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Orthopedic Surgery Turkey

Orthopedics Turkey cost effective treatments allow international patients to access world-class musculoskeletal care, from joint replacements to sports medicine, at a fraction of European prices. Istanbul European Clinic connects you with board-certified surgeons in JCI-accredited hospitals, ensuring safety and high standards. This guide covers everything you need to know about restoring your mobility in Istanbul.

OVERVIEW

Procedure

Orthopedic surgery

Duration

2 – 4 hours

Length of Stay in Hospital

Depends On Procedure

Anesthesia

General anesthesia 

Cost in Turkey

€4000 – €12000

Success Rate

90% – 95% 

Final Results

After 9 months – 12 months

Scars

Minimal - Moderate

Pain

Managed with IV analgesics and oral medication

prof Ufuk ozkaya

Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Ufuk Özkaya

Written by Abdulaziz Ali

Published on December 16, 2025 12:00 am

TABLE OF CONTENT

    Benefits of Orthopedics in Turkey

    • Access to Advanced Technology and Techniques
      Turkey utilizes the latest medical technologies, including robotic-assisted surgery and minimally invasive arthroscopy. Istanbul European Clinic ensures you receive care that meets or exceeds global standards.
    • Highly Experienced and Board-Certified Surgeons
      An orthopedic surgeon Turkey specialist often performs a higher volume of surgeries than their European counterparts, leading to refined skills. Many are board-certified and have undergone fellowship training in the US or Europe.
    • Comprehensive All-Inclusive Care Packages
      Medical tourism in Turkey is designed for convenience, often bundling the surgery, VIP transfers, accommodation, and translation services. This allows you to focus entirely on your recovery without logistical stress.

    Orthopedics Cost in Turkey Compared to Other Countries

    The following table illustrates the potential savings for major orthopedic procedures like total knee or hip replacement.

    Country Typical Cost Range (€)
    Turkey €4,000 – €10,000
    United Kingdom €12,000 – €18,000
    USA €25,000 – €45,000

    Note: Prices vary significantly by case complexity, implant brand, and clinic; request a personalized quote for accuracy.

    Doctor providing aesthetic treatment consultation to patient

    How to Choose Safe, Reputable Clinics and Surgeons for Orthopedics in Turkey

    Verify International Accreditations

    Ensure the facility is a JCI accredited orthopedic hospital Turkey. This gold standard indicates the hospital meets rigorous international safety and quality protocols regarding infection control and patient care.

    Review Surgeon Credentials and Specialization

    Look for a surgeon who specializes specifically in your required procedure (e.g., joint replacement vs. spine surgery). Check for membership in the Turkish Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology or international boards.

    Assess Communication and Transparency

    Choose a clinic that provides clear, written treatment plans and pricing in English. Istanbul European Clinic prioritizes transparency, ensuring you understand every step of your medical journey.

    What to Consider Before Getting Orthopedics in Turkey

    Medical eligibility & health history

    Your surgeon will review your BMI, bone density, and chronic conditions like diabetes. You must be medically stable to undergo anesthesia and the physical stress of surgery.

    Pre-op tests & preparation

    Expect comprehensive blood tests, X-rays, and potentially an MRI upon arrival. You may need to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, weeks before the procedure.

    Travel timing & companion planning

    Plan to stay in Turkey for at least 7–10 days post-surgery. Bringing a companion is highly recommended to assist you with mobility and daily tasks during the initial recovery at the hotel.

    Post-op plan, mobility, and pain management expectations

    Understand that you will need mobility aids like crutches or a walker initially. Pain management will involve prescribed medication, and early mobilization is crucial for preventing clots.

    Work/return-to-activity timeline

    Sedentary jobs may be resumed in 4–6 weeks, while manual labor may require 3–6 months. Discuss realistic timelines with your doctor to plan your leave from work.
    Doctor consulting with a patient in a hospital room while reviewing medical notes.

