By Ahmed Abdelsalam
Experts are urging caution over “sun, sea and surgery” cosmetic tourism packages, warning that travelling abroad for procedures can lead to infections, disfigurement and even death.
Campaign launches safety checklist
The British College of Aesthetic Medicine has introduced a checklist as part of its “vet it before you get it” campaign to help prospective patients make safer choices about overseas cosmetic surgery. The guide highlights red flags and advises patients to independently verify a surgeon’s qualifications, check nearby emergency facilities, and confirm the practitioner’s insurance coverage.
Risks extend beyond the operating table
Nora Nugent, a consultant plastic surgeon and former president of the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, said risks begin from the moment a patient boards a plane and continue until full recovery. Travel itself increases the risk of blood clots, and a lack of in-person aftercare compounds potential complications.
Legal challenges for overseas procedures
Chrissie Wolfe, founder and chief executive of Lupa Law, a specialist medical negligence practice, said pursuing a claim when something goes wrong abroad is fraught with difficulties. Even if compensation is awarded, it is often far lower than in the UK. “Turkey is the most popular destination by far for cosmetic surgery, but it is absolutely the most difficult from a legal perspective,” she said.
Rising numbers travel for treatment
Data from the Office for National Statistics shows about 524,000 UK residents travelled overseas for medical treatment in 2024, up from 431,000 in 2023. The figure includes cosmetic procedures. Previous warnings, including from then-health secretary Wes Streeting in 2024, have not stemmed the trend.
Case studies highlight severe complications
Nugent cited several cases: a woman who developed abscesses and infections after a facelift, requiring long-term antibiotics and drainage and leaving significant scarring; a woman in her late 20s who suffered tissue loss, implant exposure and over-reduced labia after a breast lift and labiaplasty; and a patient whose tummy tuck wound dehisced, requiring surgical cleaning and leaving scarring and a dip. “These are three examples of patients who suffered fairly horrific complications from procedures that were meant to improve how they looked and felt and have ended up doing exactly the opposite,” Nugent said.
