# Frequently asked questions

> Answers to common questions about consultations with Prof. Dr. Günter Hafız in Istanbul: appointments, what to bring, insurance, and head and neck surgery.

Source: https://www.profgunterhafiz.com/faq/  
Updated: 2026-10-09

FAQ

Practical answers about appointments, insurance and what to expect. Medical questions are answered in general terms; your own situation is discussed at the consultation.

## Your visit

**How do I make an appointment?**

Write on WhatsApp to +90 532 374 81 15 for the quickest answer, call the same number, or e-mail info@gunterhafiz.com. Consultations are held Monday to Saturday, 9:00 to 17:00.

**Where is the practice?**

At Selenium Plaza, Hakkı Yeten Caddesi, Dikilitaş, Beşiktaş, on the European side of Istanbul. The full address and a Google Maps link are on the contact page.

**What should I bring to the first consultation?**

Any biopsy or pathology reports, imaging such as CT, MRI, PET or ultrasound with their written reports (on disc or as files), a list of your medicines, a summary of previous treatment and your insurance details if you plan to use them.

**Which insurers are accepted?**

Allianz, AXA, Anadolu Sigorta, Mapfre Sigorta, Bupa Acıbadem Sigortası, SenCard, Banka Sigortaları and TBMM Sigortası. Cover depends on your own policy, so check with your insurer before the visit.

**Does Prof. Hafız see children?**

The practice sees adult patients.

## About head and neck surgery

**What does an ear, nose and throat and head and neck surgeon treat?**

Diseases of the ear, nose, throat, mouth, voice box, thyroid and salivary glands, and the lymph nodes of the neck. Prof. Hafız's work is centred on tumours of these regions and the surgery that treats them.

**I have a lump in my neck. Should I be worried?**

Many neck lumps are enlarged lymph nodes from an infection or harmless cysts. A lump that lasts more than a few weeks, grows, or is hard and does not hurt should be examined by a specialist, particularly in adults who smoke.

**I have been hoarse for several weeks. Should I be examined?**

Yes. Hoarseness that lasts more than a few weeks should be checked with an examination of the voice box. Most causes are harmless, but a lesion of the vocal cords is treated most simply when it is found early.

**What is nerve monitoring in thyroid surgery?**

The nerves that move the vocal cords run directly behind the thyroid. During the operation a small electrode records the response of the vocal cord muscles, so that the nerves can be identified and protected while the gland is removed.

**Will I need radiotherapy as well as surgery?**

That depends on the type and stage of the tumour and on the pathology report of the removed tissue. After the operation the report is discussed with you, and any further treatment is explained and planned.

## From abroad

**Should I send my reports before I travel?**

No. Please do not send medical reports or images by WhatsApp or e-mail. Write on WhatsApp to agree the dates of your consultation and bring your reports and imaging with you: Prof. Hafız reviews them with you at the consultation.

**Is the practice authorised to treat international patients?**

Yes. The practice holds the International Health Tourism Authorisation Certificate of the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health, certificate no. ST-⁠1667.

**In which languages is this website available?**

English, Arabic and German. Use the language switch at the top of every page.

**How much does a consultation cost?**

Fees are discussed at your first visit.

[Something else? Write on WhatsApp.](https://wa.me/905323748115?text=Hello%2C%20I%20would%20like%20to%20request%20an%20appointment%20with%20Prof.%20Dr.%20G%C3%BCnter%20Haf%C4%B1z.)

## Talk it through with Prof. Hafız

Consultations at Selenium Plaza, Beşiktaş, Monday to Saturday. Write on WhatsApp or call the practice.

[Write on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/905323748115?text=Hello%2C%20I%20would%20like%20to%20request%20an%20appointment%20with%20Prof.%20Dr.%20G%C3%BCnter%20Haf%C4%B1z.)[+90 532 374 81 15](tel:+905323748115)