Travel expert issues urgent Turkey warning to Brits heading abroad

While cosmetic trips to Turkey have become the newest craze among British holidaymakers since the pandemic, a travel expert has warned that this can come with serious risks.

Simon Hood, travel expert and Executive Director of John Mason International, warns that foreign medical procedures come with their own dangers. This comes after an estimated nearly 250,000 Brits opted for foreign medical care in 2019, citing that the UK was too expensive and had wait times beyond their expectations, according to ITIJ.

Turkey has become a prime destination for medical tourism. Particularly in Antalya and Istanbul, clinics and hotspots have become renowned for providing ‘medical tourism packages’. This includes offering all-in-one inclusive quotes to patients, with luxury perks like chauffeurs from the airport, hotel stays and even travel between appointments.

Plus, there is a sizable disparity in prices. Costs for ‘Turkey teeth’ typically cost 40% to 60% cheaper than surgery in the UK. For example, a set of veneers in the UK can cost around a staggering £9,000, while practices in Turkey offer sets from anywhere between £1,500 to £2,400 according to Adalya.

However, Simon Hood warns that these cheaper rates often come with their own risks. He also cautions against taking social media videos at face value.

He says: “Turkey teeth procedures and other cosmetic work can be quite the risk. We’ve all seen the glossy videos on social media with TikTokers promoting practices during the summer, but you need to double-check the practice you’re planning on attending is board-certified."

He continues: “In Turkey, regulations vary slightly from the UK, but any practice or clinic can be recognised by international organisations like the Joint Commission International, or JCI. Having this recognition can help assure you that your deal is both safe and indeed a bargain.”

Simon also recommends researching whether the surgeons of your local practice have membership of the Turkish Society of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (TSPRAS).

This follows thousands of medical tourists each year, who receive care below what would be considered safe practice in the UK, often resulting in medical issues down the road.

A recent audit by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons has called for government action, with more than 300 Brits now requiring corrective surgery following their ‘cosmetic vacations’ abroad.

On the back of this, Simon urges his clients as well as others travelling to Turkey to do their research. He explains: “Turkey is notorious for its underground medical tourism, with people flocking in hope of getting a quick and cheap deal. But it doesn’t work like that; cheap cosmetic work could result in serious issues.”

“That’s why we’re recommending to all clients at John Mason International, or otherwise, that they need to do the appropriate research and make sure practices and surgeons have the best accreditations available.”