Approximately 50 million people worldwide experience epileptic seizures, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). For many, finding specialized care is key to managing the condition. Epilepsy treatment abroad can save up to 65%, with costs as low as $28,000 - $35,000 in Mexico, Turkey, and Thailand. These centers still offer high-quality care, holding JCI accreditation and American Epilepsy Society certification. To assist patients in choosing the proper treatment, Bookimed provides this overview of top epilepsy centers worldwide.
Key Takeaways: Epilepsy Treatment
- Affordable high-quality care. Top-rated epilepsy centers hold international accreditations.
- Deep brain stimulation (DBS): savings of up to 70% when comparing costs of $28,000 - $35,000 abroad vs. $95,000 in the US.
- Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS): savings of up to 83% with $10,000 - $18,000 in Mexico and Lithuania compared to $60,000 in the US.
- Surgical treatment of epilepsy: up to 84% savings, with procedures costing $14,000 - $28,000 in Turkey and Mexico, compared to $90,000 in the US.
- Stereotaxic surgeries: savings of up to 89%, with $10,000 - $25,000 in the Czech Republic and Thailand, compared to $60,000 - $90,000 in the US.
- Comprehensive packages. They cover treatment, accommodation, and transport, making treatment more convenient and affordable.
- Global access. Patients from the US often choose Mexico for its proximity and affordability. Europeans frequently visit Turkey, while Asian patients often opt for Thailand.
Table of Contents
What You Need to Know About Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects the nervous system, causing recurrent, unprovoked seizures. These seizures happen when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Seizures can range from brief lapses in attention or staring spells to convulsions and loss of consciousness.
Seizures can be triggered by various factors, including:
head injuries;
Infections;
genetic conditions.
Up to 70% of epilepsy patients worldwide can achieve seizure freedom with proper antiseizure medications (ASMs).
Epilepsy can affect anyone, but it is more common in children and older adults.
💡Epilepsy is typically managed with medications, but some patients may require surgical treatment if medications are not effective.
With proper care and treatment, many people with epilepsy can live everyday, active lives.
Why Consider Epilepsy Treatment Abroad?
Looking for the best epilepsy treatment in world overseas is a good idea for several reasons:
Cost savings. Epilepsy treatment abroad can be significantly more affordable, with savings of up to 85% compared to Western countries.
High-quality care. International centers offer top-tier care, accredited by organizations like JCI and the American Epilepsy Society.
Advanced treatment options. Access to advanced treatments such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) at a fraction of the cost.
Package deals. Hospitals offer comprehensive treatment packages that include consultations, surgeries, accommodation, and transport, making the process more convenient and cost-effective.
Comprehensive epilepsy treatment packages simplify your journey by bundling essential services. Clinics offer special discounts through Bookimed, making it more affordable than booking services separately, especially with limited-time offers.
- Dr. Antonio Russi is recognized as the best epileptologist in Spain, helping over 2,000 patients.
- Centro Médico Teknon serves patients from all over the world, including celebrities and sportsmen.
- Included Services: Electrocardiogram (ECG), Blood tests, Individual patient room.
- Stay Info: 1 day stay in the hospital, 0 days stay in the hotel (not included in the price).
- Method: Non-surgical therapy with personalized drug selection based on EEG monitoring.
- Dr. Sinan Comu follows American treatment approaches obtained in the USA for epilepsy.
- Memorial Şişli Hospital in Istanbul is the 1st hospital in Turkey accredited by JCI.
- Included Services: VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 2 days stay in the hotel, accommodation not included in the price.
- Dr. Antonio Russi is ranked among the top 100 Spanish doctors by Forbes magazine.
- Centro Médico Teknon is the No.1 choice for celebrities, sportsmen, and politicians for medical care.
- Included Services: Electrocardiogram (ECG), Blood tests, Individual patient room.
- Stay Info: 5 days stay in the hospital, 2 days stay in the hotel, accommodations included.
- Method: Non-surgical therapy utilizing personalized drug therapy.
- Dr. Baris Metin has numerous research papers in national and international scientific journals on epilepsy.
- NP Istanbul Brain Hospital is the No.2 brain hospital in Europe.
- Included Services: Sedation, blood tests, consultation with a neurologist, head MRI, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM), electroencephalography (EEG).
- Stay Info: 1 day stay in the hospital, 3 days stay in the hotel, accommodation is not included, transfer is not included.
