Surgery Abroad? Why Local Care is the Safest Path

Medical bodies and patient advocacy groups consistently advise caution against travelling overseas for surgery, and for good reason. No matter the type of procedure, be it orthopaedic, general, or complex reconstructive surgery, your health and well-being are on the line. If you are considering care abroad, we have compiled five essential points to consider before committing.

1. You can’t always trust what you see online

The medical tourism industry is often fueled by aggressive online marketing, which can be difficult to verify.

• Unreliable Marketing: Online marketing tactics used by clinics in some medical tourism hotspots are often unregulated. This means the hundreds of positive reviews you see could be fabricated and what looks like a premium facility may be an illusion. Companies who prioritise profit may put safety and clinical standards at risk.
• False Claims: Beware of vague or outright false claims, such as guarantees of "pain-free surgeries" or "internationally renowned" surgeons. Since surgery is an invasive process, some level of discomfort during healing is inevitable. A provider making painless promises may be less than trustworthy.
• Verification is Difficult: Unfortunately, there is little to prevent subpar clinics from inflating the credentials of their surgeons or surgical centres. We recommend taking claims with a grain of salt and thoroughly researching local and international medical authorities to verify all professional accreditations.

2. Regulatory and communication barriers increase risk

The UK is overseen by strict regulatory bodies that ensure all surgeons and clinics meet certain standards. These safeguards are difficult to rely on when seeking care overseas.

• Varying Standards: Different countries have different medical societies and standards. Distance, time zones and potential language barriers can make it incredibly difficult to determine a surgeon’s true level of certification or expertise.
• Lack of Personalised Care: When you only meet your surgeon once before the procedure, you are less likely to receive a truly personalised, thorough consultation. This communication gap is even more critical when discussing expectations for a complex health outcome.
• Complication Follow-Up: If complications or undesired results develop, returning to the surgeon or healthcare provider for follow-up can be extremely difficult due to the distance and different time zones.

3. Travel is stressful and potentially dangerous post-operatively

Adding a holiday to your procedure may sound appealing, but flying shortly before or after any major surgery carries serious risks.

• Risk of Blood Clots: International travel and flying shortly after a procedure significantly increases your risk of developing dangerous blood clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis - DVT).
• Compromised Recovery: Rest and reduced stress are essential for healing. The rush and bustle of airport queues, taxis and sightseeing are overwhelming while you are healing.
• Risk of Infection: Any surgery requires careful aftercare. Activities typically associated with a "deluxe holiday" such as sunbathing, swimming, or vigorous exercise are strictly advised against. Submerging your incision in water can drastically increase your chance of contracting an infection or experiencing complications like bleeding and swelling, delaying your healing.

4. A low price may cost you quality of care

While advantageous exchange rates can account for some difference in cost, most budget package deals are often only possible because hospitals and companies are cutting corners.

• Corner-Cutting: Weaker governmental regulation and fierce competition in medical tourism countries can incentivize clinics to offer the lowest price possible, potentially gambling with your safety.
• Overworked Surgeons: A low-cost model may pressure facilities to hire less reputable surgeons or overwork staff, leading to high volumes of surgeries daily. If your procedure is complex, you may be putting your health at risk if the surgeon is overworked or under-trained.
• Hidden Costs: The affordable "holiday surgery" often ends up costing patients far more in the long run if they need corrective surgery or follow-up care upon returning home.

5. What happens if something goes wrong?

Complications are always a risk with any surgery and seeking care abroad complicates the resolution process significantly.

• Lack of Recourse: It is extremely difficult to follow up with a surgeon or clinic overseas if complications develop or if you are unhappy with the clinical outcome.
• UK Care Refusal: The NHS will almost certainly refuse to help correct any undesired results unless the complication is immediately life-threatening. This compels patients to either travel abroad again or pay a local, more expensive surgeon in the UK to provide corrective treatment.

If you’re considering surgery abroad, remember that in most cases, “you get what you pay for.” Take your time to thoroughly research the clinic and surgeon you’re interested in, focusing on accredited UK options where you can be confident in the standard of care and enjoy peace of mind that support is available should any complications arise.