This guide outlines the process for out-of-town and overseas patients, from your initial enquiry to post-operative care at home.
Why Travel to Sydney for Surgery with Dr Scott Turner?
Dr Scott Turner is a qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with a Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS Plast) – the highest accreditation for plastic surgeons in Australia. He has over a decade of experience focused exclusively on cosmetic surgery, with particular expertise in procedures of the face, breast, and nose.
Patients choose to travel to Sydney to access Dr Turner’s:
- Specialist training and FRACS accreditation
- Experience in aesthetic procedures of the face, nose, and breast
- Individualised consultations and surgical planning
- Modern clinics in Double Bay and Manly
- Surgical care at fully accredited private hospitals
Step-by-Step for Out of Town Patients
Step 1: Enquire with Our Team
- Let us know you’re an interstate or international patient when you first contact us. You can:
- Call us on 1300 437 758
- Email [email protected]
- Fill out Contact Form
Step 2: Submit Photos & Medical History
Our team will guide you in submitting clear photographs (front, side, and angled views) of the area you’d like treated, along with medical history. This allows Dr Turner to provide a preliminary assessment before your consultation.
Step 3: Initial Virtual Consultation
Your first consultation will usually be conducted via a secure video call. During this telehealth appointment, Dr Turner will:
- Discuss your concerns and goals
- Review your photos
- Provide an initial assessment and treatment plan
- Outline expected results and recovery
Please note: A virtual consultation is a valuable first step but does not replace a mandatory in-person consultation before surgery.
Step 4: In-Person Consultation in Sydney
A physical examination is required prior to any surgical procedure. Due to AHPRA guidelines, it is mandated that a formal in-person consultation is undertaken prior to any cosmetic surgery booking.
Step 5: Confirm Your Surgery Date
After your in-person consultation, you’ll receive:
- A detailed surgical quote (covering surgeon, anaesthetist, and hospital fees)
- Instructions for pre-operative care
- A 7 day cooling-off period as required by medical guidelines
- A deposit is required to secure your surgery date.
Step 6: Plan Your Travel & Accommodation
Coordinate flights and accommodation once your surgery date is confirmed. We recommend arriving in Sydney 1–2 days before surgery and arranging a suitable place to stay for your recovery.
Patients must remain in Sydney for a set period after surgery (outlined below). You’ll also need to organise a support person to assist you during recovery.
Step 7: Pre-Op Medical Tests
Some procedures may require blood tests or medical clearance, which can be arranged with your local GP or in Sydney. Our team will provide guidance on what’s needed.
Your Stay in Sydney: Surgery & Recovery
Surgery Day
Dr Turner operates at fully accredited private hospitals in Sydney, including:
- Delmar Private Hospital (Dee Why)
- Bondi Junction Private Hospital (Bondi Junction)
- Double Bay Day Hospital (Double Bay)
- East Sydney Private Hospital (Woolloomooloo)
Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia with a specialist anaesthetist. You may go home the same day or stay overnight depending on your procedure.
Immediate Recovery
After discharge, your support person must accompany you and assist in the initial recovery period. You’ll receive post-op care instructions and have access to our clinic team for any questions.
Minimum Stay in Sydney
For your safety and to ensure proper healing, most procedures require you to remain in Sydney for approximately 7 to 10 days following surgery. This allows Dr Turner to monitor your recovery and conduct necessary post-operative follow-up appointments.
The exact duration of your stay will depend on the type of procedure and your individual healing progress. Dr Turner will discuss your recommended timeline in detail during your consultation.
Exact timing will be confirmed by Dr Turner based on your procedure and recovery progress.
Recovery Accommodation Options
We recommend staying close to Dr Turner’s Double Bay or Manly clinic locations. Consider the following:
Double Bay / Eastern Suburbs:
- InterContinental Double Bay (Hotel)
- The Savoy Double Bay (Hotel)
- Urban Rest Apartments (Serviced Apt)
Manly / Dee Why:
- Manly Pacific (Hotel)
- The Sebel Manly Beach (Serviced Apt)
- Quest Manly (Serviced Apt)
- Mercure Sydney Manly Warringah (Hotel)
Look for accommodation that is quiet, accessible, and includes helpful amenities like lifts, kitchenettes, and room service.
Returning Home & Long-Term Care
Final Sydney Review
Before travelling home, you’ll have a final in-person review with Dr Turner to:
- Assess your healing
- Remove drains or sutures if required
- Provide travel clearance
A “fit to fly” letter can be issued if needed by your airline.
Travel Tips After Surgery
- Stay well-hydrated during flights
- Walk periodically to prevent blood clots
- Wear any prescribed compression garments
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity
Ongoing Care After You Return Home
Dr Turner offers ongoing post-operative care via telehealth. This includes regular check-ins at:
- 6 weeks post-op
- 3 months
- 6 months
- 1 year
You will also receive detailed instructions on incision care, managing discomfort, and safely resuming normal activities. Our team is available for general questions and support during your recovery.
It’s important to note that telehealth is suitable for standard follow-up but may not be sufficient in cases where a clinical concern arises. If you experience any issues with wound healing, complications, or concerns about your surgical outcome, you are responsible for returning to Sydney for an in-person consultation with Dr Turner. An in-person review ensures that your concerns can be thoroughly assessed and managed appropriately.
For urgent medical concerns, please contact your local GP or emergency service first, and then notify our clinic as soon as possible.
