At MedFinders, your safety and comfort come first—before, during, and after surgery. Our patient coordinators support you from your first message through your recovery at home. The checklist below, prepared with input from our surgeons, will help you get ready. (Always follow your surgeon’s specific instructions if they differ.)

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How to Prepare for Your Surgery

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3 weeks before

• Stop contraceptive pills (if instructed). Some patients are advised to pause to lower clot risk—confirm alternatives with your surgeon/GP.

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2 weeks before

• Stop all vitamins and supplements, including weight-loss and herbal products (they can interfere with healing or anaesthesia).

• Quit smoking/vaping (cigarettes, cigars, marijuana, shisha, e-cigarettes).

• Limit alcohol (it can hinder healing and increase bleeding risk).

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10 days before

• Stop green tea—it may interact with medications and affect bleeding.

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1 week before

• Avoid blood thinners unless your surgeon says otherwise: no aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen).

• Adjust nutrition: reduce sodium (salt) and refined carbohydrates; increase high-fibre foods to support recovery and bowel regularity.

• Prescription medicines: list anything you’ve used in the last week (including inhalers) on your Medical History Questionnaire and bring your medications with you.

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Grooming & personal items

• Trim nails and remove nail varnish/acrylics (helps with safety monitoring).

• Remove all piercings before surgery. If you wish to keep them open, use plastic retainers only (no metal).

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Menstrual periods

• Do not take period-delay tablets. It is okay if your period overlaps with your surgery date.

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The morning of surgery

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• Shower thoroughly.

• Do not use deodorant, perfume, body lotions, makeup, or hair products.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave jewellery/valuables at home.

We’ve curated a list of must-have comfort items to make your stay in Turkey feel like home. These recommendations come from years of caring for international patients and cover the essentials you’ll want during recovery.

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Clothing & Comfort

• Loose, comfy outfits: maxi dresses, leggings, tracksuits.

• Front-fastening tops & pyjamas (easier to put on after surgery).

• Supportive footwear: slippers/flip-flops and comfortable trainers.

• Weather-appropriate layers: check the Istanbul forecast before packing.

• Post-op bras (×2): soft, supportive bras to aid healing (available through MedFinders, or bring your own).

• If considering breast implants: bring a snug sports bra for sizing during consultation.

• “V pillow” to keep you comfortably elevated for sleep.

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Hygiene & Skin Care

• Antibacterial wipes for general cleaning in week one (avoid wiping directly over incisions).

• Aqueous cream to help remove surgical pen marks after dressings come off.

• Toiletry essentials and skin-safe wet wipes.

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Hospital Day Essentials

• Magazines/books (or a downloaded playlist/podcasts).

• Electrolyte or sports drinks for after hospital discharge if approved by your surgeon.

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Medications & Documents

• Prescription medicines you currently take, plus any you used in the week prior to surgery (bring the actual boxes).

• A completed Medical History Questionnaire.

• Passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance details.

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Electronics & Connectivity

• Universal adapter (Turkey uses two round pins – Type C/F).

• Our partner hotels and hospitals have Wi-Fi, so you can use your devices anytime.

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Important Payment Info

• Per current policy, the remaining balance is due in cash upon arrival in Istanbul.

• Cards and bank transfers aren’t accepted for the balance. If full payment isn’t available, surgery cannot proceed.

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Tip: Pack light but smart—focus on items that make dressing, sleeping, and basic hygiene easier during your first recovery week.

Questions about your specific procedure? Your MedFinders coordinator will tailor this list to your surgery and timeline.

Everything you need for a safer, smoother recovery in Turkey—and back home.

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With Medfinders, our care doesn’t stop in the operating room. From your first message to your final follow-up, our coordinators support you before arrival, during your stay in Turkey, and after you return home. To make recovery easier, we provide a core set of aftercare items tailored to your procedure.

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What We Include for Plastic Surgery

(Mommy Makeover, Post Bariatric Procedure, Breast procedures, Liposuction/360 Lipo, BBL, Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty, etc.)

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• Complimentary garment (2 Sets in Total): *Exclusive*
  

  • Support bra for breast procedures

  • Medical compression garment for body procedures (Liposuction, BBL, Tummy Tuck)

  • Tip: Your size changes after surgery, so we don’t recommend buying garments before you arrive. If you’d like an extra set, your coordinator can order directly from the manufacturer.

• Compression stockings: Provided in hospital and worn during your stay; you may also use them on your flight home if advised.

