Cosmetic procedures are increasing worldwide. At the same time, a growing issue is becoming visible: complications after cosmetic surgeries performed abroad often require medical treatment in Switzerland, creating additional costs for the healthcare system.
A report published on NAU.ch describes a recent case involving a 31-year-old woman from Zurich who underwent breast augmentation abroad. After returning to Switzerland, she developed a severe infection that required further surgery and hospitalization.
Because the treatment was medically necessary, the mandatory Swiss health insurance covered the costs. The total follow-up treatment amounted to approximately 55,000 CHF.
Complications After Surgery Abroad
Dr. Kelly Vasileiadou, board-certified surgeon and founder of the Dr. Kelly® Clinic in Hünenberg See, explains in the article that such cases are not uncommon.
“We regularly see patients who return from cosmetic surgeries abroad with complications and require medical treatment in Switzerland,” says Dr. Kelly Vasileiadou.
Many complications appear days or weeks after patients return home, at a time when the foreign clinics are often no longer reachable.
Increasing Costs for the Healthcare System
A study by the University Hospital Zurich found that within four years, 228 patients were treated for complications following cosmetic procedures. 82 percent of these patients had originally undergone surgery abroad.
The total cost of these treatments amounted to around 720,000 CHF.
With the number of aesthetic procedures continuing to rise, politicians and medical professionals are increasingly discussing possible measures, including improved public awareness and education about the risks of cosmetic surgery abroad.
Note: This article is an editorial summary. The full report is available on NAU.ch.