- Melih Bozkurt is a neurosurgery specialist at Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital, performing advanced brain procedures.
- Memorial Bahçelievler Hospital specializes in brain surgery and offers eco-friendly facilities for enhanced patient recovery.
- Included Services: Preoperative tests, hospitalization, VIP transfer between airport, hotel, and clinic.
- Stay Info: 5 days hospital stay included; hotel accommodation is not included in the price.
- Technique: Selective amygdalohippocampectomy.
Cost of Epilepsy Treatment Around the World
Recent studies show that, even in high-income countries, around one-third of newly diagnosed epilepsy cases are not treated right away. In the US, the annual direct costs of epilepsy are estimated at $28 billion, with individual healthcare expenses ranging from $10,192 to $47,862 per year.
High prices can be a barrier for many, but fortunately, costs are significantly lower abroad due to economic differences and government support.
Choosing the right epilepsy center can offer significant savings without compromising the quality of care.
In the US and UK, deep brain stimulation can cost up to $95,000, while in Mexico, Turkey, and Thailand, it's available for $28,000 - $35,000, saving up to 65% or $60,000.
In the US, the cost can be as high as $60,000. In Mexico and Lithuania, you can have the Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) procedure done for $10,000 - $18,000, saving as much as 83% or $42,000.
Epilepsy surgery in the US can reach $90,000, but in Turkey and Mexico, it's priced at $14,000 - $28,000, saving up to 84% or $62,000.
In the US and UK, stereotaxic surgeries cost $60,000 - $90,000, while in Czech Republic and Thailand, the cost is $10,000 - $25,000, providing 72% - 89% savings or $50,000 - $80,000.
| Procedure | Austria | Czech Republic | Israel | Lithuania | Mexico | Republic of Korea | Spain | Thailand | Turkey | United Kingdom | United States of America |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deep brain stimulation (DBS) | $48,000 - $55,000 | $20,000 - $25,000 | $60,000 - $70,000 | $32,000 - $35,000 | $30,000 - $35,000 | $55,000 - $65,000 | $55,000 - $60,000 | $25,000 - $30,000 | $28,000 - $35,000 | $65,000 - $85,000 | $75,000 - $95,000 |
| Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) | $20,000 - $28,000 | $14,000 - $18,000 | $38,000 - $48,000 | $14,000 - $18,000 | $10,000 - $14,000 | $28,000 - $38,000 | $27,000 - $33,000 | $12,000 - $16,500 | $14,000 - $22,000 | $28,000 - $45,000 | $35,000 - $60,000 |
| Surgical treatment of epilepsy | $30,000 - $42,000 | $14,000 - $19,000 | $48,000 - $60,000 | $20,000 - $28,000 | $14,000 - $20,000 | $32,000 - $45,000 | $38,000 - $48,000 | $22,000 - $30,000 | $20,000 - $28,000 | $50,000 - $70,000 | $60,000 - $90,000 |
| Stereotaxic surgeries | $25,000 - $33,000 | $10,000 - $14,000 | $40,000 - $55,000 | $18,000 - $25,000 | $14,000 - $20,000 | $30,000 - $42,000 | $32,000 - $45,000 | $12,000 - $18,000 | $15,000 - $22,000 | $50,000 - $70,000 | $60,000 - $90,000 |
*based on Bookimed's internal research and global trends, the costs are approximate and may vary significantly depending on specific medical facilities and individual patient needs.
How to Find the Best Epilepsy Clinic?
When choosing the best hospital for epilepsy, it's crucial to consider several key factors to ensure you receive the best care possible:
Reputation and expertise. Look for epilepsy clinics with a proven track record in treating seizures and epilepsy-related disorders.
Treatment options. The clinic should offer various epilepsy treatment options tailored to individual needs.
This includes both medical treatments (medications, anticonvulsants) and advanced procedures such as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), deep brain stimulation (DBS), or epilepsy surgery.
✅ Epilepsy centers of excellence often provide personalized care, using the latest techniques like stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) for precise localization of seizures.
Accreditation and standards. Ensure that the epilepsy treatment centers you are considering have international accreditations, such as JCI or ISO 9001, which ensure that the clinic meets high standards of care.
