Frequently Asked Questions
Planning treatment in Istanbul is easier when you know what to expect. Here you’ll find answers to the questions our patients ask most, from your free assessment and travel to your stay, aftercare and each treatment we arrange.
What does Galya Health do?
Galya Health is a health tourism company based in Istanbul. We help international patients plan treatment with partner hospitals and dental clinics in Istanbul that we work with under formal agreements. Your treatment is carried out by their medical teams, while we take care of everything around it: your assessment, travel plans, VIP transfers, translator support and staying in touch from your first enquiry to aftercare.
How do I get started?
Fill in the free assessment form on our website or message us on WhatsApp. We’ll ask a few questions about your health and goals and, depending on the treatment, for photos or X-rays. Our team reviews your details and prepares an initial plan, so you know what to expect before you decide to travel. There’s no obligation to go ahead.
Can I ask questions before I travel?
Yes. Before you travel, you can talk things through with us by video call, phone or message, whichever suits you best. Any medical questions are passed to the medical team, and we come back to you with their answers. Your final plan is confirmed after an in-person examination in Istanbul, as some things can only be decided face to face.
Will someone speak English with me in Istanbul?
Yes. A translator supports you at your appointments, so you can understand every step and ask questions in English. Your coordinator is also on hand throughout your stay for anything you need, from timings to practical questions.
Who will meet me when I land in Istanbul?
A member of our team meets you at the airport and takes you to your hospital, clinic or hotel in a private VIP vehicle. Transfers between your accommodation and your appointments are arranged for you as well, so you don’t need to find your way around the city on your own.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, many patients travel with a partner, friend or family member. Let us know when you plan your trip, and similar arrangements can be made for your companion too. Just ask us for the details of what’s included for them.
Do I need a visa to travel to Turkey?
Entry rules depend on your nationality and can change, so please check the latest requirements on the official Republic of Türkiye e-Visa website before you book your flights. Make sure your passport is valid for your whole trip. If you’re unsure, your coordinator can point you in the right direction.
How do I stay in touch with my coordinator?
Most patients use WhatsApp, as it’s quick and works wherever you are, but you can also reach us by phone or email. The same team supports you before you travel, while you’re in Istanbul and after you return home.
Do you provide support after I return to my country?
Yes. Our support doesn’t end when you fly home. You can contact us with questions about your recovery, and we’ll pass them to the medical team and come back to you with their guidance. If something doesn’t feel right, get in touch straight away, and in an emergency always contact your local emergency services first.
Is my personal and medical information kept confidential?
Yes. Your information is only used to plan and support your treatment and is shared only with the medical team caring for you. You can read how we handle your data in our Privacy Policy.
Do I need to follow a special diet before weight loss surgery?
Most patients are asked to follow a pre-operative diet for a short time before surgery, as it helps prepare your body for the operation. If it applies to you, your coordinator will share the diet plan from the medical team well before you travel, with clear guidance on what to eat and drink.
What checks will I have before bariatric surgery?
When you arrive, the medical team carries out tests before your operation, such as blood tests and any other checks they consider necessary for you. These help them confirm that surgery is right for you and plan your care. Bring any recent test results and a list of your current medication with you.
Will I be in pain after weight loss surgery?
The operation is carried out through a few small cuts, and the medical team keeps you comfortable with pain relief while you’re in hospital. Some soreness and tiredness in the first days is normal. Nurses check on you regularly, and you can tell them or your translator how you feel at any time.
Where will I stay during my trip for weight loss surgery?
For gastric sleeve, gastric bypass and revisional surgery, you stay in hospital for four nights after your operation, so the medical team can monitor your recovery closely. Your transfers between the airport and the hospital are arranged for you, and your coordinator confirms the full plan for your stay before you travel.
What will I eat after bariatric surgery?
Your diet changes gradually after surgery, starting with liquids and moving step by step to soft foods and then normal textures. You’ll be given a nutrition plan to follow at home, and smaller portions, eating slowly and drinking enough water become part of your daily routine.
Is weight loss surgery a quick fix?
Not on its own. Bariatric surgery is a tool that makes it easier to eat less and feel full sooner, but your long-term results depend on the changes you make afterwards. Following your nutrition plan, staying active and keeping up with your aftercare all help you get the most from your surgery.
When can I start exercising after bariatric surgery?
You’ll be encouraged to walk soon after your operation, as gentle movement helps your recovery. More demanding exercise is introduced gradually, once the medical team is happy with your progress. Follow the advice you’re given and build up at a pace that feels right for you.
Want to compare your options? See our Bariatric Surgery page
How should I prepare for plastic surgery?
You’ll receive preparation guidance from the medical team before you travel. This usually includes stopping smoking for a period before and after surgery and checking any medication or supplements you take. Try to arrive well rested, and plan enough time away from work for your recovery.
What photos do I need to send for my assessment?
