The cost burden resulting from post-surgical complications caused by aesthetic surgery abroad: A retrospective two-center experience.

Abstract

Aesthetic medical tourism among Swiss residents, driven by lower costs and shorter waiting times, is increasing. Complications after surgery abroad often require follow-up care upon return, with costs covered by the healthcare system. We aimed to assess patient motivations and the resulting financial impact on the Swiss healthcare system. This retrospective two-center study analyzed complications following aesthetic surgery performed abroad in patients who were treated at the Departments of Plastic Surgery of the Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale and Thurgau Hospital Group between 2020-2024. Complications occurring within three years after surgery, or capsular contracture within one year, were included. Patient motivations were assessed via structured telephone interviews. Among 275 screened patients, 32 met the inclusion criteria. A mean of 0.7 patients per month required hospitalization. The cohort underwent 53 surgeries in 10 countries. Swiss citizens accounted for 56% of all the patients, whereas 44% were foreign nationals. Complications included infections (36%), wound dehiscence (28%), hematomas (8%), and others (28%). They required 42 revision surgeries. The mean case mix index was 1.33. The motivations for seeking surgery abroad were lower cost (54%), influence of social media/friends (23%), and shorter waiting times to undergo surgery (23%). Treatment costs amounted to USD 691,838, whereas reimbursements reached USD 852,000. Complications following aesthetic surgery abroad impose a substantial burden on the Swiss healthcare system. Although reimbursed under current legislation, costs are ultimately borne by the public, thereby highlighting the need for improved patient awareness and ongoing policy evaluation in Switzerland and other high-income countries.