Beware ‘sun, sea and surgery’ cosmetic tourism packages, experts advise
Summary
Experts warn that travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery can expose patients to risks during travel, surgery and recovery, including blood clots, infections and inadequate aftercare. A British medical group has issued a checklist urging patients to check surgeons’ qualifications, nearby emergency care and insurance, while a legal specialist warns that claims can be difficult and compensation may be lower overseas.Key Facts
- Nora Nugent, a consultant plastic surgeon, said air travel can raise the risk of blood clots and that patients may lack in-person aftercare after returning home.
- The British College of Aesthetic Medicine launched a checklist under its “vet it before you get it” campaign.
- The checklist advises patients to verify surgeons’ qualifications, check nearby emergency facilities and ask about practitioners’ insurance.
- Lupa Law chief executive Chrissie Wolfe warned that legal claims after complications abroad can be difficult and compensation may be lower than in the UK.
- Wolfe advised patients to be wary of clinics selling procedure bundles or limited-time deals, citing a patient who underwent an additional breast procedure and later lost both breasts following a severe infection.
- Office for National Statistics data cited in the article show that about 524,000 Great Britain residents travelled abroad for medical treatment in 2024, up from 431,000 in 2023.
- Nugent described cases involving infections, tissue loss, exposed implants, wounds reopening and lasting scars after cosmetic procedures abroad.
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