Clear photos of the area you’d like treated, taken from the front, both sides and at an angle, help our team prepare your initial plan. Use good natural light and a plain background, and avoid filters. Your photos are kept confidential and only shared with the medical team.
What should I pack for a plastic surgery trip?
Pack loose, comfortable clothes that are easy to put on, such as tops that open at the front and slip-on shoes. Bring your passport, any medical records, a list of your current medication and your phone charger. Your coordinator will send you a short checklist before you travel.
What happens before I fly home?
Your aftercare before you travel home, including any check-ups, is planned around your procedure and the surgeon’s assessment of how you’re recovering. Your coordinator explains what’s planned for you and makes sure you have your aftercare instructions. Once you’re home, you can contact us at any time with questions about your recovery.
Can I go sightseeing in Istanbul after surgery?
Rest comes first while you’re recovering, so it’s best not to plan a busy sightseeing schedule. Short, gentle walks are often encouraged, but follow the medical team’s advice. If you’d like to explore the city, consider arriving a little earlier, before your operation.
Is there an age limit for plastic surgery?
Age requirements can vary from one procedure to another, so please ask us about the treatment you’re interested in. Beyond age, what matters most is your general health and having realistic expectations, which the medical team reviews during your assessment.
Explore all our treatments on the Plastic Surgery page
What do I need to send for a dental assessment?
A recent panoramic X-ray of your teeth and clear photos of your smile from the front and both sides are ideal. With these, the dental team can prepare an initial plan for you before you travel. Your final plan is confirmed after an examination and imaging at the clinic in Istanbul.
I don’t have a recent X-ray. Can I still get an assessment?
Yes. Send us clear photos of your teeth and tell us about any problems you’ve noticed. The team can give you an initial idea of your options from these, and any X-rays and imaging you need are taken at the clinic once you arrive in Istanbul.
Where will I stay during my dental treatment?
For dental treatments that include accommodation, you stay at a 5-star luxury hotel, with VIP transfers between the airport, the hotel and the clinic. If you’re only having teeth whitening, accommodation isn’t included, as it’s a simple in-clinic treatment. Your coordinator confirms exactly what’s included in your plan.
Will my new teeth feel different at first?
It’s normal for new teeth to feel a little unfamiliar at first. Your bite, your speech and the way your tongue rests may take some getting used to. This usually settles as you adjust, and the dental team checks your bite and makes any adjustments needed during your treatment.
What can I eat during dental treatment?
Softer foods are usually easier during treatment, especially between appointments. Your dentist will tell you if there’s anything to avoid, such as very hard, sticky or very hot food. Once your treatment is complete, you’ll be given advice on looking after your teeth at home.
Can family members have dental treatment on the same trip?
Yes. Many patients travel with a partner or family member who also has treatment. Each person has their own assessment and personal plan, and we coordinate appointments, transfers and accommodation so the trip works for everyone.
What if I have a problem with my teeth after I return home?
Contact us with a description and photos of what you’ve noticed. We’ll share them with the dental team and come back to you with their advice on the next steps. Keeping up regular check-ups with your local dentist also helps you look after your results.
Find the right option for your smile on our Dental Treatments page
What photos should I send for a hair assessment?
Send clear photos of your hair from the front, the top, the crown, both sides and the back of your head. Dry hair and good light work best. These help the team understand your hair loss and your donor area and prepare your initial plan.
How should I prepare for my hair transplant?
You’ll receive preparation guidance before you travel. It usually includes avoiding smoking and checking any medication or supplements you take with the medical team. On the day, wear a shirt or top that buttons at the front, so you don’t need to pull clothes over your head afterwards.
Will my head need to be shaved?
It depends on your plan and the technique used. In many cases, the donor area at the back of the head is trimmed short. The team explains exactly what to expect for your hair during your consultation, so there are no surprises.
Where will I stay during my hair transplant?
You stay at a 5-star luxury hotel in Istanbul, with VIP transfers between the airport, the hotel and the clinic. A translator supports you at the clinic, and your coordinator is on hand throughout your stay.
Who do I contact with questions after I get home?
Our aftercare support continues on WhatsApp once you’re home. You can send us photos and questions about your recovery and hair growth, and we’ll pass them to the clinic team and come back to you with their advice.
Do you offer beard, eyebrow or female hair transplants?
Our hair transplant service is currently for scalp hair only, so we don’t arrange beard, eyebrow or female hair transplants. If you’re not sure whether a hair transplant suits your type of hair loss, send us your photos and we’ll let you know.
Learn how your treatment is planned on our Hair Transplantation page
Start With a Free Assessment
Leave your details and our patient team will get in touch. If you have recent photos, scans or medical reports, we’ll ask you to share them so your initial plan can be prepared.
Your information is kept confidential. By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and to your details being shared with partner hospitals for your treatment plan.
