Your face is your most personal feature. It’s how you connect with the world, show your feelings, and see yourself. When injury, illness, or a congenital condition changes your face, the effects are more than just skin deep. They can touch the very core of your identity and confidence. The path to restoration is a deeply personal one, requiring a surgeon who is not only a skilled technician but also an artist. Today, Turkey has become a leading destination for this advanced medical care, offering expertise and technology that match the best in the world, making facial reconstruction accessible to more people than ever before.
The journey to reclaim your appearance and function is a significant one. It’s about finding a surgeon who understands the delicate balance between restoring what was lost and creating a natural, harmonious result. This process is about rebuilding confidence from the outside in. In Istanbul, a city where continents and cultures meet, you’ll find a hub of medical excellence dedicated to this transformative work. Here, surgeons combine years of specialized training with cutting-edge technology to handle even the most complex cases, offering hope and new beginnings to patients from all over the globe.
The Art and Science of Facial Reconstruction
When people hear “plastic surgery,” they often think of cosmetic enhancements. But the foundation of this medical field is reconstruction—the skill of rebuilding and restoring. Face reconstruction in Turkey has grown into a highly specialized area of medicine. It blends the precision of advanced microsurgery, the innovation of 3D medical technology, and a deep appreciation for aesthetics. The goal is not just to repair damage but to help a person feel whole again, restoring both function and self-assurance.
For patients from the UK, USA, and Europe, Istanbul has emerged as a premier center for these intricate procedures. The city offers a unique combination of world-class medical standards and cost-effectiveness. However, the success of any facial reconstruction depends almost entirely on the surgeon’s skill. It demands an exceptional level of expertise that goes far beyond standard surgical training—it requires a profound understanding of the complex network of tissues, nerves, and blood vessels that make up the human face.
This is where the work of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin stands out. With over a decade of dedicated experience and the highly respected EBOPRAS (European Board of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery) qualification, Dr. Burak is a leader in Turkish reconstructive medicine. He has trained with some of the world’s most renowned surgeons, including the legendary Dr. Pedro Cavadas. This background gives Dr. Burak the ability to manage the most difficult cases, from extensive burn repairs to complex facial reanimation, right here in Istanbul.
Understanding the Scope of Facial Reconstruction
Facial reconstruction is a comprehensive term for surgeries that repair defects of the face and skull. Unlike purely cosmetic procedures, these surgeries are often a medical necessity. The primary objective is to restore essential functions like blinking, chewing, smiling, and breathing. At the same time, an equal amount of focus is placed on achieving a natural and aesthetically pleasing outcome, helping patients regain their confidence and integrate back into their daily lives without feeling self-conscious.
Post-Traumatic Reconstruction: Repairing After Injury
Accidents from sports, vehicles, or work can cause severe damage to the facial skeleton and the soft tissues covering it. These injuries require immediate and precise surgical intervention to prevent long-term complications and disfigurement.
- Bone Fractures: Complex breaks in the facial bones, such as Le Fort fractures of the mid-face, orbital floor fractures affecting the eye socket, and jaw fractures, need careful realignment. Dr. Burak uses rigid fixation techniques with titanium plates and screws or modern absorbable materials to ensure the bones heal in the correct position, restoring the face’s structural integrity.
- Soft Tissue Avulsion: When skin, fat, and muscle are torn away from the face, simple stitches are not enough. These severe injuries leave large defects that can expose underlying bone and vital structures, requiring advanced reconstructive methods.
- The Microsurgical Solution: For these complex cases, Dr. Burak employs Microsurgery and free tissue transfer. This remarkable technique involves taking a composite block of tissue—skin, muscle, and sometimes bone—from another part of the patient’s body, such as the forearm, thigh, or lower leg. The tissue’s artery and vein are carefully detached and then reconnected to blood vessels in the face under a high-powered microscope. This restores blood flow, allowing the transferred tissue to live and integrate, effectively rebuilding what was lost in a way that standard skin grafts cannot.
