Opting for surgery abroad comes with significant risks that can outweigh the initial savings. While countries such as Turkey and Mexico are popular destinations for procedures such as Breast Enlargement, Tummy Tuck, or Face and Neck Lift, these locations may not always provide the level of care you would expect from a domestic clinic. While the initial cost may be lower, the difference in regulatory standards, quality of materials, and aftercare support can lead to unexpected complications, potentially jeopardising both your health and long-term results. Let’s delve into the potential dangers of going abroad for surgery and why it might not be worth the gamble.
The lure of lower costs
There’s no denying that the price tag on cosmetic procedures in countries like Turkey is often much lower than what you would find in the UK. For many, this is the primary factor driving the decision to go abroad. Clinics abroad may advertise Breast Enlargement, Tummy Tuck, or Rhinoplasty at a fraction of the cost you’d pay at home, and some packages even include luxury accommodations. These lower prices, however, often do not account for essential factors such as the quality of surgical materials, the surgeon's expertise, or the adequacy of follow-up care, which can significantly impact your overall experience and outcomes.
As tempting as these offers might be, it’s crucial to understand what you might be sacrificing in return. A lower price can often mean that corners are cut in ways that compromise your health and long-term results. As Mr Krishnan, our Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon, warns, "Undergoing procedures like Breast Augmentation, Tummy Tucks, Nose jobs, or Face Lifts abroad might seem appealing, but can complicate your recovery."
The risks of lower standards and unregulated practices
While some international clinics may uphold high standards, many operate in countries where medical regulations are less stringent than in the UK. This lack of oversight can lead to risky outcomes, from poor hygiene practices to subpar materials being used during surgeries.
Between 2018 and 2022, 324 patients were recorded as needing corrective surgery in the UK due to having cosmetic surgery abroad in countries such as Lithuania and Turkey. This issue is becoming increasingly common, with more patients returning from abroad with disappointing results or, worse, severe complications such as infections, tissue damage, or disfigurement.
Infections, particularly, are a major concern. For instance, surgeries performed in warm climates increase the likelihood of infection, as bacteria thrive in damp environments. As Mr Krishnan highlights, "The heat can cause excessive sweating, which isn’t ideal for healing. Moisture can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of infection, as bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments."
Environmental challenges and recovery complications
The location where you have surgery can significantly impact your recovery. Warm climates, which may be attractive for a vacation, can actually worsen post-surgical complications. "Heat can exacerbate swelling and discomfort, prolonging recovery," Mr Krishnan explains. Furthermore, dehydration caused by high temperatures can slow healing and heighten pain, making the recovery process even more difficult.
Infections, particularly, are a major concern. For instance, surgeries performed in warm climates increase the likelihood of infection, as bacteria thrive in damp environments. As Mr Krishnan highlights, "The heat can cause excessive sweating, which isn’t ideal for healing. Moisture can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of infection, as bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments."
In addition to environmental factors, post-operative care is often lacking in medical tourism destinations. While these clinics may advertise excellent services pre-operation, many fall short in offering comprehensive follow-up care. This is crucial because follow-up appointments are essential for tracking recovery, addressing complications, and ensuring that the surgical outcome is in line with expectations. “One of the major concerns is the challenge of getting proper follow-up care or revisions if the surgery goes wrong,” Mr Krishnan warns. Returning to the country where the surgery was performed for check-ups or revisions can be impractical, leaving patients without crucial aftercare. Inadequate follow-up can increase the risk of complications going undetected, leading to unsatisfactory outcomes and additional corrective procedures.
The importance of post-operative care
Post-operative care is one of the most significant aspects of a successful surgery, and it’s something that can’t be neglected. Any surgery, cosmetic or otherwise, requires careful monitoring afterward to ensure that healing progresses properly. If complications arise, they need to be addressed quickly before they lead to more severe issues.
The difficulty of getting follow-up care when you have had surgery abroad is a major downside. Mr Krishnan notes, “If your procedure was performed overseas, returning to see your surgeon can be challenging, potentially leaving you without essential care. This can lead to higher risks of complications, such as infections or delayed healing, and might affect your overall satisfaction with the results.”
In contrast, here at Pall Mall, we emphasise the importance of providing comprehensive pre-and post-operative care. This is what sets us apart from many medical tourism packages, where follow-up care is often an afterthought. Pall Mall offers patients an integrated experience that ensures they are fully supported from their free, no obligation consultation through to two years of aftercare. As one of the leading private healthcare providers in the UK, we’re renowned for our stringent safety protocols and experienced surgeons.
The hidden costs of medical tourism
While the initial price for surgery abroad might seem like a bargain, the hidden costs can add up quickly. Revisions, corrective procedures, or treating complications can end up costing far more than the original surgery would have cost at home. In the worst cases, patients return to the UK with botched surgeries and have to pay out of pocket for corrective procedures. Even worse, insurance companies may refuse to cover the costs of these fixes if the surgery was done abroad.
Travelling post-surgery carries additional risks. Long flights after a major procedure can significantly increase the risk of developing blood clots, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a potentially life-threatening complication. In the UK, aftercare guidelines provided by surgeons emphasise the importance of allowing adequate time for initial recovery before travelling. Patients are generally advised not to fly for at least 10 to 14 days following surgery to minimise the risk of blood clots and other complications. This waiting period is crucial to ensure proper healing, reduce swelling, and allow the body to adjust without the added strain of air travel. Ignoring these recommendations can compromise recovery, leading to prolonged discomfort and a higher risk of complications.
Why choose Pall Mall for your cosmetic procedure?
Choosing a provider closer to home, with reputable, highly trained professionals, ensures that you’re not risking your health. At Pall Mall we own a private hospital that prioritises patient safety, quality, and your surgery package includes two-years free aftercare, just in case you need us. Our unique selling point lies in end-to-end care, which includes free, no obligation consultations with our team of GMC registered surgeons, high-quality surgical procedures, and detailed post-operative care plans to ensure the best outcomes.
Pall Mall surgeons are members of key medical associations in the UK, and we follow the highest safety standards. Our clinics and hospital are CQC-registered, meaning we meet strict regulatory guidelines for quality and patient safety. Whether you’re considering Breast Enlargement, Rhinoplasty, or any other cosmetic procedure, you can rest assured that you will receive the best care throughout the process.
Before you decide to board that flight, consider the risks, and ensure that your health and safety are a top priority. If you’re looking for more information or want to ask any questions before you proceed with a cosmetic procedure, enquire now about a free, no obligation consultation.
