Medical tourism covers a broad spectrum of specialisations, but one particular aspect has become exceedingly popular in recent years: aesthetic medical tourism.
Aesthetic medical tourism refers to the act of travelling to get cosmetic surgery, whether for reconstructive or purely aesthetic purposes.
As we look into medical tourism and its overall impact in terms of economics and contemporary culture, we kick off our discussions with a closer look at the global aesthetic medical tourism sector.
Just how big is aesthetic medical tourism globally?
In its April 2024 report Medical Tourism Market: By Application, research firm Global Market Insight pegged the total value of the international medical tourism industry at US$26.4 billion as of end-2023.
Aesthetic medical tourism is responsible for nearly a fifth of the total value, as it is presently worth US$4.5 billion, with revenues from the United States contributing US$2.9 billion.
The sector’s significant slice of the pie can easily be attributed to the significantly increasing preference for procedures aimed at altering and enhancing one’s physical appearance, regardless of whether this is in aid of reconstruction post-procedure or personal improvement.
GMI experts explained: “Technological advancements in cosmetic surgery have made procedures less invasive, safer, and more cost-effective, with faster recovery times. Furthermore, the rising concern for aesthetic appearance in both developed and developing regions has led to an increase in the number of cosmetic surgeries, thereby fostering market growth.”
The sector’s significant slice of the pie can easily be attributed to the significantly increasing preference for procedures aimed at altering and enhancing one’s physical appearance, regardless of whether this is in aid of reconstruction post-procedure or personal improvement.
GMI experts explained: “Technological advancements in cosmetic surgery have made procedures less invasive, safer, and more cost-effective, with faster recovery times. Furthermore, the rising concern for aesthetic appearance in both developed and developing regions has led to an increase in the number of cosmetic surgeries, thereby fostering market growth.”
Per Fortune Business Insights, it is possible that aesthetic medical tourism’s market share could reach US$137.71 billion by 2032.
Why would you even go elsewhere for cosmetic surgery?
Given the sensitive, and even controversial nature, of cosmetic surgery in general, many people find it awkward, even off-putting to book for a procedure in their home countries.
On top of this, there are also other factors to consider: practical economics, for one; recovery time and space, for another.
In general, many who go the aesthetic medical tourism route are driven by the following factors:
- Procedures and recovery treatments are more affordable overseas: Cost is definitely one of the factors that has driven the growth of aesthetic medical tourism over the past several years. Consider this: the cost of rhinoplasty [nose lifts] tends to run between US$5,000 to $15,000, excluding professional fees and venue costs, in western nations. On the other hand, a simple corrective nose procedure in Thailand can go for as low as US$800 even at a reputable and licensed clinic, while more complex operations will set a patient back by $5,500. Not a bad deal, come to think of it.
- One’s privacy and anonymity are sacrosanct overseas: It may sound like a cliche, but getting work done abroad enables many patients to recover away from the scrutiny of others. This ensures peace of mind among patients, enabling them to focus completely on recovery.
- Clinics overseas often have access to cutting-edge technologies and treatments: Especially in the fields of aesthetic medicine and cosmetic surgery, some countries are at the forefront of development with regard to surgical procedures, maintenance treatments, and modalities for recovery. Switzerland has long been a leader in the field of dermatology and its spas and wellness centres have welcomed guests for centuries. In Asia, Japan and South Korea combine scientific innovation with traditional ingredients to develop new procedures and maintenance products to keep patients glowing regardless of their age.
- You don’t need to wait so long for your turn: Given that procedures falling under the aesthetic medicine category are rarely considered essential, most patients are forced to wait for protracted periods of time. However, if they book for a procedure overseas, it is a given that there will be a ready slot in the schedule; all they need to do is hop on a plane and fly over.
The top destinations for aesthetic medical tourism
India
India currently boasts of more than 5,000 practising cosmetic surgeons, many of whom earned their credentials at some of the world’s leading centres for medical education.
The country is also strict when it comes to quality control for procedures.
India is best known for liposuction, breast augmentation, and rhinoplasty.
Mexico
Mexico has long established itself as one of the leading countries for safe, economical plastic surgery, particularly when it comes to general face lifts, tummy tucks, and liposuction.
It has long been a choice for many North Americans as procedural rates are significantly lower than anywhere in the United States and Canada.
Mexican travel agencies are known to work with hospitals to develop tour packages for those seeking to go under the knife, and these all-inclusive medical vacations are known to go for US$5,000 or lower.
Brazil
Buttock augmentation, also known as the Brazilian butt-lift, is the stock in trade of many cosmetic surgeons throughout the South American country.
Brazil has also become popular in recent years as surgical procedures, both life-saving and aesthetic, are exempted from taxation.
However, the caveat emptor clause applies here, and it is recommended that would-be-patients read up on the clinic or hospital where they seek treatment to check their legitimacy and expertise.
Turkey
Believe it or not, Turkish hospital bills are up to 90 percent lower than comparable services in Western Europe or the United States, regardless of the field of specialisation.
In Turkey, cosmetic surgery is performed by certified and trained surgeons in Turkey.
Also, take note that procedures are overseen by officials of the International Medical Association and the Turkish Society of Aesthetic Cosmetic Surgery who inspect facilities prior to any procedure and they also make it a point to double-check on the credentials of those performing it.
Thailand
Japan and South Korea may be known for their serums, creams, and treatments, but Thailand has long had Asia and the world in thrall for the excellence of its cosmetic surgery facilities.
Today, a good number of Thailand’s top-rated hospitals provide advanced medical technology and equipment, on top of the warm congeniality its people are known for.
While the country is known for the excellence of its cosmetic surgery experts, the country has also received both fame and notoriety for gender-reassignment surgery and the corresponding gender-affirming treatments.