Oncological Reconstruction: Rebuilding After Cancer
The removal of skin cancers like Basal Cell Carcinoma and Melanoma, or other head and neck tumors, can leave significant defects. The surgery to remove the cancer is life-saving, but the reconstruction that follows is life-restoring.
- Mohs Surgery Defects: After a tumor is removed using Mohs surgery, a technique that spares as much healthy tissue as possible, a defect remains. The challenge is to close this defect while preserving the unique and important features of the face, like the curve of a nostril or the line of an eyelid.
- Advanced Flap Techniques: Dr. Burak uses a variety of sophisticated techniques to achieve the best possible result. Local flaps involve moving adjacent tissue to cover the defect, which provides a perfect match in skin color and texture. For larger defects, regional flaps may be used. The goal is always to place incisions within natural facial lines and creases, making the scars as inconspicuous as possible once they have healed.
Burn Reconstruction: Restoring Form and Flexibility
Burns to the face are among the most difficult injuries to treat. They not only cause scarring but also lead to contractures, where the tightening scar tissue pulls on facial features. This can prevent the mouth from closing properly or pull the eyelids down, leaving the eyes exposed and vulnerable.
- Phases of Treatment: Burn care involves multiple stages. The acute phase focuses on life-saving measures and immediate skin grafting to cover the wounds. Later, secondary reconstruction is performed to improve both appearance and function, often years after the initial injury.
- Dr. Burak’s Advanced Approach: Dr. Burak uses modern techniques to address burn scars. Tissue Expansion is a method where a silicone balloon is placed under healthy skin near the scar and gradually inflated over weeks. This “grows” a new supply of perfectly matched skin that can then be used to replace the scarred area. Additionally, Fat Grafting, which uses the patient’s own fat, is used to soften scars, add volume, and improve the quality and texture of the skin, thanks to the regenerative properties of the stem cells found in fat tissue.
Reconstruction is about more than just filling a space. It’s about respecting the intricate anatomy of the face. A reconstructed nose must allow for clear breathing; a rebuilt eyelid must blink to protect the eye. The principles of microsurgical precision allow surgeons to achieve results that were once considered impossible, restoring both form and essential function to patients’ lives.
If you are dealing with a complex facial injury or defect, it’s important to seek a surgeon with specialized skills. Book a Consultation with Dr. Burak Today to explore the advanced options available to you.
Microsurgery: The Key to Modern Facial Reconstruction
To truly appreciate why Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin is a top choice for complex face reconstruction in Turkey, it is essential to understand the role of Microsurgery. This is not just a technique; it is a subspecialty of surgery that has completely changed what is possible in the reconstructive field. It involves using a powerful operating microscope and highly specialized instruments to work on structures that are incredibly small, often just a few millimeters in diameter, like tiny blood vessels and nerves.
Why Microsurgery is Crucial for the Face
The human face is a dense and intricate network of vital structures. Nerves that control expression, blood vessels that supply oxygen, and muscles that create smiles are all packed into a very small area. A single misstep during surgery can have permanent consequences, such as paralysis, numbness, or tissue loss. Microsurgery provides the precision needed to navigate this delicate landscape safely.
- Free Flap Surgery: This is one of the most advanced procedures in reconstruction. Imagine a patient who has had a portion of their jaw removed due to cancer. Using microsurgery, Dr. Burak can perform a fibula free flap. He carefully harvests a section of the fibula bone from the patient’s lower leg, along with its artery and vein. This bone segment is then precisely shaped to create a new jaw. The most critical part of the surgery is reconnecting the tiny blood vessels of the flap to an artery and vein in the neck. This re-establishes blood flow, keeping the bone alive so it can heal and integrate. This new jaw is strong enough to support dental implants, allowing the patient to chew and speak normally again.
- Nerve Repair and Grafts: When the facial nerve is severed due to an accident or during tumor removal, it results in facial palsy, or paralysis of one side of the face. Microsurgery makes it possible to repair the damaged nerve. If there is a gap, a nerve graft can be taken from another part of the body and sutured into place to bridge the defect. In other cases, a nerve transfer can be performed, where a nearby healthy nerve is connected to the damaged one to restore the signal for movement, ultimately restoring the ability to smile and make other facial expressions.
