Türkiye ranks in top 5 for medical tourism, aiming $3 billion in 2024

Türkiye ranks among the top five countries in medical tourism and is in the top ten for health services exports globally.

Dr. Yasemin Savas, President of the Medical Aesthetics Medicine Association (MESTDER), shared these figures during the seventh International Medical Aesthetics Congress held in Antalya.

The congress, organized by MESTDER, addressed topics such as advancements in medical aesthetics, effective safety measures against unlicensed procedures, and popular treatments like mesotherapy, fillers, and hair transplantation.

Presentations covered innovations in laser technology, radiofrequency, and ultrasound applications, reflecting Türkiye’s growing role in the global medical tourism industry.

Türkiye has become a significant global player in health tourism thanks to its use of advanced technology, highly skilled health personnel, and excellent healthcare facilities.

Dr. Savas emphasized

She added that these factors have positioned the country as an essential destination for medical aesthetics.

Türkiye sets ambitious targets for medical tourism growth in 2024

Türkiye has seen a sharp increase in health tourism revenues over the years. Dr. Savas pointed out that revenues rose from $203 million in 2003 to $2.2 billion in 2022. For 2024, Türkiye aims to welcome 2 million health tourists and generate $3 billion in income.

Dr. Savas attributed this growth to policies and incentives from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Trade.

The number of accredited healthcare facilities in Türkiye is rapidly increasing thanks to government support. Sustaining this success depends on increasing sector awareness and encouraging widespread adoption of proper practices.

Dr. Savas explained

Popular procedures in Türkiye, importance of avoiding unregulated practices

Türkiye offers a variety of sought-after medical aesthetics treatments, including mesotherapy, PRP therapy, botox, fillers, and hair transplantation.

Dr. Savas noted the growing demand for procedures using innovative methods such as sound waves, laser technology, and ultrasound.

She also warned against unsafe practices performed in unauthorized facilities which have infiltrated medical tourism. Dr. Savas defined these “underground practices” as procedures carried out by unlicensed individuals using uncertified products in non-medical settings.

She urged patients to avoid such establishments and seek services only from accredited clinics and licensed professionals.

Medical aesthetics sees increased interest, evolving trends in medical tourism

MESTDER Vice President Dr. Alp Mamak said interest in medical aesthetics has risen significantly in recent years, driven by advancements in techniques and an increasing focus on personal well-being.

MESTDER Secretary-General Dr. Bora Ozcan spoke about the growing popularity of lip fillers, using this as an example of how preferences in aesthetics are shifting.

Türkiye’s focus on technology, skilled healthcare professionals, and a patient-centered approach continues to draw millions of medical tourists each year. These efforts reinforce the country’s position as one of the leading destinations in the global medical tourism sector.