• GIFT Freebie of Surgery Glown for your post off use. *Exclusive*

• IV Booster Infusion Therapy - 1 Session included. *Exclusive*

• BBL-specific supplies (if applicable):
  

  • BBL pillow for take-off/landing and seated breaks during recovery

  • Shewee (female urinal) to reduce pressure when toileting in the early days

• Medications (as prescribed by our surgeon):
  

  • Pain relief to keep you comfortable

  • Antibiotics to reduce infection risk

  • Other medicines may be added based on your health history (e.g., anti-nausea, stomach protection)

  • Anti Scaring Cream *Best in the Market for Skin Lightning Post Oo Surgery

  • Antibiotics in Cream form

  • Anticoagulant Injections

• Wound-care pack:
  

  • Disposable bed pads, gauze pads, surgical tape

• 3 Post-Operative Laser Therapy Sessions (included) *Exclusive*
  

  • Hotel Domiciliary based sessions to support swelling control, comfort, and tissue recovery (timing per surgeon protocol) carried out by specialist Nurse in Plastic Surgery - Only Agency providing this service.

  • Triangle & Leg Elevation Support for Hotel Staying *Exclusive*

  • 3 Lympatic Drainange Massage by Specialised Therapist with Brazilian Linphatic Drainage Method Certification*Exclusive*

  • Daily Visits from Nursing team = Checks for vital signs, patient support and medication guidance.

  • Post Op Orientation + Return Visit with the surgeon.

  • Personal Shower Support before returning to your country. *Exclusive*

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What We Include for Bariatric (Weight-Loss) Surgery

(e.g., Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass; etc)

• Full Time Staying in Hospital Setting - We do not send patient to hotel after surgery. We maintain under our care 24/7. Other Clinic send patients to Hotel.

• Free Companion

• Hospital compression stockings (peri-operative use)

• Medication plan as prescribed (pain relief, anti-nausea, stomach protection, anticoagulation if indicated)

• Diet progression guidance for 12 Months(clear liquids → full liquids → soft foods), with sample menus and hydration goals

• Vitamin/mineral protocol overview (your surgeon/dietitian will tailor specifics; please follow lab-based adjustments)

• Travel & flight advice (mobility, stockings, light walking schedule)

• Suplements and Vitamines for the 1st Month

• Coordinator support for questions during your 1st Year Post Op

• 12 Months Blood Test Review and Guidance

• Protein Shake with Bottle

• Participate in our Private Group for Support after surgery

• FREE Bariatric Card for Restaurants Discounts.

• Translated Documents in 2 International Languages

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Note: Some items (binders, additional nutrition products) are provided if clinically indicated. Your surgeon’s plan is the priority.​

What We Include for Hair Transplantation

(Sapphire FUE, DHI, etc.)

• Post-wash kit: medical shampoo + lotion/foam and wash instructions

• Neck pillow / travel pillow to protect the donor/recipient areas while resting

• Protective headwear for outdoor/airport use (per clinic protocol)

• Medications as prescribed (pain relief ± antibiotics/anti-edema if indicated)

• Written aftercare schedule (first wash timing, sleeping position, activity limits)

• Transfer in between Clinic Visits

• 1 Session of Laser Terapy for rapid healing

• Personal Coordinator with you

• 12 Months healing follow up.

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What We Include for Dental Treatments

(Full Mounth Restorations, Implants, crowns/veneers, smile design, combined restorative work)

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• Free Consultation & Tumogragy Panoramic in-clinic.

• Medications as prescribed (pain relief ± antibiotics if indicated)

• Bite & sensitivity guidance (what to chew, temperature tips, when to resume normal diet)

• Night-guard/on request where clinically advised for grinding/clenching after extensive restorative care

• Shade/care instructions for veneers/crowns and follow-up timelines

• Dental Warranty depending on which type of procedure.

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Payment, Extras & Sizing

• You’ll leave theatre wearing your bra/garment—a key part of recovery.

• Extra garments can be ordered by your MedFinders coordinator at the clinic rate. A 2nd one is already icnkuded in our price.

• Because measurements change immediately post-op, please don’t pre-purchase garments before coming to Istanbul.

General Safety Notes (All Procedures)

• Follow your surgeon’s instructions first. This guide complements—not replaces—your personalized plan.

• List all prescription medications you’re taking (including inhalers) on your Medical History Questionnaire and bring them with you.

• Avoid smoking/vaping, limit alcohol, and pause vitamins/herbal supplements as directed before surgery (these can affect bleeding and healing).

• Keep incisions clean and dry; use the provided supplies as instructed.

• Contact your team promptly for fever, increasing redness, unusual discharge, shortness of breath, or escalating pain.

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We’re here for you—before, during, and after

Your MedFinders coordinator remains available for practical support and to arrange extras you may need. If you have questions about your specific procedure’s aftercare, just ask—we’ll tailor guidance to your surgeon’s protocol and health profile.

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Before booking your flights to Turkey, it’s important to ensure that you have the correct travel documents for a smooth journey. Below are some handy guidelines to help you prepare for your trip to Istanbul.