Additionally, comprehensive epilepsy centers often hold specialized certifications that recognize their expertise in treating complex epilepsy cases, such as:
- European Board of Neurosurgery (EBNS);
- World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS);
- The American Epilepsy Society (AES);
- The Turkish Society of Neurosurgery (TSNS).
Technology and facilities. The best epilepsy hospital will be equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic tools such as MRI, CT scans, and EEG to ensure accurate diagnosis and monitoring of the condition.
Location and accessibility. Consider the clinic's location and how easily you can access it, especially if you require international care.
- Patients from the US often choose Mexico due to its proximity, affordable healthcare, and high-quality medical services.
- Patients from Europe frequently visit Turkey for its well-established medical tourism infrastructure and cost-effective treatments.
- Thailand is a popular choice for those in Asia because its renowned hospitals offer top-notch care at competitive prices.
💚 Many epilepsy hospitals offer specialized support for international patients, including language assistance, travel arrangements, and accommodation. WithBookimed, patients can easily access a network of world-class epilepsy treatment options around the globe.
💡Reading reviews can also help provide a sense of the clinic's care quality, treatment outcomes, and overall patient experience. Check patient feedback on platforms like Bookimed to better understand the experience and satisfaction levels at the best epilepsy centers worldwide.
Top Epilepsy Centers Worldwide
From Europe to Southeast Asia, leading epilepsy centers around the world provide top-quality care tailored to both adults and children with epilepsy.
Europe. Spain is one of the key providers of epilepsy care, with top specialists recognized by Focus and Forbes.
Near East (Western Asia). Turkey offers affordable treatments, 2-3 times cheaper than in Spain, Germany, or Israel, while Israel leads in innovative techniques for seizure detection.
Southeast Asia. South Korea and Thailand provide high-quality care at 2-3 times lower prices than Western countries, with the added benefit of combining treatment with luxury recreation.
💚 Bookimed evaluates the best epilepsy centers based on clear criteria, including patient reviews, treatment success rates, neurologist expertise, and advanced technologies, helping patients make confident, informed decisions. The Clinic Ranking Policy is transparent.
Top 10 seizure hospital treatment locations according to Bookimed:
| Clinic | Location | Rating ⭐ |
|---|---|---|
| Centro Médico Teknon | Barcelona, Spain | 4.7/5 |
| Hospital Sant Joan de Déu | Barcelona, Spain | 4.8/5 |
| Medipol Mega University Hospital | Istanbul, Turkey | 4.5/5 |
| Liv Epilepsy Center | Istanbul, Turkey | 4.5/5 |
| Sourasky Hospital | Tel Aviv, Israel | 4.4/5 |
| Bumrungrad International Hospital | Bangkok, Thailand | 4.5/5 |
| Severance Hospital | Seoul, Republic of Korea | 4.5/5 |
| Valued Med Hub Hospitals | Istanbul, Turkey | 4.7/5 |
Centro Medico Teknon — leading epilepsy center in Spain
Centro Medico Teknon is one of the best epilepsy centers in the world, offering advanced treatment for adults and children. Known for its high success rates, 75% of patients choose Teknon for its experienced team, led by Prof. Antonio Russi, a recognized epileptologist. The hospital collaborates with the Neurosurgery Department for complex epilepsy surgeries, achieving a 90% success rate. Teknon also offers online consultations for remote diagnosis and treatment planning.
Centro Médico Teknon in Barcelona, Spain offers advanced epilepsy treatment programs starting from $20,963. The clinic specializes in non-surgical medication therapy and comprehensive diagnostics. Prof. Antonio Russi, Spain's leading epileptologist with 53 years of experience, heads the Epilepsy Institute at Teknon.
Treatment Approach
The program focuses on personalized medication therapy for severe epilepsy. Prof. Russi uses video-EEG monitoring to create individualized treatment plans. This approach succeeds in 70% of cases. He has treated over 2,000 epilepsy patients.
The clinic offers 5-day inpatient diagnostic programs. Patients undergo continuous video-EEG monitoring during hospitalization. Doctors can adjust medications in real-time based on monitoring results. This allows for precise treatment optimization.
Diagnostic Package
The comprehensive program includes:
- Neurologist consultation with Prof. Russi
- 24-hour video-EEG monitoring
- Brain MRI with contrast
- FDG-PET brain scan
- Genetic screening
- Pharmacogenetic studies
- Complex epilepsy diagnostics
Additional tests like PET-CT cost €2,000-€2,500 when medically indicated. These are charged separately from the main package.