    Ideal Candidate For Orthopedics In Turkey

    • Chronic Pain Sufferers: Individuals experiencing persistent joint or bone pain that limits daily activities and has not responded to medication.
    • Mobility Issues: Patients with stiffness, locking joints, or inability to walk or move limbs freely due to injury or degeneration.
    • Failed Conservative Treatment: Those who have tried physical therapy, injections, and rest without significant improvement.
    • Medically Stable: Candidates must be generally healthy enough to undergo general or regional anesthesia without high risk.
    • Committed to Rehab: Patients willing to actively participate in post-op physiotherapy follow up Turkey protocols for the best results.

    Orthopedics in Turkey Results

    The success rate for major orthopedic surgeries in Turkey, such as joint replacements, is comparable to leading Western nations, often exceeding 90% for pain relief and functional improvement. Patient satisfaction is generally high, driven by the combination of successful surgical outcomes and the high level of personal care provided by best orthopedic surgery Turkey hospitals. However, individual results depend heavily on the patient’s adherence to rehabilitation and pre-existing health factors.

    Orthopedics Turkey Recovery Time

    1. Orthopedics 1 Week Post Op: You will likely be discharged from the hospital to your hotel. Pain and swelling are managed with medication, and you will use walking aids. Gentle movement is encouraged to prevent stiffness and blood clots.
    2. Orthopedics 3 Weeks Post Op: Stitches or staples are typically removed (or dissolved). Swelling begins to decrease, and you may transition to a cane or walk unassisted for short distances. Physical therapy intensity increases.
    3. Orthopedics 3 – 6 Months Post Op: Most patients return to normal daily activities and sedentary work. Muscle strength around the joint improves significantly. You may still experience occasional stiffness after long periods of inactivity.
    4. Orthopedics 1 Year Post Op: Full recovery is usually achieved. You should be able to engage in low-impact sports and enjoy a full range of motion. Routine annual check-ups (X-rays) are recommended to monitor implant status.

    Orthopedics in Turkey Before and After

    Before and after comparisons typically show corrected bone alignment on X-rays and improved posture or gait in physical assessments. While visual changes are less obvious than cosmetic surgery, the “after” is defined by the restoration of function and the elimination of chronic pain. Authentic results take time; do not expect instant mobility without the necessary rehabilitation period.

    How Does The Orthopedics Turkey Procedure Work?

    Consultation

    The process begins with a digital consultation where you share X-rays and medical history. Istanbul European Clinic provides a preliminary treatment plan and cost estimate based on this data.

    Medical Test

    Upon arrival in Istanbul, you undergo a physical exam and advanced imaging (MRI/CT). Anesthesiologists review your blood work to ensure you are safe for surgery.

    Surgery

    The procedure is performed under general or regional anesthesia. Whether it is a joint replacement or arthroscopy, the surgeon uses sterile, advanced techniques to repair the damage.

    Recovery

    You spend a few days in the hospital for monitoring and initial physical therapy. Afterward, you move to a hotel for the remainder of your stay, with transport provided for check-ups.

    Follow-up

    A final check-up ensures the incision is healing and the implant is stable. You receive a “fit to fly” report and a detailed rehabilitation plan to follow back home.

    Doctor discussing treatment options with patients

    Side Effects of Orthopedics in Turkey

    • Temporary Pain and Swelling: Managed with medication and ice.
    • Stiffness: Common initially; improved with physiotherapy.
    • Infection: Rare, but serious; minimized by sterile hospital protocols.
    • Blood Clots (DVT): Prevented with compression stockings and blood thinners.
    • Implant Loosening: A long-term risk that may require revision surgery years later.
    • Nerve Damage: Very rare; can cause numbness or weakness in the limb.

    What our PATIENTS say

    what is your problem

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How much does orthopedic surgery cost in Turkey?

    The cost generally ranges from €4,000 to €10,000 depending on the procedure (e.g., knee replacement vs. spinal fusion). This is often 50-70% cheaper than in the UK or US due to lower operational costs and exchange rates.

    Is knee or hip replacement in Turkey safe for international patients?

    Yes, it is safe when you choose a reputable clinic. Turkey has a high number of JCI-accredited hospitals and surgeons who are experienced in treating international patients with strict safety protocols.

