Iran vs Turkey for Rhinoplasty, Hair Transplant and Dental Work: Factors to Weigh, Not a Winner

What drives the cost

A page from Firoozabadi Hospital of Iran University of Medical Sciences attributes lower treatment costs in Iran to a lower exchange rate, lower labour costs and government support for the health sector. Exchange rates can move, so compare prices with their dates.

In both countries the final figure depends on:

• The procedure, the technique and the surgeon's experience.
• Whether surgery is in a hospital or a clinic, and the type of anaesthesia.
• Nights in hospital and hotel, and how many companions travel.
• Flights and local transfers.
• Follow-up visits and the facility's policy on revision surgery.

Licensing for foreign patients and accreditation

In Iran, the Ministry of Health issues IPD licences to facilities and publishes the list on iht.behdasht.gov.ir. In Türkiye, according to the official Health Türkiye website, health facilities and intermediaries must hold an International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate. Check any claim of JCI accreditation in either country on JCI's own website.

Visas, flights and when you can fly home

Iran's foreign ministry e-visa portal describes the medical (T) visa as being for people who have an approval letter from an authorised medical centre. Türkiye's visa rules also depend on nationality, so check yours with each country's official sources. LSevin does not issue visas.

Route and flight time depend on where you live, and schedules can change. The NHS advises against flying for 7 to 10 days after facial cosmetic procedures and 5 to 7 days after breast surgery or liposuction, so build that time into your plan wherever you go.

Language and talking to your care team

Iran's official language is Persian and Türkiye's is Turkish. Persian and Dari speakers can usually talk directly with doctors and nurses in Iran. Arabic and English speakers should ask, in either country, whether a medical interpreter will be available before they travel.

Aftercare and follow-up

The NHS recommends two consultations with the treating surgeon before any surgery, warns against planning a holiday straight afterwards, and notes that overseas clinics may not provide follow-up treatment and travel insurance may not cover problems arising from surgery.

Wherever you go, ask before travel where follow-up visits happen, who responds if there is a complication, and in which language you will receive your medical summary.

Payment and sanctions

GOV.UK says non-Iranian debit and cash cards do not work in Iran, getting cash is extremely difficult, and changing money on the street is illegal. If you choose Iran, agree the payment method and currency before travel as part of a written quote. For Türkiye, also confirm with the clinic and your bank how you will pay.

Travel advisories (checked 27 October 2026)

As of 27 October 2026 the UK Foreign Office (FCDO) advises against all travel to Iran, and for Türkiye advises against all travel within 10 km of the border with Syria. Read your own government's latest advice before booking. LSevin does not declare travel safe.

Which option fits your situation?

Instead of asking which country is better, ask yourself:

• In which language can you talk to a doctor most comfortably?
• What does your government advise for each destination, and what does your insurance cover?
• Which payment methods are open to you?
• Do you want to combine treatment with a visit to Mashhad or another plan?
• Is the destination's visa straightforward for your nationality?
• Who will handle follow-up once you are home?