Dr. Burak’s extensive experience in Hand Surgery and Microsurgery provides him with a unique advantage in facial reconstruction. The level of dexterity and precision required to reattach a severed finger—connecting tiny arteries, veins, nerves, and tendons—is the very same skill set needed to reconstruct a delicate eyelid, rebuild a complex nose, or reanimate a paralyzed face. This cross-disciplinary expertise ensures better, more reliable outcomes for his patients.
Facial Paralysis: Restoring Movement and Expression
Facial paralysis, whether from Bell’s Palsy, trauma, a tumor, or a congenital condition, is one of the most emotionally challenging conditions a person can face. It affects not just appearance but also fundamental human functions like speaking, eating, and expressing emotion. The inability to smile can create a barrier in social interactions, leading to feelings of isolation and depression.
Dr. Burak is a specialist in Facial Reanimation, a series of procedures designed to restore movement and symmetry to the face. The approach is tailored to each patient’s specific situation, including the cause of the paralysis and how long it has been present.
- Static Procedures: For patients with long-standing paralysis where the facial muscles have atrophied, static slings can be used. These procedures don’t restore movement but lift the sagging tissues of the face to create better symmetry at rest. This can improve drooling, help the eye close, and create a more balanced appearance.
- Dynamic Procedures: The ultimate goal is to restore a natural, spontaneous smile. This is achieved through dynamic reanimation. One of the most effective techniques is the gracilis muscle transfer. In this procedure, the gracilis muscle is taken from the inner thigh and transplanted to the cheek. Its nerve and blood vessels are microsurgically connected to a motor nerve and vessels in the face. Over several months, as the nerve grows into the muscle, the patient learns to control it, eventually allowing them to smile again.
This type of highly specialized surgery is only offered by a select group of surgeons around the world. Dr. Burak’s extensive training and experience allow him to provide this life-altering procedure in Istanbul, adhering to the highest EBOPRAS standards of care, at a cost that is significantly more accessible than in the United States or Western Europe.
The Crossover: Where Reconstruction Meets Aesthetics
Not all reconstructive surgery is the result of trauma or disease. Many patients seek Dr. Burak’s help for procedures that address both functional problems and aesthetic concerns. These surgeries require a surgeon who can think like both an engineer and an artist, correcting the underlying structure while creating a beautiful and natural-looking result.
Revision Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty
A primary nose surgery that has gone wrong can be a devastating experience, often leaving the patient with both breathing difficulties and an undesirable appearance. Revision rhinoplasty is a reconstructive challenge because the original surgery can create scar tissue and compromise the nose’s structural support. Dr. Burak frequently needs to harvest cartilage from the rib or ear to rebuild the nasal framework. His deep knowledge of Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) ensures that these complex revision cases are handled with a focus on restoring both a clear airway and a balanced, aesthetically pleasing nose.
Facial Feminization (FFS) and Masculinization (FMS)
For transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, facial surgery is a critical part of their journey. It is a reconstruction of identity, reshaping the facial skeleton to align a person’s physical appearance with their true self. These are not merely cosmetic procedures; they are medically necessary for mental health and well-being.
- Common Procedures: Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) may include forehead contouring to reduce the brow ridge, jaw and chin reshaping, a tracheal shave to reduce the Adam’s apple, and rhinoplasty. Facial Masculinization Surgery (FMS) might involve jaw and chin augmentation to create a more angular look.
- The Ultimate Goal: The objective is to subtly but effectively alter the facial features that are perceived as gender markers, resulting in a look that is natural, harmonious, and affirming.
Congenital Anomalies
Treating congenital conditions like cleft lip and palate or prominent ears (Otoplasty) requires a long-term vision. These conditions affect not just appearance but also functions like speech and hearing. Dr. Burak has extensive experience in this area, developing comprehensive treatment plans that adapt to the child’s growth, often involving multiple stages of surgery from infancy through adolescence to achieve the best possible final outcome.
Whether you are seeking to correct a past surgery or align your appearance with your identity, Dr. Burak can help. Explore your options for transformative facial surgery.
