A disappointing and traumatic hospital experience
On June 15, 2024, I underwent a 360-degree liposuction, abdominoplasty, and breast lift with silicone implants performed by Dr. Teoman Eraslan. The operation was carried out at Medistanbul Hospital. I did not choose this hospital myself — the doctor’s assistant assured me repeatedly that it was a modern, hygienic facility with English-speaking staff and excellent pre- and post-operative care. Unfortunately, the reality was very different.
From the moment I arrived, I experienced one disappointment after another. Many nurses had long, decorated nails, heavy makeup, and did not follow basic hygiene standards. A young nurse, without any explanation or preparation, tried to insert an IV line in a rush. It was very painful, my vein swelled and bruised immediately, and blood spilled onto the floor — which no one cleaned.
After surgery, things got worse. I was unable to walk and needed help, but no one was around. It was the last day of the Ramadan and I could hear staff celebrating nearby. I had to shout multiple times for help. Eventually, nurses assigned to another doctor’s patients came to assist me.
Every attempt to insert a catheter resulted in severe bruising. In the middle of the night, I was spontaneously moved to another room, and some of my belongings were left behind. Again, an inexperienced nurse with long nails tried to place an IV. I couldn’t take it anymore and shouted for someone qualified. Thankfully, an experienced anesthesiologist came and handled it properly.
Communication was another major issue. Hardly anyone spoke English. I had to rely on basic Turkish I had picked up from TV dramas. Only one nurse from a different department spoke English, and she offered some temporary relief.
Why am I writing this nearly a year later? Because I spent months trying to resolve these issues with the doctor. From the very first day, one implant was placed unnaturally high, causing constant pain. The doctor kept telling me daily massages would help, but eventually I learned the implants were different sizes, not what I had agreed to, and my breast shapes were asymmetric. The incisions were also poorly done.
The doctor offered a revision surgery, but I no longer trusted him. He referred me to another surgeon who never contacted me. I sent official emails to both the doctor and the hospital. The tracking system showed the emails were read, but I never received a reply.
I can no longer stay silent. I hope my story helps others avoid the same experience.