5 REALLY IMPORTANT things you need to know about getting a tummy tuck, including the cost, risks, benefits, and recovery time…
Deciding to get a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a big deal; it’s a decision that no-one should make lightly. Many people who choose to have tummy tuck surgery in the UK or Australia also make enquiries about having surgery overseas.
Getting a tummy tuck in Turkey is becoming evermore popular with 640,000 people visiting Istanbul and Turkey for medical tourism purposes in 2021.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the pros and cons of travelling to Turkey for a tummy tuck so read on for 5 of the most important factors in making your choice.
1. TUMMY TUCK COST IN TURKEY
An obvious bonus for flying to Turkey for your tummy tuck is the price. Relatively speaking, the cost of living in Turkey is 30 to 70 per cent lower than in countries like the UK and Australia. Therefore, what you’ll save on surgery you can spend on enjoying a luxury holiday.
Comparison prices vary a lot but the lower price of abdominal surgery in Turkey is not an indication of sub-standard surgery – Turkish medical standards are in line with the UK and Australia, and any surgeon we employ has completed a general medical degree as well as an additional 5+ years of cosmetic surgery training.
The cost of living in Turkey is due to the lower cost of living. For example, a cup of coffee is equivalent to AUD$1.85 and a pair of Levi 501 jeans is AUD$70.
2. IS IT SAFE TO GET A TUMMY TUCK IN TURKEY
Abdominoplasty is considered relatively higher risk compared to other procedures such as a hair transplant, partly because abdominal surgery involves close contact with major veins and arteries.
Patients with a history of smoking, chronic disease or obesity increase their risk dramatically. The most common complications were hematoma, blood clots and infection. Therefore, it’s advised that before you consider getting a tummy tuck in Turkey you have maintained a healthy weight for at least 6 months.
In a US study of 25,000 patients, combined procedures such as tummy tuck with liposuction or body contouring increased the risk of major complications from 1.4% to 4%. Elective surgery, just like any surgery should be thoroughly considered before making a final decision.
Although there are risks, getting a tummy tuck is the 5th most popular cosmetic surgery in the world so you’re definitely not alone in wanting a sleek, more contoured physique.
3. TUMMY TUCK SCARS
A key aspect to be aware of is that a tummy tuck will definitely leave you with scars. It’s impossible to perform this type of surgery without making incisions below the navel and along the pubic hairline.
On a positive note, a tummy tuck permanently tightens the abdominal muscles and removes excess skin. Over time your scars will reduce and lighten from red to pink but the reality is that you will have scars and they will be permanent.
Some people are more prone to raised scarring and the area of the body and thickness of the skin are determining factors in the way your scars will heal.
Fortunately, most scarring can be reduced with topical creams such as vitamin E oil as well as gentle, regular massage. Your duty nurse will be able to advise when and how to perform this post-surgery.
4. TUMMY TUCK BEFORE AND AFTER
The major benefit of having tummy tuck surgery in Turkey (or anywhere) is the finished result. Whether you have a full or mini tummy tuck your surgeon will fuse the abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat before closing the wound with a variety of stitches. Some sutures are permanent and others, which are soluble, will dissolve within a year.
This might sound excessive, but once your abdominal muscles have been reconfigured, you want them to stay that way!
5. RECOVERY AFTER TUMMY TUCK AND LIPO
It’s fairly common for people to undergo a tummy tuck and lipo at the same time. The recovery period for this type of surgery is approximately 6 to 8 weeks.
In the first few days following your surgery your abdomen will be covered with a surgical dressing. Thin drainage tubes will remain in place for a few days until your nurse is confident that you are healing adequately.
Resting in a reclining position will assist with excess fluid drainage and you’ll likely feel sore when you bend or move.
The initial two weeks are when you’ll require careful attention not to rupture your stitches. This is why having a Tummy Tuck in Turkey provides the perfect respite from daily chores. Our 4 and 5 star accommodation includes a duty nurse who will assist you with your wound dressings and will monitor your progress while you heal.
After two weeks most people feel OK to drive but while you’re in Turkey you’ll be able to make the most of the affordable taxis and plentiful sightseeing that will enable you to take daily gentle walks and build strength in your abdominal muscles without over exerting yourself.
Pain medication will be prescribed according to your needs and within a month you’ll be well on your way to normal activities. High intensity exercise and domestic duties that involve lifting heavy items is discouraged for the first 6 to 8 weeks.
Swelling and bruising can take up to 3 months before it completely settles down and knowing this can provide peace of mind as you allow your body to heal in its own time.
Having a tummy tuck in Turkey isn’t just about the cost. While you recover you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of a holiday in Istanbul. Allowing your body to recover while you relax and enjoy time away from home can be a beautiful way to reconnect with the body you wish you’d always had.
If you want to know more, download our Tummy Tuck info sheet. Alternatively speak to one of our friendly consultants and let them answer any questions you have about getting a tummy tuck in Turkey.
Click the calendar link below to book your free 20-minute discovery call with one of the team: https://calendly.com/astheticaintl/