Medical tourism an alarming, dangerous trend
November 24, 2010
With the allure of a smaller price tag, many individuals are drawn overseas or across borders to undergo plastic surgery. However this trend, which is sometimes referred to as "medical tourism," is a dangerous practice that can leave an individual with a number of negative side effects, Marie Claire Australia reports.
The publication chronicles the plight of a Melbourne, Australia, resident who suffered the consequences when she took a flight to Thailand to undergo a bevy of surgeries at a third of the price they would be in her native Australia. The woman, who is identified as Tyra, barely met with a doctor who spoke very little English. The result was a trio of poorly performed surgeries.
The same procedures, when correctly performed by a certified plastic surgeon, may have prevented Tyra from receiving a botched tummy tuck that left her with damaged muscles, a disfiguring breast augmentation and lumpy thighs from poorly performed liposuction.
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery warns patients to make informed choices when going abroad for plastic surgery. Following safety guidelines or choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon associated with ASAPS can greatly limit the risks.
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), is recognized as the world’s leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. ASAPS is comprised of over 2,600 Plastic Surgeons; active members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures. International active members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements.
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