Guest author John Borthwick recently visited several large hospitals in Bangkok that specialize in "medical tourism" and spoke to patients after their surgery.

“You could call us the Sisterhood of Traveling Breasts,” jokes 40-year-old Jacky* from Perth. She is one of ten women I meet at a luxury hotel in Bangkok, where they are recovering from voluntary medical or dental procedures in Thailand rather than in their native Australia.

They speak openly about their procedures, ranging from breast augmentations, lifts, or reductions to chin corrections, rhinoplasty, arm lifts, and liposuction. Some have also had dental crowns, implants, and fillings.

They are among the 1.2 million “medical tourists” who travel to Thailand for treatment each year, making the country the world’s leading destination for medical tourism.

Janelle, 31, who thoroughly researched her treatment options and costs before deciding on Thailand, raves: "I can't even put into words how happy I am with my surgeon." The cost of her breast implant replacement, which was performed during a three-day stay at a renowned hospital in Bangkok, plus a week's stay in a five-star hotel and round-trip flights from Australia, amounted to 7400 Australian dollars**.

Leading private clinics in Bangkok with international accreditation, such as Bumrungrad International, Piyavate, and Bangkok Hospital, offer a wide range of medical services to Thai and foreign patients. Their prices are on average at least 60 percent lower than those in Western countries, and waiting times are minimal.

The 520-bed Bumrungrad Hospital employs 900 full-time doctors (many of whom have international qualifications) and treats approximately 1.1 million patients annually, including 9,000 Australian patients last year, 800 of whom were admitted as inpatients. For comparison, a hip or knee replacement surgery at Bumrungrad, one of Thailand's more expensive hospitals, costs around 13,000 Australian dollars.

The quality of medical care abroad and compensation in case of problems are concerns raised by patients and professional associations such as the Australian Medical Association and the Australian Dental Association. "Every type of surgery carries risks, regardless of where the procedure is performed," states the website of Medi Makeovers, an Australian agency specializing in medical tourism to Thailand.

Some tour operators advertise their medical or dental treatment packages with the slogan "Tropical vacation with affordable surgery." However, successful medical tourism is almost the opposite: The procedure typically involves a hospital stay and surgery under general anesthesia, followed by a longer period of aftercare and recovery. The fact that the treatment takes place in a tropical holiday destination is the least important aspect. On the contrary, returning to the beach, bars, and shopping too soon can actually hinder recovery.

In 2002, Thailand became the first country in Asia to receive accreditation from Joint Commission International (JCI). This certification confirms that a hospital meets the same stringent quality and safety standards as those in the United States. Currently, approximately 39 Thai hospitals hold JCI accreditation.

The old adage "caveat emptor" – beware, buyers – should always be heeded when considering medical treatment abroad. Comparative research and recommendations from former patients are also advisable. Jacky researched on websites like RealSelf, Patients Beyond Borders, and in relevant Facebook forums before making her decision. "I avoided agents who tried to push excessive services on me," she adds as a warning.

Finally, a few tips: Australian Medicare does not cover medical treatment abroad. Only consider JCI-accredited hospitals. Think of this as a "medical trip," not "medical tourism." Do your research before booking—speak with former patients for advice or recommendations. Discuss options with your GP or dentist. Opt for a package that includes airfare, all medical services, and quality accommodation. Don't underestimate your recovery time. Contact an experienced, Australian-based travel agent who specializes in your specific health condition.

*Patient names have been changed for confidentiality reasons. **Prices have changed due to the recent decline in the Australian dollar.

Thailand Health and Wellness Tourism Fair 2015

The Tourism Authority of Thailand hosted a health and wellness tourism trade fair from September 14th to 17th, 2015, to introduce the concept of anti-aging tourism – the next big trend in health tourism. Click here for more information.