Shoulder Arthroscopy
Keyhole surgery inside the shoulder using a small camera.
At New City Clinic, Shoulder Arthroscopy is performed in Istanbul by specialist physicians at partner hospitals licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health.

Shoulder Arthroscopy in Istanbul: overview
Shoulder arthroscopy is keyhole (minimally invasive) surgery carried out with a thin camera and fine instruments inserted into the shoulder joint through a few small incisions. Rotator cuff tear repair, repair of the labrum for recurrent dislocation, treatment of impingement and release of a frozen shoulder can be done this way. The incisions are smaller than in open surgery, but recovery time depends on the repair performed and on physiotherapy. The orthopaedic surgeon sets the diagnosis and plan after examining you and reviewing your MRI.
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
|---|---|
| Procedure time | 1–2 hours |
| Hospital stay | 1 night |
| Stay in Türkiye | 5–7 days |
| Back to work | 10 days |
| Back to sport | 16 weeks |
| Final result | 6 months |
| Scar | A few incisions of under 1 cm around the shoulder |
Who is it for?
Shoulder arthroscopy suits people with shoulder pain, weakness or instability that has not improved with rest, physiotherapy and injections, such as a rotator cuff tear, recurrent dislocation, impingement or a frozen shoulder. The diagnosis is confirmed with an examination and MRI before surgery is planned.
Your orthopaedic surgeon
Op. Dr. Gökhan Tolga AkbulutOrthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon · Orthopaedics, Hand Surgery and MicrosurgeryView CV What can be treated arthroscopically
Common keyhole procedures for the shoulder include:
- Rotator cuff repair: the torn tendon is reattached to the bone with small anchors
- Bankart repair: the labrum is repaired after recurrent dislocation
- Subacromial decompression for impingement
- Release of a stiff, frozen shoulder
- Treatment of biceps tendon and SLAP lesions
Sling, physiotherapy and protecting the repair
After a repair, the arm usually rests in a sling for a few weeks to protect the healing tendon or labrum. Gentle movement exercises start early, followed by strengthening. Recovery after a repair takes longer than after a simple decompression, so your surgeon gives you a personal exercise plan.
Recovery and flying home from the UK or Ireland
Plan about 5 to 7 days in Istanbul for a wound check before you fly. Most people return to desk work within about two weeks; driving, lifting and overhead sport come back gradually over several months, depending on the procedure.
Your journey in Türkiye, step by step
- 01
Free preliminary assessment: a physician reviews your photos and medical history and you receive a written plan and quote.
- 02
Day 1 – arrival in Istanbul: you are met at the airport and taken to your hotel.
- 03
Examination day: physician's examination, blood tests and anaesthesia assessment; the plan is finalised.
- 04
Procedure day: the procedure takes about 1–2 hours under general anaesthesia. Hospital stay: 1 night.
- 05
Check-up: dressing change and follow-up examination after discharge.
- 06
Return: total stay in Türkiye is 5–7 days; your physician clears you to fly. Follow-up continues remotely.
New City Clinic health tourism services
- Airport welcome and hospital–hotel transfers
- Accommodation at partner hotels close to the hospital
- Support in English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Turkish
- Scheduling of examination, tests and surgery
- Post-operative check-ups and remote follow-up once you are home
- Dedicated complication insurance for operations
Recovery
Hospital stay: 1 night. Desk work is usually possible within 10 days and sport after 16 weeks; the final result appears in about 6 months.
What you should know
- Temporary swelling, bruising and tenderness
- Risk of infection and bleeding, as with any surgical procedure
- Results vary with individual anatomy and healing
Every medical procedure carries risk. Your physician will explain the risks specific to you during your examination.
Frequently asked questions
What is shoulder arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is keyhole (minimally invasive) surgery carried out with a thin camera and fine instruments inserted into the shoulder joint through a few small incisions. Rotator cuff tear repair, repair of the labrum for recurrent dislocation, treatment of impingement and release of a frozen shoulder can be done this way. The incisions are smaller than in open surgery, but recovery time depends on the repair performed and on physiotherapy. The orthopaedic surgeon sets the diagnosis and plan after examining you and reviewing your MRI.
