How much does a bichectomy cost in Turkey?
In Turkey, the price of a bichectomy ranges between £1,250 and £1,900. This all-inclusive rate covers surgery, anaesthesia, luxury hotel stay and VIP transfers. In the UK, the average cost in 2026 is around £3,200, representing a saving of over 50% for patients traveling abroad.
📊 2026 Price Table: Turkey vs United Kingdom
This comparison details the average rates for buccal fat pad removal between cosmetic clinics in Istanbul and specialized practices in the UK.
| Type of Procedure | Turkey Price | UK Price |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Bichectomy (cheeks) | £1,250 – £1,800 | £2,800 – £4,200 |
| Bichectomy + Chin Liposuction | £1,900 – £2,400 | £4,200 – £5,800 |
| Bichectomy + Jawline Contouring | £2,100 – £3,000 | £4,800 – £7,500 |
| Facial Asymmetry Correction | £1,400 – £2,000 | £3,200 – £4,500 |
📈 ISAPS Statistics and Results
According to ISAPS data, bichectomy in Turkey boasts a satisfaction rate of 94%. The complication rate is less than 1.2%. While swelling typically subsides within 7 days, the final result is most visible after 3 to 6 months of healing.
What is a bichectomy?
A bichectomy is a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves removing the buccal fat pads (fat deposits in the cheeks). The goal is to slim the face, hollow out the cheeks, and make the cheekbones more prominent in a permanent and harmonious way.
Buccal fat pads do not have a vital function in adults. In infants, they facilitate chewing and sucking. In adulthood, their removal is purely aesthetic to correct a face considered too “round” or “baby-faced.”
Why choose Turkey for a bichectomy?
Istanbul has become the world capital for facial surgery for several strategic reasons:
- Medical Expertise: Turkish surgeons perform thousands of procedures annually, ensuring superior technical mastery in plastic surgery in Turkey.
- Value for Money: Rates are 50% to 70% lower than in Europe due to reduced operating costs.
- Infrastructures: Clinics in Istanbul benefit from the latest medical technologies (JCI accreditation).
- Services Included: Complete packages with 5-star hotels and dedicated translators.
Bichectomy requires extreme precision. In Istanbul, the high concentration of specialized clinics makes it possible to find experts capable of treating complex cases within structures that guarantee safety and discretion. Many international patients also visit for medical tourism in Turkey to combine quality care with a unique travel experience.
Fast Medical Care
Unlike the UK, where waiting times can be several months, organization in Turkey is immediate. You can schedule your procedure within 15 days, with an optimized stay of 3 to 4 days on-site for the surgery and follow-up check.
How the procedure works
The extraction of buccal fat is performed via a tiny incision (2 to 3 cm) located inside the mouth, at the level of the molars. No scars are visible on the outside. The operation lasts about 45 minutes under local anaesthesia with sedation.
This technique can be combined with a face lift or a neck liposuction for a more comprehensive result (Jawline contouring). The objective is to sculpt a “V-Shape” face, a sign of youth and dynamism. For those with functional issues, jaw surgery might also be considered in more advanced cases.
Recovery and Post-operative Care
The post-operative recovery is straightforward: swelling is normal for the first 3 to 5 days. A liquid or soft diet is recommended for 48 hours. Daily activities can usually be resumed after 3 days, while intense sports should wait for 15 days.
Consequently, the prices of medical services in Turkey (including buccal fat removal) are 2 to 3 times lower than in Europe. Moreover, Turkish doctors are highly experienced. Some patients also choose to refine their nose through rhinoplasty during the same trip to achieve total facial harmony.
Risks and Precautions
Although rare, a bichectomy can present certain risks:
- Haematomas or local infections;
- Temporary facial nerve injury;
- Residual asymmetry;
- Salivary duct injury (Stensen’s duct).
This is why it is crucial to choose a certified and experienced plastic surgeon in Istanbul. Note that the procedure is compatible with Halal surgery principles in Islam, as it aims to correct a physical disharmony to improve well-being.
We provide special equipment to make the stay for people with disabilities (PRM) more comfortable.
If you are having trouble making a choice, we can assist you in the success of your procedure, and at a reduced rate. Our coordinators speak English.
Enjoy a FREE evaluation!
On request and
with no obligation on your part.
100% free consultation. We analyse your situation, your needs and your expectations. And we estimate the budget required for : Flight + Hotel + Taxi + Treatment.
At all times, you retain complete control over the process. Total peace of mind.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a bichectomy last?
Yes, the removal of buccal fat pads is permanent. Once extracted, these fat cells do not regenerate, even with moderate weight gain. The result on facial thinning is therefore definitive.
Does cheek reduction hurt?
The operation is painless due to anaesthesia. Post-operatively, a discomfort similar to wisdom tooth extraction may be felt. It is perfectly managed with standard analgesics prescribed by the clinic.
What is the minimum age for buccal fat removal in Istanbul?
Bichectomy is recommended between 20 and 45 years old. Before 20, the face has not finished growing. After 45, natural facial fat loss can accentuate aging if too much volume is removed.
How to eat after hollow cheek surgery in Istanbul?
It is possible to eat directly after the first post-operative day and during the first 3 days following your bichectomy in Istanbul. However, foods must be cold or lukewarm.
What is the minimum stay in Turkey for bichectomy?
Buccal fat pad removal in Turkey requires half a day of hospitalization. Plan for at least 7 days for your trip to account for recovery and post-op checks.
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