Cosmetic Surgery Holidays

By James P Wilkinson

In an increasing trend, many are turning to seeking cosmetic surgery treatment abroad in a bid to save money, but, in doing so are they putting their health on the line?

Medical tourism seems to have become a worldwide phenomenon with people from many countries flying to locations where the treatment will be much cheaper. Surgeons in some countries are even teaming up with luxury hotels to offer full cosmetic surgery holiday packages. Tours can even be included to make your stay perfect, and if you're thinking all this sounds too good to be true, you're probably right.

Firstly you need to consider that regulations may not be as stringent in some of these countries and the surgeons will not be an accredited member of any governing body that is recognised in the UK. This of course means that there are no guarantees as to the quality of treatment and aftercare you can expect.

There have been horror stories of breast implants bursting during the flight home as they have not been placed correctly. There are many instances of patients having to pay for expensive and painful repair/reconstructive surgery once back in the UK to fix the work that has been undertaken so carelessly on their person.

In the UK there are 2 main governing bodies in the field of cosmetic surgery and you should be worried if any cosmetic surgeon you approach is not an accredited member. Being a member of these organisations should ensure that any treatment you receive is of a high standard.

The 2 in question are; BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons) BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons). Both of these Associations ensure that their members carry out work to the highest standard and this also covers the aftercare that is given.

It appears the old adage is right with regards to cosmetic surgery - you quite simply get what you pay for.

If you are considering a cosmetic surgery procedure such as breast augmentation you should seek an accredited surgeon who is registered with BAPRAS or BAAPS to ensure any plastic surgery procedures you receive run smoothly.