As the American healthcare landscape transforms, there is a lot of discussion in the media about “medical tourism.” While getting a good deal is a worthy goal, I take a skeptical view of the bargain-basement prices offered for some foreign procedures, and I hope all patients will consider the inherent risks of undergoing any medical procedure – especially cosmetic surgery – far from home.
1. Different Training & Facility Standards Abroad
While they may offer lower prices, many countries lack strict standards of medical training and certification. Further, other nations have different standards for surgical facilities as well. Always research any foreign medical provider and be sure that the surgeon is well trained and experienced and that the facility is guaranteed safe and sterile. When in doubt, check the guidelines on seeking cosmetic procedures abroad from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
2. An In-Person Consultation May Be Impossible
One of the most important parts of preparation for any surgery is the in-person consultation, your opportunity to discuss your questions and speak directly with your surgeon about your aesthetic goals. This option is often impossible for procedures performed abroad, so you’ll want to weigh the cost of missing out on this important step in the process.
3. Handling Complications May Be… Complicated
In the event that you should have any unexpected complications from your surgery, getting a domestic doctor to treat you may be more complicated than you anticipate. U.S. doctors are often reluctant to handle post-op complications following a surgery performed abroad. It’s important that you plan your post-operative care and recovery with as much diligence as the procedure itself, so be sure you investigate these questions thoroughly.
Dr. Glenn M Davis knows that not every patient has the same goals, and applies his years of experience and extensive education to create results that are personal and natural. Focusing mainly on facial plastic surgery procedures in the Raleigh, NC area, Dr. Davis also offers a selection of enhancements for the body and breasts, including abdominoplasty, liposuction, and combination breast lift and augmentation.
Dr. Davis received his medical doctorate from the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, and trained in general surgery at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD. After refining and focusing his surgical technique in a plastic surgery residency at the Eastern Virginia Graduate School of Medicine in Norfolk, VA, Dr. Davis developed his skills as Assistant Chief of Plastic Surgery at the National Naval Medical Center. Dr. Davis is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, is committed to utilizing the most up-to-date and successful techniques for each of his patients, and serves in leadership roles in multiple local and national plastic surgery organizations. A past president of 3 medical surgical organizations including the Raleigh Academy of Medicine, Dr. Davis has also chaired a number of committees for the American Society of Plastic surgeons, and continues to serve as Clinical Associate PRofessor of Plastic Surgery at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
