07 Apr Risks of Going Abroad for Plastic Surgery
Everyone loves a great deal, but when it comes to cosmetic surgery your safety should always come first. Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center specializes in tummy tucks, one of the most popular procedures for men and women, as well as breast augmentation, facelifts, and liposuction. One of the hallmarks of a great surgeon is one who is 1) board-certified and 2) specializes in just a few types of surgeries. Traditionally, certifications, before and after galleries, and recommendations were the framework for finding and choosing the best plastic surgeon for you. Unfortunately, social media has swayed much of the public into considering going abroad for cosmetic surgery—but the results aren’t always what you hope.
Recently, four missing Americans who traveled to Matamoros were found. Two were dead, one was injured, and another was unharmed, reports the Associated Press. One of the victims, Latavia McGee, had traveled abroad for a tummy tuck. She, along with the three others, was kidnapped shortly after crossing the border. The particular area they were visiting is known for being dangerous, and McGee’s brother had spoken out about his concerns. In fact, it is one of the reasons he joined her. Their mother also had concerns about the trip, urging them not to go. However, she tells reporters that McGee brushed off the worries, saying, “Ma, I’ll be okay.”
McGee was accompanied by three friends and they planned to share driving duties. They were taken at gunpoint after arriving in Mexico in a white minivan. Matamoros is notorious for being dominated by the Gulf cartel. Armed men abducted them and put them in the back of a truck. Of course, most tummy tucks abroad do not end with this kind of tragedy—still, it is a warning of what can happen when cost is put before safety. Unfortunately, however, death is not such a rare outcome when it comes to plastic surgery abroad. There are many cases of complications during and after surgery that culminate in a patient’s death.
Tummy Tuck: An Invasive Procedure
A tummy tuck is one of the most invasive and longest cosmetic procedures because it is not simply the removal of excess skin. A tummy tuck also fortifies the abdominal wall muscles. The internal aspect of a tummy tuck is identical to repairing diastasis recti. In almost every case, a new bellybutton also needs to be created during surgery. Liposuction almost always accompanies a tummy tuck since most people have excess fat in this area and want the best outcome possible. All of this means that the surgery takes several hours. In some cases, a tummy tuck is part of a mommy makeover, which often includes breast augmentation, too.
As you can imagine, the procedure itself as well as the recovery are intensive. Getting results you’ll love is important, but safety is paramount. Simply put, if you want the best and safest experience, you want to work with a board-certified surgeon in a country that is known for both its great results and safety procedures. It is not uncommon to travel (within the US) to see the best plastic surgeon for your particular surgery. However, traveling within your own country means you will still have access to and be familiar with medical procedures. This is not necessarily the case in other countries.
A Tummy Tuck Worth Getting
Do not let the low prices of plastic surgery abroad sway you from putting your safety first. There are countless horror stories of what happens when patients opt to save money rather than prioritize their well-being. Although plastic surgery is not covered by any insurance policy, it is worth budgeting for (or perhaps opting for a medical-use-only credit card that is designed for such purposes).
The first step in a quality tummy tuck or any plastic surgery is finding the best surgeon for you. Dr. Parson is a renowned tummy tuck surgeon who is known for great results—and experiences. You can find out more during your consultation with him. Schedule yours today by calling Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center during business hours or completing the online contact form now.