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 with Prof. Antonio Russi. The program costs approximately $21,000 and includes 5 days of inpatient care with video-EEG monitoring and medication adjustment. Prof. Russi is ranked among Forbes' Top 100 Spanish doctors and has treated over 2,000 epilepsy patients with a 70% success rate using personalized medication therapy.
Prof. Antonio Russi is a neurologist and epileptologist specializing in severe epilepsy. He has 53 years of experience in the field. The doctor uses EEG and video monitoring to create individualized drug treatment plans. He leads both the Russi Epilepsy Institute and the Epilepsy Unit at Teknon Hospital.
Treatment Approach
The program focuses on non-surgical epilepsy management. Patients stay in the hospital for 5 days with continuous video-EEG monitoring. During this time, doctors adjust medications based on real-time brain activity. This approach helps find the right drug combination for each patient.
One day of hospitalization with 24-hour video-EEG monitoring costs €4,500. The package includes consultation with a neurologist, genetic screening, and brain MRI with contrast. It also covers pharmacogenetic studies, complex epilepsy diagnostics, and brain FDG-PET scans.
Surgical Options
For patients who need surgery, Teknon offers several options. The clinic uses robotic Stereo-EEG (SEEG) with coagulation of the epileptic focus. This technique has a 90% success rate in identifying seizure origins. Other surgical treatments include microsurgery with resection and vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) implantation.
A consultation with neurosurgeon Dr. Bartolomé Oliver costs €565. Additional diagnostics like PET-CT, MRI, and genetic testing cost €2,000–€2,500 when needed. These tests are charged separately and performed only if medically indicated.
Clinic Recognition
Centro Médico Teknon is recognized as the 3rd best neurological facility in Spain. The clinic appears in Newsweek's World's Best Hospitals 2021 list. It has a 4.7 rating based on 433 patient reviews. 94% of patients recommend the clinic to others.
The clinic excels in epilepsy treatment. It holds patient choice awards for epilepsy treatment, neurosurgery, and neurology. Professional interpreters assist international patients during consultations. The consultation with Prof. Russi lasts up to one hour and includes a medical interpreter.
Flights, transfers, and hotel stays are not included in the package price. The final program and cost may change after an in-person consultation. Contact the clinic to discuss your individual case and receive a personalized treatment plan.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Vagus nerve stimulation | $52845.34 - $55194.02 |
| Stereotaxic surgeries | $29358.52 - $76332.16 |
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 diagnosis and treatment. Prices range from USD 100 to USD 20,000 depending on the services. The hospital has JCI accreditation and advanced neurology equipment.
The clinic provides comprehensive epilepsy care. Diagnostic services include neurological examinations, EEG monitoring, brain MRI, and blood tests. Treatment options range from medication management to surgical interventions. The hospital performs Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) for complex cases.
Diagnostic Services
A standard neurological examination costs USD 150-305. A 24-hour EEG ranges from USD 850 to USD 1,300. Brain MRI is priced at USD 350-900, depending on whether anesthesia is needed. Blood tests cost USD 400-800. Some packages include genetic testing (WES) for USD 750-800.
The diagnostic process typically takes 15-20 days. Doctors review previous medical records and imaging studies. They compare new test results with existing data to determine the best treatment approach.
Medical Team
Prof. Dr. Kürşad Aydın leads the pediatric neurology department. He has 28 years of experience (working since 1997). Dr. Aydın specializes in epilepsy treatment, including medication management, ketogenic diet therapy, and surgical interventions. He has performed over 900 procedures.
Prof. Dr. Erkengül Birday also treats epilepsy patients. She has published 17 international articles and 10 national papers. Both doctors are members of professional neurology associations.
Surgical Options
Epilepsy surgery costs USD 15,000-20,000. The hospital offers several surgical approaches. Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) helps control seizures through electrical stimulation. Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) is another option for drug-resistant epilepsy.
Before surgery, patients receive medication for one week. If there is no improvement, doctors evaluate them for surgical intervention. Hospital stay for surgery is typically 3 days, with one week of follow-up care afterward.
Hospital Facilities
Medipol Mega University Hospital has 810 beds and 127 intensive care units. The hospital received JCI accreditation and was the first in Turkey to earn JCI Academic Accreditation in 2013. This recognizes its role in education and research.
The neurology department uses advanced technology. The hospital has 1.5T and 3T MRI scanners, 16- and 256-slice CT scanners, and PET-CT equipment. Brain surgery departments use intraoperative navigation and intraoperative MRI. The facility also has Gamma Knife and CyberKnife systems.
International Patient Services
The hospital provides services in 30 languages through 230 staff members. International patients receive VIP assistance and translation services during procedures. All medical reports are translated into English.
