Opting for surgery overseas may seem appealing because it is less expensive and you may have heard of good stories from others who have been on cosmetic surgery trips There are things to think about before going
I wrote an article for the Australasian Journal of Plastic Surgery that looked complications arising from cosmetic surgery tourism. A recent article in the same journal looked at an unusual infection occurring after a facelift that was performed overseas.
Finding a qualified, reputable surgeon overseas can be difficult. Not all practitioners have the necessary credentials, experience, or training in advanced facial procedures. Some doctors advertising themselves as qualified Plastic Surgeons are in fact general practitioners who have done a weekend course or two to learn the operations. I work with a charity organization called Operation Smile which delivers cleft lip and palate care in developing countries. I often work with local, well qualified Plastic Surgeons who are overwhelmed with the volume of children with cleft lip and palate in these countries. We often talk about other areas of Plastic Surgery and these Plastic Surgeons may offer surgeries to visiting patients – but they are the good ones. It is very hard for people from outside a country to know who is properly qualified.
People ask me why surgeries are less expensive in countries such as Thailand, India or Philippines. The answer is the same reason that the food is inexpensive. The costs of staff, equipment and rent as well as regulations mean that care can be much cheaper.
Quality and safety standards of medical facilities vary widely from country to country. Many clinics operating internationally may not adhere to the same stringent regulations as those in New Zealand. This increases the risk of complications, infections, and subpar results.
Language barriers may pose challenges. Miscommunication about procedures, risks, and aftercare can lead to misunderstandings, incorrect treatments, or insufficient post-operative support. Without thorough follow-up care, complications that arise after returning home can be difficult to manage, potentially resulting in additional surgeries or long-term health issues.
In summary, while the idea of travel for cosmetic surgery might seem convenient or affordable, the potential health risks, quality concerns, and lack of proper aftercare make it an unsafe choice. Patients should prioritise their safety by choosing well-regarded, properly qualified surgeons within NZ. Ultimately, your health and well-being are worth more than the temporary savings or allure of overseas procedures.