Aussies are Lured to India, Thailand, and the Philippines in Large Numbers
Australians are turning to places like India for more than just the sights. Medical tourism is becoming a major draw. Exact figures concerning Aussie patients are difficult to come by, but the majority of them seem to be lured by the lower plastic surgery prices. With the costs of botox treatments, breast enhancements, and nose jobs being so low, it’s easy to understand the growing appeal. And when one throws in a fun vacation on top, it’s clear why the industry is growing at such a fantastic rate. One can have liposuction surgery and then recuperate on the beaches of Thailand or visit the Taj in style.
Plus, medical tourism offers a degree of anonymity that you simply couldn’t expect back home. Not only do you save on the cost of the liposuction surgery, for example, but you can also avoid curious questions from friends and family. A win win situation all round.
Low Plastic Surgery Prices and More
Although they account for more than 85% of the procedures, aesthetic enhancements aren’t the only treatments Australians travel abroad for. There is also substantial demand for knee and hip replacements, both of which involve lengthy waiting lists in both private and public sector facilities in places like Queensland. Other tourism sector players are also wasting no time targeting the market Down Under. Thai Airways has introduced special holiday packages that include complete physicals and checkups in Bangkok.
Not all is hunky dory in the Australian medical tourism market, however. Recent reports of botched surgeries have led to doctors warning of the risks involved in traveling abroad for medical care. A couple of travel agents too have stopped offering medical packages. The more research you do upfront, the more likely your medical tourism experience will be a positive one.