Hair restoration is on the rise, which means more of us with male pattern baldness are seeking the look we had in our youth, and more confidence to boot. While the idea of traveling abroad might seem enticing, there’s a trend that’s causing concern – American patients opting for hair transplants outside the United States. There are some definite risks associated with the questionable procedures found in some exotic locations.
The Thriving Industry of Medical Tourism
Medical tourism is a booming global industry worth billions. Countries like Turkey, Mexico, Costa Rica, Greece, Thailand, India, The Philippines, Slovenia, and Sweden are waving their flags as budget-friendly hair restoration hotspots. They will lure you in with bargain packages that promise to solve both your hair problems and your vacation cravings. But here’s a bit of wisdom: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Rolling the Dice Abroad
Dr. Joseph Williams, with over 15 years of experience in hair restoration, has seen his share of patients who initially went overseas or across the border, only to return with devastating results. While any elective surgery carries some amount of risk, it significantly diminishes when performed by skilled, licensed professionals. When you venture abroad, these assurances aren’t a given. Those clinics might dazzle you with slick websites and flashy ads, but what happens behind closed doors can be a whole different story.
When you find yourself in a foreign country with only the promises from a website, ouch! The risk of infections due to unsanitary tools and environments becomes a real concern. Even without those nightmares, there’s a chance your hair transplant might not meet your expectations, leaving you feeling worse than before, and with another blow to your confidence.
Then there’s the issue of post-surgery care. Sure, the procedure itself might be a bargain, but can you afford to stay away from home for weeks or months until your scalp begins to grow hair back as promised? Also, there’s not much of a chance of getting a US-based pharmacy to fill foreign prescriptions. If your recovery hits a bump, these hurdles could worsen your health issues. If your procedure is local, then so is your recovery and your doctor, so you can be seen in person for check-ups.
And let’s not forget the sneaky hidden costs that rear their heads once you touch down in another country. Without medical insurance that covers you overseas, unexpected complications can turn the whole affair into a financial nightmare. There is a famous ad campaign for car insurance that talks about how much it might hurt when you purchase cut-rate insurance instead of quality. The same is true for surgical procedures.
Avoid the Mayhem
“Chop shops” are not only located across our borders; there can be dozens within most medium to large cities. They can give our industry a bad name and can give you a bad experience.
The International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery (ISHRS) is a global non-profit medical association and the leading authority on hair loss treatment and restoration, with 1,000 medical facilities as members throughout 70 countries worldwide. ISHRS reports these statistics in their 2021 data:
- 51% of ISHRS members reported there are Black Market hair transplant clinics in their cities
- 5.4% of hair restoration patients sought treatment to repair previous surgery from another physician or Black Market hair transplant in 2021, up from 4.2% in 2019
- 16% of ISHRS members changed their pricing structure as a result of the Black Market
Why Going Local Makes Sense
Unlike their foreign counterparts, your local surgeon knows your health history inside out. Advanced Medical Hair Institute will review your medical records and conduct a thorough examination to guarantee a safe procedure. Here’s why choosing a US-based reputable surgeon is a no-brainer:
- Top-notch training: Hair surgeons put in years of hard work to master the intricate art of grafting. It’s not just a stroll through med school; they need years of hands-on experience.
- Clear accreditation: Professionals like Dr. Williams boast accreditations from The American College of Surgeons, the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Hair Restoration Surgery.
- Regulation: Every medical provider has to operate by strict federal and state rules. Even insurance companies have a checklist of trusted healthcare providers. And don’t forget online reviews, offering a sneak peek into a surgeon’s competence from actual customers. Obtaining information about a local physician is much easier in the US.
Trust the Experts
When it comes to hair transplant procedures, the experience at Advanced Medical Hair Institute will let you breathe a sigh of relief that you stayed local and are satisfied with your decision. We’re all about putting your needs first. Dr. Joseph Williams won’t sugarcoat anything – you’ll get a frank, professional assessment before he suggests the best solution for you. With his expertise and unmatched experience, you’re guaranteed the most natural results possible. So, why wait? Schedule your appointment today to jump-start the next step to a more confident you. You and your hair deserve the best!
