Every year, thousands of women and men choose Turkey for affordable and high-quality cosmetic surgery. In most cases, the experience meets their expectations. However, for some, it turns into a botched plastic surgery in Turkey, leading to disappointment, avoidable harm and emotional distress.
If you find yourself thinking: “My plastic surgery in Turkey went wrong – what can I do?” you’re not alone – and you have options. Here’s what you need to know, step by step.
When Can You File a Malpractice Claim After Botched Plastic Surgery in Turkey?
Under Turkish Code of Obligations (Article 49) and the Patients’s Right Regulation, doctors and clinics are obliged to:
- Act professionally and carefully,
- Provide clear and complete information about risks, procedures and recovery,
- Obtain informed consent,
- Avoid unnecessary harm.
You may have grounds for a medical claim in Turkey if:
1. Lack of informed consent: The surgeon failed to explain risks, possible complications or expected results.
2. Surgical errors: Avoidable mistakes such as nerve damage, wrong technique or serious asymmetry.
3. Unhygienic or unlicensed facilities: Leading to infection or dangerious complications.
4. Poor preparation: No proper evaluation of allergies, medical history or suitability for surgery.
5. Unreasonable results: Drastically different from what was promised due to negligence.
6. Unnecessary or excessive intervention: Procedures performed beyond what you consent to.
7. Faulty implants or materials: Use of defective or innappropriate prosthetics.
Even if you signed a consent form, it does not excuse negligence or unprofessional treatment.
Common Problems with Botched Plastic Surgery in Turkey
1. Hair Transplant
Turkey is the world’s leading destination for hair transplants. However,while many patients are satisfied, others experience:
- Unnatural hairlines,
- Poor density,
- Visible scarring,
- Infections (including hepatitis or HIV risk)
Read more about common hair transplant problems in Turkey here.
2. Rhinoplasty
One of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in Turkey. Nevertheless, common complaints include:
- Breathing difficulties,
- Asymmetry or unnatural shapes,
- Need for expensive revision surgery
Read more about common rhinoplasty problems in Turkey here.
3. Liposuction
Liposuction promises a slimmer figure, but when done negligently it may cause:
- Irregular body shape,
- Skin hardening,
- Excessive scarring
- Long-term medical complications.
Read more about common liposuction problems in Turkey.
How Is Malpractice Proven in Botched Plastic Surgery Cases in Turkey?
In malpractice lawsuits, independent expert reports are critical. As a result, courts rely heavily on these reports when deciding whether negligence occurred. After filing your claim, the court appoints a panel of doctors specialized in the relevant field. They examine:
- Your medical records,
- Photos and test results,
- Consent forms,
- Before/after outcomes.
The panel determines whether the clinic met the required medical standard of care and whether negligence directly caused your harm.
What Compensation Can You Claim?
If malpractice is proven, you may claim:
- Costs of corrective surgery in Turkey or abroad,
- Compensation for pain, suffering and emotional distress
- Loss of income
- Permanent disfigurement or disability
Why Work With a Lawyer?
Navigating a malpractice claim in a foreign country can feel overwhelming – but you don’t have to do it alone.
A skilled Turkish lawyer can:
- Collect and analyze your medical records and documents,
- Collaborate with independent medical experts,
- File your claim correctly and on time before Turkish courts,
- Represent your through the entire process, even if you’re back in your country
Do You Need to Return to Turkey for the Case?
Not necessarily. A lawyer in Turkey can:
- Collect and translate your medical records,
- Work with court-appointed experts,
- File and follow your lawsuit,
- Represent you throughout the process – even when you stay in your home country.
Frequently Asked Qs
1. Do I have a case if I signed a consent form? Yes. Consent is only valid if you were properly informed and the surgeon acted professionally.
2. Can I sue to surgeon or the clinic? Both may be held responsible depending on the facts.
3. How long does the process take? Usually several months to a few years, depending on complexity.
4. How much compensation will I get? That depends on your specific harm, costs, and tis impact on your life. Your lawyer can give you a realistic estimate after reviewing your case.
Next Steps: What Should You Do Now?
If you experienced a botched plastic surgery in Turkey, you have rights under Turkish law. Therefore, the first step is to consult a malpractice lawyer in Turkey who understands both local law and international patient concerns.
Your lawyer can review you case confidentially, explain your legal options, and guide you toward accountability and recovery.
Tip: Collect your medical records, before-and-after photos, and any correspondence with the clinic – these are essential for building a strong case.
Your experience matters – if you suffered from a botched plastic surgery in Turkey, you do not have to face this alone. With the right legal support, you can pursue compensation and justice for medical negligence in Turkey.
