Why choose Turkey for gender-affirming surgery?
- Internationally recognized healthcare. Turkey is witnessing a remarkable boom in medical tourism, welcoming 1.8 million health tourists in 2023, representing a 43% increase from 1.26 million in 2022. This growth has generated $2.3 billion in revenue, establishing Turkey as the 7th largest medical tourism destination globally with 40 internationally accredited health institutions. International patients flock to Turkish medical facilities that utilize the latest medical technologies and adhere to international standards.
- Affordability. Due to the lower cost of living and operational expenses, patients can expect to save 60–80% on transgender surgery costs compared to the US or Europe. Such savings are one of the biggest advantages of choosing this destination for gender-affirming procedures.
- Expertise of surgeons. Turkey is home to highly qualified surgeons with extensive experience in gender-affirming procedures, including leading specialists such as Dr. Bugra Cetin at Uroaesthetic, and Dr. Atilla Hacilar at CE International Hospital. Turkish surgeons often receive part of their training internationally, bringing a wealth of knowledge in transgender surgeries back to their home country. Many are members of international plastic surgery and transgender health associations, such as the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) and the World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH).
- Government incentives. The Turkish government supports the medical tourism industry, offering incentives for healthcare providers to maintain high standards of care in specialized treatments like gender-affirming procedures.
- Cultural and geographical appeal. Turkey's location is especially convenient for patients from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Besides, the country offers a unique combination of Eastern and Western cultures, rich historical sites, and natural beauty, which makes it an attractive destination for patients and their families during recovery.
A patient from Germany who received treatment at AquaHealth Clinic shared: "The best thing that could have happened to me. I had a sex change. It was all quick and uncomplicated. In Germany I would have had to wait over 3 years, maybe even longer. Bookimed has made my life worth living again." (Bookimed verified review, 5.0/5 rating)
What is the cost of gender reassignment surgery in Turkey?
Turkey is the most affordable country for gender reassignment surgery, with costs 5 times lower than in the US. Although exact costs vary depending on the type and conditions of surgery, the average price range for sex reassignment surgery is $5,000 - $15,000.
Below, you can compare the cost of gender confirmation surgery across the most popular destinations.
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Country
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Gender confirmation surgery cost
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Turkey
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$5,000 - $15,000 |
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United States
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$25,000 – $75,000
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United Kingdom
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$10,000 – $75,000
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Thailand
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$10,000 - $22,000 |
What factors impact the cost of gender reassignment surgery in Turkey?
Type of surgery
The specific type of gender reassignment surgery and the complexity of the procedures involved (such as breast/chest reconstruction, genital surgery, and aesthetic plastic surgery) play a crucial role in determining the cost. More complex surgeries require more time, resources, and expertise, leading to higher costs.
For example, the bottom surgery cost tends to be 2–3 times higher than the top surgery cost due to the intricate nature of genital reconstruction:
- On average, the top surgery cost is between $3,000 and $5,000.
- Bottom surgery costs can range from $5,000 to $15,000.
Surgeon's expertise
Highly experienced surgeons with a strong reputation in gender reassignment procedures charge more for their services. Their expertise in reconstructive surgery and proven track record of successful outcomes can significantly influence the overall cost.
A patient from Austria treated at Men's Health Clinics reported: "It is an excellent team with high competence and efficient problem solving, I had an excellent feeling and the trust in the doctors was always confirmed, I was completely cared for and I am grateful for this opportunity." (Bookimed verified review, 5.0/5 rating)
Hospital facilities
The choice of hospital or clinic also affects the cost. Modern facilities with cutting-edge technology and high standards of patient care usually have higher rates.
Additional procedures
Gender reassignment surgery is often accompanied by other cosmetic or reconstructive procedures to enhance the overall result. These additional treatments, such as facial feminization or voice modification surgery, can add to the total cost.
Moreover, patients sometimes need revision surgeries to refine the results or address potential complications.
