Many patients plan their surgery in Turkey carefully, then plan the recovery in five minutes. In my experience, the first week after a procedure is where small mistakes happen. Here is how to make it calmer and safer.
Do not rush your return flight. The right time to fly depends on the procedure and on you. Ask your surgeon directly, and book a flexible ticket if possible. Long flights soon after surgery increase the risk of blood clots, especially after body procedures. Your surgeon may recommend compression stockings, movement during the flight or other prevention.
Choose your hotel for recovery, not for sightseeing. Look for a quiet room close to the clinic, with an elevator, room service or food nearby, and a comfortable bed. Steep streets and stairs are part of Istanbul’s charm, but they are not your friend in the first days.
Keep every follow-up appointment. The check-up before you fly home is not a formality. It is your doctor’s chance to see swelling, wound healing and early signs of infection while you are still nearby.
What to avoid in the first week. Unless your surgeon says otherwise:
- Hamam, sauna, pools and sea swimming
- Direct sun on treated areas
- Alcohol and smoking
- Heavy lifting and intense exercise
- Long walking tours on the first days
What is usually normal. Swelling, bruising, tiredness and mild discomfort are expected after most procedures. Fever, increasing pain, redness spreading from a wound, shortness of breath or calf pain are not. Contact your clinic immediately if you notice them.
Bring someone with you. A companion helps with medication times, meals and transfers, and simply makes the first nights less lonely.
Recovery is part of the treatment. Plan it with the same care as the procedure itself.
This article is for general information and does not replace an individual medical consultation.
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