Plastic Surgery in Thailand: Safe or Seriously Risky?

by April Maguire

These days, everyone is looking for deals on products and services, and prospective plastic surgery patients are no exception. And while it’s only natural to want to shop around for that nose job or round of Botox, buyers should beware when it comes to pursuing plastic surgery in other countries. After the recent deaths of two patients who underwent plastic surgery procedures in Thailand, experts are questioning whether or not it’s safe to seek medical treatments overseas.

Understanding the Trend

Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling to another country to undergo procedures at a lower price point. One of the top medical tourism destinations worldwide, Thailand earned an astonishing $4.31 billion from the industry in 2013 alone, according to News.co.au. However, not all medical professionals feel that seeking surgery abroad is a safe practice.

Unauthorized Doctors

How qualified is the person performing your plastic surgery? Unlike the US, Thailand allows general-practice doctors to perform plastic surgery procedures. While patients may pay a lower rate, they aren’t necessarily getting treatment from someone with expertise in the procedure in question. In the coming years, the Medical Council will likely require GPs in Thailand to undergo specific training in surgery. In the mean time, patients should beware of pursuing treatment from unauthorized physicians overseas.

Improper Supplies and Facilities

Another problem with pursuing plastic surgery in countries like Thailand is the lack of high-end supplies and modern treatment centers. From using lower-quality breast implants that leak to not having the necessary medications on hand, overseas clinics don’t always provide the same standard of care as those in the US and Europe. In fact, two surgical patients recently died in Thailand from allergies to the anesthetic agents used by their doctors. According to some medical experts, the patients may well have survived had doctors responded quicker or the surgery center been better equipped.

Of course, not every botched surgery results from poorly trained doctors or inadequate medical facilities. Some patients have preexisting conditions that can affect the outcomes of their procedures and even cause dangerous complications. Before going under the knife for any procedure, it’s important to undergo a thorough medical exam by your GP. Additionally, you should research potential doctors carefully and inquire about possible side effects of treatments. The last thing you want to do is shell out money for a surgery that is less than what you desire.

If you or someone you know would like to learn more about plastic surgery, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!

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