Making the choice to have facial surgery is deeply personal. It’s not just about looking younger; it’s about feeling like yourself again. In a world full of quick-fix solutions and one-size-fits-all packages, those who truly value their appearance seek something more. They look for exceptional skill, artistry, and a profound understanding of human anatomy. This search often leads them to a specialist with a unique background: the reconstructive microsurgeon. When you place your trust in a surgeon for a facial procedure, you are entrusting them with the very essence of your identity. Your face is how you communicate, express joy, and connect with the world. Therefore, the decision of who performs your surgery is one of the most important you will ever make.
This guide is designed to provide clarity in your search. We will explore why Istanbul has rightfully earned its reputation as a global hub for advanced facial rejuvenation. More importantly, we will show why Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin, with his specialized training in complex reconstruction and prestigious European board certification, is considered the premier choice for patients seeking outstanding facelift results in 2026 and beyond. His approach combines surgical precision with an artist’s eye, ensuring results that are both beautiful and incredibly natural.
The Top Facelift Doctor in Istanbul: A Masterclass in Facial Rejuvenation (2026 Guide)
In the competitive field of plastic surgery, the term “best” can be subjective and often diluted by marketing hype. However, when a patient is searching for the top facelift doctor in Istanbul, the criteria must be clear, objective, and uncompromising. The goal is no longer just to tighten loose skin. The modern standard of excellence, which will define the trends of 2025 and 2026, requires a deep, anatomical knowledge of the face. This includes the intricate network of nerves, the underlying muscle structure, and the ligaments that hold everything in place.
This is precisely where the crucial difference between a general cosmetic surgeon and a reconstructive microsurgeon becomes clear. A reconstructive microsurgeon is trained to work on the most delicate and complex structures of the human body, a skill set that translates directly into superior aesthetic outcomes. They understand the face not just as a canvas, but as a functional, expressive part of who you are. This expertise is fundamental to achieving results that look refreshed and natural, not operated on.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin stands at the forefront of this advanced discipline. His career, spanning more than a decade, is marked by a commitment to the highest international standards. He holds a diploma from the prestigious European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (EBOPRAS) and completed a fellowship with the world-renowned Dr. Pedro Cavadas. This background provides Dr. Burak with a level of precision that few surgeons can offer. Whether performing the sophisticated Deep Plane Facelift, the minimally invasive Endoscopic Face Lift, or the transformative Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS), his philosophy is always the same: preserve function, protect identity, and enhance natural beauty. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to achieve the best possible result for your facial rejuvenation in Turkey.
Defining “Top Tier”: Why Credentials Matter More Than Ever
Before exploring specific surgical techniques, it is essential to understand what makes a surgeon “top tier” in a global destination like Istanbul. By 2026, patients are more informed and discerning than ever. They understand that a polished social media presence is no substitute for verifiable medical credentials and years of specialized training. The true markers of excellence are found in a surgeon’s qualifications, experience, and peer recognition.
The EBOPRAS Standard of Excellence
Dr. Burak holds the EBOPRAS qualification, which is one of the most respected and difficult-to-obtain board certifications in the world. Achieving this certification means a surgeon has not only successfully completed their national training but has also passed a series of rigorous European examinations. These tests evaluate a surgeon’s clinical judgment, knowledge of the latest techniques, commitment to safety protocols, and adherence to the highest ethical standards. For international patients, particularly from the UK, Europe, or North America, the EBOPRAS certification is a definitive seal of quality and trust. It assures you that your surgeon’s skills are recognized as being on par with the very best in the world.
The Microsurgery Advantage in Aesthetics
You might wonder why a background in microsurgery is so important for a facelift patient. Microsurgery is the practice of operating on extremely small and delicate structures, such as blood vessels and nerves, using a high-powered microscope. Dr. Burak’s fellowship with Dr. Pedro Cavadas, a legend in the field of reconstructive microsurgery, gave him an unmatched command of facial anatomy. This specialized skill set provides several key benefits for aesthetic patients.
