Is Heart Valve Replacement in Turkey Safe and Affordable? Here’s Your Guide

CardiologyApril 24, 2025

If you've been told you need heart valve replacement surgery, you're probably feeling a mix of emotions—concern, confusion, maybe even fear. It's a big decision, and naturally, you have a ton of questions. Where should you go? How much will it cost? How long is the recovery?

One destination that has emerged as a top choice for people is Turkey. Over the years, it’s become a leading destination for heart valve replacement surgery, offering world-class care at a fraction of the cost compared to countries like the U.S. or the U.K.

Ready to discover the benefits of heart valve replacement in Turkey? Let’s jump in!

Why choose Turkey for heart valve replacement?

If you're on the hunt for top-notch medical care without breaking the bank, Turkey should be at the top of your list. But what makes it stand out? Let’s dive into the reasons why so many people choose Turkey for heart valve replacement:

1. World-class medical facilities

Turkey is home to some of the finest hospitals globally, with many earning JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation — the gold standard in healthcare. These hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, modern operating rooms, and highly skilled medical professionals.

Hospitals like Liv Hospital and Memorial Hospital in Istanbul are just a couple of examples where you'll receive world-class treatment.

2. Experienced heart surgeons

Having an experienced surgeon for the heart surgery is non-negotiable, and in Turkey, you’ll find some of the best cardiac specialists in the world. They have trained and worked in leading medical institutions around the globe. And have performed thousands of successful surgeries.

Many of them are members of international organizations like the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC). That means you're in safe hands.

3. Cost-effective option

Heart valve replacement in places like the U.S. or the U.K. can cost anywhere from $80,000 to $200,000. But in Turkey? The price tag is 60-80% lower, typically ranging from $15,000 to $35,000 for the same high-quality procedure.

So, why the difference? Lower operational costs, government incentives for medical tourism, and a favorable exchange rate allow you to receive world-class care without the hefty price tag.

4. Medical tourism packages

Turkey takes the hassle out of medical travel. Many hospitals offer all-inclusive packages designed to cover every aspect of your journey, including:

Your surgery and hospital stay
Pre-operative tests and evaluations
Post-surgery rehabilitation
Hotel accommodation for you and a companion
Airport transfers and translation services

With these packages, you won’t have to worry about a thing. Just world-class treatment and a stress-free experience in a welcoming country.

5. Short waiting list

Another perk? The wait times are much shorter compared to countries like the U.K. or Canada, where you might wait months for non-emergency surgeries.

In Turkey, you can usually be scheduled within a few days. That means you can get the treatment you need right away, recover faster, and get back to your normal life without unnecessary delays..

How much does heart valve replacement in Turkey cost?

If you’re considering heart valve replacement surgery, Turkey could save you a ton of money without sacrificing quality care.

In Turkey, the price for heart valve replacement surgery typically falls between $14,200 and $30,000 for a traditional open-heart procedure. If you’re opting for a less invasive option like TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement), you can expect to pay anywhere from $17,200 to $35,000.

Now, compare that to the average cost in the U.S., which sits around a staggering $170,000 for the same procedure. And that’s just the surgery itself—when you factor in travel, accommodation, and aftercare, Turkey is still far more affordable.

The exact cost will depend on your medical needs, the hospital you choose, and the type of care required.

Want a personalized quote for heart valve replacement in Turkey? QCG can provide you with a detailed cost breakdown, so you know exactly what to expect. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation!

What factors affect the cost of heart valve surgery in Turkey?

Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for heart valve replacement in Turkey, including:

Type of procedure: Open-heart surgery vs. minimally invasive TAVI
Type of valve: Mechanical vs. Bioprosthetic (biological)
Hospital reputation and location: Renowned hospitals in larger cities might cost more
Surgeon’s experience: Highly experienced surgeons may charge a premium
Pre- and post-surgery care: Any extra treatments or rehabilitation
Inclusions in the package (accommodation, transfers, medications, and follow-up visits)

Does health insurance cover heart valve surgery in Turkey?

It depends on your insurance plan. Some international insurers may cover heart valve surgery in Turkey, especially if the procedure is pre-approved and deemed medically necessary. However, many patients choose Turkey because it’s so affordable, even without insurance.

Before moving forward, it's always wise to check with your insurance provider to confirm whether they'll cover treatment in Turkey.

Types of heart valve replacement procedures in Turkey

Now, let’s talk about what kind of procedures are available. Your doctor will recommend the best one for you, but here’s an easy breakdown:

Mechanical valve replacement

Involves using a mechanical (artificial) valve.
Highly durable—can last a lifetime.
But—you’ll need to take blood thinners (anticoagulants) for life to prevent clotting.

Biological valve replacement

Uses a valve from a human, pig (porcine), or cow (bovine) tissue.
No need for lifelong blood thinners.
But—may need replacement in 10-15 years.

Minimally invasive valve replacement (TAVI/TAVR)

Best for high-risk patients who can’t undergo open-heart surgery.
Small incision, faster recovery.
Less pain, less scarring, and shorter hospital stay.

Traditional open-heart surgery

Involves a full incision through the chest.
Necessary for more complex cases.
Longer recovery time, but still very effective.