The “Preservé™” Philosophy and Modern Regenerative Medicine
Modern surgery is shifting away from older, more aggressive techniques and toward approaches that prioritize preserving the body’s natural tissues and promoting regeneration. Dr. Burak is at the forefront of this movement, integrating these advanced concepts into all aspects of his reconstructive work to enhance healing, reduce recovery time, and improve final results.
- Preservé™ Concepts: This philosophy is about respecting the body’s anatomy. Whether performing a Preservé™ Breast Augmentation or a complex facial reconstruction, the goal is to maintain the natural tissue layers and their delicate blood supply. This meticulous approach leads to less swelling, less pain, and a faster, more comfortable recovery for the patient.
- Stem Cell Therapy & PRP: Regenerative medicine harnesses the body’s own healing power. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), derived from a small sample of the patient’s own blood, is rich in growth factors. Dr. Burak uses PRP extensively to accelerate wound healing, improve the quality of skin grafts, and enhance the results of fat grafting.
- Nano-Fat Grafting: This is a cutting-edge technique where fat harvested from the patient is processed to create a highly concentrated fluid rich in stem cells. This nano-fat can be injected into areas of damaged skin, such as burn scars or tissue affected by radiation therapy. The stem cells work to regenerate healthy new tissue from within, improving skin texture, color, and flexibility over time.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin, an esteemed reconstructive surgeon in Istanbul with extensive expertise (10+ years and counting) in breast and burn reconstructive surgeries. With a specialization in Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery and a qualification diploma from EBOPRAS, MD. Burak has worked alongside some of the world’s leading reconstructive microsurgeons, including Dr. Pedro Cavadas. With a commitment to excellence in both clinical practice and academic research, Dr. Burak is dedicated to providing his patients with the highest quality care possible. Book a consultation today and take the first step towards your physical transformation.
What Dr. Burak Specifically Offers in Turkey:
PRP Treatment (Platelet Rich Plasma), Breast Augmentation Surgery, Preservé™ Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift Surgery, Breast Reduction Surgery, Male Breast Reduction Surgery, Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty), Almond Eye Surgery (Canthoplasty), Non-Surgical Aesthetics, Botox, Skin Rejuvenation (Microdermabrasion), Gummy Smile Botox, HIFU: Non-Surgical Facial and Skin Rejuvenation, Phototherapy (IPL) (Light Therapy), Chemical Peeling, Masseter Botox, Mesotherapy, Brow Lift Surgery, Prominent Ear Surgery (Otoplasty), Chin and Face Correction, Facial Feminization (FFS), Eyelid Aesthetics (Blepharoplasty), Lip Lift, Facial Feminization (FFS), Face Lift Surgery, Endoscopic Face Lift, Facial Masculinization (FMS), Face Lift Surgery, Alpha Male Treatment, Mommy Makeover, Liposuction, Vaginoplasty, Labiaplasty, Sex Reassignment Surgery, Jaw Surgery, Congenital Anomalies, Post-Cancer Reconstruction, Abdominal and Torso Reconstruction, Microsurgery, Revision Surgery, Hand Surgery, Bone Disease Treatments, Congenital Anomaly Treatments, Facial Paralysis, Burn Repair Treatments, Leg Lift Surgery, Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery), Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty), Chronic Wound Treatments
Why Choose Istanbul and Dr. Burak for Your Surgery?
Making the decision to travel to another country for surgery, especially for a procedure as significant as facial reconstruction, is a major one. It requires trust, research, and confidence. Here are the key reasons why patients from the UK, USA, and across the world confidently choose Dr. Burak and Istanbul for their care.
1. The Surgeon’s Credentials and Experience
When you choose a surgeon, you are not just booking a procedure in a hospital; you are entrusting your face and your future to an individual’s specific skill set. Dr. Burak’s qualifications place him in the top tier of reconstructive surgeons worldwide.
- EBOPRAS Certified: This is the highest standard of certification in Europe, a rigorous benchmark for quality, safety, and expertise in plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery. It is a guarantee of excellence.
