Things To Consider Before Traveling Abroad for Plastic Surgery
Traveling internationally for plastic surgery, a practice commonly referred to as “plastic surgery tourism”, is far more common than many people may realize. According to the organization Patients Beyond Borders, the market for plastic surgery tourism is growing annually at a rate of 15-25 percent. This means that millions of Americans will travel abroad to undergo a plastic surgery procedure like a Brazilian Butt Lift or Breast Augmentation this year alone. Today, our expert plastic surgeons wanted to discuss plastic surgery tourism in more detail, and why we believe the risks far outweigh the rewards.
Why People Do It
While it’s true that there are excellent plastic surgeons practicing all over the world, cost is often a major determining factor when a patient chooses to partake in plastic surgery tourism. And this is understandable, especially in more economically precarious times. However, from what we’ve seen, the money that some people save on the front end of this process is not worth the possible complications and issues that traveling for plastic surgery can create (including financial ones potentially).
Why We Advise Against It
For any surgery, safety is a major factor that simply cannot be ignored, even in the case of relatively “minor” cosmetic procedures. Regardless of the quality of the surgeon performing the procedure, lower safety standards in regards to the use of unsterile equipment or surgical tools in some other countries can put a patient at risk.
Post-surgery is another thing to strongly consider. For instance, the post-surgery recovery period is a time for patients to heal and help promote the best-possible results from their surgery. It’s important for patients to recover somewhere comfortable, preferably from their own homes, and not have to worry about long-distance travel (specifically air travel) that is common in instances of plastic surgery tourism. Follow-up appointments after plastic surgery are also critical for allowing a plastic surgeon to confirm that the patient is recovering properly and not experiencing any potential complications. Undergoing plastic surgery internationally can make it essentially impossible to have proper in-person follow-up appointments, both after the procedure and in the ensuing years.
While we understand the impulse that would lead someone to consider plastic surgery tourism, the potential downside and long-term risks associated with this practice make it difficult to recommend. For more information or if you would like to schedule a plastic surgery consultation at one of our Atlanta area locations, contact Atlanta Plastic Surgery today. Don’t forget to follow along with us on Facebook and Twitter for additional plastic surgery tips and news and much more.
