Isaps

The key guidelines for plastic surgery travelers

What is the surgeon's training?

A gynecologist performing a breast augmentation or a dermatologist doing a face lift are not an appropriate choices.

Is the plastic surgeon certified?

The ISAPS website lists the names and addresses of over 1,600 certified plastic surgeons in 84 countries.

Is the plastic surgeon certified?

Ask for certification information and who the certifying body is.

Does your personal health insurance cover you outside your country?

Most health insurance providers do not cover individuals for surgery performed outside their own country. Consider obtaining International Medical Coverage that may be available through your insurance agent.

What about aftercare?

Patients should stay in the area where the surgery was performed for at least one week, depending on the procedure. Find out in advance where you will stay and if this facility is prepared to care for your post operative needs.

What about complications?

What doctor will care for you at home if you have complications and who will pay for secondary or revision procedures?

Do the key personnel at the surgeon's office speak your language fluently?

If you cannot be easily understood, be prepared for complications.

With whom are you communicating?

You should be talking directly with the doctor's staff and the doctor. A travel agent should only make travel and accommodations arrangements.

Is the surgeon a member of recognized national and international societies?

ISAPS membership is by invitation and is granted to applicants only after extensive screening.

Have you checked for references?

Ask for names and contact information of patients who have recently had a similar procedure and contact them about their experience with the surgeon, their staff, aftercare facilities and post-operative follow up.