- Advanced Microsurgery Training: His time training with Dr. Pedro Cavadas, a global pioneer in reconstructive microsurgery, provided him with skills that are exceptionally rare. This experience allows him to take on cases that many other surgeons would consider too complex.
- Academic Leadership: As an Associate Professor, Dr. Burak is actively involved in teaching and research. This keeps him at the very edge of medical advancements, ensuring his patients benefit from the most up-to-date techniques and technologies available today.
2. World-Class Hospital Infrastructure
Dr. Burak performs all his surgeries in internationally accredited hospitals. These facilities are on par with the best hospitals in the United States and Europe, featuring:
- JCI Accreditation: Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation is the gold standard for healthcare quality and patient safety worldwide.
- Advanced Medical Technology: Hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art operating rooms, advanced imaging technology like CT and MRI for precise 3D surgical planning, and fully staffed Intensive Care Units (ICU) to ensure safe recovery after major procedures.
- Patient-Centered Care: The medical teams, including nurses and support staff, are experienced in caring for international patients and provide clear, compassionate communication in English.
3. Significant Cost-Effectiveness Without Compromise
The cost of facial reconstruction in Istanbul is considerably lower than in the West. This is not due to a lower standard of care but is a result of favorable currency exchange rates and lower overall operational costs. Patients can receive treatment from a world-class, European-board-certified surgeon in a top-tier hospital for a fraction of what the same procedure would cost in the US or UK. For example, a complex free-flap jaw reconstruction that might cost over $150,000 in the US can be performed by Dr. Burak in Turkey for a much more manageable price, often including hospitalization and other logistical support.
4. A Comprehensive Range of Reconstructive Services
Dr. Burak is a “whole body” reconstructive surgeon. Facial trauma is often part of a larger set of injuries. His ability to treat multiple issues means that patients with complex cases can receive all their care from one trusted surgeon in one location. His areas of expertise include:
- Hand Surgery & Microsurgery
- Advanced Burn Repair Treatments
- Chronic Wound Treatments
- Abdominal and Torso Reconstruction
This comprehensive capability ensures that patients receive holistic, integrated care tailored to their unique needs. Don’t entrust your face to just anyone. Trust a highly qualified microsurgeon with a proven record of excellence. Contact Dr. Burak’s team for a virtual assessment.
The International Patient Journey: Simple and Supportive
Dr. Burak’s team understands the concerns of traveling for medical care and has designed a streamlined process to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for international patients.
- Virtual Consultation: The process begins from the comfort of your home. You will be asked to send your medical history, clear photographs of the area of concern, and any relevant medical imaging like X-rays or CT scans. Dr. Burak will personally review your case to determine if you are a good candidate for surgery and to begin formulating a plan.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on his assessment, you will receive a detailed and transparent surgical plan. This will outline the recommended procedure(s), the expected results, the total cost, and the estimated length of your stay in Istanbul, which typically ranges from 7 to 14 days for more complex reconstructions.
- Seamless Arrival and Preparation: Upon your arrival in Istanbul, a VIP transfer service will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel or directly to the hospital. All necessary pre-operative tests and a final in-person consultation with Dr. Burak will be conducted to ensure everything is ready for your surgery.
- The Surgery: Your procedure will be performed in a JCI-accredited hospital using the latest microsurgical equipment and technology to ensure the highest standards of safety and precision.
- Post-Operative Care and Recovery: After your surgery, you will have regular follow-up appointments with Dr. Burak. He will closely monitor your healing, check the viability of any flaps or grafts, and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected before you are cleared to travel home.
- Long-Term Aftercare Guidance: Before you leave Istanbul, you will be provided with a comprehensive long-term care plan. This includes instructions for wound care, activity restrictions, and protocols for scar management, which may include future non-surgical treatments like Laser therapy or Chemical Peeling to achieve the best possible final appearance.
Conclusion: Rebuilding More Than Just a Face
Facial reconstruction is one of the most intricate and rewarding areas of medicine. It demands a rare combination of skills: the technical precision of a microsurgeon, the structural understanding of an architect, and the aesthetic sensibility of a sculptor. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin embodies this unique blend of expertise.
