
Hygeia Hospital has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Athens since 1970, earning its place as one of Greece’s most trusted hospitals and a top choice for international patients seeking high-quality care. As a founding member of the country’s largest healthcare group, Hygeia is known for bringing together medical expertise, modern technology, and a strong focus on patient well-being. Its long-standing accreditation by the Joint Commission International (JCI) is proof of this commitment, reassuring patients that the hospital meets the world’s highest standards for safety and quality.
What makes Hygeia stand out is its wide scope of specialties and its network of more than 1,000 experienced doctors. Through its Centers of Excellence, the hospital offers everything from advanced cancer therapies using radiotherapy and nuclear medicine, to complex heart surgeries and comprehensive women’s health services—supported by its renowned MITERA maternity and children’s hospital. Hygeia is also a leader in robotic and minimally invasive surgery, giving patients the benefits of quicker recovery and fewer complications.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Hygeia Hospital houses 18 modern operating theatres equipped with advanced anesthesia, imaging, and navigation systems. Specialized cardiac, neurosurgical, and orthopedic suites provide real-time monitoring and support for complex procedures.
The hospital utilizes the Da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgical System and Mako SmartRobotics for orthopedic and general surgeries. These platforms enable surgeons to operate with extreme precision through small incisions, minimizing tissue damage and recovery time.
Hygeia Hospital is equipped with some of the most advanced diagnostic technologies in Greece, including 3 Tesla MRI, 640-slice CT, PET/CT, and digital mammography.
The hospital’s rehabilitation center supports post-operative and chronic condition recovery with physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and occupational therapy services.
Key Services at Hygeia Hospital
Hygeia Hospital’s Heart Center is recognized among the best in Southeastern Europe, performing over 1,500 cardiac surgeries and interventional procedures annually. Equipped with hybrid operating theatres and digital cath labs, it offers coronary bypass surgery, valve replacement, angioplasty, and electrophysiology services.
The Oncology Center integrates medical, surgical, and radiation oncology within a single facility. Patients receive chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, guided by genetic and molecular testing.
The Neurosciences Institute provides comprehensive care for brain, spine, and peripheral nerve disorders. Equipped with neuronavigation, intraoperative MRI, and continuous neuro-monitoring, it performs complex brain tumor resections, aneurysm repairs, and spinal stabilization procedures.
Hygeia’s Orthopedic Department offers advanced solutions for musculoskeletal injuries and joint disorders. Robotic-assisted hip and knee replacements are performed with the Mako SmartRobotics system for precise alignment and faster recovery.



Greece is quickly becoming one of Europe’s most trusted destinations for general surgery. Patients from around the world travel here not only for the affordable prices but also for the advanced technology and the expertise of internationally trained surgeons. Whether you need minimally invasive procedures, gastrointestinal surgery, hernia repair, or complex oncological surgery, Greece provides safe and reliable healthcare options at costs much lower than in Western Europe or North America.
International patients are increasingly choosing Greece because of its world-class hospitals, many of which are JCI-accredited and adhere to European Union healthcare standards. Clinics in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major cities combine cutting-edge surgical techniques with compassionate patient care, supported by advanced facilities such as robotic-assisted surgery, 3D laparoscopic imaging, and state-of-the-art ICUs.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), access to safe and affordable surgery is a cornerstone of modern healthcare. Greece aligns with these principles by offering high-quality, cost-effective surgical care, making it a leading choice for medical tourism in Europe.
Modern general surgery clinics in Greece provide a wide variety of procedures, from routine operations to highly specialized interventions. Below are some of the most common procedures international patients seek
By leveraging advanced laparoscopic technology, robotic surgery systems, and EU-standard sterilization protocols, Greece ensures international patients benefit from the same level of care offered in Western Europe at significantly lower prices.
When looking for the best hospitals for general surgery in Greece, international patients should consider institutions with international accreditations, experienced surgical teams, and advanced facilities. Here are five of the top-rated options:
Hygeia Hospital – Athens
Metropolitan Hospital – Athens
Attikon University Hospital – Athens
Interbalkan Medical Center – Thessaloniki
Creta InterClinic – Heraklion, Crete
Each of these hospitals combines strict European surgical standards with the care of highly trained doctors. For international patients, that means world-class surgery with the reassurance of familiar safety protocols.
Many are also members of the European Society of Surgery (ESS), ensuring alignment with the latest surgical guidelines.
One of the main reasons patients travel to Greece for surgery is the affordable cost compared to Western Europe and the US. Below are estimated costs for common procedures
| Procedure | Estimated Cost in Greece (USD) |
| Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal) | $3,270 – $5,450 |
| Hernia Repair (Inguinal/Abdominal) | $2,725 – $4,905 |
| Thyroid Surgery | $3,815 – $6,540 |
| Colon Resection (Colectomy) | $6,540 – $10,900 |
| Bariatric Surgery (Gastric Bypass) | $7,630 – $13,080 |
According to OECD health statistics, healthcare costs in Greece are among the most competitive in Europe, with general surgery prices often 50–70% lower than in the US while maintaining high standards of care.
Beyond the lower prices, patients in Greece often find the experience smoother than at home: shorter waiting times, English-speaking staff, and clear upfront costs without hidden surprises.
Greece offers a wide range of benefits for international patients considering surgery abroad:
As the European Commission on Health Policy emphasizes, access to safe, affordable, and high-quality healthcare is essential - and Greece is increasingly recognized as a reliable hub for international surgery.
Booking surgery in another country can feel overwhelming. This is where BestClinicAbroad plays a crucial role in simplifying the process for patients.
With BestClinicAbroad, you can:
With BestClinicAbroad, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. From choosing the right clinic to arranging your stay, we make sure you feel supported every step of the way - so you can focus on your health and recovery.