Plastic SurgerySurgery or non-surgical?
This distinction is made by examining tissue, not expectations. Three things decide it: excess skin, the degree of laxity and where volume has been lost. If there is excess skin, no non-surgical method removes it — energy-based devices tighten, they do not excise.
| Assessed | Direction it sets | Why |
|---|
| Is there excess skin? | Surgery required if yes | Energy devices tighten skin; they do not excise it |
| Volume or sagging? | Volume → filler/implant · Sagging → lift | Both may coexist; then a combination is planned |
| Is weight change complete? | Postponed if not | Significant post-operative weight change alters the result |
| Smoking? | Cessation period planned | Impairs tissue perfusion and delays wound healing |
| Pregnancy planned? | Breast and abdominal surgery postponed | Pregnancy can reverse the outcome |
| Are expectations realistic? | Clarified in consultation | A result promised from photographs is not a plan |
Non-surgical methods can delay surgery but do not replace it. Choosing the wrong candidate leads to unmet expectations and unnecessary cost — which is why the decision follows examination.
All surgical procedures
Grouped by anatomical region. Each group opens with the criterion that drives the decision in that area.
Facial Surgery
Facial decisions are made by looking at the tissue as a whole, not one region. The same sagging appearance comes from excess skin in one patient and volume loss in another.
Breast Surgery
Three distinct problems with three different solutions: lack of volume, sagging, excess volume. Mismatching them is the most common cause of dissatisfaction.
Body Surgery
In body contouring the deciding factor is skin elasticity, not fat volume. If the skin cannot retract, removing fat alone leaves laxity.
Hair Surgery
Outcome depends less on graft count than on donor capacity and design. The hairline decision cannot be undone.
Decision Guides
Comparison pages for when you're weighing two techniques.
Plastic surgery questions
How do I choose a plastic surgeon in Istanbul?
The Turkish Ministry of Health specialty registration number must be verifiable — Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery is a distinct specialty and not every doctor performing aesthetic procedures holds it. The operating facility must have a hospital or surgical centre licence with an anaesthesiologist present. If you are travelling for treatment, ask for the International Health Tourism Authorisation Certificate.
Is aesthetic surgery the same as plastic surgery?
Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery is a single specialty built on six years of medical school plus specialty training. Aesthetic work is part of it; reconstructive surgery covers congenital and post-trauma repair. "Aesthetic surgeon" is not a separate registered title.
When should I decide on surgery?
In elective aesthetic surgery there is no situation requiring a same-day decision. Taking time after consultation is advised. Decisions made under campaign, discount or limited-time pressure are the most common source of later dissatisfaction.
Can several procedures be combined in one session?
Combinations are planned frequently — a mommy makeover is one example. Total anaesthesia time, bleeding risk and recovery burden are assessed together. Some combinations are safe; others should be staged. The decision follows total load, not individual procedure duration.
How long should I stay if travelling from abroad?
Duration depends on the procedure and must cover suture removal and the first review. Medical clearance is required before flying; early return is assessed for deep vein thrombosis risk. Allow a buffer day when planning.
Will scars remain?
Every surgical incision leaves a scar. Its visibility depends on placement, technique and individual healing. Surgeons place incisions in natural creases or clothing lines. A tendency to keloid must be discussed before surgery.
When is botox the answer — and when is it not?
Botulinum toxin does not erase a wrinkle; it temporarily reduces the muscle activity that creates it. That distinction determines where the treatment works and where it does not. It is effective on lines that appear with expression, insufficient on lines visible at rest, and not a solution at all for volume loss or skin laxity.
| Your finding | Appropriate approach | Why |
|---|
| Line appearing with movement | Botulinum toxin | Muscle activity reduced; the line softens at rest too |
| Line visible at rest | Filler or biostimulator | This is tissue loss, not muscle — toxin alone is insufficient |
| Volume loss | Filler | Toxin adds no volume; it only lowers muscle activity |
| Excess skin and sagging | Surgery or energy device | Toxin does not correct laxity |
| Excessive sweating | Botulinum toxin — medical indication | Nerve signal to sweat glands is blocked |
| Clenching / jaw pain | Masseter application | Muscle bulk decreases; wear and pain recede |
Botulinum toxin is a prescription medical product and may only be administered by a physician. Asking whether the product is genuine and cold-chain stored is a reasonable expectation.
Upper Face — Expression Lines
The classic application. The aim is not to erase a line but to reduce the muscle activity creating it — which is why earlier treatment gives better results.
