Flights
Istanbul has two airports:
- Istanbul Airport (IST) — European side, main international hub. Direct flights from virtually anywhere. 30–40 min by car to Nişantaşı.
- Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) — Asian side, secondary airport. More budget carriers. 50–70 min by car to Nişantaşı (depending on traffic).
For most patients, IST is the better choice — closer to the clinic and faster transfers. Allow 60+ minutes from landing to clinic for international arrivals (passport control, baggage).
Where to stay
We recommend hotels within walking distance or short taxi ride of the clinic:
- The St. Regis Istanbul — luxury, 5 min walk. Many patients choose this for the privacy and the spa.
- Le Méridien Etiler — comfortable 4-star, 10 min by taxi. Good value.
- Conrad Bosphorus — Beşiktaş, 15 min by taxi. Bosphorus views.
- Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus — Harbiye, 10 min by taxi. Older but well-located.
- Sofa Hotel — Nişantaşı boutique, 5 min walk. Smaller scale, attentive service.
Aparthotels (Astera, Witt Suites) can be more economical for stays >10 days.
Transfers and getting around
- Airport transfers: book in advance through your hotel, or use BiTaksi or Uber (both work in Istanbul). Avoid unmarked taxis.
- Around Nişantaşı: walking, BiTaksi, or short rides. Avoid public transport on surgery day and the first 3 days.
- To/from clinic: walking distance from most recommended hotels; otherwise 5-minute taxi.
What to pack
- Sunglasses — large, dark, wraparound style. Essential post-op.
- Button-up shirts — avoid pulling clothes over the head for the first week
- 2–3 pillows if you're particular about sleep position (hotels can usually provide extra)
- Cold compress pack — gel-pack style works well, but hotel ice + small bag is fine too
- Saline eye drops — we provide post-op drops but extra lubricating tears are useful
- Loose-fitting clothing — for comfort during recovery days
- Comfortable shoes — Nişantaşı walking
- Universal travel adapter — Turkey uses European 2-pin (Type F)
Who can come with you
We strongly recommend bringing a companion:
- For airport transfers and arrival logistics
- For escort to and from surgery (anaesthesia residual)
- For help during the first 48 hours when you can't see clearly
- For meals, errands, basic logistics in a foreign country
The companion can be a spouse, family member, or friend. They don't need to be in the operating area during surgery — they wait in our reception area or at the hotel.
If you're traveling alone (some patients do, especially shorter solo trips), we can arrange chaperone support for the surgery day and discharge.
Frequently asked questions
Do you have arrangements with specific hotels?
No — we deliberately don't take commissions on accommodation. You book your own; we recommend based on what works well for our patients.
What about visa requirements?
EU, UK, US, Canadian, Australian citizens don't require visa for stays under 90 days. Other nationalities should check requirements 6+ weeks before booking flights.
Not sure if you're a candidate?
Blepharoplasty is most successful when patient anatomy, age, and goals align with what surgery can realistically deliver. Send three facial photos (front, profile, eyes-closed) and Doç. Dr. Erdal will give you an honest, no-pressure suitability assessment before you commit to anything.
Ready to discuss your case?
Doç. Dr. Erdal personally reviews every enquiry. Honest assessment of whether blepharoplasty is right for you, with no pressure to book.