If trekking across the globe for a tummy tuck is on your travel itinerary this year, you’ll be joining thousands of Americans already jetting off for their cosmetic surgery vacation.   

Medical spas and independent physicians’ offices around the world offer attractive menus of specialty treatments, and some at highly competitive prices. When it’s cheaper to travel to France for liposuction or to Brazil for a tummy tuck, it might make sense to add a few weeks of recovery time into the mix and enjoy an extended vacation.    

In spite of the growing trends in medical tourism and BOTOX getaways, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASPS) recommends we steer clear of these dream vacation packages. Soaking up the Caribbean sun after your facelift may sound like a dream vacation, but it could be a recipe for disaster.   

Here are just six reasons why a cosmetic surgery retreat may not live up to your expectations of a dream vacation:  

1. You’ll need to stay out of the sun during recovery. If you’ve had a skin rejuvenation procedure or other facial treatment, adequate skin protection is a top priority; the healing process varies by individual, so you may need to pass on that poolside time and stay indoors for most of your vacation.

2. Health insurance at home might not cover post-operative problems. If you end up with allergies or problems that require surgery after your treatment, your health insurance may not cover all costs. Learning what may or may not be covered before you proceed with the treatment can help you make a better decision.

3. The surgery center may have failed safety regulation checks. If you’re visiting from outside the country, you may not have enough information about the surgery center or facilities at your disposal. Tracking down this information before you arrive can be challenging, and you are putting yourself at risk for several problems if the equipment is not safe or products are unregulated.

4. It will be hard to find follow-up care. When you have problems with your procedure in the U.S., it’s relatively easy to work with your surgeon for post-surgery repair work or just find another surgeon in your area. When you’re traveling abroad, you may not be able to find a surgeon quite so easily.

5. You might need more healing time before your flight leaves. If your surgery doesn’t go as well as planned, you might need extra healing and recovery time in the post-op stages. When your hotel and flight are already booked, it can be challenging – and costly – to change your itinerary at the last minute.

6. Sightseeing probably won’t be on your agenda. If your procedure involves extensive surgery that requires pain killers and post-surgery visits, your trip may be limited to a hotel stay. In most cases, you won’t even be able to head out for that nature hike, explore the city or spend long periods of time outdoors.  

The ASAPS encourages everyone to be cautious about getting surgery at resorts and medispas abroad, and avoid even making an appointment with a doctor or surgeon who has not been certified in the United States.

If you’re interested in a unique treatment to procedure, contact a doctor in your area to find out what options are available. Thousands of medical spas in the United States offer a wide range of treatments and services, and reviewing your options can help you find the best price – and make the best decision with your health in mind.