Considering a mummy makeover abroad? You’re not alone. In recent years, many UK mums have been drawn to destinations like Turkey, attracted by lower prices,...
When choosing where to have your VASER Liposuction procedure, it is important to consider the regulations, standards and hidden costs. This is especially relevant if you opt for a procedure in one of the popular “medical tourist” areas such as Turkey. VASER Liposuction itself is a body sculpting and fat removal procedure which utilises ultrasound technology to target fat removal (usually used for stubborn fat rather than as a weight loss solution) and shape and define the figure. The procedure tends to be carried out under local anaesthetic, sometimes with sedation, and can be used to treat several regions of the body, including the stomach and flanks area, chest/arms/ upper body, lower body and even the neck/chin area.
The location of your surgery can be largely swayed by the cost, which is understandable as we tend to save money where & when possible. It is of utmost importance that patients understand that the price of a surgery reflects the complexity of procedure, expertise of surgeons and regulations/standards adhered to. Every year more & more medical tourists travel to countries like Turkey, drawn in by the low costs and the lack of information on the matter. This blog will cover some of the issues involved in going to Turkey for VASER Liposuction, and how it may end up costing more than it says on the tag.
Recovery and Aftercare Following Your VASER Liposuction Procedure in Turkey
Due to the nature of any surgical procedure in the UK or otherwise, there will always be risks to consider before undergoing your procedure. When opting for surgery in the UK, you will be in close contact with your surgeon or clinic’s team, who can address any issues or concerns about your aftercare or if any unexpected symptoms occur. If for example, you choose to undergo a VASER Liposuction procedure in Turkey, you may find it a challenge to get in contact with your surgeon, and any further treatment or aftercare may require you to travel back to Turkey incurring more costs and time. If you decided to have a VASER Liposuction procedure with Dr Fasano, you would have easy access to follow-up appointments and a phone number to contact at all times, as we believe our patients pay for the whole experience, not just the day of the surgery. Many clinics abroad offer a recovery and aftercare plan, but it is worth considering the costs of having to travel back to the clinic, and researching for yourself whether the aftercare is as thorough as UK clinic standards.
Why Travelling After Surgery is Frowned Upon
After a VASER Liposuction procedure, most patients are okay to travel after a week or so, but as with any significant procedure it is recommended you give yourself at least 6 weeks to rest and recover. It is also strongly advised that within your initial recovery period you stay within a reasonable distance of your clinic, so if any aftercare or follow up questions are necessary then they can be easily accessed. The environmental changes from flying also put patients at a greater risk of developing complications such as DVT, which is another reason why flying soon after VASER Liposuction surgery can be with risk.
Travel Insurance and Treatment Abroad
When travelling abroad for liposuction, standard travel insurance is unlikely to cover any complications related to medical treatment. While overseas clinics may offer treatment packages, most holiday insurance policies exclude cover if something goes wrong during or after a procedure. Many insurers also do not provide cover when travel is specifically for medical treatment, meaning specialist insurance is required. This type of cover can be expensive and should be factored into the overall cost of treatment.
Making an Informed Decision with an Expert Surgeon
When choosing to have VASER liposuction in the UK, you will usually meet your surgeon at least once, and often twice, before booking the procedure. This is a key part of ensuring the treatment is right for you.
During a UK consultation, you can typically expect:
- A detailed discussion about the VASER liposuction procedure and how it works
- A full explanation of the potential risks and expected outcomes
- An assessment to check your suitability for the treatment
- A personalised treatment plan tailored to your goals
- The opportunity to view before and after photos
- Plenty of time to ask questions and address any concerns
If you are considering VASER liposuction abroad, it is far more common for patients not to meet the surgeon performing the procedure until the day of surgery. For this reason, it is generally not advised to book or pay for treatment before visiting the clinic and meeting your surgeon in person.
In the UK, patients are also usually encouraged to take advantage of a two-week cooling-off period after their consultation. This allows time to reflect, weigh up your options, and make a fully informed decision before proceeding.
So is it Safe to Have VASER Liposuction in Turkey?
Whilst we have covered many reasons why Turkey may not be as safe as the UK when it comes to surgery, it is important to note that many clinics in Turkey are more than competent and provide excellent aftercare. Patients should be aware of risks available with all surgery, and should thoroughly research their chosen procedure and clinic/surgeon before undergoing anything. Never hesitate to enquire further and ask questions, and remember the purpose of VASER Liposuction isn’t to save money or to go on holiday, it is a cosmetic procedure that requires expertise and robust aftercare, and the priority should be comfort, safety and peace of mind when choosing your clinic. The benefits of VASER Liposuction are vast, but successful results are only achieved by expert surgeons whose experience and knowledge ensure near perfect success rates.
Book a Consultation with Dr Fasano
If you are considering treatment and want expert, honest advice, book a consultation with Dr Fasano at Health Excel. You will receive a personalised assessment, clear guidance on your options, and the reassurance of being cared for by an experienced professional every step of the way.