Accommodation and travel
International patients must consider the cost of accommodation and travel expenses for themselves and accompanying family members or friends. Some clinics offer packages that include these aspects, but they can vary widely.
What is included in the transgender surgery package in Turkey?
Transgender surgery packages offer patients a comprehensive and streamlined experience. These all-inclusive packages cover a wide range of services to ensure patient comfort and convenience throughout the surgical process.
Sex reassignment surgery packages usually include:
- Fees for the surgeon, anesthesiologist, and the use of the operating room;
- Charges for the recovery room, including nursing care;
- All medications necessary during the hospital stay;
- Meals during the hospital stay;
- Transfers between the airport, hotel, and clinic.
Additionally, it is a common practice for patients to opt for multiple gender-affirming procedures simultaneously, such as combining orchiectomy and vaginoplasty. This approach is more cost-effective than undergoing each procedure separately. It provides significant savings in both costs and surgery recovery time.
Patient Outcomes and Satisfaction Rates
Gender-affirming surgery demonstrates exceptionally high patient satisfaction rates. A 2023 study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients reported maximum satisfaction scores (5 out of 5) and zero regret (0 out of 100) following gender-affirming mastectomy, with results maintained over a median 3.6-year follow-up period.
Long-term studies show that 90.2% of patients report their expectations for life as a woman were fulfilled postoperatively, and 85.4% see themselves as women according to a comprehensive analysis of 254 patients followed for an average of 5 years. The regret rate for gender-affirming surgery remains exceptionally low at less than 1%, significantly lower than many other elective medical procedures.
What types of gender reassignment surgery can you get in Turkey?
Bookimed partners with 420+ clinics offering gender reassignment surgery in Turkey, including top-rated facilities such as Dr. MED (4.9/5), Lokman Hekim Istanbul Hospital (4.8/5), and Quartz Hospital (4.7/5). Turkish gender surgeons offer a comprehensive range of procedures, ensuring each transgender patient can get the care they need and overcome their gender dysphoria. According to a comprehensive US study published in JAMA Network Open, breast and chest procedures comprise 56.6% of all gender-affirming surgeries, while genital reconstruction accounts for 35.1%.
Top Surgery
- Chest feminization. Turkish plastic surgeons perform breast augmentation by inserting breast implants to give the chest a feminine physical appearance.
- Chest masculinization. The medical team performs mastectomy, or the removal of excess breast tissue, to create a masculine chest. This procedure typically uses double incision or periareolar techniques depending on chest size and skin elasticity. The procedure is usually performed as same-day surgery or with one overnight stay. Recent studies show exceptional outcomes with maximum satisfaction scores (5 out of 5) and 0% regret rates in long-term follow-up. Complication rates are low at 3.5%, with most patients returning to work within 2–4 weeks and full activity after 6–8 weeks.
Bottom Surgery
Male-to-female (MTF) bottom surgeries available include:
- Vaginoplasty — construction of a vagina and vulva, typically through penile inversion with preservation of the neurovascular bundle to maintain sensation. The procedure averages 3.5 hours and creates a neovaginal canal typically 12–15cm in depth when proper dilation protocols are followed. Studies show 90.2% patient satisfaction rates. Post-operative dilation is crucial, starting 3–4 times daily and gradually reducing to weekly maintenance for life.
- Orchiectomy — removal of the testicles.
Female-to-male (FTM) bottom surgeries performed are:
- Phalloplasty — construction of a neopenis with tissue from other body parts.
- Metoidioplasty — construction of a neopenis from clitoral tissue.
- Hysterectomy — removal of the uterus.
- Oophorectomy — removal of the ovaries.
Facial feminization/masculinization surgery
Gender reassignment procedures may also involve modifying facial features through plastic surgery for a more feminine or masculine appearance, depending on the patient's gender identity.
- Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is highly popular among transgender women and transfeminine individuals. Common surgical procedures include jaw and chin recontouring, forehead reshaping, rhinoplasty, and reducing the prominence of the Adam's apple (tracheal shave).