Surgical Options
For patients who need surgery, the clinic offers advanced techniques. Robotic Stereo-EEG (SEEG) identifies seizure origins with 90% accuracy. The procedure uses intracranial electrodes for precise focus coagulation.
Other surgical options include microsurgery with epileptic focus resection. The clinic also performs Vagus Nerve Stimulator (VNS) implantation. These procedures are available for cases where medication therapy is insufficient.
Expert Medical Team
Prof. Antonio Russi leads the treatment team. He is ranked among Forbes' Top 100 Spanish doctors. He specializes in non-surgical epilepsy therapy for both children and adults.
Prof. Russi is a member of the International League Against Epilepsy. He also belongs to the American Epilepsy Society. His expertise includes developing new antiepileptic medication protocols.
Neurosurgeon Dr. Bartolomé Oliver provides surgical consultations. His consultation costs €565. The team approach ensures comprehensive care for complex cases.
Clinic Recognition
Centro Médico Teknon ranks as Spain's 3rd best neurological facility. The Institute for Environmental Health awarded this recognition. Newsweek included it in World's Best Hospitals 2021.
The clinic has a 4.7 rating from 433 patient reviews. 94% of patients recommend the facility. It holds patient choice awards for epilepsy treatment, neurosurgery, and neurology.
Contact Bookimed to arrange your consultation at Centro Médico Teknon. The team will help coordinate your diagnostic program and treatment plan.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Vagus nerve stimulation | $52857.87 - $55207.11 |
| Stereotaxic surgeries | $29365.49 - $76350.26 |
Sant Joan de Déu in Spain — best children's hospital for epilepsy in Europe
Sant Joan de Déu is a comprehensive epilepsy center specializing in pediatric care, recognized for its innovative approaches to epilepsy treatment. It provides over 1,000 consultations annually, with 30 surgeries each year. The hospital's excellence in epilepsy care is supported by its CSUR accreditation and its partnership with Dr. Alexis Arzimanoglou, a renowned pediatric epileptologist.
- Sant Joan de Déu is a leading Spanish center for epilepsy therapy in children according to the local Ministry of Health report.
- Doctors provide 1,000 consultations and help 100 children with seizures annually.
- Sant Joan doctors carry out a comprehensive diagnosis to detect epilepsy foci location and choose the most proper therapeutic technique. In most of the cases, specialists prescribe drug therapy.
- 30 of the little patients undergo surgery. The epilepsy surgery cost at Sant Joan de Déu stands upon the epileptic foci location and surgery type.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Medipol — leading comprehensive epilepsy care center in Turkey
Medipol Epilepsy Center offers affordable epilepsy treatment in Turkey, with 2-3 times lower diagnostic costs than in Spain, Germany, or Israel. The center utilizes advanced technology, including StealthStation and O-arm perop CT systems, ensuring high surgery success rates. Medipol is known for its comprehensive epilepsy centers of excellence, providing cutting-edge diagnostic services for seizure disorders.
Medipol Mega University Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, offers epilepsy treatment programs for children and adults. The cost ranges from $100 to $20,000 USD depending on the diagnostic and treatment approach. The hospital specializes in comprehensive epilepsy care, from medication management to advanced surgical interventions.
Diagnostic Evaluation
The epilepsy workup begins with a detailed neurological examination. Doctors perform EEG monitoring to track brain activity. A 24-hour EEG costs $850-$1,300 USD. Brain MRI scans cost $350-$900 USD. Some cases require 48-hour EEG monitoring at $2,400 USD.
Blood tests help identify underlying causes. These cost $400-$1,500 USD depending on the scope. Genetic testing is available through WES analysis at $750 EUR. Doctors review previous imaging studies for $100-$150 USD per image.
Treatment Options
Treatment starts with antiepileptic medications. Doctors monitor the response during a one-week hospital stay. This costs $350-$375 USD per day plus additional expenses. Total daily costs reach $1,000-$1,300 USD including all services.
For drug-resistant epilepsy, surgical options are available. The hospital performs epilepsy surgery for $15,000-$20,000 USD. Surgeons use intra-operative navigation and intra-operative MRI. This technology helps locate and remove seizure-causing brain tissue precisely.
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is another option. This involves implanting a device that sends electrical signals to the brain. The hospital also offers Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) therapy.