Whether you need Post-Cancer Reconstruction, the correction of Congenital Anomalies, or advanced treatment for Facial Paralysis, the ultimate goal is always the same: to restore not just your appearance and function, but also your confidence and your future. In a world with many medical tourism options, your choice should be guided by expertise, credentials, and a proven ability to handle complexity.
Take the first step on your journey toward restoration. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin is here to help you reclaim your life. Book Your Consultation Today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between facial cosmetic surgery and facial reconstruction?
The primary difference lies in the goal. Cosmetic surgery is performed to enhance the appearance of normal facial structures, such as a facelift to reduce signs of aging or Botox to smooth wrinkles. Facial reconstruction, on the other hand, is medically necessary surgery to repair abnormal structures. These abnormalities can be caused by birth defects, trauma, infection, tumors, or disease. The main purpose is to restore function and create a normal appearance. Dr. Burak, however, applies refined aesthetic principles to every reconstructive procedure to ensure the final result is as natural and visually pleasing as possible.
Is it safe to travel to Turkey for major reconstructive surgery?
Yes, it is extremely safe, provided you do your research and choose a highly qualified, board-certified surgeon. Turkey is a global leader in medical tourism, known for its high standards of care. Dr. Burak is EBOPRAS qualified, which is the European gold standard, and he operates exclusively in JCI-accredited hospitals. These facilities adhere to the strictest international protocols for safety and quality. For major microsurgical procedures, the hospital’s ICU and post-operative care capabilities are thoroughly vetted to ensure they can manage complex cases safely.
How long does recovery take for facial reconstruction?
Recovery time varies significantly depending on the complexity of the procedure. For simpler procedures like soft tissue repair or scar revision, initial recovery is typically around 1 to 2 weeks. For bone reconstruction of the jaw or eye socket, the bones themselves will take about 6 to 8 weeks to heal fully. For facial paralysis reanimation using a muscle transfer, it can take 3 to 6 months to see the first signs of movement as the nerve slowly regenerates and connects with the new muscle. Dr. Burak will provide you with a detailed and personalized recovery timeline during your consultation.
Does Dr. Burak use 3D imaging for reconstruction?
Absolutely. For any surgery involving bone reconstruction, such as repairing facial fractures, jaw reconstruction, or correcting complex congenital anomalies, Dr. Burak uses 3D CT scans. This advanced imaging allows him to create a virtual model of the patient’s skull. He can then use 3D printing technology to create custom surgical guides or even practice the surgery beforehand. This meticulous planning ensures incredible precision, leading to better symmetry, a more accurate fit of implants or bone grafts, and superior outcomes.
Can scar visibility be eliminated after reconstruction?
While no surgery can be performed without creating a scar, a skilled reconstructive surgeon’s goal is to make it as invisible as possible. Dr. Burak uses meticulous microsurgical closure techniques and strategically places incisions within natural skin creases and lines to hide them. After the initial healing, he offers a range of non-surgical scar treatments, such as CO2 Laser resurfacing, Microdermabrasion, and Chemical Peeling, to further refine the scar’s texture and color, helping it blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin.
Does Dr. Burak perform Gender Affirmation Surgery?
Yes. Dr. Burak is highly experienced in performing a full spectrum of Gender Affirmation Surgeries. This includes both Facial Feminization (FFS) and Facial Masculinization (FMS), as well as top surgery (Breast Augmentation or Mastectomy) and bottom surgery (Sex Reassignment Surgery). He approaches these procedures with the same reconstructive precision and artistic eye, understanding that the goal is to create natural, harmonious results that affirm the patient’s identity.
What if I need a revision of a previous surgery done elsewhere?
Revision Surgery is a core part of Dr. Burak’s practice and one of his specialties. These cases are often more complex than primary surgeries due to the presence of scar tissue, altered anatomy, and a compromised blood supply. Dr. Burak is an expert at navigating these challenges. He will carefully assess the issues from the previous surgery and develop a detailed plan to restore both function and aesthetics, which may involve using advanced techniques like cartilage grafts from the rib or free tissue transfer to rebuild the area correctly.