Planning your heart valve replacement in Turkey

Planning for heart valve replacement surgery in Turkey requires careful thought and organization. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Follow these steps to make your medical journey smooth, stress-free, and successful:

1. Understand your medical needs

Before anything else, make sure you fully understand your medical condition. If you haven't already, get a thorough evaluation from your cardiologist. This will not only help you assess your treatment options but also give you a clearer picture of what to expect during surgery.

Make sure your medical records are updated and translated into English, as this will help the medical team in Turkey provide the best care.

2. Research hospitals and surgeons

One of the most important steps in planning your surgery is choosing the right hospital and surgeon. Turkey is home to several high-quality healthcare facilities, but not all of them are equal. Here's how to narrow down your options:

Look for JCI-accredited hospitals
Check their heart surgery success rates
Read patient reviews and testimonials

Some top hospitals to consider include:

Liv Hospital (Ankara)
Memorial Şişli Hospital (Istanbul)
Medicana International (Izmir)
Anadolu Medical Center (Kocaeli)
Acıbadem Maslak Hospital (Istanbul)

These hospitals have excellent cardiac departments with international reputations.

Also, check the surgeon's credentials

Look for a board-certified cardiac surgeon
See where they trained and how many surgeries they’ve performed
Ask for before-and-after case studies

3. Get an online consultation

Most hospitals in Turkey offer free online consultations. Take full advantage of this opportunity. It’s a great chance to speak directly with your surgeon, ask any questions, and get a clearer understanding of the procedure, risks, and expected recovery.

The consultation also lets you gauge how comfortable you feel with the surgeon and whether you trust their expertise.

4. Plan your travel and accommodation

Once you’ve selected your hospital and surgeon, it’s time to plan your trip. Here's how to organize your travel efficiently:

Book flights

Book your flight early to secure the best rates. Major cities like Istanbul are well-connected to international airports, so finding a flight shouldn’t be a hassle.

Choose accommodation

Many hospitals offer all-inclusive packages that include accommodation for you and a companion. If not, make sure to book a hotel close to your hospital to make follow-up visits and treatment easier.

Arrange transportation

Check if your hospital provides airport transfers. If not, taxis and private transfers are readily available. Having transport arranged ahead of time can reduce any travel stress when you arrive.

Visa and documentation

Most visitors to Turkey will need a visa. Thankfully, many nationalities can apply for an e-Visa online, which is quick and easy. Be sure to check the specific visa requirements for your country well in advance.

5. Budgeting for your surgery

While Turkey is much more affordable than many other countries for heart valve replacement surgery, it’s still essential to plan your finances. Here’s a breakdown of possible costs:

Surgery and hospital fees: These are the primary costs, but prices vary depending on the procedure and the hospital.
Pre-op tests and consultations: Some hospitals include these in the overall package, but always confirm.
Accommodation and travel expenses: Factor in the cost of your flight, hotel stay, and any additional travel-related expenses.
Post-surgery care: This includes follow-up visits, rehabilitation, and any extra treatments.

It’s wise to ask for a detailed cost breakdown from the hospital upfront so you know exactly what’s included in the package and what additional costs may arise.

6. Plan for recovery

After your surgery, you’ll need time to rest and recover. Plan for a recovery period in Turkey before heading home. Most hospitals offer post-surgery rehabilitation services, which can be included in your medical package.

In general, you should plan to stay in Turkey for at least 2-3 weeks following your heart valve replacement surgery. Here’s a typical breakdown of what your recovery period might look like:

4-8 days in the hospital, where you’ll receive post-op care and initial recovery monitoring.
7-14 additional days for follow-up appointments, further recovery, and making sure you’re stable and fit to travel internationally.

During this recovery time, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay. It’s a good idea to book accommodation close to the hospital or rehabilitation center. That way, you can easily attend follow-up visits and receive any extra treatments you might need.

Make sure you have a care plan in place. Having a companion with you during recovery can be helpful, especially in the first few days post-surgery.

7. Ongoing care after you return home

Once you’ve returned home, it’s important to follow up with your local cardiologist or heart specialist to make sure your recovery is on track. Make sure they receive all the reports from your surgery, including details on the type of valve used, medications prescribed, and recovery instructions.

8. Explore Turkey

Although your main priority will be your surgery and recovery, don’t forget that Turkey is a stunning country with much to explore. If you’re feeling up to it, take some time to soak in the sights and experience the local culture.

From the vibrant energy of Istanbul to the peaceful beaches along the Turkish Riviera or the ancient wonders of Ephesus, Turkey has a wealth of cultural treasures to enjoy during your stay.

Want to make your heart valve replacement surgery as stress-free as possible? Get in touch with QCG for expert support in planning every detail of your trip.

What is the survival rate for heart valve surgery?

Heart valve replacement surgery has an excellent survival rate — typically around 95–98%. That’s pretty reassuring, right?

Your chances are even better when the procedure is done in a top hospital by an experienced cardiac surgeon. However, factors like your age, overall health, and any existing conditions (like diabetes or hypertension) can influence outcomes. But overall, it’s a safe and effective surgery.

With modern techniques and proper aftercare, most people recover well and go on to live full, active lives.