The hospital arranges airport transfers and accommodation. Special rates are available for hotels near the facility. An International VIP Lounge is accessible to patients.
Treatment Process
The treatment plan depends on diagnostic results. Doctors first perform a physical examination and collect detailed medical history. They order necessary tests like EEG, MRI, and blood work.
For some patients, lumbar puncture may be needed to check for inflammation or infection. This costs USD 2,000-3,000. Results determine whether medication therapy or surgery is appropriate.
Package Details
Diagnostic packages typically include:
- Neurological examination
- 24-hour EEG monitoring
- Brain MRI
- Blood tests
- Follow-up consultation within 9 days
Packages do not cover medications for pre-existing conditions, personal expenses, or extended hospital stays beyond the indicated period. Prices are estimates and may change if complications occur or the treatment plan is modified.
Payment and Pricing
Payment is expected before or on the first appointment date. The hospital accepts credit cards, cash (EUR or USD), and bank transfers. All foreign exchange rate changes are reflected in final prices.
Hospitalization costs USD 350 per day plus additional expenses. Total daily costs range from USD 1,000 to USD 1,300 for ward stays. Intensive care costs USD 750 per day plus expenses, totaling USD 1,000-1,500 daily.
Quoted prices are valid until December 31, 2025. Final charges are determined after treatment is completed. Weekly bill reviews ensure transparency during longer stays.
Contact the hospital's international department to discuss your epilepsy case and receive a personalized treatment plan. The team will help arrange your visit and answer questions about costs and procedures.
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 Ulus in Istanbul, Turkey offers comprehensive epilepsy diagnosis and treatment programs. The cost starts from 1,640 USD for basic evaluation. The hospital is JCI-accredited and uses advanced technologies including the da Vinci surgical robot and Versa HD device.
Diagnostic Evaluation
The epilepsy diagnostic program includes several key procedures. A pediatric neurologist consultation costs 160-200 USD. Brain MRI ranges from 510-805 USD depending on the type. EEG monitoring is priced at 220-2,029 USD based on duration. Laboratory tests cost 200-2,105 USD depending on complexity.
For children with suspected epilepsy, doctors recommend in-person examination first. This helps confirm the diagnosis. Tests like EEG and brain MRI follow. The clinic may also recommend genetic testing and blood work. Total diagnostic packages range from 1,640-3,860 USD.
Treatment Approach
Prof. Dr. Gülşen Köse leads the pediatric neurology team. She has 1,982 years of experience (2025 - 43). Prof. Dr. Ayhan Ozturk and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Emre Altunrende also review complex cases.
Treatment plans are individualized. For some patients, medication therapy is sufficient. Others may need surgical treatment of epilepsy. The clinic evaluates vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) for intractable cases. Brain neurostimulator implantation is available when appropriate.
The doctors emphasize that final treatment decisions come after full evaluation. They review EEG results, MRI images, and lab tests. Then they create a personalized plan. Regular follow-up helps adjust medications and monitor progress.
What's Included
The hospital provides several complimentary services. Airport transfers are free. A Russian-speaking interpreter accompanies patients throughout treatment. Medical report translation is included. Hotel booking assistance is available at no charge.
The clinic requires COVID-19 screening before any examination. This costs 80 USD for PCR and antibody tests. Accommodation is not included in program prices. Patients must arrange their own hotel stays.
Hospital Facilities
Liv Hospital Ulus treats about 50,000 international patients yearly. The clinic has a 4.5 rating from 211 patient reviews. 91% of clients recommend it to others. The hospital offers services in 25 languages.
The facility has a GMP-certified laboratory. It provides care in over 150 specialties. The hospital is part of Turkey's largest hospital group. Patients come from more than 180 countries.
Planning Your Visit
Most diagnostic evaluations take 3-4 days. No hospital admission is needed for initial workup. Patients stay in nearby hotels. The clinic arranges all appointments and tests efficiently.
All prices are estimates. Final costs depend on examination results. The clinic confirms exact prices after initial consultation. Payment is expected before or on the first appointment day. Credit card, cash, and bank transfer are accepted.
Contact Liv Hospital's International Patients Department to discuss your epilepsy treatment options and receive a personalized evaluation plan.
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.
Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv, Israel, offers online epilepsy consultations with leading specialists. A Zoom consultation costs between 950 and 1,200 USD. The clinic provides remote expert opinions from experienced neurologists and epileptologists without the need to travel.
Dr. Veronika Chernuha, a neurologist and epileptologist, conducts online consultations for 950–1,100 USD. She has 29 years of experience. Dr. Chernuha specializes in pediatric neurology and epilepsy treatment. She is a senior physician at the Institute of Pediatric Neurology at Dana-Dwek Children's Hospital. Her focus includes drug-resistant epilepsy and cerebral palsy.
