Considering Plastic Surgery Abroad? Here's What You Need to Know
If you're exploring options beyond your local plastic surgery providers, you're part of a growing trend. Each year, millions of individuals travel for various medical procedures, ranging from fertility treatments and dental care to cosmetic surgeries, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
While cost is often a driving factor, another common reason is the potential for more experienced providers in regional areas compared to local ones. (A 2024 review found that most patients are willing to travel long distances for elective procedures if it reduces risk.) This preference isn't about skill level but rather the frequency of procedures. Many patients seek surgeons who perform the desired operation regularly, as noted by Dr. Shahram Salemy, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Seattle. "In smaller towns, it might not be feasible to perform, for instance, 350 breast augmentations annually, as we do."
While this guide isn't exhaustive, planning surgery within, to, or outside the United States requires more thought and meticulous planning than a typical appointment. Surgeons share key considerations to keep in mind when planning your procedure.
Traveling Within the U.S. for Surgery
Ensure Adequate Recovery Time
Even within the country, it's crucial to allocate sufficient recovery time near your surgeon. While some minimally invasive procedures might seem like a quick weekend trip, this isn't always the case. "For short flights, ample support, and straightforward operations, it might be manageable," says Dr. Salemy. "However, the more complex the procedure or the longer the travel, the more likely the surgeon will want you to stay locally for an extended period." This is because post-surgery complications can be challenging to manage in rural areas, especially if immediate care is needed.
An exception? If you're traveling within the same region and opting for a less complex procedure like buccal fat removal, you might be able to fly in and out on the same day. Dr. John Mesa, a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in New York, New Jersey, and Florida, explains, "For some procedures, patients can fly comfortably without discomfort. The numbing medication I apply typically lasts 7 to 10 hours, so they're pain-free during the flight." He also provides over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol in advance.
Bring a Caregiver Along
Plan to have a caregiver accompany you. "This person will assist with travel, carry your bags, escort you to appointments, care for you post-surgery, and help you return home," says Dr. Salemy, emphasizing the need for a reliable caregiver. This is usually a spouse, close friend, or family member, and while surgeons might not always confirm their presence, it's essential for a safe recovery.
Traveling Outside the U.S. for Surgery
Thoroughly Research Your Surgeon
Regardless of where you plan to undergo surgery, it's crucial to thoroughly investigate your international surgeon and verify their qualifications. "If you're going abroad, you need to understand their board system," advises Dr. Salemy. These boards oversee patient safety and license doctors. Some international plastic surgeons are even certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery; you can find a directory on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website. Additionally, check if they're members of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which requires board certification, a proven safety record, and good standing with their national plastic surgery organization.
Fill Prescriptions Before Departure
Dr. Mesa recommends filling prescriptions for specific medications at your local pharmacy before traveling. This ensures you can obtain the medications with your insurance. While this applies to domestic travel, it's even more critical for international travel, where obtaining the medication might be more challenging, let alone getting insurance coverage. (For patients traveling to his practices, he collaborates with a local pharmacy that delivers medications directly to his office.)
Check Travel Advisory Ratings
In addition to researching your surgeon, check the travel advisory rating for your destination country. The U.S. has four advisory levels; levels 3 (reconsider travel) and 4 (do not travel) suggest postponing or reconsidering surgery or even choosing a different country. Since these levels can change quickly, it's wise to monitor them as your departure date approaches.
Traveling into the U.S. for Surgery
Arrive Early for Certain Procedures
For certain procedures, plan to arrive two or three days before your appointment. A facelift, for instance, requires earlier arrival, especially for long-haul flights to the U.S. "A facelift is major surgery that takes many hours, and we don't want to reschedule significant cases at the last minute," says Dr. Mesa. Flight delays could disrupt your surgeon's schedule and your travel plans.
Prepare for Additional Paperwork
Depending on the practice, you might need additional preparation before surgery in the U.S. "Patients must meet with my nurse or an assistant for a phone call via WhatsApp, regular phone call, or Zoom to review instructions," says Dr. Mesa. "We then email the instructions and ask them to read them back to ensure clarity about pre- and post-surgery tasks before arrival."
Plan Some Sightseeing
If you're headed to a major city like New York City or San Francisco for your procedure, consider planning activities to make the most of your trip. "Any surgery not involving the eyelids doesn't interfere with normal activities," says Dr. Mesa. For example, buccal fat removal might cause slight swelling but doesn't hinder sightseeing. He recommends extending your stay for recovery and leisure activities like dining out or attending a play. Even with a compression garment, "a scarf can help you blend in," he notes.
Ruli Destination Doctor Program
If you're considering traveling for plastic surgery, whether to see your preferred surgeon or to combine it with a larger trip, Ruli now offers the Destination Doctor filter for provider searches. This new profile badge helps travelers easily determine if a doctor provides travel support and post-op planning, offering peace of mind regardless of where you have your surgery.
The first 50 Ruli providers who joined the Destination Doctor program and offer support to traveling patients
