Having Surgery with DR. Tapan in Antalya as an International Patient

Medical tourism in Turkey has been successfully practiced for many years. Traveling from another country for surgery can sometimes feel like Christopher Columbus crossing a foggy ocean to discover America. I’d like to illuminate this journey for you.

Let me guide you through the key steps:

Consultation with Dr. Tapan

Your initial consultation with your doctor is the first step. You should clearly define your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon. Your medical history is extremely important. Previous surgeries, anesthesia experiences, and surgical history provide valuable insight.
You can contact our clinic 24/7 via:
+90 533 376 1772
www.drmehmettapan.com
Instagram: drmehmettapan
Facebook: Doç. Dr. Mehmet Tapan

Booking Your Flight and Hotel

We recommend arriving in Antalya at least 24 hours before your scheduled surgery. Walking and moving around during your flight can help prevent potential complications. We usually advise our patients to choose their own hotel based on their personal preferences. However, if you need assistance, we can provide hotel recommendations close to the clinic or hospital.
The length of your stay depends on the type of surgery you will undergo, so please consult Dr. Mehmet Tapan for guidance.

Packing Your Luggage

Your suitcase should include at least one or more comfortable pajamas, preferably with buttons in the front for easy wear. Also, pack plenty of underwear and a pair of comfortable slippers.

Accommodation and Transfers

Many hotels in Turkey offer airport transfer services. Besides private transfers, taxis and trams are also available options. You can use taxis or hotel transfer services for transportation between the hospital and your accommodation. If needed, we can also provide transfer recommendations.

Medications Before Surgery

• Herbal supplements that may increase the risk of bleeding should be discontinued before surgery.
• Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy should be stopped at least one week before surgery, if they are not medically necessary—please consult your doctor first.
• Blood thinners may need to be stopped to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery, but discontinuing them can be dangerous in some cases. Always consult your doctor.
• Not all psychiatric medications need to be stopped, but some may require dosage adjustments or temporary discontinuation before surgery. Please discuss this with your doctor.
• Thyroid and blood pressure medications are generally taken with a small sip of water on the morning of surgery, but always confirm this with your anesthesiologist.

Surgery Process

Before surgery, necessary tests include blood tests, an EKG, and a chest X-ray. If no medical condition prevents the procedure, the anesthesiologist will evaluate your surgical eligibility based on the ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologists) score. Even if you have already discussed your medical history with Dr. Tapan, additional specialist consultations may be required in certain cases.

Discharge and Returning to Your Hotel

Depending on the type of surgery, your expected hospital stay may be one or two nights. In some cases, patients can be discharged on the same day. You will leave the hospital with your prescriptions and flight clearance report, and your follow-up appointments will be scheduled accordingly.

See you soon,
Mehmet Tapan