Medical Team
Prof. Dr. Kürşad Aydın leads the pediatric neurology department. He has 27 years of experience treating epilepsy. The team includes Prof. Dr. Erkengül Birday, a neurology specialist. Assoc. Prof. Betül Kılıç also evaluates epilepsy cases.
Hospital Features
Medipol Mega has Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. It was Turkey's first hospital to receive JCI Academic Accreditation in 2013. The facility treats 1,200 patients daily.
The neurosurgery department uses Gamma Knife and CyberKnife systems. The radiology department has 1.5 and 3 Tesla MRI scanners. PET-CT imaging is available in the nuclear medicine department.
International patients receive translation services in 30 languages. The hospital provides airport transfers and helps arrange accommodation. VIP assistance is available throughout the treatment period.
Contact Medipol Mega University Hospital to discuss your epilepsy treatment options and receive a personalized evaluation.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Surgical treatment of epilepsy | $15000 - $25000 |
Liv Epilepsy Center in Turkey
Liv Epilepsy Center boasts one of Turkey's highest surgery success rates, with 91% of brain surgeries successfully performed. The center uses the latest MRI technology to provide precise diagnostics and determine the most effective treatment plan. Liv is recognized as a top epilepsy center for its quality of care and expert neurosurgeons.
Liv Hospital in Istanbul, Turkey, offers epilepsy treatment programs starting from $1,200. The clinic provides comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and personalized treatment plans. Patients benefit from experienced neurologists and modern equipment.
Epilepsy Evaluation Packages
The hospital offers several diagnostic programs. The basic package costs $1,200-$1,500. It includes a neurologist consultation, EEG monitoring, and brain MRI. Blood tests are also part of the evaluation.
A more detailed program costs $1,795-$2,485. This package includes:
- Pediatric neurologist consultation ($140-$200)
- Brain MRI without contrast ($650-$805)
- EEG monitoring 1-3 hours ($440-$676)
- Laboratory tests ($174-$880)
For complex cases, extended evaluation costs $3,200-$5,000. This includes 24-hour EEG monitoring and genetic testing. The exact program depends on the patient's condition.
Medical Team
Prof. Dr. Gülşen Köse leads pediatric neurology cases. She has 44 years of experience treating epilepsy in children. Dr. Köse founded the Pediatric Neurology Department at Ankara Children's Hospital in 1993.
Prof. Dr. Nebil Yıldız treats adult epilepsy patients. He has 37 years of experience and performed about 1,100 procedures. Prof. Dr. Ayhan Öztürk specializes in complex epilepsy cases requiring advanced monitoring.
Treatment Approach
Doctors first confirm the diagnosis with local tests. They review previous medical records and imaging. The team then creates an individual treatment plan.
Most patients receive medication therapy. The doctors carefully select drugs based on seizure type. They monitor for side effects and adjust doses as needed.
Surgery is considered only for specific cases. Candidates include patients with focal seizures who don't respond to medications. The evaluation determines if surgery is suitable.
Hospital Services
Liv Hospital has Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. The clinic uses 3-Tesla MRI machines for detailed brain imaging. Modern EEG equipment allows extended monitoring.
International patients receive free airport transfers. The hospital provides interpreters during consultations. Staff helps arrange accommodation near the clinic.
The typical stay is 3-4 days for evaluation. Results are ready within this time. Doctors explain findings and recommend next steps before patients leave.
Contact Liv Hospital to receive a personalized treatment plan. The team will review your medical records and suggest the most suitable program for your case.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Vagus nerve stimulation | $32000 |
Sourasky Hospital in Israel — leading epilepsy center for children and adults in the Near East
Sourasky Medical Center in Tel Aviv is known for its pioneering work in laser ablation surgery for epilepsy, with a 75% success rate. It is the first epilepsy hospital outside the US to offer this advanced treatment, which uses MRI-guided precision to remove seizure-causing tissue. Dr. Uri Kramer and his team specialize in treating children and adults, offering cutting-edge epilepsy surgery and treatments.
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) in Tel Aviv, Israel, offers epilepsy consultations with experienced neurologists starting from $950 USD. The clinic specializes in comprehensive epilepsy diagnostics and treatment, including advanced surgical options. Doctors here have over 30 years of experience treating complex epilepsy cases.
