Preparing for Your Rhinoplasty Trip to Istanbul

Why Istanbul?

Istanbul has become one of the world's leading destinations for cosmetic surgery, combining world-class medical facilities with an accessible location, rich culture, and exceptional value. Teo Clinic is based in the Sisli district, one of Istanbul's most prestigious neighborhoods, with easy access to luxury hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Dr. Teoman Dogan operates at the American Hospital Istanbul, a JCI-accredited facility that meets the highest international standards for patient safety and surgical quality.

Planning Your Trip

When to Book

We recommend booking your consultation at least 4-6 weeks before your preferred surgery date. This gives time to:

• Complete your virtual or in-person consultation with Dr. Dogan
• Arrange pre-operative blood work and medical clearance
• Book flights and accommodation at favorable rates
• Plan your recovery stay (typically 7-10 days post-surgery)

Flights

Istanbul is served by two major airports:

• Istanbul Airport (IST) — the main international hub, located on the European side. Most international flights arrive here.
• Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) — on the Asian side, serving budget and regional carriers.

Istanbul Airport is the more convenient choice for Teo Clinic patients, as it is closer to the Sisli district where the clinic and recommended hotels are located.

Accommodation

Teo Clinic's patient care team can recommend hotels in the Sisli/Nisantasi area that are accustomed to hosting surgical patients. Key considerations:

• Proximity — choose a hotel within 10-15 minutes of the clinic for easy follow-up visits
• Comfort — ensure your room has adjustable pillows or a reclining option, as you will need to sleep with your head elevated
• Room service — helpful during the first 2-3 days when you may prefer to rest in your room

Most patients stay 10-14 days total, including their pre-operative consultation day, surgery day, and recovery period.

What to Pack

Essentials

• Passport and travel documents
• Medical records and any imaging requested by Dr. Dogan
• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (button-front or zip-up tops are ideal — avoid pullovers that go over your head)
• Lip balm and nasal saline spray (your nose and lips may feel dry after surgery)
• Sunglasses — both for sun protection and to conceal any bruising
• Entertainment — books, tablet, headphones for your recovery days

Medications

• Bring any prescription medications you currently take, with a note from your doctor
• Dr. Dogan will prescribe post-operative medications (pain management, antibiotics) at the clinic — you do not need to bring these

Skip

• Heavy makeup or skincare products (you will be asked to arrive bare-faced on surgery day)
• Aspirin, ibuprofen, or blood-thinning supplements (these should be stopped 2 weeks before surgery, as instructed by Dr. Dogan)

Your Arrival in Istanbul

Teo Clinic provides airport transfer services for international patients. A driver will meet you at arrivals and take you directly to your hotel. Here is a typical timeline:

Day before surgery: Arrive in Istanbul. Settle into your hotel. If you have not yet had an in-person consultation, this is scheduled for the afternoon.

Surgery day: The clinical team arranges your transfer to the American Hospital. You will meet Dr. Dogan and the anesthesia team before the procedure. After surgery, you are monitored in the recovery room before returning to your hotel (or staying overnight at the hospital, depending on the procedure).

Days 1-7 post-surgery: Rest and recovery. You will visit the clinic for follow-up appointments, including packing removal (typically day 5-7). Light sightseeing is possible after the first few days if you feel comfortable.

Departure: After your final checkup, the team arranges your airport transfer. Dr. Dogan provides detailed post-operative care instructions and remains available for questions after you return home.

Exploring Istanbul During Recovery

Once you feel comfortable (usually 3-4 days after surgery), Istanbul offers plenty to enjoy at a relaxed pace:

• Nisantasi shopping district — luxury boutiques and cafes, walking distance from most recommended hotels
• Bosphorus ferry — a scenic boat ride with minimal physical exertion
• Grand Bazaar and Spice Market — iconic Istanbul experiences, best visited on a less crowded weekday
• Turkish cuisine — soft foods like soups, yogurt-based dishes, and fresh juices are both delicious and recovery-friendly