Planning eyelid surgery in Turkey from the UK? Flights, entry rules, what aftercare looks like back home, and how to plan the trip — British patient guide.
Travelling from the UK for eyelid surgery is well-trodden — Turkey treats large numbers of British patients every year. The surgery is the same wherever you start; what differs is the logistics. Here's the British patient view.
| Detail | Typical in Turkey |
|---|
| Price range | €1,500 – €3,500 |
| Procedure time | 1–2 hours |
| Anaesthesia | Local + sedation |
| Downtime | 7–10 days |
| Recovery | 2–4 weeks |
| Stay in Turkey | 4–6 days |
Getting there
- ✓Flight time: ~4 hours from common hubs (London (LHR/LGW/STN), Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh).
- ✓Entry: No visa required for UK passport holders for stays up to 90 days.
- ✓Currency: GBP (£).
Recovery and flying home
Most surgeons advise not flying for the first 5–10 days after major surgery to reduce DVT/clot risk. Plan your stay around the surgeon-recommended recovery window (4–6 days for eyelid surgery) rather than the cheapest flight.
Follow-up back home
The NHS does not routinely fund follow-up or revision for elective cosmetic surgery performed privately abroad, though it will treat genuine medical emergencies. Arrange written aftercare instructions and a remote check-in with your Turkish clinic, and identify a private UK practitioner willing to provide local follow-up before you travel. Keep your operative notes and a remote check-in with your Turkish clinic.
Plan the money properly
Eyelid Surgery typically costs €1,500 – €3,500 in Turkey. Add flights (often not in the package), accommodation beyond the included nights, and a contingency for follow-up at home in the UK.
About Eyelid Surgery in Turkey
Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) removes excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper and/or lower eyelids to correct droopiness, puffiness, and bags under the eyes. It can also improve peripheral vision obstructed by sagging upper eyelids.
Turkey is a popular destination for blepharoplasty thanks to experienced oculoplastic and plastic surgeons who perform high volumes of this procedure. Turkish clinics offer both surgical and non-surgical eyelid rejuvenation options.
The procedure takes about 1-2 hours, often under local anesthesia with sedation. Recovery is relatively quick — most patients return to work within 7-10 days, with bruising fading within 2 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will eyelid surgery leave visible scars?
Scars from upper blepharoplasty are hidden in the natural eyelid crease. Lower blepharoplasty incisions are made just below the lash line or inside the eyelid (transconjunctival), making them virtually invisible once healed.
Is eyelid surgery painful?
Most patients experience minimal pain. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with sedation, so you won't feel anything during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is mild and managed with prescribed medication.
Can I have upper and lower eyelid surgery at the same time?
Yes, most surgeons perform both upper and lower blepharoplasty in a single session. This is more cost-effective and means only one recovery period.
How long do eyelid surgery results last?
Upper eyelid surgery results typically last 7-10 years, while lower eyelid surgery results are often permanent. The eyes will continue to age naturally, but most patients don't need a repeat procedure.
How much does eyelid surgery cost in Turkey?
Eyelid surgery in Turkey costs between €1,500 and €3,500 for both upper and lower lids, compared to €3,000-€7,000 in the UK. Upper or lower only will cost less.
Do I need a visa to go to Turkey for eyelid surgery from the UK?
No visa required for UK passport holders for stays up to 90 days. Always confirm the current rules for your nationality before booking.
How long should I stay in Turkey for eyelid surgery?
Plan around the recommended window (4–6 days). Most surgeons advise not flying for the first 5–10 days after major surgery to reduce DVT/clot risk.
Will my home health system cover follow-up?
The NHS does not routinely fund follow-up or revision for elective cosmetic surgery performed privately abroad, though it will treat genuine medical emergencies. Arrange written aftercare instructions and a remote check-in with your Turkish clinic, and identify a private UK practitioner willing to provide local follow-up before you travel.
How much should a British patient budget for eyelid surgery in Turkey?
The procedure itself is typically €1,500 – €3,500; add flights, extra accommodation and a contingency for any follow-up back home.