Epilepsy Consultation and Diagnostics
The consultation program includes a full neurological evaluation. Patients meet with epileptologists who specialize in treatment-resistant epilepsy. The diagnostic workup typically includes:
- Neurologist consultation ($950-$1,200)
- EEG examination during wakefulness and sleep ($940-$1,250)
- Brain MRI with contrast enhancement ($1,450-$2,200)
- Blood tests including antiepileptic drug levels ($260-$370)
Dr. Firas Fahum leads the Epilepsy and EEG Department. He has 30 years of experience in neurology. Dr. Fahum specializes in epilepsy surgery, intracranial monitoring, and laser ablation therapy. He completed his fellowship at Montreal Neurological Institute.
For pediatric cases, the clinic offers consultations with specialists in childhood epilepsy. Dr. Uri Kramer has treated over 7,000 children with epilepsy. He developed a novel epilepsy alarm system. Professor Aviva Fatal-Valevski specializes in neurometabolic and neurogenetic epilepsy in children.
Treatment Options
About 70% of epilepsy patients receive medication treatment. Doctors use FLAIR technology for precise diagnosis. This helps select the most effective drugs.
For drug-resistant epilepsy, the clinic offers surgical options. Neurosurgeons perform MRI-guided laser ablations. This minimally invasive procedure has a 75% success rate. The Rosa robotic system allows surgeons to reach deep brain targets with less than 1mm accuracy.
Online consultations are available for $950-$1,100. Patients send their medical records and EEG results before the video call. The doctor reviews all data and recommends next steps.
Why Choose Ichilov
Newsweek ranked Ichilov among the World's Best Hospitals in 2021. The clinic has a 4.5 rating from over 150 patient reviews. 91% of patients recommend the center to others.
The International Medical Department coordinates care for foreign patients. They arrange appointments, provide interpreters, and assist with travel planning.
Contact the clinic to schedule your epilepsy consultation. The medical team will review your case and create a personalized treatment plan.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Bumrungrad International — best hospital for epilepsy in Thailand and Southeast Asia
Bumrungrad International is a leading epilepsy hospital in Asia, providing a complete range of diagnostic services and treatment options. The hospital offers comprehensive screening packages at half the cost of individual procedures. Known for its innovative use of stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG), it helps identify the origins of seizures in the brain, especially in children.
- Bumrungrad Hospital is popular among international patients for the excellent level of neurosurgery. 25 neurologists and neurosurgeons help patients with epilepsy to get rid of the disease.
- Bumrungrad specialists are the first in Thailand to perform SEEG (stereoelectroencephalography) for children. It is a surgical intervention that helps to determine the exact epileptic foci in the brain.
- SEEG helps to make the diagnosis of epilepsy more accurate and choose the most appropriate treatment method.
- The epilepsy treatment cost at Bumrungrad is 2-3 times lower than in European facilities. However, it is 2-3 times higher than in Indian and Turkish ones. The price mainly depends on the treatment method and epileptic foci location.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Severance Clinic in South Korea — best children's hospital for epilepsy in Asia
Severance Clinic offers exceptional epilepsy care for both children and adults, with a focus on ketogenic diets and surgical treatment for complex cases. The hospital's epileptologists use surgical options to treat seizures and have achieved a 70% success rate in reducing seizure activity in patients. Severance also provides personalized treatment plans, ensuring the best outcomes for patients with difficult-to-control epilepsy.
- Severance doctors are considered outstanding specialists in epilepsy therapy for children and adults within South Korea. Medication and surgical treatment methods are available at Severance.
- Severance Hospital provides medication and surgical methods to treat epilepsy. 60% of patients undergo surgery.
- In 70% of cases, the surgery is successful. According to the Severance data, 60% of patients have no seizures after the surgery at all, and 15% of people have their reduction.
- The exact cost of brain surgery for epilepsy treatment depends on the surgical type and seizures foci location.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery | $50000 - $70000 |
Valued Med Hub Hospitals — Leading Multidisciplinary Care in Turkey
Valued Med Hub Hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey is a private medical center specializing in neurosurgery, oncology, ophthalmology, organ transplants, and plastic surgery. The hospital provides expert care to adults and children, focusing on advanced treatment and patient well-being. It is certified by the Turkish Medical Association and holds the International Health Tourism Authorization.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) surgery for epilepsy at VMH Hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey starts from $21,500 USD. The clinic offers two advanced VNS device options with comprehensive packages that include all medical services, hospitalization, and follow-up care. Prof. Dr. Sait Ozturk, a neurosurgeon with 15 years of experience, leads the treatment program.
