The internet offers great-sounding package deals to Mexico, the Philippines, Costa Rica, and Brazil, incorporating tours, resort stays, poolside pampering and plastic surgery all for one inexpensive price, often half the price or less than the same cosmetic procedures in the U.S. And because of the vast difference in price, medical tourism is on the rise. But is it safe to save that bit of money and have your breast augmentation, tummy tuck, face lift or liposuction abroad?
Choosing a Surgeon
To choose a plastic surgeon close to home, you'd hopefully check his or her credentials and disciplinary record; research their education; make sure they are board certified by a reputable plastic surgery organization, such as the American Board of Plastic surgery; meet with the surgeon for at least one consultation; research the surgical facility; and repeat the entire process until you are satisfied you are choosing well.
Shopping abroad, the process can be a little more difficult, but there are tools that can help. The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery offers a surgeon-finder tool on their website listing surgeons in 73 countries who meet U.S. standards. But even with these tools, there are still questions to be answered and risks to consider.
The Consultation
Many surgical tourism patients don't meet with their doctors before the day of surgery. The consultation is the patient's chance to gets a sense of the surgeon they are considering, explain what they expect from their surgery, have questions answered and voice concerns. It is also when a reputable surgeon gets a feel for the patient-- gets to know their expectations, medical history, and body type and begins to create a surgical plan. The consultation should be an early step in the evaluation process, not the last one before the procedure.
Recovery and After-Care
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the "vacation" activities that lure many have no place in plastic surgery recovery.
"Vacation activities should be avoided after surgery. To properly heal and reduce the possibility of complications, patients should not sunbath, drink alcohol, swim/snorkel, water ski/jet ski, parasail, take extensive tours (walking or bus), or exercise after surgery."
It's important to remember that plastic surgery is real surgery, not a vacation activity. Be skeptical of any agency or clinic that plays up the "vacation" or "resort" aspect.
The ASPS also warns of limited follow-up care included in many of these packages combined with the risk of infection and complications attributed to surgical vacations abroad. When complications arise, many patients are on their own. Long flights too soon after surgery is also a risk to watch out for. It can lead to swelling and infection, as well as blood clots and pulmonary embolism. It's advised to wait up to 10 days after surgery before flying home. Because of these factors, follow-up care offered by a package deal is an essential thing to consider before booking a surgery.
Unsatisfactory Results
A bargain is only a bargain if nothing goes wrong. The financial cost of revision surgery can far outweigh what the initial procedure may have cost in the U.S. It should also be noted that due in part to legal reasons, patients who have had cosmetic surgeries outside the U.S. may not easily find a reputable plastic surgeon at home to treat complications or perform the revisions they need.
For more information on cosmetic surgery, Conroe, Texas plastic surgeon Dr. Kim can answer you questions.
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