Plastic surgery has always been a topic that sparks both admiration and controversy. For some, it’s a personal choice to enhance confidence and appearance. For others, it’s a necessary solution to rebuild features affected by trauma or illness. Whatever the motivation, the world of cosmetic procedures continues to grow, offering advanced techniques and life-changing transformations. In recent years, Turkey has emerged as one of the most prominent destinations for plastic surgery, attracting people from all over the globe. With affordable prices and highly skilled doctors, the country has become a haven for those seeking beauty enhancements without the high costs typically seen in Western nations.
One story that recently took the internet by storm involves a woman whose before-and-after photos went viral on TikTok, leaving viewers questioning whether the images even showed the same person. The video was posted by a cosmetic surgeon known as “Dr May,” who appears to be based in Turkey. Dr May’s TikTok page showcases his work, and one particular video caught the attention of thousands of viewers. It featured a 68-year-old woman named Miss Dilek, who underwent a remarkable transformation following several cosmetic procedures over the course of two years. Her surgeries reportedly included a rhinoplasty, a facelift, and blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery.
In the “before” picture, Miss Dilek showed the common signs of aging—wrinkles, sagging skin, and other features that naturally come with age. Her appearance reflected the reality of many older women who feel disconnected from their younger selves when they look in the mirror. However, the “after” photo was so dramatic that it raised eyebrows across the internet. Viewers saw a woman with significantly smoother skin, a more defined facial structure, and features that looked decades younger than her age. The change was so extreme that many questioned its authenticity.
“Our lovely patient Miss Dilek after two years of rhinoplasty, facelift and blepharoplasty surgeries. I await your comments,” Dr May wrote in the video’s caption. And comment they did. Social media users quickly flooded the post with their reactions. “That’s the mum and daughter — no way that’s her,” one commenter wrote, unable to believe the transformation was real. Another added, “The nose changed completely. They’re different people.” While some praised the surgeon’s work, others were skeptical, suggesting that either editing or a look-alike had been used to create the illusion.
Though Dr May has since deactivated his Instagram account, his presence on TikTok remains strong. He currently has nearly 32,000 followers, and the video featuring Miss Dilek is approaching 100,000 views. While impressive, this isn’t even his most viewed video — another post showing a U.S. patient’s nose job has amassed over five million views, demonstrating the global interest in cosmetic transformations.
Turkey’s popularity in the medical tourism industry isn’t just a result of viral videos. The country offers world-class medical care with lower costs, making it a practical option for patients from many different countries. The strategic location of Turkey—connecting Europe and Asia—also makes it easily accessible for international visitors. According to Clinic Spots, more than 100,000 people travel to Turkey annually for cosmetic procedures. These range from common surgeries like rhinoplasty and facelifts to more complex procedures such as chin implants, breast augmentations, tummy tucks, and eyelid corrections.
The Turkish Ministry of Tourism confirms that the majority of medical tourists come from countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France. These patients are drawn not only by cost savings but also by the high standard of care and the reputation of Turkey’s surgeons. Many Turkish clinics are internationally accredited and staffed by professionals who have trained or worked abroad. The use of modern technologies and adherence to strict safety protocols have helped boost confidence in Turkey’s medical tourism industry.
One of the reasons transformations like Miss Dilek’s generate such attention is because they tap into a deep human desire: the wish to turn back the clock. Aging is a natural process, but not everyone embraces it the same way. For many, looking youthful contributes to how they feel internally. When a person sees a version of themselves that reflects their inner energy, it can boost their self-esteem and quality of life. This psychological benefit is one of the driving forces behind the growing popularity of cosmetic surgery.
That being said, not all reactions are positive. As seen with Miss Dilek’s video, some viewers question whether such transformations are authentic or ethical. They raise concerns about unrealistic beauty standards and the pressure placed on people—especially women—to look young. These debates are valid and ongoing, reflecting broader conversations about the role of appearance in society and how far people should go to alter their looks.
Despite the controversy, plastic surgery continues to be a booming industry. What once was reserved for celebrities and the wealthy is now accessible to everyday people thanks to affordable options in countries like Turkey. As more patients share their stories and results online, interest continues to rise. For those who dream of a new look or want to feel more confident in their skin, cosmetic surgery offers a path forward — one that is personal, sometimes emotional, and often transformative.
With stories like Miss Dilek’s becoming viral sensations, it’s easy to see why Turkey remains a top destination for dramatic, sometimes unbelievable makeovers. Whether you support or question the industry, one thing is clear: the impact of plastic surgery goes far beyond the surface. It touches lives, fuels discussions, and challenges our understanding of beauty in today’s world.
