Travelling to Istanbul for breast surgery

Flights from the UK and Ireland

Istanbul has two international airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side. Direct flights run from London (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton), Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Bristol and Dublin, among others, with a flight time of around three and a half to four and a half hours. Both airports are fine; tell your coordinator which one you are flying into so your transfer can be arranged.

Book your flights once your surgery date is confirmed. Choose a return flight with some flexibility, in case the surgeon advises staying an extra day or two. A UK or Irish passport valid for at least six months is required; check current entry rules for your nationality before you travel.

How many days to stay

• Breast augmentation: 5–7 days.
• Breast lift: 6–7 days.
• Breast lift with implants or breast reduction: about 7 days.
• Gynecomastia: 4–5 days.
• Mommy makeover (breast + tummy tuck): about 10 days.

A typical one-week stay looks like this: day 1 arrival and transfer to the hotel; day 2 consultation, tests and surgery (or surgery on day 3); one night in hospital; days 3–6 rest at the hotel with short walks; day 6 or 7 final check-up and flight home.

Hotel and transfers

New City Clinic books your hotel for the whole stay and organises VIP transfers between the airport, hotel and hospital. A driver meets you at arrivals, and your coordinator – who speaks English – accompanies you to appointments and is reachable on WhatsApp throughout. You do not need to use public transport or taxis for anything related to your treatment. The clinic’s partner hospitals in Istanbul are listed on newcityclinic.com.

What to pack

• Passport, travel insurance details and a copy of your quote.
• A list of your medicines and any medical records or previous operation reports (and implant card if you have implants).
• Loose, front-opening or button-up tops – you will not want to lift your arms over your head.
• Soft, comfortable trousers and slip-on shoes.
• Compression stockings for the flights.
• A small pillow to protect your chest from the seatbelt.
• Phone charger, a UK–EU plug adapter and headphones.
• Lip balm, moisturiser and easy snacks for the hotel.

The support bra and any garments needed after surgery are usually provided. The coordinator sends a full preparation list before you travel.

Travelling with a companion

Many patients travel alone and manage very well, because transfers, hotel and appointments are arranged and the coordinator is always available. A companion is nevertheless welcome: it is reassuring to have someone to help you in the first two days, carry your bags and keep you company. The companion usually shares your hotel room. If you travel alone, let the coordinator know so they can check on you more often.

Flying home safely

The surgeon checks you before you are cleared to fly, usually around day five to seven. On the plane:

• Wear compression stockings and your support bra.
• Drink water and avoid alcohol.
• Walk in the aisle every hour and move your ankles while seated.
• Ask for help with luggage – do not lift heavy bags.
• Consider booking an aisle seat and assistance at the airport if needed.

After you land, rest for a day or two and follow the recovery guide. If you have a history of blood clots, tell the clinic early so it can plan accordingly.

Travel insurance and paperwork

Standard travel insurance often excludes planned surgery abroad. Consider a policy that specifically covers medical tourism or complications after cosmetic surgery. Keep copies of your quote, your discharge letter, your operation report and, if relevant, your implant card. These are useful for your GP and for any future doctor.

Planning your trip with New City Clinic

Once you have your quote, the coordinator helps you choose a date, books your hotel and transfers and sends a day-by-day schedule. If you have questions about the clinic itself, read about New City Clinic or contact New City Clinic directly. For costs, see our breast lift cost guide, and for safety questions our checklist.

Life in Istanbul during recovery

Istanbul is a vibrant city, but your trip is about recovery, not sightseeing. In the first days you will mostly rest in the hotel and take short walks. From around day four, if you feel well, a gentle walk nearby or a short drive along the Bosphorus is pleasant – avoid long walks, crowds, steep streets, heat and sun on your scars. Many patients save the sightseeing for a later holiday.

Communication and money

Your coordinator communicates in English on WhatsApp, so make sure your phone works abroad – a roaming package or a local SIM. Cards are widely accepted in Istanbul; carry a little cash for small purchases. Your hotel has Wi-Fi.