FAQ
Every question we get asked, answered honestly
Can't find your answer here? Send it directly during your free consultation and the surgical team will respond personally.
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Eligibility & letters
Most patients bring one letter of support from a mental health professional, in line with the WPATH Standards of Care. We review your documentation during the free consultation and confirm exactly what's required for your situation before you travel.
Surgery is available to adults 18 and over. We do not perform chest surgery on minors.
No — hormone therapy is not a prerequisite for top surgery. Many patients have surgery with or without prior testosterone use; this is discussed individually during your consultation.
Requirements vary by country and provider. Send what you have during your consultation and the surgical team will confirm what's needed — most gaps can be resolved before your travel date.
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The surgery itself
Depending on technique, surgery takes between 1.5 and 3.5 hours under general anaesthesia. Double incision typically takes longest due to nipple grafting.
Some discomfort is normal for the first few days and is managed with prescribed medication. Most patients describe it as manageable tightness and soreness rather than sharp pain.
Drains are used for some patients, particularly with double incision, and are usually removed within a few days before you fly home. Your surgeon confirms this during your pre-op assessment.
Scars typically look their pinkest and most raised in the first 2–3 months, then continue softening and fading over 12–18 months. Sun protection and scar massage (once cleared) support the process.
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Travel & stay
Most patients plan for 6 nights — enough time for pre-op assessment, surgery, one night in hospital, and follow-up checks before you're cleared to fly.
Yes. Airport pickup, hotel transfers, and transport to and from the hospital are included in every package.
Absolutely, and many patients bring a support person. Companion flights and any additional hotel costs are arranged separately with your coordinator.
Istanbul is one of the world's most-visited cities and a major medical tourism destination. Your entire trip — hotel, transfers and hospital — is arranged in the same well-established Nişantaşı district.
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Cost & payment
Surgeon and hospital fees, anaesthesia, one night's hospital stay, hotel, transfers, travel insurance and your coordinator are quoted as a single number. Only international flights and optional add-ons sit outside the package — see the pricing page for full details.
A £500 deposit is required. The remaining balance can be paid in cash or by credit card. Credit card payments are subject to a 30% commission fee.
You can cancel your surgery with at least two weeks’ notice. Your deposit is not refunded, but it can be transferred to your next booking when you reschedule.
Coverage varies widely by country and provider. Some patients successfully claim partial reimbursement after the fact — we can provide itemised invoices to support a claim, but cannot guarantee insurer approval.
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Recovery & aftercare
For desk-based jobs or students, around 2 weeks off is recommended before returning to work or studies. If your job involves heavy lifting, carrying, long shifts, or other physically demanding duties, around 6–8 weeks off is recommended.
Light walking is encouraged from day one. Most patients are cleared for cardio around 6 weeks and full upper-body strength training around 8–12 weeks, following your surgeon's guidance.
You'll have a scheduled video follow-up with your surgeon around 6 weeks post-op, and your coordinator remains reachable for questions throughout your recovery.
Contact your coordinator immediately — you'll be given clear guidance on next steps and, where appropriate, connected with a local provider while staying in touch with the surgical team.
Still have questions?