Navigating Pitfalls in Overseas Cosmetic Procedures: A Guide
Affordable Cosmetic Procedures Overseas: Consider These Factors Before You Go
Frequently, surgeries like hair transplants, liposuction, and breast augmentation can be less expensive outside of Germany compared to within the country. However, there might be costly additional expenses associated with any complications that occur. Here's what you need to take into account.
Complications stemming from a cosmetic surgery abroad often spoil the anticipated savings. Generally, German health insurance firms do not cover expenses for follow-up treatments if a medically unnecessary procedure fails. This is a cautionary note issued by the North Rhine-Westphalia Consumer Center.
Depending on the contract, it may be challenging to hold the foreign clinic liable for damages. In such circumstances, the patient may bear the costs, such as when breast implants need to be removed once more.
Notwithstanding, treatment abroad need not be inferior to that in Germany. Within the EU, medical standards tend to be on a par, as reported by the consumer center. By being cautious while choosing a clinic or practice abroad, risks can be minimized.
Issues to Ponder Over:
Doctor's Expertise
A true specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery will enhance the credibility of the offer. According to the consumer center, a doctor can only claim this title if they have successfully completed a multi-year, globally recognized additional training in this field.
A professional clinic can be concluded as genuine if it bears the ISO symbol, indicating that certain quality standards are evaluated every five years. The European Consumer Centre suggests examining this logo on the clinic’s website. Clicking on it should lead to a legitimate, signed ISO certificate.
Detailed Cost Breakdown
Once a clinic or practice is chosen, a comprehensive cost breakdown is necessary. The quote should cover the surgery, anesthesia, laboratory tests, accommodation costs, and any necessary follow-up treatments. In some cases, the price may decrease if a German partner takes charge of the follow-up treatments, thereby avoiding prolonged stays abroad.
Transparent Information
It's positive if the doctor openly discusses potential risks of the procedure and allows a reflection period before proceeding. The consumer center advises against scheduling the procedure immediately after consultation, recommending a minimum waiting period of at least one day. The European Consumer Centre urges against relying solely on WhatsApp for consulting offers.
Contract Should Address Liability in Case of Complications
Advocates for consumer rights endorse the drafting of a personalized treatment agreement with the doctor or clinic. This should include provisions concerning liability in case of complications. A contract excluding all liability should be carefully evaluated before signing, as per the European Consumer Centre.
Insurance for Follow-up Costs
To safeguard yourself, consider procuring follow-up cost insurance prior to the surgery. This policy covers expenses incurred due to follow-up treatments in the event of setbacks.
If insurance is obtained, consumer advocates recommend ensuring that it covers not just secondary treatments due to poor wound healing, but also those for complications. Furthermore, it should cover the intended procedure and the chosen destination.
After carefully considering the costs and potential complications, it's advisable to seek advice from a legal expert when drafting the treatment agreement to ensure liability clauses are fair. In the unfortunate event of complications, having follow-up cost insurance can provide much-needed financial protection.
When discussing treatments with foreign clinics, it's important to thoroughly understand the liability clause within the contract and the coverage of any follow-up cost insurance, as these aspects can have significant consequences.
