Medical tourism is a popular concept among people as of now. Living in a country where healthcare is expensive, you may consider it. It is a great option available to get the medical treatments that are not covered by your health insurance as well. That’s why most people consider moving to cheaper destinations for plastic surgery.
Why is Medical Tourism Popular for Plastic Surgery?
The reasons for the price gaps primarily come down to lower administrative costs, less insurance paperwork, and reduced malpractice liability in these foreign destinations. Also, the weakened currencies and lower wages translates into savings for visiting patients.
Whereas cosmetic enhancements like breast augmentations or facelifts can cost $10,000 or much more in countries like the United States, patients are waking up to drastic savings overseas. Factoring in the costs of top surgeons abroad plus travel expenses, individuals can still save 30-80% off plastic surgery performed locally.
From Brazil to Thailand, excellent plastic surgeons flourish around the world where demand is high for appearance-enhancing procedures. Countries like Mexico, Turkey, and India have first-class hospitals on par with much costlier private facilities in America and Europe. These overseas medical centers cater to English-speaking travelers with packages covering transportation, interpreters, hotel rooms, and sightseeing tours.
Top Affordable Plastic Surgery Destinations
If you are looking forward to getting plastic surgery done, there are quite a few destinations to consider. Here’s a list of the most prominent destinations.
Mexico
Mexico has become a leading choice for Americans looking for discount plastic surgery just across the border. Procedures in Mexico typically cost 30-50% less than the US. Their surgeons often train in America as well. Popular services sought in Mexico include tummy tucks, breast implants and lifts, rhinoplasty (nose jobs), and facelifts.
Dominican Republic
The Caribbean Island nation the Dominican Republic has rapidly emerged as another plastic surgery mecca. Its blend of competitive pricing, skilled doctors with international training, and tropical paradise atmosphere draws over 30,000 medical tourists annually. Procedures generally cost 40-65% less than in the US. Liposuction, tummy tucks, and Brazilian butt lifts are among their specialties.
Costa Rica
In Central America, Costa Rica provides exceptional value on cosmetic surgery procedures ranging from breast augmentations and mommy makeovers to facial rejuvenation and body contouring.
Their prices tend to fall in the range of 50-65% lower than those in America.
Thailand
Thailand has become a hub for medical vacations in Southeast Asia. Over 2 million visitors head to the country annually for procedures at certified facilities like Bangkok Hospital and Bumrungrad International. The cost of plastic surgery in Thailand is up to 70% lower than the US. Breast augmentations average around $3,400 compared to $10,000 back home. Facelifts, rhinoplasties, and liposuction also run 40-65% less.
Turkey
Meanwhile, Turkey has likewise established itself as an affordable Mecca for first-rate plastic surgery in recent decades. Hospitals like Florence Nightingale attract patients from the Middle East, Europe, and North America. Savings run 50-70% below comparable treatments in the US, with breast lifts averaging $2,300 and tummy tucks $2,800.
Making the Most of Medical Tourism
With potential savings of thousands of dollars driving interest in medical travel, individuals considering procedures abroad should properly prepare for smooth, safe trips. We provide key tips to get the best results from your plastic surgery procedure overseas.
Pick an Accredited Surgeon and Facility
Research doctors’ credentials, certification, specialty training, and hospital quality ratings before booking surgery.
Facilities like Bumrungrad Hospital in Thailand and Anadolu Medical Center in Turkey meet stringent US standard accreditations.
Arrange a Consultation Visit
If possible, plan an initial in-person meeting with your surgeon in destinations like Thailand or Turkey to establish comfort levels and discuss treatment details. Consultations build trust and ensure proper patient-doctor fits.
Get Itemized Cost Breakdowns
Request complete written quotes from surgical coordinators detailing all costs like surgeon and facility fees, medications, hospital stay charges, and any taxes. Hidden expenses can negate overseas savings.
Don’t Travel Alone Post-Surgery
Having a travel companion provides support managing luggage, airport transfers, hotel needs, and getting assistance should complications occur. Don’t fly immediately after major procedures.
Follow these tips and you will be able to get the best results out of your plastic surgery, without spending a fortune.
