A rising trend in the world of cosmetic surgery is plastic surgery tourism, a phenomenon that involves traveling abroad for plastic surgery, often for a lower price. As plastic surgery clinics in Mexico, southeast Asia, central America and more are actively seeking out American clients and offering cheaper surgery, it can be tempting to want to travel for these procedures. However, there are a number of potential risks involved with plastic surgery tourism. Learn more about these risks and why it’s important to see a board certified surgeon with the proper qualifications and credentials.

Risks of Plastic Surgery Tourism

• You may not know about your surgeon’s qualifications. In the United States, it’s easy to find out information about your plastic surgeon, like their training, qualifications and certifications. When you travel abroad, this information may not be easy or even possible to come by, leaving you at risk for selecting a surgeon without the proper qualifications or experience.
• The risk for complications increases when you travel. Any plastic surgeon will tell you that following surgery, you should take it easy and avoid strenuous activity for at least 2-3 weeks. If your surgery is performed while on vacation, vacation-related activities may compromise healing and increase the likelihood of complications. Additionally, flying after surgery can increase the risk for blood clots.
• You may not have legal protection in the United States. While the United States has laws in place that protect patients from surgical negligence, these laws do not apply to surgeries performed outside of this country. In the event that some kind of surgical negligence occurs, you may not have any legal recourse.
• It’s not always cost-effective. While plastic surgery procedures may be priced lower in certain countries, it’s important to factor in additional expenses like travel and the cost of any revision surgeries you may need down the line.

To Learn More about the Dangers of Plastic Surgery Tourism, Contact Dr. Smith Today.

For more information about plastic surgery tourism or any of the procedures we offer, contact Dr. Smith today at 843.705.8940. Our offices are located in South Carolina, serving the communities of Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort and Okatie. We look forward to hearing from you.