Majority of passengers from European countries can travel to Turkey with an e-Visa, however, you must check if you are eligible for it by visiting https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/apply/ and selecting the country/region of your travel document. By purchasing an eVisa prior to travelling to Istanbul you can avoid long queues and save time at the airport.

Do You Need a Visa to Enter Turkey?

• If you’re not eligible for an e-Visa, please contact the Turkish Foreign Ministry in your country of departure for more information on how to apply for a Visa.

• The Turkish government advise that your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter Turkey and that there is a full blank page for the entry and exit stamps. So, please make sure you find out whether your passport has long enough before making travel arrangements.

• You can find more detail about the requirements for entry into Turkey on the website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. http://www.mfa.gov.tr

Istanbul has two international airports; Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side. Although, SAW is the closest airport to our hotel you can book your flights to either airport.

• At Istanbul Airport, once you pass security you have to make your way to the Meet and Greet point that we will send to you. A member of airport staff will check your name on the system and inform us of your arrival. Our driver will then pick you up from the waiting point and take you to our VIP car to transfer you to the hotel or hospital for a nice rest before your surgery.

• At Sabiha Gokcen Airport, once you pass security you have to make your way outside where you will see the sign in the picture below. A member of airport staff by this sign will check your name against their list and inform us of your arrival. They will then take you to our VIP car and our driver will transfer you to the hotel.

• Please note that the VIP transfers included in our packages only cover airport, clinic and hospital transfers. City tours or any other transport requests can be arranged at an additional cost.

• You must bring the remaining balance in cash with you to Istanbul as it needs to be paid to the clinic after your consultation with the surgeon before you undergo surgery.

• The deposit you have paid to secure the date of your surgery is deducted from the full amount, therefore the remaining balance excludes the deposit you have already paid.

• We do not accept credit card payments or bank transfers on the day of your surgery. If, you do not have the full amount with you your surgery will not go ahead.

Only Dental Clinic accept payment by transfer or debit with 10% Fee.

Paying for Extra Services

• Any services that’re not included in your surgery package will not be covered by us including additional nights at the hospital or the hotel, further medical tests requested by your surgeon for any underlying health conditions you may have or any other expenses you may incur during your stay in Istanbul.

• All of our carefully selected hotels are conveniently located within close proximity to both the airports and our partner hospitals.

• Check-in time for your room is at 14:00 p.m. so please bear this in mind when booking your flights to Istanbul. If you do arrive early, then you can leave your bags at the hotel and feel free to explore the city until your check-in time.

Bring a Friend with you to Istanbul

• Our dedicated patient coordinators and nurses will be with you during every step of your journey, however when having a surgical procedure anywhere it’s always best to have a familiar face with you. So, if you’d like to bring a friend to accompany you, you can do so at no extra cost.

• The duration of your stay in Istanbul is tailor-made for your surgical procedure. If, however you’d like to stay longer you can do so by paying for your extra nights. Please inform us in advance if you’d like to stay longer so that we can amend your booking accordingly.

• Your hotel stay includes free breakfast for you and your guest. Lunch and dinner are not included in your package. However, food is relatively cheap in Istanbul and there’re many options to choose from at the hotel.

• The hotel mini bar is not included in your package. All rooms have a mini fridge, but you have to pay for all the items you consume.

• The hotel management will put a hold on your credit card for incidentals. The hold will be removed within 24-48 hours after you check out from the hotel.

Spending Money

• In addition to the payment for your surgery, we recommend bringing extra spending money with you for your personal expenses such as food and shopping.

• Although foreign currencies are widely accepted in areas popular with tourists, you’re advised to bring Turkish Liras with you. You can exchange your currency for Turkish Liras at the airport or at an exchange office in the city.

• The night before your surgery you must stop eating and drinking anything after midnight. This includes water as well. It’s essential that you take a shower on the morning of your surgery. You must avoid using deodorant, perfume, body lotions, make-up or hair products after your shower.

• On the morning of your surgery, you’ll meet by your Patient Coordinator from the hotel and taken to the hospital for your procedure.

• Once you’re admitted to the hospital, you will undergo a preoperative assessment including a complete blood count to ensure that you’re healthy and fit to have surgery. Depending on your age, you might be required to undergo further tests as well.

• If your procedure is weight loss surgery, you will be taken directly to your designated hospital for full time staying. You will meet with your personal coordinator at the time of your arrival.

Consultation with Your Surgeon

• Your surgeon will go through your medical history and test results with you to ensure your suitability for the procedure. During your consultation with the surgeon you will be able to discuss your expectations and potential results.

• After clearly explaining how the procedure will be performed, your surgeon will physically examine you and draw very detailed markings on your treatment areas. The markings will be unique to your body and they will define precisely where your surgeon is going to perform your procedure. You will then be given information about your post-op recovery and be prepared for your surgery.

