Prof. Elmacı’s journey began with his medical education at Ankara University School of Medicine, followed by neurosurgical specialization at Bakırköy Mental and Neurological Diseases Hospital, Dr. Zeki Oral Clinic in 1987. His passion for neurosurgery led him to train at some of the most prestigious institutions, including Zurich University’s, Prof. M. Gazi Yaşargil Clinic, where he honed his skills in microsurgery.
His dedication to neurosurgical innovation, he expanded his expertise in neurooncology and vascular neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins University, working alongside renowned specialists are Prof. Donlin M. Long and Prof. Daniele Rigamonti. Later, he further refined his techniques in endoscopic skull base surgery at the University of Pittsburgh.
Between 1993 and 2003, Prof. İlhan Elmacı played a pivotal role as a faculty member at Marmara University School of Medicine, specifically at the Prof. Necmettin Pamir Clinic, contributing to research, education, and advanced neurosurgical procedures. His academic excellence was recognized in 2003, when he earned the title of Associate Professor in Neurosurgery.
From 2004 to 2010, he served as Chief of Neurosurgery at the Ministry of Health Göztepe Training and Research Hospital, where he led groundbreaking advancements, including securing accreditation from the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS) for the department.
In addition to his extensive experience in neurosurgery, he is known for his strong belief in the necessity of a highly skilled team and advanced technology to address any challenges. With this perspective, he provided high-quality neurosurgical services and conducted research programs at leading healthcare institutions, including Acıbadem, Medipol, Memorial, and Liv Hospital Ulus, between 2010 and 2023. In 2021, he established the Elmacı Neurosurgery Clinic for research, education, and patient consultations.
Prof. Elmacı is the founder of the Skull Base Society and served as its president from 2016 to 2021. He was also an active member of the Executive Committee of the European Skull Base Society (ESBS).
Since November 2023, he has continued his work with his experienced team at İstanbul Florence Nightingale Hospital.
Over the years, he has led neurosurgical departments in top-tier hospitals, contributed to significant research, and played a key role in training the next generation of neurosurgeons. Recognizing the need for an institution that combines multidisciplinary collaboration, advanced technology, and patient-centered care, Prof. Elmacı founded Elmacı Neurosurgery Institute with the goal of establishing a global center of excellence in neurosurgery.