Going Abroad For Surgery: Is It Worth the Risk?

In 2017, 28,000 cosmetic surgery procedures took place in the UK, according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). Breast augmentations were the most popular procedure, with over 8,000 performed on both men and women. While this figure was lower than the previous years, the demand for plastic surgery remained significant. The costs varied, with breast augmentations ranging from £3,500 to £5,500 and facelifts between £4,000 and £6,000, highlighting both the financial and medical risks involved.

By 2022, cosmetic surgery saw a significant resurgence, with BAAPS reporting 31,057 procedures, marking a 102% increase from the previous year. This was the highest annual increase since the audit began in 2004. The post-pandemic period saw pent-up demand driving the numbers beyond pre-pandemic levels.

Women accounted for 93% of these procedures, with breast augmentations remaining highly popular, increasing by 67%. Other procedures like breast reductions and abdominoplasties saw increases of 122% and 129%, respectively. Men also showed increased interest, with their procedures rising by 118%, including a notable 158% increase in chest reductions​​.

However, in 2023, the number of procedures decreased by 16%, totaling 25,972, likely due to economic downturns and increased complications from surgeries performed abroad. Despite this, the popularity of certain procedures like facelifts and eyelid surgeries remained stable, indicating a shift towards facial surgeries amid economic uncertainties​.

Medical Tourism and Its Risks

Medical tourism has become increasingly popular as individuals seek more affordable options for cosmetic procedures abroad. The allure of significantly lower costs — breast augmentations for around £2,000 and facelifts for under £2,000 — draws many to destinations outside their home countries. However, this trend comes with considerable risks that should be carefully weighed.

While the initial cost savings can be substantial, the potential risks of undergoing surgery abroad are significant. One of the primary risks includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that can develop from prolonged immobility during flights shortly after surgery. DVT can lead to life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism if not promptly addressed. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid flying immediately after surgery to mitigate this risk.

Language barriers present another significant risk. Miscommunications between patients and healthcare providers can lead to misunderstandings about the procedure, postoperative care, and potential complications.

The standards of hygiene and medical care in some destinations may not be on par with those in the patient’s home country. Inadequate sterilization and substandard facilities can increase the risk of infections and complications post-surgery.

Benefits of Surgery Abroad

Despite the risks, successful outcomes from cosmetic surgeries abroad can be transformative, offering substantial cost savings and the opportunity to recuperate in a relaxing environment. Some surgeons abroad are highly skilled, providing quality results comparable to those in the UK. Surveys indicate high satisfaction rates among those who opt for plastic surgery abroad, with 97% willing to repeat the experience and 96% recommending it to others​.

Popular Countries for Medical Tourism

Several countries are known for their robust medical tourism sectors, offering a combination of affordability and high-quality care:

1. Thailand: Known for low-cost healthcare and excellent service, Thailand offers procedures such as face lifts and heart surgeries at a fraction of the cost compared to the US.
2. Mexico: Convenient for US residents, Mexico provides top-notch healthcare at substantial savings.
3. India: Offers cost-effective treatments with minimal wait times and high standards of care, particularly in cities like Chennai.
4. Malaysia: Known for its high-quality healthcare and low costs, attracting over 850,000 medical tourists annually.
5. Singapore: Offers some of the best healthcare facilities in Asia, with a focus on cancer treatments and advanced medical procedures.
6. South Korea: Renowned for its advanced technology and high survival rates for serious conditions, offering substantial cost savings for patients.
7. Brazil: Famous for cosmetic surgery, with highly trained surgeons and advanced facilities.
8. Costa Rica: Popular for its dental and cosmetic surgeries, coupled with beautiful recovery locations.

Proceed With Great Caution

Whether choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery in the UK or abroad, thorough research and careful consideration of costs, risks, and surgeon qualifications are crucial. While the appeal of lower costs abroad is strong, the potential for complications and additional costs should be weighed against the benefits. Consulting with accredited surgeons and understanding the procedure, including pre- and post-operative care, is essential to ensure safety and satisfaction with the results.