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When it comes to cosmetic surgery, the decision is not just about choosing the right procedure—it’s about making sure you’re fully informed about the risks involved. At Plastic Surgery Queensland, we want you to take your decision seriously and always encourage you to get a second opinion, especially if you are considering cosmetic surgery overseas.

As Dr. Andrew Hadj says, “If you’re seeing surgeons in Australia, you can get second opinions, you can see multiple people. We always recommend that, because once you’ve got a scar on your body, that’s it—that’s your scar for life, so you have got to be incredibly careful.”

Cost vs. Results: What’s the Real Price?

Cosmetic tourism is tempting—lower costs and the appeal of a holiday can be hard to resist. But Dr. Hadj urges patients to think beyond the price tag. “Yes, surgery abroad might save you $3-5K, but the hidden costs, including serious health complications, can outweigh any initial savings,” he says.

The convenience of having surgery in Australia comes with built-in advantages, like access to multiple specialists and ongoing care. It’s also important to ensure that your surgeon is fully qualified, with at least 9 years of intensive surgical training, as required for fully qualified plastic surgeons in Australia. You can learn more about the difference between cosmetic and plastic surgeons here.

The Real Risks of Cosmetic Tourism

Dr. Hadj regularly treats patients who return from overseas with serious complications. “I get calls weekly from people who’ve had surgery abroad—whether it’s Europe or Southeast Asia—about wound breakdowns or infections,” he shares. These issues can lead to prolonged recovery, severe scarring, and the need for additional corrective surgeries.

Some infections are so complex that they require specialised care and long-term treatment. “You’re putting your health and body at risk for what could be a lifetime of complications,” Dr. Hadj cautions.

Make an Informed Choice

At Plastic Surgery Queensland, we want you to make informed choices about your body. We don’t believe in rushing into surgery, especially when the stakes are high. Even if you decide to see us, we still encourage you to seek second opinions. The safest choice is to have your procedure done by qualified professionals in a regulated environment, where you can trust the care you’ll receive.We are aligned with the AHPRA guidelines and committed to the highest standards of care in Australia. You can read more about the AHPRA guidelines and our commitment here. While the allure of cosmetic tourism can be strong, we always recommend having your procedure done by fully qualified professionals in a regulated environment.

Read more about the risks of cosmetic surgery overseas at the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons.