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AESTHETIC NEWS

High Risks of Plastic Surgery Tourism

Thomas Loeb | November 4, 2014 | Posted in Body, Facelift

plastic surgery injectiblesReports of a British woman who died during surgery in Thailand has raised concerns about the dangers associated with plastic surgery tourism once again. Although more patients are flocking to other areas of the globe where procedures might be cheaper, they often undertake risks that are much greater than those associated with the same procedure in their own country.

The 24-year-old had flown to Thailand to have an unspecified procedure performed. When she underwent corrective surgery for the initial procedure a few weeks later, she died on the operating table after receiving anesthesia. The surgeon performing the procedure, Sompob Sansiri, was allegedly uncertified and was later arrested. The clinic in which he performed the operation has also been closed for 60 days while an investigation is completed.

“Details are still emerging, but it’s important that the public remember the serious risks involved in any surgery, which are increased by travel abroad,” Dr. Michael Cadier, president of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons told The Guardian. “This tragic case highlights how, if lured by the prospect of what is essentially ‘cheap surgery,’ patients can be left vulnerable.

Rising popularity of plastic surgery tourism

Despite warnings by organizations like the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, plastic surgery tourism is on the rise. According to the Daily Mail, the number of patients traveling for cosmetic procedures has doubled in just two years. Countries like Thailand, Poland and Turkey are becoming known for specific types of procedures, leading many to foreign lands in the hopes of enhancing their appearance at a lower cost.

However, there are a number of potential drawbacks to choosing another country for your plastic surgery procedure. First, as soon as you leave the confines of the U.S., you also leave the assurance that the physician performing your procedure has the minimum training and qualifications to do so safely. While U.S. laws protect you and offer legal recourse if things don’t go as planned. No protection exists outside your home country.

Another potential obstacle with overseas surgery is the language barrier. Many clinics in other countries may provide interpreters to help foreign patients understand the procedure and surgeon’s instructions. If that service does not exist, however, you may be setting yourself up for additional complications simply due to the inability of you and your surgeon to understand each other properly.

When it comes to cost, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes that the supposed bargain may not be such a deal when travel expenses come in. In addition, the possibility of complications or the need for revision surgery may raise the overall cost even more. If there are complications, you are also left with the question of whether to return to the original doctor for assistance or find another surgeon closer to home that can monitor you more closely.

Safety, success paramount

Plastic surgery carries the same risks as any other surgical procedure. To ensure safety and success with your procedure, it is important to choose a surgeon with the credentials, qualifications and experience to handle your surgery appropriately. In many cases, this may entail selecting a surgeon closer to home, so that you can research the doctor and the practice before scheduling your procedure.

New York residents have the benefit of a qualified Manhattan plastic surgeon who has helped thousands of patients safely achieve their desired look. Dr. Thomas Loeb has a superb reputation within the U.S. and abroad for his ability to create natural, beautiful outcomes with his patients. His board certification and impeccable resume assure patients they will be treated with the highest level of care and professionalism.

When it comes to your face or body, there is no need to take chances with an unfamiliar surgeon. Whether you live in New York or elsewhere, Dr. Loeb is prepared to handle all of your facial plastic surgery needs. To learn more about plastic surgery in NYC, contact Dr. Loeb’s office at 212-327-3700.

+ Resources
- Resources
  1. The Guardian, British Woman Dies During Cosmetic Surgery in Thailand, http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/24/british-woman-dies-cosmetic-surgery-thailand
  2. International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Guidelines for Plastic Surgery Tourists, http://www.isaps.org/medical-travel-guide/plastic-surgery-tourists
  3. Daily Mail, Teeth from Thailand, Bottoms from Turkey and Breasts from Poland: The Cosmetic Surgery Hotspots Revealed, http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-2632612/Teeth-Thailand-bottoms-Turkey-breasts-Poland-cosmetic-surgery-tourism-hotspots-revealed.html
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