Preparing for a Cosmetic Surgery Vacation

From restorative dentistry and weight loss surgery to breast augmentation, medical tourism has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. Cosmetic surgery vacations are fueled by many factors. Some patients are looking for a discreet place to recuperate from their operations in privacy, while others are looking for potential savings on popular procedures like face lifts, buttock augmentation, tummy tucks and liposuction. Geographic location is another key motivator, as patients in rural areas may find it difficult to find experienced surgeons in their own towns.

While some countries like Brazil, Columbia and Costa Rica lure fly-in patients with deluxe, all-inclusive plastic surgery packages at reduced rates, the risks can outweigh any financial benefits. Internet searches may turn up first-rate hospitals, skilled surgeons, affordable pricing and beautiful landscapes in which to recuperate, but botched surgeries and post-op complications caused by inexperienced or unqualified doctors are an ever-present threat.

Plastic surgery vacations can be safe, as long as you do your homework and choose your surgeon carefully.

Cosmetic surgery vacation tips

Planning a cosmetic surgery vacation demands thorough research and critical decisions. Prospective patients should closely scrutinize the surgeon’s experience, qualifications and accreditation (both local and international), and ensure no language barriers are in place.

Avoid common pitfalls by following these guidelines:

1. Choosing the right procedure – Will laser lipo really give you the result you want, or would an abdominoplasty be more appropriate? Patients need to have realistic expectations about what cosmetic surgery can and cannot achieve, and if they are good candidates for a particular procedure. This step involves an in-depth discussion with your doctor about procedure risks, recovery, projected outcome and potential complications. A plastic surgeon should review your medical history, including pre-existing conditions, listen to your aesthetic goals and suggest procedures accordingly.
2. Vet your surgeon carefully – When choosing your cosmetic surgeon, it’s important to verify their background, training, skill level and qualifications. If seeking surgery abroad, ensure they are board certified in their own country as well as a member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS). Always ask for references from previous patients, and ensure that the doctor’s clinic or hospital is either certified or accredited, and meets current patient safety standards.
3. Discuss post-operative care – Complications are potential risk with any kind of surgery. Talk with your surgeon about healing times, the recovery process and post-operative follow-ups. Good questions to ask: What happens if you develop an infection or other complication after the operation? Will the doctor perform any necessary revision surgeries if needed? How long before you can travel again? Who will assist with post-op care needs?
4. Face-to-face consultation – Although an in-person consultation may be impossible, ask your doctor for a virtual consultation on SKYPE to communicate and finalize all details

The most effective way to assure a successful outcome is to select a board certified surgeon with verified credentials who specializes in the procedure you are having.  In the end, your health should be the first and foremost priority.

Manhattan fly-in patients

World-renowned New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Thomas Loeb makes cosmetic surgery vacations simple for out-of-town patients. To learn more about our fly-in surgery packages, virtual consultations and menu of body contouring and facial rejuvenating procedures, please call 212.327.3700.

Dr. Loeb’s 5th Avenue surgical suite is fully accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities as well as the New York State Medical Society.