First and foremost is patient safety. A microsurgeon has an intricate, three-dimensional mental map of the facial nerves. This knowledge dramatically reduces the risk of nerve damage during a facelift, which is one of the most serious potential complications. Protecting these nerves is essential for preserving your ability to smile, blink, and show emotion naturally. Second is unmatched precision. The ability to place sutures in blood vessels less than a millimeter wide translates into incredibly fine and meticulous incision closures. This leads to scarring that is virtually invisible once healed. Finally, a reconstructive background is invaluable for complex revision cases. If you have had previous surgery that resulted in scar tissue or an unsatisfactory outcome, a reconstructive expert like Dr. Burak has the advanced toolkit and experience needed to correct issues that other surgeons may not be equipped to handle.
“A facelift is not just pulling skin. It is the delicate repositioning of the soul of the face. My background in microsurgery ensures that we protect the nerves that allow you to smile, blink, and express emotion, while we restore the youthful contours of the deep tissue.” — Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin
The Science of Aging: What We Are Actually Treating
To truly appreciate why Dr. Burak’s techniques are so effective, it’s helpful to understand the aging process itself. Facial aging is a complex, multi-layered process that involves more than just the skin. A top-tier surgeon addresses all these layers to create a result that is harmonious and long-lasting.
As we age, several key changes occur in the facial structure:
Bone Resorption: Over time, the facial skeleton, including the skull, gradually loses volume. This is most noticeable around the eye sockets and along the jawline. As the underlying bony framework shrinks, the soft tissues that it supports lose their anchor, causing them to sag.
Fat Compartment Descent: The youthful face has distinct pockets of fat, such as the malar fat pads in the cheeks, that provide volume and contour. With age and gravity, these fat pads begin to shrink and slide downwards. This descent is what creates deep nasolabial folds (the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth) and jowls along the jawline.
SMAS Laxity: The Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System, or SMAS, is a fibrous network that lies beneath the skin and fat, connecting the facial muscles to the skin. This layer provides structural support to the face. As we age, the SMAS loses its elasticity and begins to stretch and sag, much like a worn-out elastic band. This is a primary cause of visible aging in the lower face and neck.
Skin Quality Decline: The most visible layer, the skin, also changes. The production of collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm and supple, slows down dramatically. This leads to the skin becoming thinner, drier, and less resilient, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles, and a loss of radiance.
An outdated or superficial facelift only addresses the skin (number 4). In contrast, a modern, advanced approach, as practiced by Dr. Burak, addresses the descent of fat, the laxity of the SMAS, and the loss of structural support. This multi-layered treatment is the secret to achieving a truly rejuvenated and natural look.
The Deep Plane Facelift: The Gold Standard in 2026
If your research has led you to find the top facelift doctor in Istanbul, you have undoubtedly come across the term Deep Plane Facelift. This advanced technique is widely regarded as the gold standard in facial rejuvenation, having moved the field far beyond the unnatural, “wind-tunnel” results of the past. It delivers results that are not only transformative but also remarkably natural and long-lasting.
How a Deep Plane Facelift Works
Unlike traditional facelifts that work by separating the skin from the underlying muscle and pulling it tight, the Deep Plane technique is far more sophisticated. Dr. Burak works beneath the SMAS muscle layer, lifting the skin and the muscle together as a single, composite unit. This method has several distinct advantages.
The first step involves the release of retaining ligaments. These are small fibrous bands that tether the SMAS and skin to the deeper facial structures. By carefully releasing these ligaments in the cheek and jawline area, Dr. Burak is able to mobilize the sagging tissues without placing any tension on the skin itself. This is the key to avoiding a “pulled” or “tight” look. Once released, the tissues are repositioned in a vertical vector. This means they are lifted straight up, directly counteracting the downward pull of gravity. This restores the cheek volume and jawline definition in a way that looks completely natural. Finally, this technique achieves natural volume restoration. By lifting the malar fat pad back to its original, higher position on the cheekbone, the face regains its youthful, heart-shaped contour without the need for fillers or implants.
