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Cosmetic Surgery Abroad
Medical Tourism
One of the main reasons for seeking cosmetic surgery abroad is to save money compared to the prices being charged in the UK today. More and more people are now choosing to travel overseas for their breast implants, liposuction or tummy tuck, and are combining their treatment with a holiday to recuperate. The name these travellers are now being given the name 'Medical Tourists'.
Why Go Abroad?
Some patients are choosing relatively nearby places, such as France, Spain or Belgium due to cheap flights in the Eurozone. Others are choosing farther flung destinations such as Thailand, Cuba or Brazil.
Even with the cost of the flights and accommodation, the cost of the overall package can be considerably cheaper than the UK. The main reason for this is that the price in each country is determined by the economic conditions of that country. In a country where the average wage is lower than the UK, the average surgery prices are relatively lower.
How To Choose A Clinic
When deciding on the clinic you choose, you should aim to gather as much information on that clinic as you possibly can. Information can be found on the internet or by contacting the clinic directly. Most will be happy to answer your questions, send you brochures and give you an idea of their costs.
You should also try to speak with other people who have had their treatment there and find out how they felt about the overall experience. Ensure your clinic is English speaking, this way there will be no communication barriers.
It is worth checking if you can have any follow up treatment in the UK. Some doctors periodically visit the UK for follow up treatment. You should also check the clinic's aftercare procedures. This is an area where most complaints have risen in respect of overseas treatment, as, in some cases, aftercare can be limited.
You should also find out exactly what is included in the cost quotation you are given. Find out if you will have to stay in hospital after your operation or if you will be discharged to a hotel. It is not a good idea to base the decision on your clinic from a simple e-mail or a photograph.
Other Considerations
Travelling to an exotic destination for surgery can seem really appealing, but you may find the last thing you want to do is sit on a beach to recover if you are still in pain and bruised. You also need to consider if you will be up to a long flight home afterwards.
You should ensure the surgeon who treats you is a board certified plastic surgeon. Training is well regulated and many surgeons have qualified in the UK. You can also ask if they are on the Register of the General Medical Council. Make sure the doctor fully informs you of what you can expect in the hours following your surgery.
Finally, you should always ensure you are fully aware of the clinic's procedure if something should go wrong, or there are complications when you return home.