Guide to medical tourism: What to consider

Find out as much as possible about the procedure you are interested in - an informed patient is more able to make an informed decision.  With cosmetic surgery and cosmetic dentistry different techniques and material may be used for different procedures so find out which method and materials are used by the provider.  It is imperative that you compare services, treatments, costs and credentials of providers (see our section on cost comparisons) and read some of the patient testimonials before committing.

 

Think about how long you want to go away for and how far are you prepared to travel.  Will you have to go alone, or will a close friend/member of the family be able to accompany you?  (Some providers often provide escorts for those traveling alone).  Try to be as flexible with your schedule as you can as you may have to stay longer if there is a complication, and it is preferable that the surgeon and provider treat you there and then, rather than at home when it becomes more difficult.

 

However tantalising the prospect of cosmetic surgery in an exotic country like Malaysia or South Africa sounds, will you be comfortable on a long flight and would your doctor deem you fit for traveling long distance?  Don’t let the allure of a holiday in an exciting destination you haven’t visited before become more important than the reputation of the surgery/dentistry/medical treatment in that particular country. 

 

Having an operation/surgery closer to home can be advantageous. if you decide to return for further treatment or if it is necessary to go back for follow up’s - it will be much cheaper and easier to do this in Europe than a far flung destination.