Lower Face and Jawline
In the lower face toxin is used for contour rather than lines. As muscle bulk decreases facial proportions change, and this develops gradually over weeks.
Hyperhidrosis Treatment
Excessive sweating is a medical indication, not a cosmetic one. Botulinum toxin blocks the nerve signal to sweat glands; the effect begins within days.
Body and Medical Indications
This group is applied for functional rather than aesthetic purposes. Diagnosis and suitability are confirmed by a physician.
Micro-dose Applications
Unlike standard dosing the muscle is not fully blocked; expression is preserved and the skin surface is targeted.
Decision Guides
Comparison pages for when you're weighing two options.
Botox questions
What is the difference between botox and filler?
Botulinum toxin reduces muscle activity and works on lines created by movement. Filler adds volume and addresses hollows caused by tissue loss. Forehead, glabella and crow's feet are usually toxin territory; nasolabial folds, cheeks and lips are usually filler. The two are often planned together because they solve different problems.
At what age should botox start?
The finding decides, not age. If a line appears only during expression it is dynamic, and toxin works most efficiently at this stage. If it remains at rest it has become static, and toxin alone is no longer enough. Starting earlier delays the transition to static lines.
How long does it last and why isn't it permanent?
Botulinum toxin temporarily blocks the signal travelling from nerve ending to muscle. The body gradually forms new nerve terminals and activity returns. Duration varies with metabolism, muscle strength, dose and site. In patients treated regularly the interval may lengthen as the muscle weakens.
Will my face look frozen?
A frozen look results from dose and injection points, not from the treatment itself. Expression can be preserved by design; micro-dose techniques exist for this. Telling your doctor which expressions you want to keep directly shapes the plan.
Who should not have botox?
It is not applied during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in known neuromuscular disease (myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton), with active infection at the site, or with known toxin allergy. Blood thinners increase bruising risk and must be disclosed.
Which brand is used, and does it matter?
Different botulinum toxin products exist and their unit equivalences are not the same, so the question "how many units" cannot be answered independently of brand. You may ask to see the packaging and expiry date. Genuine product requires cold-chain storage.
Skin boosters, mesotherapy, fillers and liquid facelift
These four are often confused but do different work. Skin boosters and mesotherapy support skin quality without adding volume. Fillers add volume and can be dissolved. Collagen biostimulators act over weeks rather than instantly, stimulating the skin's own collagen — the term liquid facelift describes their combined use. Product choice follows region, skin thickness and the effect sought.
Brand is not enough on its own: the same product gives different results in different hands. Brand sets the limits; the practitioner's assessment and technique determine the outcome.
Skin Boosters
Unlike fillers these add no volume; they support the skin's own capacity to hold moisture and produce collagen. Product choice follows skin thickness, region and the effect sought.
Collagen Biostimulators and Liquid Facelift
This group gives no immediate volume; it works over weeks by stimulating the skin's own collagen. The term liquid facelift describes their combined use.
Filler Treatments
Hyaluronic acid fillers add volume and can be dissolved with hyaluronidase when needed. Product choice follows how mobile the region is and how much support is required.
Body Contouring and Skin Care
Non-surgical regional treatments. None of these is a weight-loss method; the aim is contour and skin quality.
Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy is a technique rather than a product: active ingredients are delivered into the dermis through micro-injections. Content and depth vary by region.
Brands and devices we work with
84 brands across eight categories — from laser systems to implant and ceramic blocks, botulinum toxin products to fillers and biostimulators.
Skin Booster and Biostimulator Brands
These products add no volume; they support the skin's own moisture retention and collagen production. Hyaluronic acid density, polynucleotide content and cross-link structure vary by brand.
Profhilo — IBSAJalupro — Professional DieteticsNucleofill — PromoitaliaNCTF 135 HA — FillmedFilorgaInnea AquaKarismaPrime StarXela RedermAqua ShineH-100 / H-100 PlusNithya — Type I CollagenLinerasePlinest — MastelliRejuran — PDRNRestylane SkinboostersSunekos
Laser and Device Systems
Manufacturer and model details of the systems used in the clinic. Certificates and serial numbers may be requested.
Alma Soprano IceCandela GentleMax ProCynosure Apogee EliteInMode Morpheus8InMode FormaInMode Lumecca IPLEndolift XHydraFacialDermapenPRX-T33Nd:YAG 1064 nmDiode 810 nmSHR Mode
Botulinum Toxin Products
Unit equivalences differ between manufacturers; dosing cannot be compared independently of brand.
