What is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce signs of aging in the face and neck. The goal is to tighten sagging skin, smooth wrinkles, and enhance facial contours for a more youthful appearance.

Why Patients Choose Facelift Surgery

People opt for facelifts to:

  • Restore a younger appearance
  • Improve self-confidence
  • Correct sagging or loose facial skin

Reasons for Choosing a Facelift in Turkey

Cost Advantage

One of the biggest attractions is the affordable pricing. A facelift in Turkey can cost 50–70% less than in the US, UK, or Western Europe, without compromising on quality.

Advanced Medical Facilities

Turkish hospitals and clinics often meet or exceed European healthcare standards. Many are JCI-accredited (Joint Commission International), ensuring compliance with global safety practices.

Travel and Treatment Packages

Patients are offered comprehensive packages that include:

  • Surgery
  • Accommodation
  • Transfers
  • Interpreters
    This streamlines the process and makes it stress-free.

Types of Facelifts Offered in Turkey

Traditional (Full) Facelift

Targets the midface, lower face, and neck, offering the most comprehensive results.

Mini Facelift

A less invasive procedure with smaller incisions, ideal for younger patients with mild sagging.

Deep Plane and SMAS Facelift

Advanced techniques that lift deeper layers of the face, providing longer-lasting and more natural-looking results.

Is It Safe to Have a Facelift in Turkey?

Medical Safety Standards

Turkish medical facilities must follow national health regulations, which align with European Union standards for cleanliness, patient safety, and surgery protocols.

Accreditation and Certifications

Top clinics in cities like Istanbul and Antalya hold international accreditations (like JCI), which reflect rigorous safety checks and continuous quality improvement.

Surgeon Qualifications

Plastic surgeons are required to complete years of education and surgical residency. Many pursue additional training abroad and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Potential Risks and Complications

Short-Term Side Effects

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Tightness or numbness
  • Temporary discomfort

These typically resolve within 2–3 weeks post-surgery.

Long-Term Risks

Though rare, risks may include:

  • Scarring
  • Nerve damage
  • Hematoma
  • Infection

The key to minimizing these risks lies in selecting an experienced surgeon and following post-operative instructions.

Importance of Follow-Up Care

Ensure your package includes at least one follow-up visit before returning home. Discuss post-surgical support in case of complications after departure.

How to Choose a Safe Clinic and Surgeon in Turkey: Spotlight on Op. Dr. Erkan Dodanlı

Research and Verification

When selecting a surgeon for a facelift in Turkey, it’s crucial to focus on experience, trust, and professional credibility. Op. Dr. Erkan Dodanlı stands out as a highly respected name in the field of facial plastic surgery, with years of hands-on experience and a reputation for delivering natural and refined results.

Patients considering surgery under his care can take comfort in the well-established reputation of his clinic, known for its strict adherence to international safety and hygiene standards.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

During your consultation with Dr. Dodanlı, it’s helpful to ask:

  • Are you board-certified in plastic or ENT surgery with specialization in facial aesthetics?
     Dr. Dodanlı is a seasoned specialist with a particular focus on facial surgeries, including facelifts and eyelid procedures.
  • How many facelift procedures have you performed?
     With a long-standing career in facial plastic surgery, he has successfully operated on a wide range of cases, each approached with precision and artistic skill.
  • Can I see before-and-after photos?
     Dr. Dodanlı provides visual documentation of past surgeries, helping patients set realistic expectations and appreciate the quality of his work.

Checking Credentials and Reviews

Dr. Dodanlı’s professional background, patient-centered approach, and surgical outcomes have earned the trust of both local and international patients. Testimonials often highlight his attention to detail, his clear communication throughout the process, and his ability to deliver results that align with the patient’s goals.

Choosing a surgeon like Op. Dr. Erkan Dodanlı, who combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of facial harmony, is one of the most effective ways to ensure a safe and satisfying surgical experience in Turkey.

What to Expect During Your Trip

Pre-Arrival Preparation

  • Virtual consultations
  • Medical assessments
  • Travel arrangements provided by the clinic

Procedure and Recovery Timeline

  • Day 1: Consultation and preparation
  • Day 2: Surgery
  • Days 3–7: Initial recovery at the clinic or hotel
  • Week 2: Stitches removed and final check-up

Combining Treatment with Tourism

Many patients use their recovery time to enjoy Turkey’s cultural attractions, natural spas, and coastal towns once they feel better.

Comparing Facelift Safety: Turkey vs Other Countries

Cost vs Quality Balance

In Turkey, low cost doesn’t equal low quality. High patient volumes and competition drive clinics to maintain excellence.

Medical Regulation Differences

Turkey’s health tourism sector is heavily regulated by the Ministry of Health. Many clinics also adhere to international standards voluntarily.