Herniated Disc Surgery in Turkey 2025: Affordable costs, Advanced Procedures and High Success Rate

Herniated disc surgery is a common procedure designed to relieve the pain and discomfort caused by a slipped or ruptured disc in the spine. With its advanced medical facilities, highly skilled surgeons, and affordable prices, Turkey has become a leading destination for patients seeking effective treatment for herniated discs.

In this article, we will explore the different types of herniated disc surgeries, their recovery timelines, success rates, and the reasons why Turkey is considered a top choice for high-quality care.

If you're considering herniated disc surgery, contact us today to learn more about your options and how we can help you on your journey to recovery.

What Is A Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc is a prevalent spinal condition where a portion of the intervertebral disc—a rubbery cushion between the vertebrae—ruptures or slips out of place.

This allows the jelly-like center to leak, potentially irritating nearby nerves and causing radiating pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area

Herniated discs most frequently occur in the lumbar spine (lower back), particularly between the L4-L5 and L5-S1 vertebrae. Approximately 95% of all herniated discs occur in this region, however, they can also occur in the cervical spine (neck), most commonly between the C5-C6 and C6-C7 vertebrae.

What is Herniated Disc Surgery?

Herniated disc surgery, a type of spinal surgery, is a medical procedure aimed at treating a herniated or slipped disc that is causing significant pain, weakness, or numbness, often due to nerve compression.

When conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and injections fail to provide relief, surgery may be recommended.

The cervical (neck) thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine are among the areas where the surgery can be carried out.

The goal of the surgery is to remove or repair the damaged portion of the disc, relieve pressure on the nerves, and alleviate symptoms.

Benefits of herniated disc surgery

Rapid pain relief and improved mobility.

Restored ability to perform daily activities.

Prevention of further nerve damage and complications.

Why Choose Turkey for Herniated Disc Surgery?

Turkey is a top destination for herniated disc surgery, and International Clinics Turkey is your best choice.

Our board-certified surgeons specialize in herniated disc procedures, using advanced technology for both open and minimally invasive surgeries, ensuring safe and successful outcomes with faster recovery.

We offer affordable pricing without compromising on quality, and we develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.

Additionally, we provide comprehensive support, including travel arrangements and post-surgery care, making your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

By combining the expertise of internationally certified orthopedic surgeons with cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and JCI-accredited facilities, Turkish clinics have become the best choice for herniated disc surgery.

Turkey offers high-quality services at competitive prices, with various financing options available, attracting international patients from the US, UK, Europe, and Arab countries.

One of the key factors is the ease of entry into Turkey, coupled with our comprehensive packages, making your medical journey easier, more comfortable, and affordable.

Cost of Herniated Disc Surgery in Turkey

The cost of herniated disc surgery in Turkey starts from $3,000 with average range between $4,550 and $6,500

Turkey is known for offering high-quality healthcare at affordable prices compared to the US and Europe.

Factors affecting the cost of herniated disc surgery

The cost of herniated disc surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the type of surgery performed; minimally invasive procedures generally cost less than complex spinal fusion or artificial disc replacement.

Other factors include the hospital’s reputation, the surgeon’s experience, and the level of pre- and post-operative care provided.

One key consideration is insurance coverage. While most Turkish clinics do not accept international insurance directly, they offer competitive and transparent pricing through all-inclusive packages.

In fact, the total cost of herniated disc surgery in Turkey is often comparable to, or even lower than, the amount patients might pay out-of-pocket in their home country—even with insurance coverage.

This makes Turkey a cost-effective and appealing option for international patients.

Costs may also increase if additional diagnostic tests, medications, or rehabilitation services are needed as part of the treatment plan.

Cost of different types of herniated disc:

Cost of microdiscectomy: $3,000 - $6,000

Cost of laminectomy: $4,000 - $7,000

Cost of spinal fusion: $6,000 - $10,000

Cost of artificial disc replacement: $8,000 - $12,000

Many clinics offer all-inclusive packages, covering accommodation, airport transfers, and post-surgery follow-ups.

In some cases, patients with herniated disc injuries may qualify for a back injury settlement without surgery, allowing them to secure compensation while avoiding the costs and recovery time associated with surgical treatment.

Who ِAre The Good Candidates for Herniated Disc Surgery?

• Patients who have tried non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or spinal injections without experiencing significant improvement over several weeks or months.
• Individuals suffering from severe back or leg pain (such as sciatica) that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments and interferes with daily activities.
• Patients who have problems with walking and performing other daily tasks.
• People with physically demanding jobs or occupations that place stress on the spine and who need to return to work or normal life as soon as possible.
• Patients experiencing serious complications like movement difficulties, loss of bladder or bowel control, or noticeable spinal deformities — which may indicate nerve compression or cauda equina syndrome.

