Travel trends – cosmetic surgery in Southeast Asia

Travel trends – cosmetic surgery in Southeast Asia Have you reached a point in your life where you want to make alterations to some of your new found best friends as you grow older (we’re thinking of you, Miss Stubborn Wrinkles and you, Mr Cellulite) – but it is ridiculously expensive to have it done in your own country? Fear not, folks. It is no longer the case that people only opt for cosmetic surgery in their countries. There are a staggering number of people who are exploring Southeast Asian countries to undergo cosmetic surgery. Patients Beyond Borders provided an estimate that about 8 million patients around the world leave their countries for medical care – this figure is said to be growing from 15% – 25% each year. An estimated 500,000 Americans travelled abroad for medical treatment in 2005, and this figure is expected to triple by 2020. In Australia, it’s estimated that around 15,000 patients travel abroad for cosmetic surgery, motivated by price but also better care, and that number is also expected to rise. As we all know, when there’s a demand, more opportunities will be created to accommodate and satisfy consumers. As a result of this, many foreign countries, especially Asian countries, are motivated to offer top notch quality care with the prospect of medical tourists. A survey conducted in 2006 showed 20 – 40% of their respondents were willing to have surgery at a “very good hospital” outside their country, provided that the surgeon in the hospital is trained in a western country and speaks the patient’s language, if they are able to save at least US $10,000. It’s not a secret that Australians enjoy travelling to a country that offers beautiful sunshine all year round, exploring our fabulous nature and getting a gorgeous, natural tan. Malaysia, famous for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and white, powder-like sand is a fabulous place for tourists. Especially for those who want to swap their hectic working schedule for a paradise island and a pampered existence. Some of Malaysia’s islands i.e. Perhentian Island, Tioman Island, Langkawi, Layang Layang Island, have even made it to the ‘Top Beaches To Visit in the World’ on a CNN poll. In fact, over 60% of our clients who visit the Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre are Australian, which just goes to show how international cosmetic surgery is becoming, and how confident Australians are to undergo treatments overseas. Are you an Australian who’s visited our medical centre?