- Facial Masculinization Surgery (FMS) is less in demand among transgender men because testosterone therapy alone often leads to significant masculinization of facial features. When opted for, FMS focuses on enhancing masculine traits like a more prominent brow bone, jawline, and chin.
Voice Surgery
Voice modification surgery adjusts the pitch and resonance to better match the patient's gender identity.
- Voice feminization surgery techniques may involve shortening the vocal cords or modifying the tension to achieve a higher pitch.
- Voice masculinization surgery for transgender men might involve thickening and lengthening the vocal cords to lower the pitch.
Understanding Risks and Complications
While gender-affirming surgery is generally safe, patients should understand potential risks. A comprehensive study of 488 vaginoplasty procedures shows encouraging results: 74.7% of patients had no complications at all, and the remaining issues were mostly minor and manageable. Overall, the data reflects strong safety, smooth recovery for most patients, and consistently successful outcomes. For phalloplasty, studies show that nearly 45% of patients complete the procedure without needing additional interventions, and when follow-up procedures are required, they are generally manageable, with most patients achieving successful functional and aesthetic results.
Common complications include:
- Vaginoplasty: Wound healing issues (most common), urinary complications, and vaginal stenosis if dilation protocols aren't followed.
- Top surgery: Infection rates below 1%, temporary swelling lasting 1–2 weeks, and rare complications requiring reoperation (2.8% in pediatric studies).
- General surgical risks: Bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and need for revision surgery.
It's important to note that complication rates vary significantly between surgical facilities, ranging from 10–46% depending on the hospital and surgeon experience. Choosing accredited facilities with experienced surgeons significantly reduces these risks.
Where can international patients go for gender reassignment surgery in Turkey?
Istanbul and Antalya are the most prominent destinations for gender reassignment procedures in the country.
Istanbul
Pros:
- Medical expertise. Istanbul is renowned for its highly experienced surgeons and gender reassignment clinics, such as Dr. MED (4.9/5 rating) and Quartz Hospital (4.7/5 rating). The city's healthcare providers are leaders in their field and hold international certifications.
- Cultural and historical richness. Istanbul is the most visited city in the world for a reason. Patients and their families can enjoy Istanbul's rich cultural heritage and historical sites during the recovery period. This is the perfect place for a comforting and enriching experience outside the clinical setting.
- Accessibility. As Turkey's largest city and a major international hub, Istanbul is easily accessible from almost anywhere in the world, with many direct flights.
A patient from the United States who underwent surgery at Dr. MED Clinic stated: "From the moment that I requested services to the time of recovery, everything has been perfect. I am two weeks out from surgery now, and just loving the look of everything so far." (Bookimed verified review, 5.0/5 rating)
Cons:
- Cost of living. The cost of living and medical services in Istanbul can be higher than in smaller Turkish cities, which might slightly increase the overall cost of the stay. Yet, it's still notably more affordable compared to Western countries. For example, Istanbul's cost of living is 2.4 times lower than in the United States.
Antalya
Pros:
- Quality care. Despite being smaller than Istanbul, Antalya boasts a modern medical infrastructure and highly skilled surgeons experienced in gender-affirming surgeries.
- Competitive pricing. The cost of medical procedures, including gender reassignment surgery, can be more affordable in Antalya compared to Istanbul. This affordability extends to accommodation and living expenses, making the overall stay more economical.
- Scenic relaxation. Known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline and resorts, Antalya offers a tranquil environment ideal for recovery. The serene setting can be a significant advantage for patients seeking peace and relaxation.
Cons:
- Fewer specialists. While the quality of medical care is high, Antalya has fewer specialized surgeons for gender reassignment procedures than Istanbul. This could limit patients' choice of healthcare providers.
How to find the best hospital for gender reassignment surgery in Turkey?