Dr. Firas Fahum offers Zoom consultations for 950 USD. He has 30 years of experience. Dr. Fahum is Director of the Epilepsy and EEG Department at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center. He specializes in epilepsy surgery and laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT). Dr. Fahum is listed among Israel's best doctors by Forbes.
Professor Uri Kramer provides Skype consultations for 1,200–1,400 USD. He has over 50 years of experience. Professor Kramer is a pediatric epileptologist and former President of the Israeli Epilepsy Association. He developed a novel epilepsy alarm system. He has treated more than 7,000 children with epilepsy.
What the Consultation Includes
Before the consultation, you must send all medical reports and test results. This includes EEG tracings, brain MRI images, and blood test results. The doctor will review all your data during the video call. They will explain your diagnosis and discuss treatment options.
After the consultation, the doctor may recommend additional tests. These help clarify your condition. The expert will then present the best treatment options for your case. You decide which option to pursue.
How It Works
The clinic coordinates everything through its Medical Tourism Department. A Russian-speaking coordinator assists throughout the process. All consultations are scheduled by appointment. You need to provide a copy of your passport to book a time slot.
The consultation takes place via Zoom or Skype. You speak directly with the specialist. The session typically lasts one hour. The doctor answers all your questions about epilepsy treatment.
If you need further care, the clinic can arrange in-person visits. Ichilov is ranked among the world's best hospitals by Newsweek. The clinic has a 4.5 rating based on 151 patient reviews. 84% of patients recommend it.
Contact Ichilov's Medical Tourism Department to schedule your online epilepsy consultation. Get expert advice from Israel's leading epilepsy specialists from home.
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.
Valued Med Hub Hospitals in Istanbul, Turkey offers Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) surgery for epilepsy management. The Smart VNS option costs USD 23,500 to 40,500. The Ultra-Smart VNS ranges from USD 25,500 to 45,500. Experienced neurosurgeons with over 20 years of practice perform these procedures.
VNS is a surgical treatment for epilepsy that doesn't respond to medication. A small device is implanted under the skin. It sends electrical signals to the vagus nerve in the neck. These signals help reduce seizure frequency.
Two VNS Device Options
The clinic offers two types of devices. The Smart VNS (Model 106 Aspire) requires adjustments every two weeks. Patients need seven total adjustments over approximately two months in Turkey. The Ultra-Smart VNS (Model 1000 Sentiva) has automatic adjustment. It uses a smart battery that adjusts itself. This reduces the stay duration.
Diagnostic Package
Before surgery, patients undergo a diagnostic evaluation. The package costs USD 2,500 to 3,500. It includes consultations with a neurosurgeon and neurologist. Brain MRI and video EEG monitoring are also part of the assessment. These tests confirm if VNS is suitable.
What's Included in Surgery
The VNS package covers all essential services. Surgeon, assistant, and anesthesiologist fees are included. Operating room charges and medical supplies are part of the price. Patients stay one to three days in a standard hospital room. Pre-operative lab tests and imaging are covered. Post-surgery, the device receives two to three battery adjustments. Airport and hospital transfers are provided.
Experienced Surgical Team
Associate Professor Sait Ozturk leads the VNS program. He has 25 years of neurosurgery experience. He has performed about 1,100 procedures. Dr. Ozturk specializes in epilepsy surgery and functional neurosurgery. He is a board member of the Turkish Neurosurgical Society's epilepsy surgery group.
Associate Professor Dogan Gucluhan Guclu also performs VNS procedures. He has 22 years of experience with over 900 surgeries. His patient rating is 4.9 out of 5. Both surgeons are members of the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies.
Hospital Facilities
VNS surgery takes place at VMH Florya or VMH Bahçelievler hospitals. Both are part of Valued Med Hub network in Istanbul. The hospitals hold Turkish Medical Association accreditation. They have authorization for international health tourism. The facilities specialize in neurosurgery, including stereotactic procedures. They also offer Deep Brain Stimulation for complex epilepsy cases.
Treatment Process
Surgery typically lasts one to two days. Hospitalization is brief, usually one day for VNS. For Smart VNS, patients stay about two months for adjustments. Ultra-Smart VNS patients can leave sooner due to automatic settings. The clinic provides 24/7 support throughout treatment.
Cash payment is preferred. Card payments include a 20% surcharge. Accommodation is not included in the package price. The clinic serves patients from Europe, CIS countries, and Arab League states. Patient reviews show 97-98% recommendation rates.
Contact Valued Med Hub Hospitals to discuss your epilepsy treatment options. Their team can review your medical records and confirm VNS suitability.
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).