The patient journey
Tummy tuck surgery in Istanbul is structured to give international patients confidence at every stage — direct surgeon access from the first inquiry, predictable logistics, and a 12-month follow-up program that compensates for the geographic distance. The 9 stages below describe the typical journey.
Initial WhatsApp inquiry
First contact direct with Dr. Erdal — not a coordinator or sales agent. Send photos (frontal, oblique, lateral, dynamic with abdominal flexion) along with your height, weight, BMI, pregnancy and weight history, BMI trajectory, and any previous abdominal surgery. Response typically within 24 hours including: technique recommendation (standard / mini / extended / fleur-de-lis), realistic outcome assessment, all-inclusive quote.
Video consultation
Optional but recommended for international patients. 30-45 minute video call with Dr. Erdal to discuss the surgical plan, technique selection, expected outcome, recovery timeline, and your specific questions. This is when the surgical decision is made — not on arrival in Istanbul.
Pre-op preparation
Two weeks before surgery: stop blood thinners (aspirin, NSAIDs, fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo), maintain stable weight, prepare home recovery environment (recliner, loose clothing, supplies). Smoking cessation minimum 4-6 weeks before surgery, ideally 8 weeks. BMI optimization if recommended. Compression garment fitting arrangements.
Travel to Istanbul
VIP airport transfer included — private vehicle, English-speaking driver, name boarding sign at arrivals. Transfer time IST airport to clinic 30-50 minutes. Check-in at recovery hotel near clinic. Pre-op tests at hospital same day or next morning (blood work, ECG, anaesthesia consultation, photographs).
Surgery day
Admission to JCI-accredited private hospital in the morning. Pre-op consultation with anaesthesia team. Surgery 3-4 hours under general anaesthesia (longer for combined procedures or extended techniques). TAP block for post-operative pain management. Recovery in private room, 1 night hospital stay with continuous nursing care.
Hospital discharge and recovery hotel
Discharge typically morning of Day 2 with detailed care instructions. Drains (if used) typically removed Days 3-5. Compression garment 24/7 for first 4 weeks. Daily walking encouraged for DVT prevention. Recovery hotel meals delivered to room as preferred. Companion accommodation in same room at no additional charge.
Final wound check and return flight
Final in-person wound check Days 7-10 with surgeon clearance for travel. Photographs taken for the file. Compression garment guidance for ongoing wear. DVT prevention measures briefed for the flight (compression stockings, hourly walking, hydration). VIP airport transfer to IST for return flight.
Remote follow-up program
Structured 12-month follow-up via WhatsApp photo updates and video consultations. Scheduled timepoints: Days 14, 21, Month 1, 3, 6, 12. Direct surgeon access throughout — concerns raised any time, response typically within hours. Scar care guidance, exercise progression, garment transition. Local GP / PCP coordination if needed.
Long-term shape stability
Final abdominal contour emerges over 3-6 months as swelling resolves and tissues settle. Scar maturation continues 12-18 months. The result is essentially permanent provided body weight remains stable and no future pregnancy. Annual check-ins available for long-term outcome documentation.