This article presents the guidelines for patients who are ready to set the date and prepare for the trip, after all the initial arrangements, quotes and online consultation have been completed. Most of the clinics abroad require a deposit payment in advance to officially book the procedure and the date. There are many different methods of payment, such as bank transfer, credit card payment or via such portals as PayPal. It is important to remember that there are often additional fees for transfers to different countries, therefore be sure to enquire after them before you settle the payment. In some of the clinics deposit is not refundable if a patient cancels the procedure or, so it is important to gather all information in advance.
Once the date is set and you have some time to prepare for the trip, firstly find out from your doctor whether there are some measures to be taken before the procedure, such as taking some vitamins, losing weight, exercising, etc. If you require a visa, apply for it after you’ve covered the deposit costs. The process should take about 2 weeks from the moment a patient submits all the necessary documents: passport, residency, the bank statement from the last 3 months, proof of pre-payment and the official letter from the clinic which clearly states the reason of your visit, the costs of the treatment and deposit, how long you need to stay in a given country and whether it will be a single of multiple visit. Remember to check whether your passport is valid and will be at least until the end of the treatment.
Be sure you’ve arranged everything at work and that you have enough time for both treatment and the convalescence. It is a good idea to travel with someone, as in case of more serious procedures you might need help and support. You may arrange the accommodation and transfers on your own, however, most of the cosmetic surgery clinics offer additional services, so that patients don’t need to plan such things and focus on the treatment. Once everything is ready for your arrival, check the weather forecast and prepare for differences in the climate; if you travel to much warmer places enquire after air conditioning. Comfort especially after the procedure is of utmost importance. Apart from the weather differences find out about the local customs and religions, so that you don’t offend anyone by chance.
As far as financial issues are concerned, familiarise yourself with the possible methods of payment. Contact your bank before your trip and confirm you don’t have any account or card limits connected to transfers to a foreign account. If you decide to pay in cash, remember not to exchange the money at the airports, as there you’ll find the worst rates and you’ll lose much money.
As cosmetic surgery abroad is getting more and more popular every year there are many article and guides that once can find on the Internet. There are also many professional portals offering help and pieces of advice for those interested in travelling abroad for cosmetic surgery.