Op. Dr. Mahmut Doğan Reviews 345

Dr Dogan and his team were so very communicative and understanding of my endless questions and quick with replies from day one!
He is a very skilled surgeon and his team are quick to look into or sort any of your queries. Very good price for such a smooth experience. Everyone from driver to Hotel staff were so kind and lovely. There was a few small issues surrounding nurses and language barriers however Kerem sorted this very quickly for me also. Buse has been so very hands on and always available since I arrived home also. Would absolutely recommend Dr Dogan to anyone ready for surgery. 😍

I had bariatric surgery approx 5 weeks ago. Dr Dogan and his team made me feel comfortable and we're helpful when needed, they were very friendly as well. The process was easy a everything was arranged from private transfer to accommodation. So far I have managed to lose 8 kgs.

I had my gastric bypass surgery in June 2025 and overall, my experience was positive. I travelled alone for the procedure, and from start to finish the process was made really easy. My agent, Kerem, was absolutely amazing — he stayed in touch from my first enquiry right through to when I was at the hospital and even after surgery. He made the whole experience much less stressful and was always quick to respond.

The process of organising the surgery was straightforward, and I was able to access my super to cover the cost. I had my surgery at Cerrahi Hospital in Istanbul, and while my room itself was okay, I did have issues with cleanliness — especially the bathroom, which wasn’t cleaned even after I asked multiple times. I’ve since learned they’re no longer using that hospital, and I’ve seen that the new one looks much better, which is great.

My interactions with Kerem and the dietician were positive all the way through. The surgeon was friendly, but I did feel a bit uncomfortable at times when staff would speak in their language and laugh in front of me — it made me feel anxious, especially before and after surgery. I think it would help if they were more mindful of that with patients who are already nervous.

Just before surgery, I also felt unsure of what was happening — there wasn’t really anyone explaining the steps as I was being taken to the operating room, and that was quite daunting. After surgery, when I woke up, I felt like I couldn’t breathe (which I now know was likely a panic attack). The staff seemed a bit frustrated rather than reassuring, which made it harder in that moment.

Aside from those few concerns, the surgery itself went extremely well. I started at 211kg in June 2025, and now, four months post-op, I’m 150kg. I’ve had no complications, minimal pain, and the scarring is barely noticeable — even my doctor here in Australia was impressed with how neat and well-healed the incisions are.

Overall, I’m very happy with the outcome and grateful to the team, especially Kerem, for helping me through such a big step in my life. My only feedback would be for better communication and reassurance around the surgical process, but the medical results and aftercare have been excellent.

Had my surgery in August, Was really anxious about the whole process but I was supported all the way through.
Dr Mahmut and his team communicated with me from the very start and were always available to respond to my questions and enquiries. Surgery went well and recovery was amazing. Just had my bloods done and everything was remarkable.

I cannot thank Dr Dogan & his team enough! The process was so straightforward from landing in Istanbul to the return journey, you are in safe hands & everything is organised & planned for you. The support before & after are just the best. If you are considering gastric sleeve surgery & want to ensure a 100% safe & patient focussed experience, look no further than Dr Dogan. Not only is he an extremely skilled surgeon, but he genuinely cares about the entire experience his patents receive. Add on his dedicated team & you have a worry-free 5* experience. I would recommend to anyone considering surgery ✨️

The best in the business of making people’s lives better. I went in with lots of doubts and came out with lots of confidence. I am now at a happy weight and I hope you too someday.

From arrival at the airport everything was run like clockwork. No need to worry about anything the team has it all organised for you. The Drs, staff and nurses are fantastic, warm and friendly. The hospital was good and the hotel after also very comfortable. We came a week early to experience Istanbul and so glad we did. What a great place, we will be back. Thank you Dr Dugan and team x

From communication, payment, collection at the airport until I left it was great

I had done extensive research before committing to Dr. Dogan and his team. What ultimately made my decision was seeing how many Polynesian people had undergone surgery with them successfully. That gave me far more confidence than the price point alone—even though the all-inclusive package (surgery, hospital, hotel, and transfers) was excellent value.

Flying into Turkey, you don’t quite know what to expect—it can feel daunting being in a different country with a different culture. Just bear in mind: drivers often go 160 km/hr, smoking is common in most areas, there aren’t sanitary bins everywhere, and cats are absolutely everywhere. Once you accept that, you’ll be fine. I landed, reached Gate 14, and was whisked away to the hospital. Arriving after hours may feel a little eerie at first, but rest assured, everything is professional and above board. The staff at Cerrahi were attentive, though only a few spoke English, and their standards differ from what you might expect at home (for example, gloves are not worn at all times).
Pre-op testing was thorough: bloods, EKG, chest X-ray, ultrasound of kidneys and liver, and an endoscopy. Results are either discussed with you directly or provided afterward in your report.
Day of surgery: You’re given a gown (hopefully larger sizes will be added soon for
patient dignity). You’ll fast for 24 hours before and another 24 hours after surgery, but IV electrolytes and pain relief are provided. The surgery itself was seamless—I remember going under general anesthesia, then waking up with oxygen, a heat pump, and strong pain relief. After four hours, the nurses got me up to walk, which is absolutely essential for recovery and releasing gas.

