Leaderboard

I wanted to make a simple thread that highlighted some of the information I have found while researching the topic. So when it comes to budgeting for overseas plastic surgery, you have to be calculating for the total cost - This includes the procedure itself, travel, accommodation, and in some cases aftercare. I have found that overall surgery can be upwards of 80% cheaper than it is in the US or UK if you travel for it. Key Cost Considerations: Surgery Fees: Vary by procedure; for example, rhinoplasty costs $1,100–$3,500 in countries like Vietnam or Turkey, compared to $6,000–$10,000 in the US. Travel and Stay: Flights and hotels can add $1,500–$3,500 to the total, depending on the destination's distance. Aftercare: Post-operative medications, garments, and local follow-up visits may cost an additional $500–$2,000. Complications: Managing serious infections or botched procedures at home can cost $15,000–$150,000, which insurance rarely covers. Top Affordable Destinations: Turkey: Best for multi-procedure bundles; saves 60–80% vs US. Mexico: Popular for US patients; saves 50–70%. Thailand: Strong for recovery and medical tourism; saves 50–70%. Vietnam: Low costs and direct flights for some regions; saves 60–70%. South Korea in particular will save you 30-70% depending on what you wish to have done and is safer than Turkey, Thailand, and Vietnam. Financing options for your surgery: Credit Cards: There are some cars that offer promotional zero-interest periods of up to 16 months. Medical Credit: Providers like CareCredit (I have this one) or Alphaeon offer specialized payment plans - usually 6 to 12 months no interest. Personal Loans: Bank loans provide flexibility but include interest rates and I would not recommend them. Clinic Financing: Some international clinics offer internal payment plans or partner with local lenders which is SUPER helpful. Budgeting Tips: Get Itemized Quotes: Ensure quotes include surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility charges, and post-op care as all can vary from clinic to clinic. Plan for Contingencies: Set aside 10–20% of your budget for unexpected expenses or extended stays so you are not caught off guard. Verify Credentials: Choose board-certified surgeons and accredited hospitals to minimize risk, this is always a top priority. Compare Total Cost: Factor in travel and aftercare when comparing prices across countries.

Locate the International Patient Services page on their website. Most clinics have these if they work with foreigners. These are usually done on WhatsApp, Zoom, or KakaoTalk. All are free and easy to use apps. Keep in mind it may be free upfront but once you book an appointment, they might tack on a charge for it which will be included with your surgery.

You aren't wrong. I didn't honestly consider this. I mean even more expensive surgeries and stays/trips tend to still be cheaper than what you would otherwise get in most other countries. I have done a lot of comparisons. It seems like Korea is best for plastic surgery, Mexico is best for dental work, and Canada (while still expensive) is best for hair transplants.

Isn't Pop PS where Dr. Sang-il Kim used to be? I was looking into some clinics and I remember reading something about him formally being associated with this clinic. He is over at Vava PS now. Just doing some digging on a few doctors I am considering.