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Medical tourism has become widely accepted over the years. This also reflects in the hair transplant industry where patients are interested in going abroad for the procedure. They are finding that the cost is more affordable on top of the rising quality in health care and practice in other countries. So, this leads many to question whether it is really a good idea to have your surgical hair restoration done abroad?
Europe, the US and Australia are among the countries that have long been regarded to provide premiere hair transplant results. But it is true that other countries are coming at the forefront in providing quality results. The option of going abroad to find a cheaper alternative becomes more appealing because the procedure is not covered by insurance. In some cases it may be covered by some providers, but only when it is done as a reconstructive surgery for injuries like burns.
According to AllMedicalTourism.com, the top five countries include Dominican Republic, Turkey, Mexico, Greece, and Malaysia. Third world countries are also getting attention not only in the rising quality of service and results, but also in pegging these procedures at cheaper prices. This includes countries like India, Thailand and the Philippines.
Average hair transplant cost
The average hair transplant cost in Australia is around $2,000-$10,000 depending on the area that has to be covered and the number of grafts used. In the UK the cost for hair transplant is around £2,000- £7,000, meanwhile, it is around $1000 upwards in the US. A consultation would best tell a patient the estimate that is suited for their specific cases.
In third world countries, the costs are considerably low. Instead of running by the thousands, hair transplant in these areas can even run you less than a thousand. This allows you to save more, while at the same time enjoying other perks and amenities.
Why patients go abroad for hair transplant surgery?
The cost
The cost of the procedure is the primary reason to which the patient’s decisions revolve around when going abroad for hair transplant surgery. Aside from known countries like Australia, third world countries are also coming into the limelight.
Anonymity
The anonymity of being abroad, in a totally different environment, makes it more appealing for most patients. Balding is something that a lot of men prefer to keep it on the down low, so being able to have it in another country allows the patient to have better privacy. Being at a distance from home also allows the patients to recuperate without the eyes and questions.
Surgeon Preference
Some patients go the distance to get hair restoration surgery to have their procedure done by a surgeon that is their preference. It may be recommended to them, or it may be someone they have researched about online or through other sources. A lot of hair transplant surgeons today have earned their training in the US which allowed them to undergo extensive and top-notch training. This is why quality work is now available abroad.
The added perks
As the term medical tourism implies, this trip isn’t simply only for medical purposes but it also entails a whole package. One of the good parts about it is the pampering involved, the place, and all other perks that will make your stay worthwhile. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone, where you get to have your vacation while recovering from your surgery. This is particularly appealing for those who do not have the luxury of time to spare.
What are the disadvantages of going abroad for hair transplant?
Lack of follow up sessions
Post-operative check-ups are also important to see how your recovery is coming along. This is one of the common concerns that some Australian hair transplant surgeons have. They get patients who come in with problems especially with the quality of the aesthetic outcome, infections and some complications. Filing complaints may also become a problem because it is in a different jurisdiction.
Increasing cost
Sometimes, instead of saving because you get to have the procedure in countries where it is much cheaper, the vacation part of it can swell up your tab.
Hair transplant abroad
Should you decide to get your hair transplant surgery abroad, it is important that you do your research thoroughly. Read through forums and reviews about these hair transplant surgeons and make sure that they are duly certified.
Since hair transplant surgeries abroad are often done in a clinic setting, it is important that you ensure that it is a place that is clean and safe, especially since infections are quite common in medical tourism. In a research conducted by Chen and Wilson entitled, “The Globalization of Healthcare: Implications of Medical Tourism for the Infectious Disease Clinician” they mentioned that medical tourists are at risk for hospital-associated and procedure-related infections along with endemic infections.
You also have to understand the limitations of having your hair transplant done abroad. The continuity of care may not be maintained so should any complication arise, there may be certain risks to it not having the operating surgeon close by.
How do you prepare for a hair transplant abroad?
It is important that you do your research first and you do it well. Be extensive in searching for surgeons and clinics. Yes, price may be your major determining factor, but also make sure that you do not undermine your safety by settling for affordable yet questionable clinics or surgery centers.
Having your hair transplant done abroad is not a bad idea. In fact with so many doctors trained internationally, you can find accredited ones that can provide reliable and quality care. The process of hair restoration surgery has also improved over the years thanks to new technology and new approaches in the practice. With these, a patient can have better confidence in the procedure, but also without disregarding caution.
If you are interested in getting hair transplant surgery in Australia, Australian Institute of Hair Restoration provides you with a specialised and confidential consultation for free.
