One “trend” that continues to get buzz in the media every year or so is patients traveling overseas rather than staying in San Diego for their cosmetic surgery procedures. There are some reasons for seeking treatment outside the United States, but are they good reasons? Or, is it a better bet to stay close to home?
Finances
The main argument in favor of traveling abroad for surgery is that it can be considerably cheaper, even when factoring in the airline ticket and lodging. But there is a lot more at stake here than your bank account. Few countries outside the United States have the health and safety standards in their medical care facilities that we do. What happens if something goes wrong? Often, these facilities lack the medical technology and rained staff to keep you safe in the event of an emergency. Is saving a few dollars really worth the tradeoff of sacrificing quality medical care?
Testimonials
One thing to keep in mind when thinking about a “medical vacation” versus choosing a local practitioner is that for every positive experience you hear or read about, there is almost certainly a negative one that remains untold. Take every glowing review with a grain of salt, and concentrate on finding the best care rather than being swayed by the most impressive story.
Staying Close to Home
Here in San Diego, plastic surgeons have to pass very rigorous tests and maintain scrupulous standards in order to become certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. By choosing domestic providers right here at home, you can be confident that those safeguards are already in place for your care. Plus, you’ll have the ease and comfort of recovering in your own home with the help and support of your loved ones, instead of being isolated in a strange country. Remember, cosmetic surgery is an investment in yourself, so invest wisely and give yourself the best possible care.
Dr. Alexander received his Medical Degree from the University of Maryland School of Medicine, one of the country’s first medical schools, and then had five years of intensive general surgery training at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, serving as chief resident in 1993-1994. There he was one of two residents honored “Outstanding Teacher” by the Whitehead Society.
After becoming Board Certified in General Surgery, Dr. Alexander attended the University of California San Francisco, one of the premiere Plastic Surgery programs in the United States. There he completed two additional years of residency training in Plastic Surgery. Dr. Alexander is double board certified in Surgery and Plastic Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
Dr. Alexander specializes in facial rejuvenation, and was the first surgeon in California to perform the QuickLift,™ a revolutionary surgical procedure that takes years off the face with less downtime than traditional facelifts. He is a specialist in chemical peels and laser surgery and was selected to author the chapter “Facial Resurfacing” in Plastic Surgery, the premiere textbook of the specialty. He also specializes in facial cancer reconstruction and endoscopic, minimally-invasive procedures, publishing his own original research about endoscopic plastic surgery. He lectures in medical forums and has presented his results at both national and international surgical meetings.