VNS Device Options
The clinic provides two VNS systems for epilepsy management. The Smart VNS uses Model 106 Aspire Epilepsy Battery. This option requires seven adjustment sessions over two months. Patients stay in Turkey for approximately 8 weeks for the complete treatment cycle.
The Ultra-Smart VNS features Model 1000 Sentiva with automatic battery adjustment. This advanced system reduces the need for frequent manual adjustments. The stay duration varies based on individual recovery needs. Prices range from $21,500 to $27,500 USD depending on the chosen device.
What's Included in the Package
Both VNS packages cover all essential medical services:
- Surgeon, assistant surgeon, and anesthesiologist fees
- Operating room charges
- 1-2 days hospitalization in a standard room
- Pre-operative laboratory tests and radiology
- Medical equipment and supplies
- Procedure-related medications
- Airport and hospital transfers
- Initial battery settings after surgery
Diagnostic Evaluation
Before VNS surgery, patients undergo a diagnostic package priced at $2,500-$3,500 USD. This includes consultations with both a neurosurgeon and neurologist. The evaluation also covers brain MRI and video EEG monitoring. These tests help determine if VNS surgery is the right treatment option.
Medical Expertise
Prof. Dr. Sait Ozturk specializes in epilepsy surgery and functional neurosurgery. He provides technical support to physicians across Asia and Central Asia. The doctor is a board member of the Turkish Neurosurgical Society's Epilepsy Surgery Group. His expertise covers stereotactic procedures and VNS implantation.
VMH Hospitals holds accreditation from the Turkish Medical Association. The facility has authorization for international health tourism. The neurology and neurosurgery departments work together to provide comprehensive epilepsy care.
Cash payment is preferred at VMH Hospitals. Card payments include a 20% surcharge. Contact the clinic for a personalized treatment plan and to discuss your specific case with the medical team.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Vagus nerve stimulation | $27500 - $35000 |
| Deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery | $25000 - $28000 |
How to Find a Good Epilepsy Surgeon?
When searching for a good epilepsy surgeon, it's essential to consider several factors that reflect the surgeon's qualifications and the quality of care they can provide.
👉The best epilepsy centers worldwide will have specialists with years of experience. Ensure the doctors are trained in epilepsy treatment and are members of respected organizations like the American Epilepsy Society (AES) or the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE).
Here's how to find the right professional:
Certifications and qualifications. The best epilepsy surgeons should be certified by reputable organizations and associations to ensure they meet high medical standards. Look for surgeons who are certified by internationally recognized bodies, such as:
- American Board of Neurological Surgery (ABNS);
- The Royal College of Surgeons (RCS);
- ISO 13485.
Training and education. A good epilepsy surgeon should have completed advanced training in neurosurgery with a focus on epilepsy treatment.
Surgeons who pursue additional fellowships or training in specialized fields like epilepsy surgery, functional neurosurgery, or neurostimulation techniques are better equipped to handle complex cases. Notable institutions providing specialized training include:
- Mayo Clinic.
- Reputation and peer recognition. Research whether the surgeon is recognized by their peers in the medical community. Many top surgeons are members of prestigious associations like the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) or American Epilepsy Society (AES). These memberships often indicate the surgeon's active involvement in research and continuous professional development.
- Experience with specialized epilepsy procedures. Surgeons with expertise in epilepsy surgery should have a long history of performing specialized procedures, such as lobectomy, hemispherectomy, or deep brain stimulation (DBS).
💚 Bookimed works with verified professionals, ensuring that all surgeons within our network meet high standards of care and expertise.
Antonio Russi
📍 Centro Médico Teknon, Barcelona, Spain
Prof. Antonio Russi, a top epileptologist with 53 years of experience in Teknon, Spain, specializes in non-surgical epilepsy treatment. He leads the Epilepsy Russi Institute, has treated over 2,000 patients, and is recognized in Forbes' Top 100 Spanish doctors.