Why Choose a Deep Plane Facelift?
Patients and surgeons alike favor the Deep Plane technique for several compelling reasons. It offers superior longevity, with results that typically last for 10 to 15 years, significantly longer than more superficial facelift methods. It is also the most effective procedure for creating a sharp, natural neckline, as it directly addresses the sagging muscles and jowls that obscure the jawline. Perhaps most importantly, it ensures there is no “operated” look. Because all the tension is placed on the deep SMAS layer, the skin drapes smoothly and naturally over the newly sculpted contours. This also means the incisions heal beautifully without being pulled, preventing distorted earlobes (a tell-tale sign of older facelift techniques known as “pixie ears”).
The Endoscopic Face Lift: The Scarless Revolution
For patients who are not yet ready for a full Deep Plane Facelift, or whose primary concerns are in the upper and mid-face, Dr. Burak offers the Endoscopic Face Lift. This minimally invasive technique is a powerful tool for rejuvenation and requires a high degree of technical skill. It is particularly popular among younger patients, typically in their 30s to early 50s, who are beginning to see the first signs of aging.
The Technique Explained
The procedure is performed using an endoscope, which is a tiny surgical camera connected to a long, thin tube. Dr. Burak makes a few very small incisions, each less than an inch long, completely hidden within the hairline. The endoscope is inserted through one of these incisions, allowing him to view the deep structures of the face on a high-definition monitor. This magnified view provides unparalleled clarity and precision.
This technique is ideal for a mid-face lift, as it allows the surgeon to elevate the sagging cheek pads and soften the tired look that can appear under the eyes. It is often combined with an endoscopic brow lift to open up the eyes and create a more refreshed and alert appearance. The most significant advantage for many patients is that it leaves zero visible scars on the face. Since all incisions are concealed within the hair, there are no tell-tale signs of surgery. The result is often described as a “ponytail lift” effect, a highly desirable look for professionals, models, and anyone who values discretion and minimal downtime.
Total Face Rejuvenation: Beyond the Lift
The best facelift surgeons understand that simply lifting sagging tissue is only one part of a comprehensive rejuvenation strategy. To truly restore a youthful and vibrant appearance, it’s often necessary to address skin quality and lost volume as well. Dr. Burak excels at creating customized Total Face Rejuvenation plans that combine a facelift with other synergistic procedures for a harmonious and complete result.
1. High-Definition Liposuction & Fat Grafting
One of the most powerful complementary procedures is facial fat grafting. Using the patient’s own fat, which is gently harvested via liposuction from an area like the abdomen or thighs, Dr. Burak can strategically restore lost volume. This “liquid gold” is carefully processed and then injected into areas like the temples, under-eyes, cheeks, and lips. This not only restores youthful contours but also improves skin quality, as the transferred fat is rich in stem cells that help rejuvenate the surrounding tissue.
2. Eyelid Aesthetics (Blepharoplasty)
The eyes are often the first area to show signs of aging. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, can have a dramatic impact on your overall appearance. Upper blepharoplasty removes excess, hooded skin from the upper eyelids, making you look more awake and less tired or angry. Lower blepharoplasty is used to remove or reposition the fat pads that cause under-eye bags, creating a smooth transition from the eyelid to the cheek. For patients seeking a more exotic, lifted eye shape, Dr. Burak also specializes in Almond Eye Surgery (Canthoplasty), a delicate procedure that requires immense precision.
3. Neck Lift & Liposuction
A youthful face is framed by a sharp, well-defined jawline and a smooth neck. A facelift is almost always performed in conjunction with a neck lift to ensure a balanced result. Dr. Burak performs a platysmaplasty to tighten the underlying platysma muscles, which eliminates the vertical bands or “turkey neck” that can appear with age. Liposuction may also be used to remove any excess fat under the chin, further sculpting a crisp and youthful angle between the jaw and neck.
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.