The crucial factors to take into account when selecting a hospital for gender-affirmation surgery are:
- Accreditations and certifications. Look for hospitals accredited by reputable organizations like the Joint Commission International (JCI), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the Turkish Medical Association (TMA). These accreditations ensure that the facility meets global standards for healthcare quality and patient safety. Turkey has 40 JCI-accredited health institutions as of 2025, with 25 located in Istanbul alone, ranking among the top three countries globally for JCI-accredited facilities.
- Surgeon qualifications and experience. Investigate the qualifications, experience, and track record of surgeons. Ideally, they should have extensive experience in gender reassignment procedures.
- Patient reviews. Seek out testimonials and reviews from previous patients. These can provide insight into their experiences with the hospital's care, the surgery outcomes, and the surgeon's expertise.
- Before and after photos. Request before and after photos of previous surgeries. These can help you assess the surgeon's ability to achieve natural-looking results.
- Comprehensive care approach. Gender clinics tend to adopt a holistic approach, including post-operative care, follow-up services, and perks like free transfers for international patients. Choose a hospital that offers all-inclusive packages for your needs.
What steps does transgender surgery in Turkey involve?
- Initial consultation. The sex reassignment process begins with an online consultation to discuss your transition goals, expectations, and any medical considerations. It is followed by an in-person meeting with your surgeon upon arrival.
- Pre-surgical assessments. You will have to undergo thorough medical and psychiatric evaluations to confirm you're ready for surgery.
- Surgery. The duration of the actual surgery varies by procedure; for example, an orchiectomy might take 1–2 hours, while more complex surgeries like vaginoplasty can last 3–6 hours.
- Hospital stay. Post-surgery, patients stay in the hospital for 3–7 days for vaginoplasty, while top surgery is typically same-day or one overnight stay so that doctors can closely monitor their recovery and address immediate concerns.
- Recovery period. After being discharged, patients need to stay for 10–14 days minimum for initial recovery and suture removal for post-operative care and to ensure the initial phase of recovery goes smoothly.
- Full recovery. Complete recovery from transgender surgery can span several months to a year, with 4–6 weeks for initial recovery and 6–12 months for complete healing and final results, with the most significant improvements visible within the first 6 weeks.
- Long-term care. Complex surgical procedures like vaginoplasty and phalloplasty require ongoing care, including hormonal treatments, additional procedures, and dilation, to refine the results and support the patient's transition.
What are the requirements for gender reassignment surgery in Turkey?
Psychological evaluation
Most gender reassignment clinics require a thorough psychological assessment by a mental health professional. It should confirm that the patient is experiencing gender dysphoria and that such a major surgery is necessary for their gender transition. Most clinics follow the WPATH Standards of Care Version 8, published in 2022, which provides evidence-based guidelines for patient evaluation and treatment protocols.
Informed consent
Patients must provide informed consent, demonstrating an understanding of the risks and benefits of the gender reassignment procedure, as well as the permanency of the results.
Legal age
Patients must be of legal age, which is 18 years or older, to make an informed decision and undergo surgery.
Hormone therapy
It is common for SRS surgeons to request a documented history of hormone therapy, usually for a minimum period (such as 12 months).
Medical clearance
A comprehensive medical evaluation is required to rule out any health conditions that could complicate the surgery or the patient's ability to recover.
How to get the best gender reassignment surgery in Turkey with Bookimed?
- Submit a request. Begin by completing a request on the Bookimed website and detailing your surgery goals.
- Consult with a Bookimed manager. A Bookimed manager will shortly reach out to you to discuss your needs and answer any questions.
- Select the best sex change hospital. Your Bookimed manager will suggest the most suitable clinics for gender-affirming procedures based on your preferences.
- Get a personalized quote. After you decide on a clinic for gender confirmation, Bookimed will send you a personalized cost estimate for your surgical procedure.
- Organize your journey. Now, you can proceed to planning your trip. Bookimed will be there for you every step of the way so you can relax and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
