Celebrities do it, your neighbor has probably done it too! Nip Tuck (or medical) Tourism is a growing trend of traveling outside the country for the purpose of receiving medical care or procedure. What really puts the word “tourism” in medical tourism concept is that people often stay in the foreign country after the medical procedure. Travelers can thus take advantage of their visit by sightseeing, taking day trips or participating in any other traditional tourism activities. 
Thinking of going off the grid to get a little work done like an eyelid lift in Naperville, IL or facelift in Atlanta, GA? You’re tapping into a growing trend. These days more and more people are seeking great doctors in locations beyond New York and Beverly Hills. While jetting off to South America for some plastic surgery may be too distant, there are plenty of calmer more serene cities for those who don’t want the crowds and fast pace of a big city.
Board certified plastic surgeon and best selling author Dr. John Zannis, based in coastal North Carolina caters to patients from all over the world. Here are his dos and don’ts when it comes to Nip Tuck Tourism to ensure you get the best doctors, support staff, post-op recovery and overall experience.
Do: Consider a smaller city. When it comes time for recovery, resting and avoiding stress is key. You can also get more info here what products to use for that recovery to be much more efficient. Smaller cities have a cozy, home away from home feel. Imagine going outside for a walk or sitting peacefully outside with sounds of nature instead of traffic. Being in a serene environment helps you heal.
Don’t: Skimp on the pre-arrival consultation and follow up communication. Verifying that you are a candidate for procedures like breast reduction, breast augmentation surgery or breast implant surgery is extremely important before flying anywhere. Be ready for a few Skype consults with your surgeon, sharing pictures and keeping in touch over phone and e-mail leading up to your scheduled procedure.
Do: Consider your physician’s lodging recommendations. Many doctors already have relationships with local hotels and bed and breakfasts and can make solid recommendations. Your doctor will also know the type of accommodations you’ll need: will a simple suite do or do you need a full home-style living space for longer recovery procedures?
Do: Fly in a couple of days before your surgery is scheduled. This allows you to meet with the doctor and staff before the big day and become comfortable with your surroundings.
Do: Take the appropriate amount of time off. Dr. Zannis explains, “depending on the procedure, you’ll be able to return home in just 24 hours, while others may require a follow up visit in 7 days. You want to allow adequate healing time for any swelling and pain to subside before traveling back home.”
Don’t: Forget your insurance cards. Although most cosmetic procedures aren’t covered by insurance, you’ll still need your insurance information to get your prescriptions filled.
Do: Plan ahead and pack wisely if you’re going to get surgery like breast augmentation in Beverly Hills, CA or Rhinoplasty in Chicago, IL. “It’s important to pack loose fitting zip front shirts and wide comfortable bottoms, a pillow to place between yourself and the car/plane seatbelt, a spill proof large water bottle, and throat relievers for post-op soreness,” suggests Dr. Zannis.
And finally Do: Plan some nice activities and meals! Remember this is your time to relax, recover and enjoy. Think low-key and relaxing. When you get your appetite back you’ll want a great meal. As days pass and more and more healing takes place you’ll want to go for nice walks, explore nature, or just read and unwind by a fireplace or lake. These little things contribute to making you feel better and heal after a procedure. You’ll return with a new look, while feeling completely refreshed.
About Dr. John Zannis:
Dr. John Zannis is an Amazon.com Best Selling author, won the Angie’s List Super Service Award, is a NewBeauty Magazine Beauty Expert, is a Real Self Top Doctor and boasts a slew of other accomplishments. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, he studied Human Biology and Studio Art at Stanford University and obtained his Doctor of Medicine degree (M.D.) from the University of Cincinnati College Of Medicine, before completing his formal training in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
For more about Dr. John Zannis, his New Bern, North Carolina practice and their Makeover Getaway Program, visit zannisplasticsurgery.com.