The “Alpha Male” Treatment: Facelifts for Men
One of the most significant trends for 2026 is the continued growth of male plastic surgery. Men experience aging differently than women. They typically have thicker skin, different patterns of fat loss, and often have receding hairlines that can make hiding incisions more challenging. Most importantly, men want to look refreshed and powerful, not feminized. Applying a standard “female” facelift technique to a male face can result in a soft, unnatural look that undermines masculine features.
Dr. Burak has developed the Alpha Male Treatment, a specific protocol tailored to the unique anatomy and aesthetic goals of men. This approach focuses on enhancing masculine features, not erasing them. A key element is jawline definition. The goal is to create a strong, chiseled jaw and a defined chin, rather than the soft, heart-shaped face that is often desired in women. The vector of the lift is adjusted to enhance the angle of the jaw and the masseter area. The neck is another critical area. A clean, defined neck is often seen as a sign of vitality and is a priority in male rejuvenation. Deep neck contouring is often the cornerstone of the procedure. Finally, scar placement for men is paramount. Since men typically have shorter hair and don’t wear makeup, incisions must be perfectly placed. Dr. Burak’s microsurgical skill allows him to hide incisions flawlessly within the natural creases around the ear (tragus) and along the beard line. A conservative male blepharoplasty can also make a man look rested and more energetic, without creating a wide-eyed or “surprised” appearance.
Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS): The Art of Softening
Istanbul has become a leading international destination for gender-affirming care, and Dr. Burak is a respected expert in the field of Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS). This highly specialized set of procedures is about much more than anti-aging; it is about aligning a person’s external appearance with their internal gender identity. FFS requires not only surgical skill but also a deep artistic understanding of the subtle structural differences that define male and female faces.
Dr. Burak’s background in reconstructive surgery, which involves reshaping bone and soft tissue, makes him uniquely qualified to perform these complex procedures safely and effectively. A comprehensive FFS plan may include several components:
Forehead Contouring: This involves carefully shaving down the prominent brow ridge (supraorbital bossing) that is characteristic of male skulls to create a smoother, more rounded, and feminine forehead curve.
Hairline Lowering: A surgical procedure to advance the scalp, reducing the height of the forehead and creating a more typically feminine hairline.
Feminizing Rhinoplasty: Reshaping the nose to be smaller and more refined, often with a slightly sloped or curved bridge and a more delicate, upturned tip.
Jaw and Chin Contouring: This procedure, also known as a V-line surgery, tapers the wider, more square male jaw into a softer, more pointed, and feminine V-shape.
Tracheal Shave: A procedure to reduce the size of the thyroid cartilage, minimizing the appearance of the Adam’s apple.
Dr. Burak’s holistic approach ensures that the final result is not just a collection of individual changes, but a harmonious, balanced, and authentically feminine face that reflects the patient’s true self.
The Istanbul Experience: Medical Tourism Redefined
Choosing the top facelift doctor in Istanbul means you are also choosing a world-class medical journey. Istanbul has evolved far beyond being a “budget” destination. It is now a global center for luxury healthcare, attracting discerning patients from all over the world who demand the highest standards of quality, safety, and service.
Medical Park Pendik: A Center of Excellence
Dr. Burak performs his surgeries at VM Medical Park Pendik, a premier hospital that holds a JCI-accreditation. This is the highest international benchmark for hospital quality and patient safety, meaning the facility meets or exceeds the standards of the best hospitals in London, New York, or Zurich. Patients can expect state-of-the-art operating theaters equipped with the latest anesthesia monitoring systems and advanced microsurgical microscopes. The hospital also has comprehensive intensive care units (ICUs) and support systems, ensuring that patient safety is the top priority at all times. From the moment you arrive, you will experience a VIP patient service. This includes private airport transfers, assistance with booking 5-star accommodations, and a dedicated team of multilingual patient coordinators who will guide you through every step of your journey, allowing you to focus completely on your recovery.