Baris Metin
📍 NP Istanbul Brain Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
Dr. Baris Metin is an epilepsy specialist with 25 years of experience at NP Istanbul Brain Hospital, Turkey. He focuses on medication management, VNS therapy, the ketogenic diet, and surgical treatments. Certified in EEG, he has practiced in Turkey and Belgium and has numerous scientific publications.
Veronika Chernuha
📍Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov), Tel Aviv, Israel
Dr. Veronika Chernuha is a neurologist and pediatrician with 30 years of experience at Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov), Israel. She specializes in pediatric neurology, epilepsy, and post-neurosurgical care, including deep brain stimulation (DBS) and epilepsy surgery.
FAQ
▶ What is a comprehensive epilepsy center?
Epilepsy center is a medical division, where doctors provide comprehensive care for patients with seizures of different types and severity. Such a division usually works on the premises of a particular hospital. Doctors working at such centers are called epileptologists. They carry out the most innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, develop the new ones.
▶ Why do patients choose epilepsy centers abroad?
There are 3 main reasons why international patients look for leading epilepsy centers abroad:
- medication therapy in their native country doesn't work
- severe and frequent seizures in children, which can lead to developmental delay and therefore it is necessary to carry out a comprehensive diagnosis in the shortest term to prescribe the correct treatment
- epileptic attacks do not stop, although all available therapies have been tried
Compare and get additional information on
The prices for diagnostic tests and therapy in the top epilepsy clinics worldwide
▶ Where are the best epilepsy centers in the world located?
According to the Bookimed data, the best epilepsy centers in the world providing excellent treatment are located in Spain, South Korea, Turkey, and Israel.
▶ What is a level 4 epilepsy center?
A level 4 epilepsy center is a facility that provides an advanced care level for people suffering epilepsy and seizure disorders. Such medical services take place on hospital premises as intensive neuro-evaluation of complex diseases forms + medical, neuropsychological, psychosocial therapies.
▶ What pay attention to choosing pediatric epilepsy centers?
Epilepsy in children needs a more comprehensive approach and advanced treatment. So, while searching a pediatric epilepsy center, pay attention to:
- Doctor’s experience. Check an epileptologist’s experience regarding epilepsy treatment in children. Find out how many years a specialist practices in this field, what therapies they apply, and what the result they have achieved. For clarifying the last issue, you can check patient reviews.
- New developments. Find out what options are used to treat epilepsy. Search for innovations in conservetive and surgical options to manage epilepsy cases.
- General conditions. Specialized pediatric epilepsy centers are adapted to children: there are a lot of entertainments, hospital wards are bright and colorful. Such an environment positively impacts little patient recovery.
▶ What is the main difference between neurologists and epileptologists?
Neurologists and epileptologists both treat epilepsy. However, epileptologists research all the features of the disease's development, incl.:
- types of epileptic seizures
- effect of antiepileptic drugs on the brain
- patient's genetic and physiological characteristics led to convulsions.
This approach allows to establish a more accurate diagnosis, choose proper treatment, and eliminate the disorder.
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All medical content on this page is prepared by authors with specialized medical education and reviewed by certified physicians in the relevant field. Medical review by Fahad Mawlood, Medical Editor & Data Scientist.
Last updated: February 5, 2025.
- Statistics: Figures are based on Bookimed’s internal database December 2025, which includes analysis of 12,450 patient requests across 8 accredited clinics in Spain.
- Pricing: Cost information is provided directly by Bookimed’s partner clinics and updated regularly to reflect current 2025 market conditions. Actual expenses may differ depending on case complexity, surgeon expertise, and clinic location.
- Clinical Data: Treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction figures are collected from Bookimed’s verified clinic database and supported by data from peer-reviewed medical sources such as PubMed, The Lancet, JAMA, and NEJM (2023–2025).
All data is provided for general informational purposes and may not represent individual results or experiences.
- Epilepsy. World Health Organization (WHO). URL: https://www.who.int/health-topics/epilepsy#tab=tab_1 (date of access: 05.02.2025).
- AES | Home. Default. URL: https://www.aesnet.org/ (date of access: 05.02.2025).
- Epilepsy statistics 2025. The Checkup. URL: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/news/epilepsy-statistics/ (date of access: 05.02.2025).
- Editorial: Epidemiology of epilepsy and seizures / Z. Chen et al. Frontiers in Epidemiology. 2023. Vol. 3. URL: https://doi.org/10.3389/fepid.2023.1273163 (date of access: 05.02.2025).