• You’re strongly advised to read the consent forms you sign at the hospital to ensure you have all the information you need regarding your procedure and your recovery.

• Depending on the type of procedure you have, you’ll spend one or two nights at the hospital. Your companion can spend the night at the hospital with you.

• Your Patient Coordinator will be with you during your consultations with the surgeon and during and after your surgery. She will also visit you every day during the week to ensure your well-being.

English/Portuguese/Spanish Speaking Nurse

• We also have our own English/Portuguese/Spanish speaking nurse who will visit you every day during the week.

• Our nurse specializes in post operative care.

On the same day also note:

• Take a dressing gown and slippers.

• Take your laptop, magazines or books as you will probably be waiting around a fair while before being taken down to theatre.

• Take out any piercings or replace with plastic versions.

• Take off fake eyelashes, (metal) hair extensions, nail polish, fake nails, and don’t put any moisturizer or deodorant on that day.

• Take sports drinks for energy and re-hydration after procedure.

• Take your phone charger and camera with you to take before pictures.

• If you get nausea after general anesthesia – ask your nurses to give you anti-sickness medication.

• You’re not allowed to shower for several days post-op, so make sure you buy antibacterial baby wipes to stay clean.

• After your dressings are removed, clean the pen marks using aqueous cream with water. It’s a non-irritant cleanser and can be used on your scars when closed. You can find it at a local pharmacy.

• Protein is good for wound and muscle healing, so make sure you eat lots of turkey, chicken, fish, tofu, low fat meats or any other protein rich foods.

• You’ll start to have an idea of the final shape and cup size around six weeks, but everyone heals differently so be aware that it could be another few weeks, even months before you see your final results.

• Fluffing/ Dropping – your body is adjusting to your implants through tissue expansion and upper breast fullness decreases and lower breast fullness increases over time. Breasts can drop at a different rate so don’t be worried if one drops before the other. Typically, it takes between six weeks – three months.

• For at least a year, make sure you use at least SPF 30 sunscreen on your scars but it is best to completely cover them up.

• Two weeks after your procedure, make sure you continue to not drink or smoke. Drinking thins the blood and makes you vulnerable to bleeding. Smoking reduces the oxygen levels in your cells and delays healing.

• Be prepared to take 1-2 weeks off work if you are weight loss patient

• If your are plastic surgery patient can very from from 20-45 days. Always consult our medical consultants for better arrangments.

• Put your essentials (such as cups, tea bags, medication) at home down to waist level so you’re not stretching up to get them.

• Buy a ‘v pillow’ to help you sleep sitting up and place a pillow under your lower back and under your knees for extra comfort.

• Start going back to gym (light exercise) / running after 6 weeks with a well fitted sports bra.

• Don’t horse ride for three months.

• Stay away from driving for up to two weeks.

• Sex – it is advised to avoid for 6 weeks until everything settles down. But if absolutely necessary, please make sure it is not vigorous as it can cause problems like capsular contracture.

• Not allowed to take a shower for a few days post-op (or until you’ve seen your nurse). You can sit in a bath but make sure you do not get your dressings or incisions wet.

• If you have small children who need lifting, please make sure you do not lift them for 6 weeks.

• Don’t try to take a bath unaided until two weeks post-op – might not get out again!

• To get up from a sleeping position place your arms around your knees and rock backwards and forwards.

• Only wear a wired bra after your 6 week nurse’s appointment. Have your nurse confirm this as it can aggravate your scars and prolong the healing time.

• Tight sports bra for trying on implants at consultation.

• Magazines, books and sports drink to take to the hospital.

• Front fastening tops and pajamas.

• 2x post-op bras for comfort and help with healing (You will also acquire them from us )

• ‘V pillow’ to help you sleep after your procedure at home.

• Antibacterial wipes for cleaning in first week after surgery (not over incisions).

• Aqueous cream to take off pen marks after dressing removal.

• You may, at any time cancel your booking by notifying us in writing. The cancellation will take effect from the day on which we receive written notification of your cancellation. The scale of charges payable will depend upon when the notification of cancellation is received.

• If you cancel more than 21 days before the date of your procedure, we reserve the right to charge the amount of your deposit as a cancellation fee. This is because we secure your Hotel/Hospital and Transfer in advance as well as Surgeons agenda.

• If, for any reason, you do not present yourself on time and in a state that the consultation, procedure or surgery can be performed, your appointment will be cancelled, and we will not be able to give you re-compensation.

• If you withhold medical information or provide us with misleading information about your health and physical condition, we will have the right to cancel your surgery. Cancellation fees will be applicable equal to the full amount already paid to reflect the losses and costs which we incur (or have incurred) in cancelling your surgery.

• Please visit terms and conditions page at the main HOME page to find out more information about our Terms and Conditions including our cancellation policy.

Thank you for choosing MedFinders We look forward to having you with us in Istanbul