Recovery: I spent two days in the hospital. Dr. Dogan visited daily to check my incisions and removed the drain on the day of discharge. The dietician gave a clear and thorough walkthrough of the post-op phase, and Buse—who coordinates everything—was outstanding. She’s professional, supportive, and incredibly organized, which made the whole process much calmer. Upon discharge, I received a medical letter for my airline. If you want your reports in English, allow about a week for translation, though Turkish versions are given immediately.

Aftercare: Any issues were handled promptly. Dr. Dogan’s team communicated with doctors as needed and even assisted with hotel staff if extra medical support was required. They were always responsive to questions.

Hotel: A support person pays for their own meals. Patients are provided with two bottles of 600ml water daily. Shops nearby sell kefir and soup cubes if you want a change in flavor.

Extras: If you’re able, book a tour—it does wonders for both mental and physical health. Tours cost around €120+ for 4–6 hours per car. You can also take an Uber to the Grand Bazaar or Egyptian Bazaar for market shopping (lots of imitation goods). Istanbul is a beautiful city worth exploring if you can.

Laundry: Self-service laundry costs about $3.50 AUD per load (wash and dry), about 2.8km away at Laundrybar Besiktaz. Payment is available via Australian Visa card. Taxi fare is around $11 AUD each way, though Uber drivers sometimes cancel. Hotel laundry is very expensive—up to $50 AUD or more for one bag. One friend was charged $150 AUD for 8 kilos of washing through Ecowash, so plan ahead.

Airport tips: Always request wheelchair assistance, even if you think you won’t need it—it ensures you’re prioritised at boarding and through security. An aisle seat up front is also helpful so you can move around often on long flights.

You won’t be alone—there are always other international patients there for surgery, and it helps to connect. Still, I strongly recommend taking a support person or going with a group for both practical and mental support.

Final thoughts: Dr. Dogan is an excellent surgeon with a great bedside manner. His team is professional and supportive, and I have no regrets choosing him. I met incredible people going through the same journey, and I look forward to seeing our results over time.

One piece of advice: keep an open mind about Turkey, and you’ll have a truly positive experience.

Thank you, Dr. Dogan and team.

From the initial enquiring msg to the transfer to airport for flight home, everything has been straight forward and a smooth process. The directions given from coordinators are to a tea and so easy to follow! But if I had concerns or any questions they would always respond in a timely manner. (Considering the time difference)
Dr Mahmut Doğan and his medical team are second to none. The support and care I received from the beginning of testing to discharge was awesome. Even with the language barrier, the nurses/surgical team always went out of their way to make sure I was comfortable and at ease.
The hotel staff were also very welcoming. Whatever we needed or requested they would always try to accommodate.
Flying to a foreign country for a medical procedure can be very daunting and overwhelming, but Dr Mahmut Dogan’s team try their best to ease the process for you. Now we all know nothing is 100% perfect and there are some minor areas that can be worked on, but it was nothing to deter my decision of going through them or even regret my decision. They made sure we were always safe, well informed and comfortable.
Thank you Dr Mahmut Doğan and team for this life changing experience.

From starting my weight loss journey and preparing my paperwork to flying from Brisbane to Istanbul the entire team have been an absolute pleasure to work with
My surgery went great without complications and I’m down 107kgs from 135kgs at my heaviest earlier this year

I flew alone as a 40 yr old Samon woman and was completely safe and looked after by doctors nurses and all staff

First of all Dr Dogan was great very attentive, caring & professional can’t fault him at all, the nurses were great aswell. Being a healthcare worker myself i was satisfied with their care.
My coordinator wasn’t the best experience, saw him morning day of my operation, he came to my room to take payment and seemed to be in a rush and unfriendly, soon after that never saw him texted him the next day after my op as i wanted details about discharge and getting to the hotel, and he told me he was busy working and that i will be taken to hotel next day.
Next day arrived he came at discharge time to take me to the transportation downstairs, again he asked if I wanted to be posted on instagram for a review of which i declined mind you never asked how i was feeling or how my overall surgery or stay was.& then told me he would send me a link to for trust pilot to leave a 5* review i agreed reluctantly again he was cold when we got to the car he never said goodbye just disappeared.
Flew home to Australia the next couple of days never heard from him not even to see how am going post op or i travelled well, I contacted him regarding a copy of my surgery report so i can have a report for my GP to file in my history, i was met with hostility and abrupt answers of saying he is busy he will do it when he gets time as he is working alone. Mind you I understand working under pressure but be polite at least.
I eventually got the report a couple of days later then a week after he sent me a this link asking for a favor to leave a 5* review. So here it sits.

So my opinion is if you do agree to be posted on social media or to leave a 5* review the service is different. Therefore I would take 5* reviews here with a grain of salt because they pressure you to leave a 5* review but i prefer an honest review instead not to mislead others seeking surgery.

