There’s no such thing as discount plastic surgery – unless you leave the U.S. for a procedure. As plastic surgery becomes increasingly popular, patients are fleeing the U.S. to undergo procedures in countries that offer surgery at cheaper prices.The sticker price of a breast augmentation in Colombia or Turkey might be low, but there are always hidden costs and risks associated with getting plastic surgery abroad.
That begs the question: is it really worth it?
Plastic Surgery Tourism: Not As Cheap As You Think
The bottom line is that plastic surgery tourism is not worth the risks.
You might save a few dollars upfront, but what you give up in exchange isn’t worth the dicey discount. Here’s why.
1. You may receive a lower standard of care.
Not every country will have excellent ‘best practices’ for plastic surgery. You can find great medical care outside of the country, but the U.S. adheres to some of the strictest standards for surgical procedures. That’s not always guaranteed abroad. You’re putting your health and safety at risk.
2. Traveling immediately after surgery can increase your risk of postoperative complications.
You had your surgery, it was safe and thankfully went well. You think you’re in the clear. But you still have to travel back home, and this poses some risks.
Traveling on a plane for hours in the days or weeks following a surgery can lead to serious complications. Anyone who undergoes surgery, cosmetic or otherwise, is at an increased risk of developing blood clots. These usually start in the lower legs given the lack of movement for long hours at a time. Blood pools in the lower extremities, which leads to the development of blood clots.
On a flight, you’ll be sitting still in a confined space for long periods of time. The longer you are immobile, the greater is your risk of developing a blood clot. Additionally, infections, disruption to incisional healing, and other serious complications could emerge if you put your body under stress after the procedure – and traveling can be significantly stressful.
3. Post-op care becomes difficult.
No matter how seemingly minimal, plastic surgery is an invasive procedure. You’ll require aftercare once you’re out of surgery. Receiving great aftercare is arguably the most important part of your surgical experience.
Getting surgery at home means you’re able to see your surgeon for post-operative appointments to make sure you’re healing well, and that all your questions and concerns can be addressed in a timely manner. If you choose to get work done abroad, you won’t have continuous access to your surgeon for postoperative appointments. It’s also good to keep in mind that when you’re paying for surgeries abroad, your surgeon is aware that you will not be following up routinely for post-surgical care. When having surgery at home, your postoperative visits are included in the cost of your surgery.
Dr. Kashan truly believes in the importance of follow up care after your surgery, including examining your incisions himself to ensure proper healing. You will have your first postoperative visit within the first seven days after surgery. This is generally followed by routine check-ins at the office at one month, three months, six months and one year, in addition to any visits you may need to discuss concerns.
4. If the surgeon messes up, you’re out of pocket.
Unfortunately, botched procedures are no stranger to plastic surgery tourists. Patients often end up paying even more to undergo revisions and to treat complications of their foreign surgeries than they would have if they had stayed in the U.S.
5. You don’t have legal protections abroad.
If you undergo medical negligence or complications arise, you may not be protected under another country’s laws. This means you could be held financially responsible for all your surgical or hospital bills – even if negligence occurred.
Last Words
Like any surgical procedure, plastic surgery should be taken seriously. It’s a major, invasive procedure that alters your physical appearance and can have major complications if not done properly. Your health and safety should be your top priority and concern – and the top priority of your doctor.
It’s important to choose an plastic surgeon accredited in the U.S. with a great track record to proceed with your surgery. Trained by world-renowned plastic and body contouring specialists, Dr. Kashan delivers over a decade of expertise to his patients for truly stunning results. He prides himself on being involved in your care from start to finish and following you throughout your journey. Committed to excellent care and quality outcomes, our office is happy to make a consultation appointment or answer any questions you might have about undergoing a plastic surgery procedure.