The Consultation Process
Your journey with Dr. Burak begins long before you board a plane. The process is designed to be thorough, transparent, and personalized.
Virtual Assessment: The first step is a remote consultation. You will send clear photos of your face and neck, or have a video call with Dr. Burak’s team, to discuss your concerns and aesthetic goals.
Personalized Surgical Plan: Based on this initial assessment, you will receive a detailed and customized surgical plan. This is not a generic price quote but a thoughtful recommendation of the procedures that will best achieve your desired outcome.
Pre-Operative Analysis: Once you arrive in Istanbul, you will have an in-person consultation with Dr. Burak. He will perform a comprehensive physical examination, carefully assessing your skin elasticity, muscle tone, and bone structure to finalize the surgical markings and confirm the plan.
Safety, Recovery, and Aftercare
It is completely natural to feel some anxiety before any surgery. Dr. Burak and his team place a strong emphasis on patient education and support to ensure you feel comfortable, confident, and well-informed throughout your entire experience.
Anesthesia and Safety Protocols
Facelifts and other major facial surgeries are performed under general anesthesia for your comfort and safety. Dr. Burak works exclusively with a dedicated team of board-certified anesthesiologists who specialize in aesthetic surgery. They use the most modern techniques and monitoring equipment to ensure your safety during the procedure and to help you wake up feeling comfortable and with minimal nausea.
The Recovery Timeline
Understanding the recovery process can help you plan your trip and manage your expectations. While every patient heals differently, a typical timeline is as follows:
Day 1: You will spend the first night in the hospital under the care of the nursing staff for monitoring. You will have bandages on to help minimize swelling and bruising.
Day 3: Any surgical drains (if used) are typically removed at this point. You will be discharged from the hospital and can return to your hotel to rest and recover. Swelling is usually at its peak around this time.
Day 7: The first set of stitches, usually around the eyes and in front of the ears, will be removed. You will likely feel well enough to take short, gentle walks and enjoy some of Istanbul’s beautiful cafes.
Day 10-14: All remaining stitches are removed. By this stage, most patients are “restaurant ready,” meaning they feel comfortable going out in public, perhaps with a little concealer for any residual bruising.
Month 1-3: The majority of the swelling will subside during this period, and you will begin to see the final, refined contours of your result. The face will continue to settle and improve for up to a year.
Advanced Healing and Revision Expertise
Because of his extensive background in Chronic Wound Treatments and Revision Surgery, Dr. Burak is exceptionally well-prepared to manage any potential healing complications. He can utilize advanced therapies like PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) to accelerate healing and improve scar quality—services that are rarely offered in standard cosmetic clinics.
Cost vs. Value: The Investment in You
While the cost of surgery should never be the most important factor in your decision, the economic advantages of having a procedure in Istanbul are significant. However, it is crucial to frame this as a matter of value, not price.
A Deep Plane Facelift with a surgeon of Dr. Burak’s caliber in London or New York could easily cost between £20,000 and $50,000 USD. In Istanbul, you can receive the same, or often superior, level of surgical expertise in a JCI-accredited hospital for approximately 60-70% less. This is not “cheap” surgery; it is high-value surgery. The cost difference is due to the favorable exchange rate and lower operational costs in Turkey, not a compromise on skill, quality, or safety. You are making a wise investment in world-class surgical hands, not paying for expensive city-center rent.
What Dr. Burak Specifically Offers in Turkey:
Face: Face Lift Surgery, Endoscopic Face Lift, Deep Plane Facelift, Neck Lift, Brow Lift Surgery, Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty), Eyelid Aesthetics (Blepharoplasty), Almond Eye Surgery (Canthoplasty), Facial Feminization (FFS), Facial Masculinization (FMS), Jaw Surgery, Chin and Face Correction, Lip Lift, Gummy Smile Botox, Masseter Botox.
Breast: Breast Augmentation Surgery, Preservé™ Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift Surgery, Breast Reduction Surgery, Male Breast Reduction Surgery, Post-Cancer Reconstruction.
