27 February 2025

What You Need to Know Before Choosing Cosmetic Breast Surgery Abroad

In recent years, more people have been travelling abroad for cosmetic procedures, including cosmetic breast surgery. The promise of lower costs and luxury “surgery holiday” packages has made destinations such as Turkey popular. However, while the price may seem appealing, there are important risks to consider. Many patients return to the UK with serious complications, requiring urgent medical care. Differences in regulations, surgeon qualifications and aftercare can make overseas procedures riskier than those done in the UK. We will outline what you need to consider before choosing to go abroad.

Why Do People Choose to Go Abroad for Breast Procedures?

The main reason people choose to travel abroad for cosmetic breast surgery is to save money. Cosmetic tourism is at its peak, with people travelling to other countries for cosmetic procedures.

Many clinics abroad now offer luxury holiday packages, which include hotel stays and exclusive airport transfers along with your breast surgery. At first glance, it seems like a great deal – saving money on surgery while recovering in the sun. However, many people overlook the importance of research and awareness. The low initial cost can end up being risky and dangerous in the long run.

The Dangers of Cosmetic Tourism

Cosmetic surgery abroad is often advertised as part of a holiday package. Breast surgery abroad should not be viewed as a “holiday package,” as it can mislead patients about the risks and realities of the procedure. It’s not ideal to plan a holiday right after your surgery because you’ll likely be unable to do regular holiday activities. After surgery, you should avoid sunbathing, drinking alcohol, sightseeing and swimming, as they can all affect your recovery.

Complications From Cosmetic Breast Surgery Abroad

As with any invasive surgery, such as breast lifts and breast implants, there are potential risks and complications. These include:

Infection
Bleeding (haematoma)
Scarring
Changes in nipple sensation
Uneven breast appearance
Fluid build-up (seroma)
Implant displacement or rupture
Nerve damage
Skin necrosis (tissue breakdown)

Many people who undergo cosmetic surgery abroad, particularly breast procedures, are returning to the UK with serious complications from poor-quality surgeries. There has been an increase in the number of patients seeking help from the NHS due to problems arising from cosmetic surgery abroad.

Turkey is one of the most popular destinations for cosmetic procedures abroad. In 2023, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons reported a 94% increase in the number of people needing hospital treatment in the UK after cosmetic surgery abroad. Over three-quarters of these cases were from procedures done in Turkey.

The association estimates the cost to the NHS for each patient is around £15,000, though this can vary depending on the treatment needed. The NHS will provide care for life-threatening complications, such as bleeding or severe infection. However, any other complications will have to be covered by the patient if they had surgery abroad. This means you could end up paying out of pocket, either for private treatment or a return trip to the clinic abroad. The financial and health consequences of dealing with complications can be significant.

Deciding Between Abroad or the UK for Breast Surgery

It’s important to do thorough research before choosing where to have your breast surgery. This helps you understand the risks of going abroad for surgery. Make sure you know the right questions to ask when researching breast clinics.

Verify Their Qualifications

“What are the surgeon’s qualifications and experience?”

Other countries have different health regulations. You may find similar associations abroad as in the UK, but you will have to do your own research. It’s important to ask the surgeon about their experience and qualifications. Regulations and standards abroad may not be the same as in the UK, so it’s crucial to know how the clinic is regulated.

In the UK, surgeons are listed with the General Medical Council (GMC). You can verify a surgeon’s registration by visiting their website and using the “Check a doctor’s registration status” feature. UK cosmetic breast surgeons may also be registered with:

Association of Breast Surgery (ABS)
British Association of Aesthetic Surgeons (BAAPS)
British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS)

Cosmetic Breast Surgery Regulations and Standards:

“How is the clinic regulated and what are the infection rates?”

In the UK, all private clinics are regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to ensure safety and high standards. Overseas clinics may not have the same strict regulations, so it’s important to check their standards and infection rates before proceeding.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery Aftercare

“What aftercare is provided and how are complications handled?”

Aftercare is an important part of any surgical procedure. In the UK, it’s included, and you have easy access to your surgeon if you have any concerns after breast surgery. However, it can be difficult to receive proper aftercare from clinics abroad once you return to the UK. This can be risky if complications arise. This is something you should carefully consider when deciding whether going abroad for breast surgery is actually better value for money.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery at Suffolk Breast Practice

At Suffolk Breast Practice, we prioritise your safety and well-being. Our patient-centred approach ensures you receive the highest standard of care. With over 25 years of combined experience in breast procedures, our surgeons are regulated, qualified, and committed to ethical practices. Dr. Hussein Tuffaha, our trusted surgeon, holds multiple certifications:

If you have any queries about breast augmentation services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Find out more about what is included in your breast surgery aftercare.

Written by

Dr Hussein Tuffaha