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Considering Plastic Surgery Abroad? Basic Info You Need to Know

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The allure of combining a vacation with a cosmetic transformation is strong. Medical tourism for plastic surgery is on the rise, offering potential cost savings and access to specialized surgeons. But, like any medical procedure, it requires careful consideration and thorough research.

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Tummy Tuck
Rhinoplasty
Facelift
Liposuction
Breast Augmentation

​​​​Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures for Medical Tourists​​

Breast Augmentation​

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Procedure: Involves inserting implants (saline or silicone) or transferring fat to increase breast size or reshape them. Incisions vary depending on implant placement (inframammary, periareolar, or axillary).

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Important factors:

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  • Implant type, size, and placement are crucial decisions.

  • Discuss potential risks like capsular contracture, implant rupture, and changes in nipple sensation.

  • Recovery involves limited activity, pain management, and follow-up appointments.

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Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

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Procedure: Reshapes the nose by altering bone and cartilage. Can address cosmetic concerns (size, shape, angle) or functional issues (breathing difficulties). Open or closed techniques are used.

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Important factors:

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  • Realistic expectations are vital; results depend on nasal structure and skin type.

  • Discuss potential complications like bleeding, infection, or breathing problems.

  • Recovery involves swelling, bruising, and nasal packing​

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Liposuction

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Procedure: Removes excess fat deposits from specific areas (abdomen, thighs, arms, chin) using a cannula and suction. Various techniques exist (tumescent, ultrasound-assisted, laser-assisted).

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Important factors:

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  • Liposuction is not a weight-loss solution; it's for contouring.

  • Discuss potential risks like contour irregularities, skin discoloration, and fluid accumulation.

  • Recovery involves compression garments and swelling.

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Facelift

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Procedure: Tightens sagging skin and underlying tissues in the face and neck. Various techniques exist (mini facelift, deep plane facelift) depending on the degree of aging.

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Important factors:

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  • Discuss potential risks like nerve damage, hematoma, and scarring.

  • Recovery involves swelling, bruising, and limited activity.

  • This is a major procedure that requires a qualified and experienced surgeon.

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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

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Procedure: Removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens abdominal muscles. Can be a full or mini tummy tuck.

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Important factors:

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  • Discuss potential risks like infection, bleeding, and poor wound healing.

  • Recovery involves significant downtime and limited activity.

  • This is a major surgical procedure.

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Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

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Procedure: Corrects drooping eyelids and under-eye bags by removing excess skin and fat. Can be performed on the upper or lower eyelids.

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Important factors:

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  • Discuss potential risks like dry eyes, blurred vision, and temporary swelling..

  • Recovery involves swelling, bruising, and limited activity.

  • This procedure requires precision.

Eyelid surgery
Important Considerations

​​Important Considerations Before You Go

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Surgeon Qualifications and Credentials:

  • Verify the surgeon's board certifications and experience. Look for international accreditation, such as those from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).

  • Ask for before-and-after photos of previous patients.

  • Schedule virtual consultations to discuss your goals and concerns.

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Hospital or Clinic Accreditation:

  • Check that the facility adheres to international safety and hygiene standards.

  • Look for accreditation from reputable organizations.

  • Read reviews and testimonials from past patients.

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Procedure Details and Recovery:

  • Understand the specific procedure, potential risks, and expected recovery time.

  • Discuss post-operative care and follow-up plans with your surgeon.

  • Inquire about the availability of English-speaking medical staff.

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Travel and Accommodation:

  • Plan your travel itinerary carefully, allowing sufficient time for pre-operative consultations, the procedure, and recovery.

  • Choose accommodation that is comfortable and conducive to healing.

  • Consider travel and complication insurance that covers medical tourism related issues.

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Communication and Language Barriers:

  • Secure clear communication with your surgeon and medical team.

  • Consider using a professional translator who can assist with language translation.

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Potential Risks and Complications:

  • Be aware of the potential risks associated with any surgical procedure, including infection, bleeding, and complications from anesthesia.

  • Understand how complications will be handled and who will be responsible for follow-up care.

  • Understand the legal recourse available to you in the country you are traveling to.

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Follow-up Care at Home:

  • Plan for follow-up appointments with your local physician.

  • Ask your surgeon abroad to provide detailed medical records and post-operative instructions.

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