A facelift in the US would have cost me $45,000. I went to Turkey instead.

Heather Emerson, a 42-year-old businesswoman from Austin, decided to undergo a facelift surgery in Turkey rather than in the United States due to the significant cost difference. At the age of 41, she felt that her features appeared heavy and decided to take action towards improving her appearance. In January 2025, she and her husband planned their annual goals and discussed the possibility of surgery during the slower business period.

Initially, Heather had booked the surgery in the US for $15,000 but had to cancel due to COVID-19 and subsequent price tripling to $45,000. She then chose to have the procedure in Turkey, specifically in Istanbul, where she found a reputable doctor, Dr. Soner Karaali. The surgery included a deep-plane facelift, neck lift, upper and lower blepharoplasty, micro fat transfer, and a lip lift, totaling around $15,000.

The procedure lasted seven hours, and despite the intense pain, Heather felt secure in her choice, attributing it to the extensive research she had conducted. After the surgery, she experienced pain and was treated with Tramadol and later morphine. She spent two nights in the hospital before returning home after ten days. Healing took several weeks, and it wasn't until the swelling and bruising had dissipated that she could truly appreciate the results.

Eight months post-operation, Heather is content with her decision and believes that aging gracefully is an individual journey that should be embraced without judgment.