Jun 13, 2026
For Americans facing sky-high healthcare bills, hopping on a plane for a discounted cosmetic procedure can seem like a savvy financial move. Why pay thousands more for a tummy tuck, liposuction procedure or breast augmentation at home when clinics abroad promise the same treatment at a fraction of the cost?
But a new warning from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests those savings can come with risks, and in some cases the risks can be deadly.
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The CDC’s Emerging Infectious Diseases journal reviewed reports involving U.S. residents who traveled both domestically and internationally for cosmetic procedures between 2014 and 2024 just how far consumers go to save money.
The risks behind the bargain
Medical tourism is booming as Americans look beyond U.S. borders to escape soaring healthcare costs. It’s not a new trend; according to the CDC, millions of Americans travel overseas for medical care each year, with everything from dental work to major surgeries drawing patients abroad.
Among the biggest attractions? Cosmetic procedures.
Every year, Americans head to destinations including Mexico, Canada, Central America, South America and the Caribbean seeking lower-cost treatments such as liposuction, tummy tucks, breast augmentations and Brazilian butt lifts.
But the new CDC review shines a spotlight on the risks that can come with bargain-priced procedures. Researchers analyzed 2,162 medical consultations and identified 34 cases involving patients who traveled for medical care. The review uncovered 21 reports linked to roughly 145 patients who experienced serious complications following procedures performed at both domestic and international clinics and surgery centers.
The CDC documented a growing number of severe infections, significant surgical complications and even patient deaths tied to travel-related cosmetic procedures.
“More and more people are getting medical procedures outside the United States, but there are risks,” said Kiara McNamara, a CDC nurse epidemiologist and lead author of the study.
And these weren’t routine post-op issues.
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Twenty of the consultations involved postsurgical infections, while 12 cases were linked to suspected or confirmed nontuberculous mycobacteria infections, an especially stubborn type of bacterial infection that can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
Most alarming of all, four of the consultations involved patient deaths.
The research also uncovered gaps in basic safety protocols. Inspections at one domestic and one international facility uncovered major deficiencies in infection-control practices, including poor environmental cleaning, inadequate hand hygiene, improper use of protective equipment and failures in sterilizing surgical instruments.
The findings don’t necessarily mean cosmetic surgery abroad is more dangerous than procedures performed in the U.S., however. Previous research has found limited evidence that overseas surgeries are categorically riskier.
But it’s important to note that medical standards, oversight and accreditation can vary dramatically between clinics and countries, so it can be difficult for patients to be able to accurately assess safety and quality before booking a procedure.
The CDC also warns that medical travelers may face higher exposure to antibiotic-resistant bacteria in some regions. Additional concerns can include counterfeit medications and lower-quality medical devices.
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Even if the procedure itself is successful, getting home can be risky.
The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery notes that long flights or extended road travel after surgery can increase the likelihood of dangerous blood clots forming in the legs or lungs.
And while recovering at a beachside resort may sound idyllic, typical vacation activities like swimming, being in the sun and drinking alcohol, can interfere with healing and raise the risk of complications.
As medical tourism continues to grow, patients who are serious about traveling for a procedure can take some steps to protect themselves first.
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How to protect yourself before going under the knife
While medical tourism can offer significant savings, patients shouldn’t let price be the only factor driving their decision.
The CDC urges travelers to consult with healthcare professionals before leaving the country and to thoroughly research both the facility and the surgeon performing the procedure.
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The CDC also recommends verifying a surgeon’s credentials, training and certifications through reputable professional organizations. Experience can be especially critical for procedures that carry elevated risks of infection, bleeding or complications related to anesthesia.
Consumers are also warned not to rely solely on glowing online reviews or social media success stories. Those testimonials may not reflect the full picture, and prices that seem dramatically lower than competitors should prompt additional scrutiny rather than immediate booking.
Where the procedure takes place can be just as important as who performs it, as well. Even a highly skilled surgeon may be working in a facility with inadequate sterilization standards, potentially exposing patients to avoidable risks.
Before committing to surgery, patients should ask detailed questions about infection-control measures, emergency response protocols and post-operative care plans. Follow-up care is another important consideration, as treating complications after returning home can be difficult if medical records are incomplete or communication with the original provider is limited.
Renato Saltz, a former president and board member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, offered a straightforward message for anyone considering surgery abroad: “You can go anywhere. Just make sure you do your homework and go to a surgeon that is well-trained and respected.”
As the medical tourism industry continues to expand, public health officials are calling for stronger monitoring systems and better coordination between healthcare providers and government agencies to identify complications and potential outbreaks more quickly.
For prospective patients, the takeaway is clear: Saving money sounds tempting, but bargain hunting for cosmetic surgery could come at the expense of safety. A lower price tag can sometimes carry serious consequences for your health.
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Freelance writer with an economic development and consulting background.