How much does Shoulder Arthroscopy cost in Turkey?
The cost depends on the scope of the procedure, the technique, the hospital and your accommodation choice. After a physician's assessment, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote; getting a quote is free.
What does an all-inclusive Shoulder Arthroscopy package include?
Your quote lists the hospital and physician fees, required tests, check-ups, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and, on request, hotel accommodation as separate items. Flights are not included; we can help organise them if you wish.
How long does Shoulder Arthroscopy take?
The procedure takes about 1–2 hours. Anaesthesia: general anaesthesia.
How long do I stay in hospital and in Turkey?
Hospital stay: 1 night. The total stay in Türkiye is usually planned at 5–7 days; your physician confirms the exact length at your check-up.
Is Shoulder Arthroscopy in Turkey safe? What are the risks?
Every medical procedure carries risk: infection, bleeding, anaesthesia-related problems and healing that differs from what was expected are the main ones. To reduce risk, the procedure is performed by a specialist at a licensed hospital after pre-operative tests. Your physician explains the risks specific to you at your examination.
When can I go back to work and exercise?
Desk work is usually possible within 10 days and sport after 16 weeks. These times vary from person to person.
Will there be scars?
A few incisions of under 1 cm around the shoulder. Scars are noticeable in the first months and fade with time; how they heal depends on your skin.
When will I see the result?
The first change is visible as swelling settles; the final result appears in about 6 months. Results vary from person to person and cannot be guaranteed.
Can I see before and after photos?
Out of respect for patient privacy and under healthcare regulations, patient photos are shared only with the patient's consent. In your consultation the physician explains what is realistic in your case.
How do I choose the best clinic for Shoulder Arthroscopy in Istanbul?
There is no single “best clinic” for everyone; for a safe choice, check these: a Health Tourism Authorisation Certificate, the name of the hospital and the operating surgeon, a written plan based on a physician's assessment, an itemised quote and aftercare. New City Clinic is an authorised intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye; it publishes its authorisation, TÜRSAB and ISO certificates on this site and gives you all of this in writing with your quote.
How long does recovery from rotator cuff repair take?
The tendon needs months to heal fully. Most people regain everyday use within a few months, while full strength can take up to a year.
Will I need to stay overnight?
Usually one night in hospital is planned; some simple procedures allow discharge the same day.
What should I send for the assessment?
Your MRI images and report, a description of your symptoms and any previous treatment.
Is Shoulder Arthroscopy in Turkey safe?
Like any operation, Shoulder Arthroscopy carries risks, and the risk depends far more on where and by whom it is done than on the country. The serious cases reported in the press have mostly involved unlicensed premises, non-specialists or too many procedures in one session. A safe choice means a hospital licensed by the Turkish Ministry of Health, a named specialist surgeon, an anaesthetist, pre-operative tests and a long enough stay. New City Clinic is an authorised intermediary registered with the Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye, and you receive the hospital and surgeon details in writing before you travel.
Why is Shoulder Arthroscopy cheaper in Turkey than in the UK, Ireland, Australia or Malta?
The difference comes mainly from lower operating and staff costs and the exchange rate; implants, materials and techniques follow the same international standards. Even so, do not choose on price alone: check the hospital licence, the surgeon’s specialty and exactly what the package includes.
Travelling to Istanbul for Shoulder Arthroscopy from Australia, Malta or further away: what should I plan?
From Malta there are direct flights to Istanbul of around two and a half to three hours; from Australia the journey usually involves one connection and takes 20 hours or more. The longer the flight home, the longer you should stay in Istanbul after Shoulder Arthroscopy, so that your surgeon can check you before travelling. On a long-haul flight wear compression stockings, walk regularly and drink water. Your reports are prepared in English and a New City Clinic coordinator follows your recovery remotely once you are home.
Get your free quote today
Send your photos and questions; a surgeon’s assessment and your quote usually arrive within 24 hours. The consultation is free and without obligation.
- A surgeon’s assessment and quote, usually within 24 hours
- Free and without obligation
- We reply on WhatsApp in your language
Guides on this procedure
Articles you may want to read before deciding.

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