The desire to improve one's appearance can sometimes be a significant motivating factor, but unfortunately, it can lead individuals to make unwise decisions as they work to achieve their ideal looks. Doctors in Canada report that a growing number of patients are experiencing complications from surgeries they underwent while abroad, the Calgary Sun reports.

Surgeons recently treated a woman who traveled from Canada to Costa Rica to get a breast augmentation. The procedure left her with a serious infection and surgeons were forced to remove much of her breast. Her overall condition was also unstable for some time afterward.

The issue is not just a concern in Canada but in the United States as well. The practice, sometimes referred to as medical tourism, is popular because surgeries are often more accessibly priced in other countries.

However, there are a number of dangers as patients cannot be sure of physician qualifications, the postsurgical treatment they will receive, and the standard of care compared to that of the US. Most likely, there will be no recourse or medical care in the case of a significant complication from surgery.

Being sure of a doctor's qualifications is important when considering surgery stateside as well. Prospective patients should be sure to find-a-surgeon who is board-certified and a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.