After-effects of medical tourism worry surgeons
December 27, 2010

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.
The mission of the Aesthetic Society includes medical education, public education and patient advocacy. Plastic Surgery News Briefs are summaries of current stories found through various news and magazine outlets that relate to or mention plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The views expressed in these news articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Aesthetic Society, but are merely published as an educational service to our members and the general public. For additional information on these subjects and other plastic surgery related topics, please go to www.surgery.org
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The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, is recognized as the world's leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. The Aesthetic Society is comprised of over 2,600 Plastic Surgeons; Active Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic procedures. International Active Members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements.
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