    Which hospitals in Turkey are best for orthopedics and joint replacement?

    The best hospitals are those with JCI accreditation and dedicated orthopedic departments. Istanbul European Clinic partners with top-tier facilities known for low infection rates and advanced robotic surgery capabilities.

    What’s included in an all-inclusive orthopedic package in Turkey?

    An all inclusive orthopedic surgery Turkey package typically includes the surgery, hospital stay, surgeon fees, pre-op tests, airport transfers, hotel accommodation, and translation services.

    How long should I stay in Turkey for surgery and physiotherapy?

    Most patients stay for 7 to 14 days. This allows time for the surgery, initial hospital recovery, suture removal, and the start of physiotherapy before flying home.

    what does an orthopedic doctor specialize in

    An orthopedic doctor specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

    does orthopedic doctor treat arthritis

    Yes, orthopedic doctors treat arthritis. They offer non-surgical options like injections and medication, as well as surgical solutions like joint replacements when conservative methods fail.

    what is orthopaedic surgery

    Orthopedic surgery is a branch of medicine focused on surgical interventions to treat musculoskeletal conditions, such as fractures, torn ligaments, deformities, and joint degeneration.

    Which country is best for orthopedics?

    Turkey is considered one of the best countries due to its balance of high-quality healthcare, experienced surgeons, and affordable pricing, alongside countries like Germany and the USA.

    Why is Turkey so cheap for surgery?

    Turkey offers lower prices due to the lower cost of living, favorable currency exchange rates, and government incentives for medical tourism, not because of lower quality.

    Is Turkey a good place for medical treatment?

    Yes, Turkey is a global hub for medical tourism. It boasts modern infrastructure, internationally trained doctors, and hospitals that adhere to global safety standards.

    What is the biggest complaint after knee replacement?

    The biggest complaint is often stiffness or residual pain during the initial recovery phase. Diligent physical therapy is required to overcome these challenges.

    How to check if a surgeon is board certified in Turkey?

    You can verify a surgeon’s credentials through the Turkish Medical Association or by asking the clinic for the surgeon’s board certification documents and membership details in international orthopedic societies.

    What are the safest ways to arrange a medical trip for Orthopedics in Turkey?

    The safest way is to use a specialized medical tourism facilitator like Istanbul European Clinic. We coordinate your entire trip, ensure you are treated in accredited facilities, and provide an orthopedic surgery Turkey interpreter included to prevent communication errors.

    How can I verify clinic accreditations and patient reviews before traveling for surgery?

    Check for the JCI seal on the hospital’s website and verify it on the Joint Commission International database. For reviews, look for video testimonials and third-party platforms like Trustpilot to gauge real patient experiences.

    How do clinics handle complications if they occur after returning home?

    Reputable clinics provide aftercare support via telemedicine. If a complication arises, your surgeon in Turkey can coordinate with your local doctor or advise on immediate steps. Always clarify this policy before booking.

    What are common risks of long flights after Orthopedics and how can you mitigate them?

    Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long flights post-surgery. Mitigate this by wearing compression stockings, staying hydrated, taking prescribed blood thinners, and booking extra legroom or business class for leg elevation.

    How do I compare Orthopedics pricing across clinics?

    When comparing quotes, ensure you are comparing “apples to apples.” Check if the price includes the implant brand (e.g., Zimmer, Stryker), hospital stay duration, and medication. An unusually low price may exclude essential costs.

    What is the process for obtaining a personalized quote for Orthopedics overseas?

    Contact Istanbul European Clinic with your recent X-rays or MRI scans and a brief medical history. Our medical team will review your case and provide a detailed, itemized quote tailored to your specific surgical needs.

    How do medical tourism packages typically bundle accommodation and transportation?

    Most packages include a stay in a 4 or 5-star hotel near the hospital and VIP transfers between the airport, hotel, and clinic. This ensures you have a comfortable, stress-free environment for your orthopedic surgery Turkey companion stay extra nights if needed.