In a recent article on NAU.ch, Dr. Kelly Vasileiadou discusses a growing issue: cosmetic surgeries performed abroad and the often underestimated consequences for patients — and for the Swiss healthcare system.
When “Affordable” Becomes Expensive
Cosmetic procedures are booming. Many Swiss patients travel abroad for breast surgery, liposuction, facelifts or hair transplants — often attracted by significantly lower prices.
However, as Dr. Kelly explains in the interview, complications frequently appear days or even weeks after returning home. Infections, wound-healing disorders, incorrectly placed or infected implants, and non-approved filler materials often require emergency treatment, hospitalization, or multiple corrective procedures in Switzerland.
“We regularly see patients who return from cosmetic surgery abroad with complications and require medical treatment in Switzerland.”
Research Confirms Higher Complication Rates
The article references a study from the University Hospital Zurich: between 2015 and 2019, 228 patients were treated for complications following cosmetic procedures. 82 percent had undergone their original surgery abroad.
Dr. Kelly emphasizes that there are highly qualified plastic surgeons abroad. The issue is not “foreign countries” per se — but rather lack of transparency, aggressive pricing models, and insufficient aftercare by certain providers.
Who Pays for the Consequences?
Cosmetic procedures themselves are privately financed. However, if complications become medically necessary and pose an acute health risk — such as severe infections, sepsis, or serious wound-healing disorders — treatment is often covered by Swiss basic health insurance.
Why Follow-Up Treatments Are So Costly
According to hospital statistics, the average cost of an acute patient in Switzerland exceeds CHF 2,600 per day. Even a short hospital stay can exceed the initial savings from a low-cost procedure abroad. Costs arise primarily from inpatient treatment, emergency care, intravenous antibiotics, corrective surgery, and prolonged work absences.
Medical Responsibility Over Price Pressure
Dr. Kelly stresses that extremely low prices should always be seen as a warning signal. Somewhere, compromises are being made — whether in staff, time, materials, or safety. Aesthetic surgery is not a consumer product, but a medical intervention requiring professional standards, responsible consultation, and reliable aftercare.
Note: This is an editorial summary. The original article is available on NAU.ch.
