As another plastic surgery tourist disaster makes headlines, London based plastic surgeon Ms Angelica Kavouni highlights issues of travelling abroad for surgery

Medical-tourism-concept.-503398892_5500x3667.jpg It saddens me to read about yet another woman suffering after seeking surgery abroad. It’s unclear the reason(s) for her issues, but the fact remains that her surgeon, who is based in Turkey was not able to help.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery has become increasingly socially acceptable over the past decade, with consumers being more open about having procedures and often with celebrities leading the way. It’s great that many people no longer feel the need to hide the fact they have undergone plastic surgery, but I think this trend has a downside.

Aside from unreasonable expectations, many patients do not fully appreciate that surgery involves a certain amount of risk – especially when a general anaesthetic is involved. In addition, post operative problems can occur, and often not immediately after surgery but days or weeks afterwards (even in the most competent and experienced hands.)

Of course fully qualified surgeons practice abroad, but it’s not that easy to check their credentials. Often surgery abroad is offered by big clinics and it can be difficult to find out if you . Here are some questions to consider:

Can you meet your surgeon before surgery?
Will I be seen by the same surgeon post operatively? If not, why not?
Be honest about your past and current medical history – many private clinics do not perform through pre-operative assessments. This is when health issues can be identified
See around 3 surgeons in consultation before you make up your mind.
Research your surgeon, how many of these procedures have they performed? Are they on a specialist register (ie EBOPRAS – the European decide to UK’s BAAPS)
Can you talk to a past patient who has been operated on by this surgeon?

Do not make a decision on price point alone – this is not the time to be saving pennies. If you do still decide to go abroad for your procedure then I would advise to stay near the clinic for a full 2 weeks post operatively so any immediate issues can be identified and dealt with. Some reputable clinics/surgeons will have allocated surgeons based in the UK to offer follow up care, which is good practice.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4643000/Jane-Park-posts-video-hospital-trip-week-bum-lift.html

About Ms Angelica Kavouni FRCS EBOPRAS Cosmetic Surgeon

Ms Angelica Kavouni MD FRCS EBOPRAS With a wealth of experience in private practice spanning 15 years and a regular TV, online and print media contribution, Angelica has secured her place as one of London’s prominent cosmetic plastic surgeons. Angelica has developed a reputation for her signature natural result Career Facelift® which blends minimal procedures with state-of-the-art anti-ageing treatments. Her expertise also includes post pregnancy breast and body contouring and vaginal rejuvenation. Angelica is committed to safety and standards and her attention to detail is legendary. The Kosme Skin Clinic …where anti-ageing professionals and state-of-the-art skin rejuvenation meet Kosme Skin Clinic is a unique skincare destination. Not only a stand-alone non-surgical unit housing state-of-the-art solutions for all skin issues, the Kosme Skin Clinic acts as an invaluable adjunct to the surgical facility also based at 129 Harley Street. Our experienced aesthetic nurse practitioners work to Medical Director Ms Angelica Kavouni’s own exact standards, delivering high-end care to all patients. Def: Kos-me…preservation, restoration, or enhancement of natural appearance Ms Angelica Kavouni GMC: 4002006 129 Harley Street London W1G 6BA t: 020 7486 9040 w: www.cosmetic-solutions.co.uk

View all posts by Ms Angelica Kavouni FRCS EBOPRAS Cosmetic Surgeon →