Dangers of cosmetic surgery abroad as thousands could be uninsured

Britons seeking low-cost cosmetic surgery overseas have been warned standard travel insurance is unlikely to cover them if complications arise.

The warning comes from insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk who urge Brits travelling abroad for treatments to ensure they have specialist coverage in place.

The number of UK residents heading overseas for medical procedures – including dental work, hair transplants, and weight loss surgery – has surged in recent years.

According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), an estimated 431,000 Britons travelled abroad for medical treatment in 2023, nearly four times the 120,000 recorded in 2015. This figure is expected to rise further when 2024 data is released.*

Aggressive marketing, social media ads, and all-inclusive cosmetic surgery packages lure many into undergoing procedures without fully understanding the risks.

A major concern is the financial risk, as most travel insurance policies do not cover complications from overseas cosmetic surgery, leaving patients vulnerable to unexpected medical bills.

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) reports a growing number of patients returning to the UK with serious complications, costing the NHS an estimated £15,000 per person.

Whilst all surgery carries risks, the NHS warns that overseas clinics may not provide adequate follow-up care and may fail to meet UK medical standards.***

Experts strongly suggest Britons considering treatment abroad to thoroughly research clinics, understand the risks, and to secure appropriate insurance coverage before travelling.

Greg Wilson, CEO and travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “The rising number of people experiencing complications from overseas surgery is deeply concerning.

“Many low-cost clinics abroad offer procedures at significantly lower prices than the UK, but they are often unregulated and target vulnerable people with aggressive marketing tactics. 

“With the number of UK residents seeking medical treatment abroad almost quadrupling since 2015, it’s alarming to think that many may be travelling without realising that their insurance won’t cover them if something goes wrong. 

“Anyone considering travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery needs to think carefully about the potential risks.

“The appeal of lower prices can be tempting, but without the right protection in place, it could end up costing far more – both financially and in terms of long-term health.”

It’s also important to note that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the new Global Card (GHIC), which allows travellers access to medical care at the local rate of that particular country, won’t cover planned medical treatment, it’s only valid for treatment that’s medically necessary during the stay, and that can’t reasonably wait till the patient returns home.***  

References:

*https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/leisureandtourism/adhocs/2214ukresidentsvisitsabroadformedicaltreatment2023
**https://baaps.org.uk/patients/safety_in_surgery/cosmetic_tourism.aspx
***https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cosmetic-procedures/advice/cosmetic-surgery-abroad/