcare industry to offer attractive incentives to medical tourists. One such incentive is reduced fares for medical tourists who fly via Turkish Airlines. This helps to reduce the overall cost of medical tourism for patients, making it an even more attractive option. Another advantage of medical tourism in Istanbul is that it is very easy to travel to. Istanbul is a major hub for international flights, and many airlines offer direct flights to Istanbul from all over the world. The city is also very well connected by public transport, making it easy for patients to get around.

Best Clinics Istanbul only puts you in touch with the Very Best certified doctors, clinics and hospitals for hair transplant in Istanbul. Request an online Free Consultation to discuss your hair transplant needs, process, costing with a certified doctor from the Very Best certified clinics and hospitals in Istanbul and ask all your questions.

Medical Tourism: From Ancient Healing Baths to Modern Day Procedures

Did you know that medical tourism has been around since ancient times? Yes, even the Sumerians recognized the healing properties of thermal springs more than four thousand years ago. The Greeks also had a thing for health tourism, with the sanctuary of the healing god, Asklepios, being a popular destination for those seeking remedies for various ailments.

But it was the Europeans who really brought the modern concept of pleasure resorts to life in the sixteenth and seventeenth century. The British elite believed in the curative powers of sea waters and air, leading to the development of seaside resorts like Blackpool and Margate. Meanwhile, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, and Germany built towns around mineral springs, providing cures for everything from skin infections to rheumatism.

North America also got in on the action, with Dutch and English colonists building log cabins around mineral springs in the 1600s. Wealthy tuberculosis sufferers from Europe even travelled to the south-west United States in the nineteenth century to seek out better climate conditions to improve their health.

And let’s not forget about Asia’s history of medical tourism. Japan’s natural mineral springs, also known as onsen, have been a favourite health retreat for centuries. And in India, yoga and Ayurvedic medicine have been popular for five thousand years, attracting streams of medical travellers and spiritual students seeking their benefits.

Today, medical tourism is more popular than ever, with people traveling for everything from cosmetic surgery to complex procedures. It’s come a long way from the ancient healing baths, but the idea of traveling for health and wellness has always been with us. Every year, an estimated seven million people worldwide travel overseas in search of medical care. This can range from dental procedures and cosmetic treatments to orthopaedic surgeries, cancer treatments and reproductive health services. Some of the most common medical tourists are Americans without health insurance, Brits and Canadians who face long waiting lists or limited treatment options in their home countries.

Request an online Free Consultation to discuss all your questions with a certified doctor from the VERY BEST certified clinics and hospitals in Istanbul.

Popular Medical Procedures In Istanbul

Hair Transplants

First on our list of popular medical procedures in Istanbul is hair transplants. Let’s face it, balding can be a real downer for anyone. But fear not, Istanbul is home to some of the best hair transplant clinics in the world. Whether you’re looking for a traditional FUE or FUT hair transplant, or something more advanced like DHI, you can find it all here. And the best part? You can enjoy the beautiful city of Istanbul while your new hair takes root.

Hair loss affects millions of people around the world, with male pattern baldness being the most common cause of hair loss in men. In the USA, male pattern baldness accounts for 95% of hair loss in men, and by the age of 35, approximately two-thirds of American men will have experienced some hair loss. A study conducted by the Singapore Medical Journal also revealed that practically all men aged 80 and above will show some form of male pattern baldness.

In the UK, around 6.5 million men suffer from male pattern baldness. According to a recent study, European men are the most likely to have the condition, followed by Afro-Caribbean men. Interestingly, men from the Czech Republic experience hair loss earliest, followed by those from Spain, Germany, France, and the UK. In contrast, men in the USA go bald later than those in the UK, while men in China are the most likely to retain their hair into old age.

Hair loss can be devastating for many people, but medical tourism has made it possible for those suffering from hair loss to find affordable and high-quality treatments abroad. Turkey is one of the leading countries for medical tourism and has built a reputation for delivering affordable and high-quality hair transplant surgeries. In fact, Turkey attracts up to two million medical tourists every year, and a large percentage of them travel for hair transplants.

Istanbul is the top destination in Turkey for such procedures, followed by Ankara and Izmir. Most of those who travel for treatment at hair transplant clinics are from Europe and the Middle East. Hair transplants in Turkey have become so popular because of the low cost of treatment there, which can be up to 70% less expensive than in other countries. Nevertheless, the treatment is undertaken by highly qualified surgeons who are drawn by the huge demand for hair transplants in the country.

One of the reasons for the lower cost of treatment in Turkey is the lower cost of living compared to many other countries. Clinics and hospitals have lower rent and overheads, and their wage bills are also lower. Furthermore, tax concessions for hair transplant surgeons have contributed to the low cost of treatment in Turkey. Clinics and hospitals that carry out hair transplants, cosmetic dentistry, plastic surgery, or IVF for medical tourists are exempt from VAT.

To uphold the country’s high standards of care and protect medical tourists, the clinics and hospitals carrying out such procedures must be certified by the Turkish Ministry of Health. As a result, medical tourists seeking hair transplants in Turkey can expect a high standard of care and professionalism.

Dental Procedures

Next up, we have dental procedures. Are you looking for a dazzling smile? Or maybe you have a pesky toothache that just won’t go away? Look no further than Istanbul. With state-of-the-art dental clinics and highly skilled dentists, you can get the smile you’ve always dreamed of. From teeth whitening to dental implants, Istanbul has got you covered.

Plastic Surgery

Ah, plastic surgery. It’s a controversial topic, but let’s face it, we all want to look our best. Istanbul has become a popular destination for plastic surgery, with a wide variety of procedures available. From breast augmentation to rhinoplasty, Istanbul’s top-notch facilities and experienced plastic surgeons can help you achieve the look you desire. And while you’re recovering, you can take in the beauty of Istanbul’s architecture and culture.

Eye Surgery

If you’re tired of relying on glasses or contacts, Istanbul is the place to be. Eye surgery, specifically LASIK, is one of the most popular medical procedures in Istanbul. With advanced technology and highly skilled surgeons, you can say goodbye to your glasses and hello to clear vision. And while you’re at it, why not take in the stunning views of the Bosphorus?

Fertility Treatments

Istanbul has become a popular destination for couples struggling with infertility. With state-of-the-art fertility clinics and experienced specialists, you can receive the best possible care while enjoying the beauty of Istanbul. And who knows, maybe a little bit of Turkish delight will be just what the doctor ordered.

Bariatric Surgery

For those struggling with obesity, bariatric surgery can be life-changing. Istanbul offers a range of weight loss procedures, including gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. With top-notch facilities and experienced surgeons, Istanbul is a great destination for those seeking bariatric surgery.

Skin Rejuvenation

If you’re looking to turn back the clock on your skin, Istanbul has you covered. With a range of non-invasive and minimally invasive skin rejuvenation procedures available, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser resurfacing, you can achieve a more youthful and radiant appearance. And with Istanbul’s rich history of hammams and spas, you can enjoy a relaxing post-procedure spa day.

Orthopaedic Surgery

Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury or chronic joint pain, Istanbul has some of the best orthopaedic surgeons in the world. From knee replacements to spinal surgeries, Istanbul’s advanced facilities and experienced specialists can help you get back on your feet.

Gender Reassignment Surgery

For those seeking gender reassignment surgery, Istanbul is a popular destination. With a range of procedures available, including vaginoplasty and phalloplasty, Istanbul’s experienced surgeons can help you achieve the gender identity you desire. And with Istanbul’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community, you can feel supported and welcomed during your journey.

IVF

In addition to fertility treatments, Istanbul is also a popular destination for in vitro fertilization (IVF). With state-of-the-art facilities and experienced specialists, Istanbul’s IVF clinics have high success rates. And while you’re undergoing treatment, you can take in Istanbul’s stunning sights and delicious cuisine.

Fun Facts

Specialist Physicians

The total number of specialist physicians in Turkey has been consistently increasing, especially in Istanbul. In 2020, the number of specialist physicians working at public, private, and university hospitals reached over 88 thousand.

