Access & cost

Fibroid surgery in Turkey: uterus-sparing options for UK patients

For UK women told hysterectomy is the only option — or facing long NHS waits for myomectomy — Istanbul offers uterus-sparing surgery with experienced surgeons and rapid access.

Op. Dr. Berra Önsoy — Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Medically written & reviewed by
Op. Dr. Berra Önsoy · Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
Istanbul, Turkey · 29 years of clinical practice · 7 min read · Consults in English & Turkish

Istanbul University Cerrahpaşa (English) MD, 1997. Ob-Gyn residency at Taksim Training & Research Hospital (2001). Private practice in Istanbul focused on endometriosis, myoma surgery, high-risk pregnancy and aesthetic gynaecology.

Clinical focus
  • Endometriosis surgery
  • Myoma (fibroid) surgery
  • High-risk pregnancy
  • Aesthetic gynaecology
  • HPV & colposcopy
Last medically reviewed: 15 January 2026View full clinical credentials·Verify on:drberraonsoy.cominstagram.com
Key takeaways
  • Uterus-sparing myomectomy is the default in Istanbul.
  • Total UK-to-recovery trip is typically 5–7 days.
  • Follow-up integrates back into NHS care.

Why UK women travel for myomectomy

In the UK, myomectomy for multiple or large fibroids is often quoted with a 12–18 month private waiting list at consultant level, and NHS waits can be longer. Private UK myomectomy costs £8,000–£16,000. Many women are also steered toward hysterectomy because it is technically simpler.

In Istanbul, myomectomy is the default for women who want to keep their uterus — regardless of fibroid number or size — with cost typically 40–60% below UK private equivalents.

What the pathway looks like

A pre-travel video consultation reviews your MRI or ultrasound and plans the technique (hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, or open). In Istanbul, admission is usually the day of surgery, with 1–2 nights in hospital and 3–4 days of local recovery before flying home. Total trip: typically 5–7 days.

Follow-up in the UK

A full operative report, histology and post-op plan is issued in English, with virtual follow-up at 2 and 6 weeks. Your UK GP receives a summary letter, and any future obstetric care is properly informed of the operative details.

Frequently asked questions

Are large or multiple fibroids possible to do keyhole?

Yes, in experienced hands. Your surgical plan is based on MRI mapping, not one-size-fits-all rules.

How long before I can fly home?

Usually 3–4 days after keyhole surgery; 5–7 days after open myomectomy.

Can I combine this with fertility planning?

Yes — timing of surgery and future conception is planned together.

Could a doctor-led plan help you?

A 30-minute video consultation with Dr Berra Önsoy — reviewing your imaging and giving you a clear personalised plan for uterus-sparing fibroid surgery.

Request a video consultation

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