The New Appeal of Plastic Surgery

Cutting Down the Cost of a Chemical Peel

While plastic surgery isn’t really all that new, it has received a “shot in the arm” in recent years thanks to the rapid growth of medical tourism.  With healthcare costs soaring in the U.S., Canada, and various European countries, individuals on a range of budgets have grown comfortable with the idea of a quick trip to a faraway land in search of better prices and a nice vacation.  In their home countries, plastic surgery for cosmetic purposes is not normally covered by insurance, making these procedures more expensive for the individual.  The cost of a chemical peel in the U.S., for example, can range from $150 for a mild peel to $6,500 for a deep peel.  Imagine paying 70% to 80% less in a country like Thailand.   

Is Medical Tourism a Good Idea?

The rising popularity of medical tourism seems to suggest that it might be a viable alternative to the high costs of healthcare back home.  Before you book the next flight to Thailand, however, be sure to check the accreditation of your chosen hospital and the qualifications of the doctor so as to avoid bad experiences.  You will also want to check on what is included in the packaged price.  Some tour operators set up packages that include airfare, meals, accommodation, and transport with the cost of treatment.  Packages like these are often cheaper than the procedure alone in your home country.  To make a fair comparison between packages, you need to know exactly what is and isn’t included.   

How Safe Is Medical Tourism?

Since medical tourism appears to be on the rise with no signs of slowing down, insurance companies and corporations have been taking a closer look at the industry.  Blue Cross & Blue Shield of South Carolina, for example, has developed formal affiliations with various hospitals in Asia.  The American Medical Association (AMA) also recently released guidelines for safe medical tourism.  Ultimately, the success of your treatment will depend on doing your homework before to ensure that you are in good hands with a reputable service provider. 

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