The cost of cosmetic surgery is becoming increasing affordable. Over the past two decades prices in the U.S. for routine cosmetic surgery procedures such as: rhinoplasty, liposuction, tummy-tucks, and breast augmentation and reduction, have dropped dramatically. In addition a huge marketplace for cosmetic surgery has opened up abroad, further reducing the cost to the consumer.



Medical tourism combines dental and cosmetic surgeries with exotic vacations, usually at a total price far less than a procedure in the U.S. Some of the destinations that specialize in medical tourism are: Mexico, Costa Rica, India, Malaysia, Thailand, South Africa and Turkey.

At one time foreign medical facilities had a reputation of being substandard, but in today's global marketplace, nothing could be further from the truth. Because of the tremendous profits from medical tourism, tourist destinations have state-of-the-art facilities. Many of their surgeons and professional staff received their medical education in the U.S. or Europe.

The biggest benefit to having cosmetic procedures performed abroad is the substantial cost savings to the consumer. Another big plus for consumers, is the flexibility of scheduling. Most cosmetic and dental surgeries can be scheduled within a few days. When consumers compare that to scheduling a procedure in the U.S., which often takes months to arrange, having the procedure performed abroad becomes even more attractive. And if having the surgery done abroad includes lying around on exotic beaches or shopping in gorgeous boutiques that is just icing on the cake.

While the advantages of cosmetic surgery abroad are many, there are always risks involved in surgery of any kind. Those risks are amplified to some extent when you add the variable of being in a foreign location. One risk to consider is that should something go wrong with the procedure, the consumer has very little legal recourse. Second, because the procedure is not done in the consumer's native country they may be more vulnerable.

And finally, there are some risks inherent in the travel itself. Flying too soon after surgery can result in complications. The combination of high altitude and long periods of sitting can result in life threatening blood clots and pulmonary embolisms.

Consumers can find good quality cosmetic surgery procedures at a very low cost in a number of attractive locations. With adequate preparation and research, consumers can reduce the risks and have a good outcome.Lastly, there are risks involved with traveling too soon after surgery. The most serious risk is that of pulmonary embolisms and blood clots. These conditions often arise from high altitudes and long periods of sitting.Low cost cosmetic surgery is available abroad at ridiculously low prices. With some research and reparation, it is not only possible, but likely that a consumer can get the procedure they desire in an exotic location for pennies on the dollar.