Botox — AllerganDysport — IpsenXeomin — MerzAzzalureBocoutureNuceiva
Filler and Injectable Brands
In hyaluronic acid fillers cross-link density and gel firmness vary by product; region selection follows accordingly.
Juvéderm — AllerganRestylane — GaldermaBelotero — MerzTeosyal — TeoxaneStylage — VivacySaypha — CromaPrincessNeauviaRevanessePerfecthaRadiesse — MerzSculptra — GaldermaHArmonyCa — Allergan
Dental Technology
Imaging and production systems. Panoramic radiography is the first step of implant planning; bone volume and anatomical structures are assessed on this image.
Dentsply Sirona Orthophos EDigital Panoramic RadiographyCAD/CAM ProductionDigital Impression
Dental Implant Brands
The implant systems we work with. Long-term access to spare parts, surface treatment and connection type drive brand selection.
Straumann — SwitzerlandNobel Biocare — SwedenAstra Tech — SwedenDentsply SironaBEGO — GermanyAnkylos — GermanyMedentika — GermanyZimmer Biomet — USABioHorizons — USAOsstem / Hiossen — KoreaMIS Implants — IsraelAlpha-Bio Tec — IsraelNeodent — BrazilMegaGen — KoreaDentium — KoreaXive — Germany
Zirconia and Ceramic Brands
Block manufacturing method, translucency and flexural strength differ between brands.
Ivoclar Vivadent — IPS e.max3M ESPE — LavaKuraray Noritake — KatanaDentsply Sirona — CerconGlidewell — BruxZirZirkonzahn — PrettauVITA Zahnfabrik — VITA YZAmann Girrbach — ZolidWieland — Zenostar
Skin Care and Specialist Products
Depigmentation systems, enzyme treatments and support products.
Cosmelan — mesoesteticDermamelan — mesoesteticPB SerumG-CellNourkrinGF Serum
Note: The list above covers products used in the clinic. Other brands on the market (Jeuveau, Letybo, Innotox, Thermage, Sciton, Lanluma and similar) appear in comparison tables on our service pages for information only — this does not mean they are used in the clinic.
Brand and product questions
Can I ask which brand is being used?
You can, and you should. For injectables the packaging, lot number and expiry date should be visible. For devices you may request the manufacturer certificate and serial number. Genuine products require cold-chain storage, and storage conditions directly affect efficacy.
How much does brand affect the result?
Brand alone does not determine the outcome, but it sets the limits. In hyaluronic acid fillers cross-linking density and gel firmness vary by product: softer gels for mobile areas, firmer ones where structural support is needed. With implants, surface treatment and connection type matter — but so does long-term access to spare components. The practitioner's judgement outweighs all of these.
What is the difference between botulinum toxin brands?
Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Azzalure and Bocouture come from different manufacturers and their unit equivalences are not identical. "How many units" therefore cannot be compared without naming the brand. Onset time and diffusion characteristics may also differ.
Why does implant brand matter?
An implant stays in the mouth for life and the superstructure may need replacing years later. The manufacturer's continuity and access to abutments and spare parts are therefore critical. Established systems such as Straumann, Nobel Biocare and Astra Tech have an advantage here. Brand details and an implant passport should be given to the patient.
Does zirconia brand make a visible difference?
Yes, particularly in the anterior region. Translucency and colour layering differ between blocks; highly translucent blocks look more natural but have lower strength. In posterior regions where strength dominates, a different block may be preferred.
How do I verify the products are genuine?
For injectables the barcode and lot number on the packaging can be checked against the manufacturer's verification system. For devices the manufacturer's authorised clinic list can be queried. In Turkey medical devices and products are registered with TİTCK; you may ask whether the product holds Turkish registration.
How is laser hair removal planned?
In laser hair removal the outcome is decided by planning, not by the device alone. Hair cycles progress at different rates by region, so session intervals cannot be identical on the face and the body. Sun exposure also sets the calendar — sessions are postponed on tanned skin.
Device certification: manufacturer certificates for Alma Lasers, Candela and Cynosure systems can be viewed at the clinic. Asking for the serial number and certificate before treatment is a reasonable expectation.
Laser technologies and devices we use
What determines the result is not the brand name but whether the wavelength suits your skin type and hair structure. Melanin absorbs different wavelengths at different rates: most at 755 nm, least at 1064 nm. One device therefore cannot serve every skin type. The clinic holds systems from three manufacturers — Alma Soprano Ice, Candela GentleMax Pro and Cynosure Apogee Elite — and selection follows Fitzpatrick typing.
