Cosmetic Surgery is performed to reshape normal structures of the body in order to improve appearance and self-esteem.

The full range of cosmetic procedures is available at hospitals across Asia, Eastern Europe and Latin America at a fraction of the cost of western Europe and USA. Some common cosmetic procedures that are undertaken by medical tourists include:

Tummy-tucks
Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
Breast Augmentation
Breast Lift
Breast Reduction
Face Lift
Facial Implants
Forehead Lift
Liposuction
Otoplasty (ear reduction surgery)
Rhinoplasty (Nose Augmentation or Reducttion)

The boom in local demand for cosmetic procedures has also given many local cosmetic surgeons in Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe a chance to hone their skills and techniques. In some cases, local surgeons are ahead of their western counterparts. In Thailand, with its sizable population of so-called "lady boys," a thriving industry has sprung up to provide male-to-female sex-change operations. "No country can compete with Thailand," says Dr. Preecha Tiewtranon, a surgeon specializing in sex reassignment at Bangkok's Preecha Aesthetic Institute, where 80% of the clientele is foreign. And why? Becaue Dr. Preecha charges $6000 for a sex-change operation, as compared to $25,000 in the West.¹

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1 - Source: http://www.time.com/time/asia/covers/1101020805/story2.html