Cosmetic surgery is growing in popularity as people look to procedures that will help them both look and feel their best. Travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery is an option preferred by many, but it is important to be aware of both the benefits and drawbacks so that you can make an informed decision. Keep reading to find out more.
Advantages of Cosmetic Surgery Abroad
There are a handful of reasons why people opt to go abroad for cosmetic surgery. One of the main benefits is that it is often a lot cheaper than getting a procedure at home, even when you factor in the travel costs.
People can also get easy access to specialised procedures from highly talented surgeons, which can provide excellent results. People can also combine treatment with travel, and there are even some package deals that can include surgery, accommodation, and post-operative care.
Risks & Challenges
While there are benefits, there are also risks and challenges to be aware of. Medical negligence can be an issue, which can lead to issues that are hard to address abroad.
This is why medical negligence solicitors should be contacted if anything goes wrong. It is important to be aware of the legal and medical standards of the destination country before making a decision.
Importance of Thorough Research & Choosing Reputable Clinics
It is always important to conduct thorough research to select qualified surgeons and accredited facilities. You should verify the credentials of the surgeon and clinic and ensure adherence to international medical standards. Additionally, find reviews from previous patients to gain an insight into the patient experience and what to expect.
Recent Developments & Warnings from UK Authorities
You should also be aware that UK health authorities have warned about the dangers of low-cost cosmetic surgeries abroad. Comments were made following a spate of deaths among women who died after travelling to Turkey for aesthetic treatment, including a Brazilian butt lift (BBL).
Wes Streeting, Health Secretary, commented on the trend of people seeking surgery abroad:
“My strong advice to British travellers is, if the offer looks too good to be true, I suspect it is too good to be true,”. “[People should] think very carefully before flying overseas, paying what looks like a kind of rock-bottom attractive price, because you may end up paying the consequences for years to come as a result of injuries, which in the worst cases can be life-changing.”
There is a lot to consider if you are thinking about getting cosmetic surgery abroad. It is important to be aware of the benefits and drawbacks and perform due diligence to ensure you choose a reputable clinic.
Top 10 Destinations for Medical Tourism
Here are some of the main destinations for medical tourism:
- Thailand
- Key Cities: Bangkok, Phuket
- Specialties: Cosmetic surgery, dental care, orthopedics, and wellness treatments.
- Highlights: Renowned for high-quality hospitals like Bumrungrad International Hospital and Bangkok Hospital.
- India
- Key Cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai
- Specialties: Cardiac surgery, orthopedics, cancer treatment, and alternative medicine (Ayurveda).
- Highlights: Cost-effective treatments with world-class facilities, such as Apollo Hospitals and Fortis Healthcare.
- Turkey
- Key Cities: Istanbul, Ankara, Antalya
- Specialties: Hair transplants, cosmetic surgery, dental care, and eye surgery.
- Highlights: Known for affordable and high-quality care, with hospitals like Acibadem and Memorial.
- South Korea
- Key Cities: Seoul, Busan
- Specialties: Plastic surgery, dermatology, and cancer treatment.
- Highlights: Advanced technology and expertise in cosmetic procedures, with facilities like Asan Medical Center.
- Mexico
- Key Cities: Tijuana, Cancun, Mexico City
- Specialties: Dental care, cosmetic surgery, and bariatric surgery.
- Highlights: Proximity to the U.S. and affordable prices, with hospitals like Hospital Angeles.
- Singapore
- Key Cities: Singapore City
- Specialties: Oncology, cardiology, and neurology.
- Highlights: Cutting-edge technology and highly trained medical professionals, with institutions like Mount Elizabeth Hospital.
- Germany
- Key Cities: Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt
- Specialties: Orthopedics, oncology, and cardiovascular surgery.
- Highlights: Known for precision and high standards in medical care, with facilities like Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin.
- Costa Rica
- Key Cities: San José
- Specialties: Dental care, cosmetic surgery, and bariatric surgery.
- Highlights: Affordable and high-quality care, with hospitals like Clinica Biblica.
- Malaysia
- Key Cities: Kuala Lumpur, Penang
- Specialties: Cardiology, fertility treatments, and orthopedics.
- Highlights: Competitive pricing and excellent healthcare facilities, such as Gleneagles Kuala Lumpur.
10. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Key Cities: Dubai, Abu Dhabi
- Specialties: Orthopedics, cosmetic surgery, and wellness treatments.
- Highlights: State-of-the-art facilities and luxury healthcare experiences, with hospitals like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
11. Brazil
- Key Cities: São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro
- Specialties: Cosmetic surgery, dental care, and bariatric surgery.
- Highlights: Renowned for plastic surgery expertise, with facilities like Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein.
12. Hungary
- Key Cities: Budapest
- Specialties: Dental care, cosmetic surgery, and wellness treatments.
- Highlights: Known for affordable dental tourism, with clinics like Implantcenter Budapest.
13. Spain
- Key Cities: Barcelona, Madrid
- Specialties: Fertility treatments, cosmetic surgery, and orthopedics.
- Highlights: High-quality healthcare system, with hospitals like Quirónsalud.
14. Taiwan
- Key Cities: Taipei, Kaohsiung
- Specialties: Orthopedics, cancer treatment, and cosmetic surgery.
- Highlights: Advanced medical technology and affordable care, with facilities like National Taiwan University Hospital.
15. Jordan
- Key Cities: Amman
- Specialties: Fertility treatments, cosmetic surgery, and cardiac care.
- Highlights: Known for high-quality care at competitive prices, with hospitals like King Hussein Cancer Center.
Summary of Factors to Consider on Medical Tourism:
- Accreditation: Look for hospitals accredited by international organizations like JCI (Joint Commission International).
- Language: Ensure the facility offers services in your preferred language.
- Travel and Recovery: Plan for post-treatment recovery and accommodation.
- Cost: Compare costs, including travel, treatment, and aftercare.
Medical tourism can offer significant benefits, but it’s essential to research thoroughly and consult with healthcare professionals before making a decision.