From beginning to current (7weeks post op) Dr Mahmut Dogan and the team have been amazing. The entire process was seamless, the quality of care and attention to detail. Kerem is professional, never once was pushy for booking or confirming, allowed me to take my time and was able to book me in so last minute, guided and advised with all details from ATO forms, flights, arrival and departure. Mary who was amazing, kept me updated with the pre surgery and was with me side by side the entire way up until GO TIME . Dr Dogan, earths angel, my saving grace - gave me a life I can live longer with my family. The professionalism of Dr Dogan is next to none. Followed up personally after surgery and is at your back and call post op. Dietitian Buse explains the next steps with your intake and keeps you updated and accountable with your new stomach. The driver! One of the loveliest people I met in Turkey - his care and diligence pre and post op was amazing. The nurses really care, the team at the hospital were amazing, so kind and Lovley. Overall - Dr Mahmut Dogan and his team have made this journey an unforgettable experience. Thankyou for my new life .

I’m 3 months post op and I’m 40kgs down and I feel fantastic🤩Dr Dogan and his team are amazing. This has been a life changing decision for me and I highly recommend any one that is wanting to take this weight lose journey. Thank you Dr Dogan and the team🥰

First of all Dr Dogan was great! No faults about my actual surgery but there is work to be done with care. We were only given paracetamol for pain which didn't work. I think if we had something stronger then recovery would of been faultless. Also just found out the hospital we were in is a medical university so obviously these nurses are still training. Our coordinator at the hospital was good to begin with but towards the end she was rushing like we were sheep dogs. Couldn't make the effort to remember our names or be sympathetic. Dr Dogans assistant was absolutely amazing and funny! I would recommend Dr Dogan but take a support person to advocate for you and also take stronger meds :)

I'm 3 weeks post operation for a Gastric Sleeve. There is nothing I can fault with any of the process, from the initial contact to the ongoing dietician support.

The value for money is incredible, all of the hospital staff were great and the language barrier wasn't really much of an issue at all, and (despite the journeys being a bit hairy at times) the driver we had was really nice and friendly.

4 days post op and I cannot be more thankful to Dr Dogan and the whole team. Flying from Brisbane, might seem overwhelming but trust me you’re in great hands. Kerem went out of his way to make sure that everything was organised perfectly, from airport and hotel transfers to paperwork. He has got you covered. My surgery was at the new Liv Hospital and it is so nice! It’s brand new facility, and the nursing staff is on hand around the clock google translate will be your best friend. I got the all clear today to discharge, now seeing a few sights before flying home tomorrow. It’s been a huge journey, but one I am forever grateful to have taken. Special thanks to Kerem, Mary, and Buse for making the transition easier! <3

Today marks 3 weeks since Dr Dogan and his team performed the gastric sleeve surgery and I feel fantastic.
Thank you to Dr Dogan and your medical team for giving me a new lease on life.
My translator Mary was very helpful with preparation of documents and once my travel plans were confirmed the support team, upon arrival in Istanbul, made the pre op process seamless.
I was always kept informed of what to expect and Dr Dogan checked in on the day prior to the surgery and again on the day which made me feel at ease.
Thank you to the wonderful Doctor and Nursing staff who treated me with kindness and respect throughout my recovery.
I recommend Dr Dogan and his team to anyone who is considering taking this huge step for a better and healthier life.
Sincere blessings. 🙏

Dr Dogan, Karem and team were professional and friendly. The support staff at the hospital were also the same. If you are looking to take the next step in your life towards a better you and even thinking about doing this solo. I would very strongly recommend Dr. Dogan, Karem and their wonderful team. They have got you covered from the time you touch down to the time you leave. Service was excellent... Thank you Dr Dogan, Karem and team

Now that we are back in Australia, I just wanted to say a huge thank you to Kerem, Dr Mahmut Dogan, Buse and the rest of the wonderful team down to the driver!
Kerem was our first point of contact and was so helpful, efficient and responsive to any questions. Nothing was ever too hard for Kerem. A dream to deal with!
Dr Mahmut Dogan is amazing! I had no issues immediate post surgery and my recovery has been a breeze with no complications. My wounds are very small and whilst still a little tender, I had almost no pain post surgery (currently 8 days post surgery). For me, that shows how experienced Dr Dogan is and the care he takes during surgery.
Buse the dietitian has kept me informed about the diet process although I’m only on stage 2, I feel I can confidently move through each stage based on the information and reminders that Buse sends. She is very responsive and has helped me so much to manage each diet stage.
The hospital staff are so friendly, caring and very helpful. I loved that even with the language barrier, that didn’t stop them from keeping me informed at every step pre and post surgery.
Our driver was the same with all airport transfers and hospital to hotel so it was so nice to almost have that personalised touch. He is very friendly and almost wished we could have hired him to take us to Grand Plaza!
Overall, the whole team work together so perfectly and I believe this is what contributes to their high score and the amazing feedback that they deserve. I can’t recommend them enough and would tell anyone considering Dr Dogan and team that they won’t regret it.
Looking forward to a healthier lifestyle!