English
EnglishIn line with increased demand for plastic surgery we are also seeing an increase in patients considering surgery abroad.
Low prices, fast treatments and the promise of state-of-the-art facilities can be tempting.
However, experience shows that surgery abroad often involves risks that can be both costly and serious in terms of health.
As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Ståle Buhagen regularly meets patients who have undergone procedures abroad and need corrections or treatment for complications.
This is a worrying trend, especially as many of these problems could have been avoided with safer treatment in Norway.
Many people choose to travel abroad to save money. But if we take a closer look at the prices, there aren't always the big differences you might expect. In fact, the Breast augmentation with silicone implants often cheaper in Norway than at reputable clinics abroad, and for many other operations the price difference is small.
What should you take into account?
According to Norwegian Association of Plastic Surgeons (NPF), it is important that patients make sure that the surgeon they choose is specialist approved and has documented experience in aesthetic surgery. Norwegian plastic surgeons are subject to Health Personnel Act and operates in accordance with the guidelines from The Norwegian Medical Association and The Norwegian Board of Health.
Although there are good surgeons and clinics abroad, patients in Norway are covered by Norwegian Patient Injury Compensation (NPE) if an error occurs during surgical treatment, at a public or private clinic.
This gives patients extra peace of mind. NPE has no coverage for operations performed abroad. If an operation abroad goes wrong, any corrections will have to be paid for by the patient themselves, with no guarantee of financial compensation.
Even minor complications can have major consequences. Infections, poor healing, asymmetry and capsular contracture* are among the problems that can occur after surgery. If this happens after an operation abroad, you may have to pay for a new operation in Norway.
I've seen patients who have had breast augmentation abroad, but shortly afterwards had to undergo extensive re-operations due to misplaced implants or infections. These costs, along with the medical discomfort, far exceed the initial savings.
Corrections can be challenging: If an operation does not produce the desired result, it can be more complicated and risky to correct errors than to achieve a good result from the start. This can lead to higher costs, longer recovery times and an increased risk of complications.
* Capsule contracture occurs when the body's natural scar tissue around the implant contracts, which can lead to pain and an abnormal shape
In Norway, we are obliged to provide patients with a comprehensive assessment based on their needs and health. This includes a realistic review of what can be achieved and an assessment of whether the surgery is actually the best solution for the patient.
Abroad, the focus can often be more on upsellingwhere several procedures are offered without an equally thorough ethical assessment. There have been several cases where patients have suffered serious complications or, in the worst case lost his life after surgery abroad. Lack of follow-up, varying medical standards and complications can pose a significant risk.
At Klinikk A, we stand for a safe, ethical and patient-focused approach. Our goal is not to sell as many procedures as possible, but to ensure that patients make informed choices that are in the best interest of their health and well-being.
According to The Norwegian Medical Association close follow-up is an important factor for a safe and successful outcome after plastic surgery. This is something Norwegian clinics give high priority to.
Very satisfied with klinikk A in every way! Professional, attentive and proper follow-up with good information! You feel cared for and in the very best hands! Definitely recommended!
– Beate Langhelle
Klinikk A is 100% is a serious clinic. I felt very safe and well taken care of before, during and after the operation I had performed with them.
– Kristin Blichfeldt
Feel free to check our reviews on Google. We have over 70 positive reviews and 5 out of 5. It's important to us that you feel taken care of - and our feedback confirms that we do.
Choosing a plastic surgery is a big decision that should be taken with care. The price difference between Norway and abroad is often far less than expected, and the risks of operating abroad can be considerable.
At Klinikk A, we put patient safety first. We offer thorough assessments, a safe environment and comprehensive follow-up to ensure you get the best results. Are you in doubt about which solution suits you best? Book a consultation with us for a safe and professional assessment.
Are you considering plastic surgery? Please feel free to contact us for a safe conversation and assessment.