Body: Mommy Makeover, Liposuction, Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery), Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), Arm Lift Surgery (Brachioplasty), Leg Lift Surgery.
Reconstructive: Burn Repair Treatments, Microsurgery, Hand Surgery, Congenital Anomaly Treatments, Facial Paralysis, Chronic Wound Treatments, Revision Surgery.
Non-Surgical: PRP Treatment (Platelet Rich Plasma), HIFU: Non-Surgical Facial and Skin Rejuvenation, Mesotherapy, Chemical Peeling, Botox, Phototherapy (IPL).
Conclusion: Your Face, Your Future
Finding the top facelift doctor in Istanbul is about more than just finding a surgeon; it is about finding a trusted partner who respects your unique anatomy, understands your aesthetic goals, and has the skill to deliver a world-class result. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin offers a rare and powerful combination of rigorous academic training, advanced microsurgical precision, and a refined artistic sensibility.
Whether you are looking to gracefully turn back the clock with a Deep Plane Facelift, enhance your masculine features with an Alpha Male procedure, or align your physical appearance with your true identity through FFS, Dr. Burak provides a safe, supportive, and expert path to achieving your goals. Your face is your most precious asset. Do not settle for anything less than the exceptional skill and artistry of a reconstructive microsurgeon.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin is 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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is the best candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift in Istanbul?
The ideal candidate for a Deep Plane Facelift is typically someone between the ages of 45 and 70 who is experiencing moderate to severe sagging in the mid-face, pronounced jowls, and laxity in the neck. This technique is particularly effective for patients with heavy nasolabial folds. Candidates should be in good general health, non-smokers (or be willing to stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and after surgery), and have realistic expectations. Dr. Burak conducts a thorough individual assessment to determine if a Deep Plane or a different approach, like an Endoscopic lift, is best suited for your unique anatomy and goals.
How long does the recovery take for a facelift in Turkey?
Most international patients should plan to stay in Istanbul for 7 to 10 days after their surgery. This allows for essential post-operative check-ups and the removal of stitches. Social downtime, meaning the period before you feel comfortable being seen in public without noticeable signs of surgery, is typically around 2 to 3 weeks. While you will look refreshed and presentable within a month, the full healing process, including the complete resolution of all swelling and the maturation of scars, can take between 6 to 12 months. Dr. Burak’s use of advanced microsurgical closure techniques helps to minimize scarring and speed up this process.
Is it safe to have a facelift in Turkey?
Yes, it is extremely safe, provided you do your research and choose a highly qualified, board-certified surgeon like Dr. Burak Sercan Erçin (who is EBOPRAS certified) and a JCI-accredited hospital. Turkey is a global leader in medical tourism and its top facilities adhere to strict, EU-aligned medical regulations and safety standards. Dr. Burak’s specialized background in microsurgery and trauma reconstruction provides an additional layer of safety, as he possesses an expert understanding of the complex vascular and nervous systems of the face.
Can I combine a facelift with other procedures?
Absolutely. Combining procedures is very common and efficient. A facelift is frequently performed with a Neck Lift, Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and/or Fat Grafting to achieve a comprehensive “Total Face Rejuvenation.” Depending on the patient’s overall health and the total projected operating time, Dr. Burak can also perform body contouring procedures, such as a breast augmentation or tummy tuck, during the same surgical session.
What is the difference between a Facelift and Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS)?
The primary difference lies in their fundamental goals. A Facelift is a procedure designed to address the signs of aging, such as sagging skin, muscle laxity, and wrinkles. Its purpose is to restore a more youthful appearance. In contrast, Facial Feminization Surgery (FFS) is designed to alter the underlying facial structure—specifically the bone and cartilage—to create a more feminine appearance. FFS includes procedures like forehead contouring, jaw reshaping, and feminizing rhinoplasty. Dr. Burak is an expert in both and often combines lifting techniques with FFS for transgender women who also wish to address signs of aging, achieving a result that is both youthful and feminine.
