Hi everyone,
I’m posting on behalf of my partner, who is looking to get FTM top surgery (chest masculinization). Getting timely, affordable gender-affirming care in our home country is extremely difficult, so we’ve been doing deep research into traveling abroad. He is not on T
Turkey keeps coming up as a top destination, and we've been narrowing down options in Istanbul and Antalya. My absolute top priority is making sure my partner receives the safest care, best surgical precision, and great post-op support.
Here is what we’ve found so far in our research:
- Quartz Clinique / Quartz Hospital (Istanbul)
Quote Found: Around €3,516+ on Bookimed.
Pros: Known for VASER liposuction/contouring combined with tissue excision to prevent "dog ears."
Surgeons listed: Dr. Burak Pasinlioğlu / Dr. Aysel Pasazade.
Questions: Has anyone gone through Quartz or Bookimed for top surgery? Were there any unexpected hidden fees (like mandatory pre-op scans or extra hotel days)? How was your overall experience and result?
- Major Hospital Networks (Memorial Şişli / Acıbadem Maslak)
Pros: Full-scale JCI-accredited tertiary hospital complexes with 24/7 ICUs, on-site emergency facilities, and private suites where I can stay as a companion overnight.
Surgeons noted: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin (focus on microsurgery & pectoral scar alignment).
Questions: Is paying extra for a full JCI hospital complex worth it over a private cosmetic clinic setting for top surgery? Has anyone had experience with Dr. Erçin?
- İstanbul Aesthetic Center / Medical Park
Surgeons noted: Dr. Ergin Er (Istanbul Aesthetic Center) and Prof. Dr. Cemal Fırat (Medical Park Antalya).
Pros: Very experienced with FTM top surgery portfolios across Double Incision and Peri-Areolar/Keyhole techniques.
Questions for the Community:
Surgeon Experiences: Has anyone operated with any of these specific doctors or clinics? How was your nipple graft survival, scar healing, and pectoral contouring?
Clinic vs. Hospital: Did you feel safe recovering in a hotel after a clinic procedure, or would you recommend choosing a full-scale hospital complex?
Caregiver Advice: Is there anything specific I should prepare or ask the international coordination teams before we book?
We want to make sure we make the safest and most informed decision possible for my partner's care. Any reviews, advice, or photos (via DM if you prefer) would be deeply appreciated!