Level Of Satisfaction With Health Services

 According to a nationwide survey conducted in 2021, the level of satisfaction was the highest with the health services provided by private practices in Turkey. It was followed by city hospitals and family health centres, with a satisfaction level of 73 and 70 percent, respectively.

Health Expenditure

 In 2021, total health care spending in Turkey amounted to nearly 354 billion Turkish lira. In the years 2000 to 2021, health care spending rose exponentially, especially in the last five years, where health expenditure more than tripled since 2015. Total health expenditure includes current health expenditure – 331 billion TL in 2021 – and investments.

As an immediate next step, you can request an online Free Consultation or Free Quote to discuss any questions you have regarding treatment or cost with a certified doctor from our Recommended Best Clinics and Hospitals.

Turkish Delight: Free Healthcare Zones — The Future Of Medical Tourism

You don’t need to be a healthcare expert to know that medical bills can leave a gaping hole in your wallet. But what if we told you there’s a country that’s found a way to make healthcare affordable, even enjoyable? Enter Turkey, the land of the free healthcare zones.

Since 2011, Turkey has been at the forefront of medical tourism, thanks to its establishment of free healthcare zones. Based on the Free Trade Zones Law and Decree Law No. 663, the Council of Ministers has determined the principles and conditions of these zones. The Ministry of Health has been working on legislation for Free Healthcare Zones, which can be divided into two types – Medical Tourism and Thermal Tourism.

But what exactly are free zones, you may ask? Well, they’re zones located in a country’s borders, regarded as outside of customs areas and not subject to commercial and financial laws of the related country. This means that investors in these zones can enjoy tax reductions, exemptions, social security prime exemptions, and minimized bureaucracy. And here’s the best part – they’re accessible to foreign investors too.

Dubai Healthcare City in the UAE is an example of a successful free healthcare zone. Established in 2002, this was the first healthcare zone in the world, and it’s been operational since 2006. Its main purpose was to develop the real estate sector and increase medical investments in the zone.

The future for Turkey’s free healthcare zones looks bright. There are plans to establish thermal tourism facilities, healthcare towns, and healthcare technocities within these zones, which will contribute to the development of other sectors too. The zones will be established close to major cities, making them easily accessible for visitors.

With the potential for development and the incentives offered, it’s no wonder that Turkey’s free healthcare zones are set to make the country an attractive destination for foreign and domestic investors in the healthcare tourism sector. It’s not just Turkish delight that will have you coming back for more, but also its revolutionary approach to healthcare.

So, dear readers, the next time you plan a trip to Istanbul, keep in mind that it’s not just the stunning architecture and bazaars that make this city special, but also its emerging medical tourism industry. But remember to do your research, and above all, stay safe and healthy!

Best Clinics Istanbul can help you choose the right hospital and surgeon for your medical needs. With dozens of medical professionals to choose from, clinics and hospitals, we know how stressful it can be to make the right choice, especially when this process involves travelling overseas. Let Best Clinics Istanbul be your first point of call for any queries and questions you might have.

We only put you in touch with the very best certified doctors and hospitals in Istanbul, without drowning you in endless information. You can expect to be advised by your own dedicated supporting team of administrative staff and medical professionals throughout your whole your medical journey to help you choose the right hospital and surgeon for you as well as for example find suitable accommodation in Istanbul and organize transfers (including your safe return home). Best Clinics Istanbul can help you successfully navigate all practical / organizational aspects of your medical trip.

Best Clinics Istanbul can effectively help you compare costing and pricing across different certified hospitals and clinics as well as tailor suit your individual needs to a certified hospital or doctor. Request a Free Quote or an online Free Consultation now from the Very Best certified hospitals and doctors to discuss costing and treatment.

To really help you find the right surgeon and clinic for your procedure, Best Clinics Istanbul has carefully selected la crème de la crème ( i.e. the Very Best certified doctors, clinics and hospitals) and presented it to you on this website. With our recommended Best Clinics, the relatively low cost of a medical procedures compared to other countries still guarantees high-quality medical care in extremely modern and comfortable medical facilities. Request an online Free Consultation to discuss your Hair Transplant needs with the Very Best certified doctors, clinics and hospitals in Istanbul.