There have also been reports of patients signing contracts with clauses stating they must not speak negatively about their clinic.
A quick glance at the hashtags #sleeveturkey [gastric sleeve] and #bblturkey [Brazilian butt lift] on Instagram and TikTok reveals hundreds of Turkish clinic accounts, many claiming to be the “best”. Aimed predominantly at British, German and French customers, many social media posts mention available discounts or have unattributed five-star reviews written in poor English.
Last week, the UK’s advertising watchdog banned two paid-for Google ads from Turkish firms for making “misleading” and “irresponsible” claims about the safety, quality and ease of having nose job and tummy tuck surgeries abroad.
Official guidance from the NHS and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warns patients travelling abroad should “be cautious” of any website selling cosmetic surgery as part of a holiday package.
The NHS tells patients it is “unrealistic” to expect to have a holiday after surgery, while the FCDO warns: “The standard of medical facilities, qualifications and treatments abroad can vary widely and may differ from UK standards. There have been complications and deaths abroad from medical procedures.”
A government spokesperson told The Telegraph: “We urge anyone considering a medical procedure abroad to review our travel advice and the relevant guidance from the NHS and other professional bodies.”
Ahmed urges patients to wait and have surgery in the UK if at all possible. Pacifico says those choosing to go abroad should, as a minimum, know the name of the surgeon and have at least one video consultation before committing to travelling.
Joint guidelines issued by BAAPS and its Turkish equivalent TSPRAS (the Turkish Society of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons) say patients should check if their surgeon is listed as a member of TSPRAS (via plastikcerrahi.org).
Ideally, your surgeon will also be a member of EBOPRAS (the European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery), have been practising for at least five years and been working at their current clinic for at least three years. You should ask to see their Turkish board certification certificate and confirmation of their specialism.
You must be asked to complete an informed consent form before you travel and should be given an aftercare plan and contact details.
Red flags, according to Pacifico, include not being able to see your surgeon in advance, any refusal to fully answer your questions and pressure to rush into a decision, such as being offered a cheaper price if you book quickly.
“Cosmetic surgery can be life-changing and choosing whether or not, and where, to have it is a serious decision,” he adds. “You should never feel pressure to rush that decision to save money – it could end up costing you your life.”
Dr. Debi Johnson is a medical expert and health journalist dedicated to promoting well-being. With a background in medicine, she offers evidence-based insights into health trends and wellness practices. Beyond her reporting, Dr. Debi enjoys hiking, yoga, and empowering others to lead healthier lives.
