As the demand for plastic surgery has increased over the years, so too has the field of medical tourism. This term refers to the practice of undergoing cosmetic procedures abroad, and often combines reduced surgical costs and the allure of a tropical vacation. However, as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) notes in a briefing paper on the subject, taking this route poses substantial risks.

“Although there are many skilled and qualified physicians practicing all over world, the ASPS cautions that it may be difficult to assess the training and credentials of surgeons outside of the United States,” the paper states, adding that patients may put themselves in harm’s way by “unknowingly selecting unqualified physicians and having procedures performed in non-accredited surgical facilities.”

Such was the case for two Texan women who decided to travel to Tijuana, Mexico, for their procedures. In an interview with the regional news outlet KHOU, Mimi Valdez and her niece, Chrissy, explained that they were suspicious when they arrived at the clinic – which looked nothing like the hospital displayed on the company’s website. However, because they had already paid for the surgery and traveled to Tijuana, they decided to go through with their respective tummy tuck and breast lift.

The results for both women were disastrous. Valdez had to be hospitalized due to serious complications from her surgery, and the two Texas natives said their bodies were left disfigured. 

Any surgical procedure bears some degree of risk, which is why it is so important to seek out a Miami plastic surgeon who is board-certified, and has therefore undergone years of rigorous training in the medical and aesthetic aspects of plastic surgery. Dr. Christopher Craft is a board-certified plastic surgeon who can answer any questions you may have about a given procedure, and will make your safety and satisfaction his top priorities.