Three wavelengths simultaneously
Alma Soprano Ice
755 + 810 + 1064 nm
Gradual heating with an ice tip. The only approach usable year-round on tanned and dark skin.
Alexandrite (two platforms)
Candela GentleMax Pro · Cynosure Apogee Elite
755 nm
Highest affinity for melanin. The most efficient wavelength on fine, light hair; risky on dark skin.
Nd:YAG
Cynosure Elite
1064 nm
Lowest melanin affinity, deepest penetration. Preferred where ingrown hair (folliculitis) is a concern.
Diode
Diode (810 nm)
810 nm
A balance between Alexandrite and Nd:YAG. Fast coverage on coarse hair and large areas.
Super Hair Removal
SHR Mode
Gradual scanning
Many low-energy pulses instead of one high-energy shot. Used where comfort is the priority.
Device comparison
| Device | Wavelength | Technology | Suitable skin type | Where it stands out |
|---|
| Alma Soprano Ice | 755 + 810 + 1064 nm | Three wavelengths simultaneously | Fitzpatrick I–VI · all skin tones | Gradual heating with an ice tip. The only approach usable year-round on tanned and dark skin. |
| Candela GentleMax Pro · Cynosure Apogee Elite | 755 nm | Alexandrite (two platforms) | Fitzpatrick I–III · light to medium | Highest affinity for melanin. The most efficient wavelength on fine, light hair; risky on dark skin. |
| Cynosure Elite | 1064 nm | Nd:YAG | Fitzpatrick IV–VI · dark and tanned | Lowest melanin affinity, deepest penetration. Preferred where ingrown hair (folliculitis) is a concern. |
| Diode (810 nm) | 810 nm | Diode | Fitzpatrick II–V · medium tones | A balance between Alexandrite and Nd:YAG. Fast coverage on coarse hair and large areas. |
| SHR Mode | Gradual scanning | Super Hair Removal | Sensitive areas · low pain threshold | Many low-energy pulses instead of one high-energy shot. Used where comfort is the priority. |
Wavelength by situation
| Your situation | Leading wavelength | Why |
|---|
| Light skin, dark coarse hair | Alexandrite 755 nm (Candela / Cynosure) | Greatest melanin contrast; the most efficient scenario |
| Medium skin, coarse hair | Diode 810 nm or Soprano | Balanced wavelength; fast over large areas |
| Dark skin (IV–VI) | Nd:YAG 1064 nm or Soprano | Low melanin affinity reduces burn risk |
| Tanned skin | Nd:YAG or Soprano (ice) | Other wavelengths require postponing the session |
| Fine, light hair | Alexandrite — limited expectation | Little melanin to target; results are gradual |
| Ingrown hair (folliculitis) | Nd:YAG 1064 nm | Deep penetration; preferred on beard and neck |
Device and technology questions
Which laser is right for me?
What matters is not the brand but whether the wavelength suits your skin type and hair structure. Alexandrite at 755 nm binds most strongly to melanin, making it efficient on light skin and risky on dark skin. Nd:YAG at 1064 nm binds least and penetrates deepest, making it safe on dark and tanned skin. The 810 nm diode sits between the two. Fitzpatrick type is determined before treatment and a test patch is performed.
What do three simultaneous wavelengths achieve?
Alma Soprano Ice combines 755, 810 and 1064 nm in one handpiece. Follicles at different depths are targeted in the same pass, and there is no need to change device when skin type varies. The gradual heating method uses many low-energy pulses rather than a single high-energy shot.
What is the core difference between ice laser and conventional laser?
Conventional systems target the follicle with a single high-energy pulse, producing a sharper sensation and burn risk on tanned skin. Ice laser holds the skin at around -3°C and delivers energy gradually. Both reach the same target by different routes.
How do I know the device is genuine?
Ask for the manufacturer certificate and the device serial number. A significant share of clinics in Turkey use uncertified copies; parameter consistency and laser module lifespan differ on these. Authorised clinic records from manufacturers such as Alma Lasers, Candela and Cynosure can be verified.
I have dark skin — can I have laser hair removal?
Yes, but wavelength choice is critical. For Fitzpatrick IV–VI, Nd:YAG 1064 nm or the three-wavelength ice laser is used. Alexandrite carries pigment change and burn risk in these skin types. A test patch and low starting energy are standard practice.
Can I have sessions in summer?
On tanned skin melanin increases and most wavelengths require postponement. Ice laser and Nd:YAG can be used, but high-factor sun protection is required for two weeks before and after, and direct sunbathing must be avoided.
