All surgery carries risks, but it’s important to do your research before hopping on a plane to undergo cheap plastic surgery.
Although it may cost less than surgery in the UK, be aware that the safety standards may not be the same.
Holiday packages
You should be careful of websites selling cosmetic surgery as part of a holiday, the NHS warns.
Some websites sell the idea of sightseeing next to hotels with breakfast included.
NHS advice adds that if you’re looking at holiday packages, make sure you have a consultation with a surgeon and not just meet a salesperson.
The health care industry adds that you shouldn’t pay to see a surgeon you’ve never met.
The Royal College of Surgeons of England also echoes the concerns of the NHS and advises against agreeing to cosmetic surgery before meeting the surgeon and visiting the hospital.
British plastic surgeon Veerle Rotsaert said: ‘Long trips abroad to have an operation done, followed by no good aftercare, is where things often go wrong.
“Often, outside agencies sell surgeries without a surgeon ever seeing the patient in person and having a proper consultation until it is actually the day of the surgery.”
Extra cost
Many of the operations offered abroad in countries such as Turkey are cheaper than private clinics in Britain.
However, there may be hidden costs.
The Royal College of Surgeons of England is urging people to factor in the cost of additional flights and hotel stays for future correction or touch-up procedures.
It also warns patients to consider what might happen abroad if they pay in advance but change their mind before the operation, as their right to reimbursement may vary from country to country.
Choosing the right surgeon
Surgeons and clinics are regulated differently in different countries and standards can vary.
Before traveling abroad for surgery, the NHS says you should ask whether the surgeon is fully trained in the operation you want and how long they have been practicing.
The surgeon must also be fully insured to perform the operation you want, says the Royal College of Surgeons of England. It suggests asking for details of the surgeon’s insurance.
It’s also crucial that you have proper consultation with your surgeon before consenting to the surgery, experts warn.
Risks of flying
Flying and having major surgery increases your risk of developing a blood clot, which can be life-threatening.
As a result, the NHS warns that people should wait five to seven days before flying after procedures such as breast surgery and liposuction, and wait seven to 10 days before flying after cosmetic facials or tummy tucks.
However, some surgeons suggest waiting two to six weeks before flying, depending on the procedure.
Dr. Rotsaert explains: ‘This is primarily because you want patients to remain relatively close to their surgeon in case of immediate postoperative problems.’
He added: Secondly, because of the risk of deep venous thrombosis/pulmonary embolism associated with the operation, its aftermath and prolonged immobilisation.’
Drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol and walking around during your flight can promote circulation, but this won’t completely eliminate the risk of a blood clot, especially with major surgery, according to the British Association of Plastic Reconstruction and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).
Aftercare
Aftercare after your operation is an important part of your treatment. But traveling abroad can make things more complicated.
Before having surgery outside Britain, consider how long it would take to travel back to your surgeon if there is a complication, says the Royal College of Surgeons of England.
Make sure you have a contact for a named doctor who can manage any complications, rather than a helpline, experts warn.
You should also ensure that the clinic resolves any issues and that they help you if you are not happy with your results.
In many cases the NHS will not help you unless you have a serious complication that requires emergency or life-saving support.
Source: NHS, BAPRAS and Royal College of Surgeons England.