This is a general list of candidates, and it’s important to consult with an experienced orthopedic surgeon to determine if herniated disc surgery is the best solution for your specific condition.

Types of Herniated Disc Surgery

There are several surgical options available, depending on the location and severity of the herniated disc:

1. Discectomy for herniated disc

Discectomy is the most common surgical procedure used to treat herniated discs.

In this procedure, the surgeon removes the portion of the disc that is pressing on the nerve, relieving pressure and alleviating pain.

Discectomy can be performed using traditional open surgery or through a minimally invasive technique, which involves smaller incisions and typically leads to faster recovery.

The procedure involves removing part of the herniated disc to free up space and reduce nerve compression.

It is most commonly performed for herniated discs at the L4-L5 and L5-S1 levels in the lower back, where nerve compression is most likely to cause significant pain and discomfort.

2. Laminectomy procedure for herniated disc

Laminectomy is a surgical procedure where a portion of the vertebra, called the lamina, is removed, rather than the herniated disc itself.

The goal of the surgery is to create more space in the spinal canal, relieve pressure on the compressed nerves, and alleviate pain.

This procedure is often used to treat conditions like herniated discs, especially in the lumbar (lower back) and thoracic (mid-back) regions.

By removing part of the lamina, the surgery helps to restore spinal alignment and improve movement, especially in cases of nerve compression or deformities.

3. Spinal fusion surgery for herniated disc

Spinal fusion surgery involves removing the herniated disc and stabilizing the adjacent vertebrae by placing bone or a bone-like material in the space between them.

To enhance stability, metal plates, screws, or rods may be used.

This procedure is a common type of cervical spine surgery performed for severe cervical disc herniations, particularly at levels like C5-C6 or C6-C7.

It may also be indicated for lumbar disc herniations that result in significant pain, nerve compression, or spinal instability.

In many cases, spinal discectomy is combined with fusion in a single procedure, such as in Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF), to remove the damaged disc and stabilize the spine.

4. Endoscopic herniated disc surgery

Endoscopic spinal surgery is a minimally invasive spine procedure , also called closed herniated disc surgery, that involves making a small incision through which a tube, connected to a camera, and tiny surgical tools are inserted.

The camera guides the surgeon throughout the procedure, allowing them to perform the surgery with high precision and accuracy without the need for a large incision.

This advanced technique helps to minimize tissue damage, resulting in less post-operative pain and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. Endoscopic surgery is particularly beneficial for patients who need to return to their normal activities quickly.

5. Microdiscectomy

Microdiscectomy (or microdecompression) is a minimally invasive surgery used to treat herniated discs, especially in the lumbar spine surgery

During the procedure, the surgeon removes the small portion of the disc that is pressing on a nerve, using a surgical microscope and very small instruments.

It’s typically done through a small incision (around 1 inch), which results in less muscle damage, reduced pain, and quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

6. Artificial disc replacement (ADR):

Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) is an advanced surgical procedure for treating herniated discs. It involves removing the damaged disc and replacing it with a prosthetic disc, which helps preserve spinal mobility unlike traditional fusion surgery.

This procedure is commonly performed for both lumbar and cervical disc herniations, offering a more natural range of motion post-surgery.

Recovery Time for Herniated Disc Surgery

Most patients can return home the same day or within 24 hours after surgery, depending on the procedure performed.

Before discharge, a doctor will typically provide physical activity recommendations, and patients will need someone to assist them with walking and transportation in the first few days.

What should patients expect after herniated disc surgery?

• Some side effects such as mild back pain or back stiffness or soreness, that improve during the weeks after surgery.
• In the weeks after your surgery, it may be hard to sit or stand in one position for very long.
• You may have relief from your symptoms right away, or you may get better over days or weeks.

Recovery time after herniated disc surgery
Recovery duration depends largely on the location of surgery, neck surgeries recovery is shorter compared to lower back surgeries, that involves a longer recovery period, as the back area bears most of the body’s weight and is affected by daily movement and physical activity.

Additionally, the type of herniated disc surgery performed affects the period of the recovery. Discectomy usually has the shortest recovery time than spinal fusion that requires a longer healing period since the bones need time to fuse together.

Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR) falls somewhere in between, with recovery depending largely on the patient's overall health and commitment to physical therapy.

• Discectomy: Most patients recover fully within 4 to 6 weeks.
  
• Laminectomy & Microdiscectomy: Recovery generally takes about 6 to 8 weeks.
  
• The recovery of Spinal Fusion Surgery: This procedure has a longer healing period of 3 to 6 months, as the bones need time to fully fuse and provide stable support.
  
• Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR): Recovery usually takes 6 weeks to 3 months, influenced by the patient’s general health and commitment to rehabilitation.

Tips for a faster recovery and optimal results

• Follow post-surgery movement restrictions and avoid heavy lifting.
• Maintain proper posture and use supportive chairs or cushions.
• Engage in gentle stretching and walking as recommended by your doctor.
• Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet to support tissue healing.
• Adhere to prescribed medications and attend follow-up appointments.

How should patients sit after herniated disc surgery?

• Use a chair with good lumbar support, preferably one with armrests and a firm cushion.
• Keep your feet flat on the floor and your knees at hip level to avoid straining the spine.
• Avoid slouching or twisting your spine while sitting.
• Limit sitting time to 20–30 minutes at a time, especially in the first few weeks, and take breaks to stand and walk.

How should patients sleep after herniated disc surgery?

• The best sleeping position is on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce pressure on the spine.
• If sleeping on your side, place a pillow between your knees to keep your spine aligned.
• Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as it can put strain on the spine and delay healing.
• Use a firm mattress for proper spinal support.

When can patients move without assistance after herniated disc surgery?

• Most patients need assistance for the first few days to get in and out of bed or walk safely.
• By one to two weeks, many patients can move independently for short distances but should still avoid bending, twisting, or lifting heavy objects.
• By four to six weeks, patients usually regain normal mobility, depending on the surgery type and individual healing progress.
• Spinal fusion patients may require a longer period (three to six months) before full mobility is restored.

Results and Success Rate of Herniated Disc Surgery

The outcomes of herniated disc surgery are generally positive, especially when the procedure is successful.

Patients often experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, restoration of normal posture, and the ability to return to daily activities, work, and even exercise without discomfort.

The success rate of herniated disc surgery typically ranges between 60% and 90%, depending on several factors including the patient's age, overall health, the severity and location of the herniation, the type of surgery performed, and the experience of the surgeon.

Clinical studies show the following success rates for common procedures:

• Microdiscectomy: 85% to 95% success in relieving nerve-related pain and restoring function.
  
• Spinal Fusion: 75% to 90% success, especially in cases of severe disc degeneration.
  
• Artificial Disc Replacement (ADR): 85% to 90% success, with the added benefit of preserving spinal mobility.
  

While most patients see great improvements, the degree of benefit can vary. Long-term outcomes are generally better when surgery is combined with proper rehabilitation and lifestyle modifications.

What Are the Risks of Herniated Disc Surgery?

Risks of herniated discs ranges between mild, moderate and severe complications
These complications include:

1. Herniated disc surgery scar

2. Risks of permanent nerve damage

3. Risks associated with open surgeries including bleeding, muscle tissue damage and anesthesia associated risks

4. Risks of surgery failure and symptoms persistence

5. Risk of infection at the surgical site

6. Risk of blood clots forming in the legs (deep vein thrombosis)

7. Risk of recurrent herniation in the same or nearby disc

Herniated Disc Surgery Pictures

Discectomy with vertebra fusion

FAQs

• What is the recovery time for herniated disc surgery?
  Recovery time varies: most patients recover in 4 to 6 weeks for discectomy and 6 to 8 weeks for laminectomy or microdiscectomy. Spinal fusion may take 3 to 6 months.

• How successful is herniated disc surgery?
  Herniated disc surgery is highly successful, with success rates around 80-90% in relieving pain and improving mobility.

• Can you live a normal life with herniated discs?
  Yes, many people with herniated discs live normal lives with proper treatment, including physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments.

• What percentage of herniated discs require surgery?
  Only about 10-20% of herniated discs require surgery, as most cases can be managed with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy.

• How much does herniated disc surgery cost?
  In the US, herniated disc surgery can cost between $20,000 and $50,000, while in Turkey, the cost starts from $3,000, making it a more affordable option.

• How much does back surgery cost in Turkey?
  Back surgery in Turkey typically costs between $3,000 and $10,000, depending on the type of surgery and hospital.

• What is the best surgery for a herniated disc?
  The best surgery depends on the individual case, but common procedures include discectomy, microdiscectomy, and spinal fusion for more severe cases.

• How much does slipped disc surgery cost?
  The cost of slipped disc surgery varies by location, but in Turkey, it generally starts at around $3,000, much lower than in Western countries.

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Dima Abed, Doctor of Pharmacy and expert in pharmaceutical sciences and palliative care, in collaboration with the internationally certified medical team at International Clinics. We rely on trusted sources such as WHO and PubMed to ensure the accuracy and relevance of our content, which is regularly updated according to the latest medical guidelines.