A British man has died in Turkey after undergoing a hair transplant and dental work, known colloquially as 'Turkey teeth'. Mentor Rama, 36, travelled to Istanbul for the procedures but collapsed hours later and was pronounced dead on November 11.
Rama arrived in Istanbul last week and first had a hair transplant in the Fulya district. He then checked into a nearby hotel before visiting a separate clinic for dental work. After returning to his hotel room, he began to feel unwell and emergency services were called. He was rushed to a local hospital but died shortly after.
Turkish police have launched an investigation into the death, and Rama's body was taken to the Council of Forensic Medicine in Istanbul for an autopsy. His remains have since been repatriated to the UK. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirmed it is supporting the family and liaising with local authorities.
Turkey has become a popular destination for Britons seeking cheaper cosmetic procedures, with 'Turkey teeth' often costing 40-60% less than in the UK. However, the FCDO reported that at least 28 British nationals died in Turkey following elective medical procedures between 2019 and March 2024, with more deaths recorded this year. UK dentists have repeatedly warned of the risks associated with travelling abroad for dental work.
