A word about surgery abroad

Cosmetic surgery away from the eyes of nosey neighbours can be appealing to some people.

In addition, cosmetic surgery abroad often costs less than in the United Kingdom – many foreign countries have much lower running costs, including the salaries of doctors and nurses and the cost of equipment and medicines.

Remember, if you are considering surgery abroad, do your checks thoroughly. Standards abroad can vary considerably.

Be sure you know the qualifications of the doctor and that you will be having surgery in a safe place. Check the arrangements should any complications arise.

Care Quality Commission has provided an excellent checklist of things you may wish to consider regarding cosmetic surgery abroad and so has the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).

Similarly, the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ISAPS) is a useful resource. Under the “Info for patients” link on their website, there is a section on medical tourism – the term used for people who travel abroad for surgery.

The ISAPS also lists the names and addresses of over 1,600 certified plastic surgeons in 84 countries, whose membership is only granted by invitation and following extensive screening.