10 Questions to Ask Before Booking Cosmetic Surgery Abroad

The Questions That Matter

1. What is your board certification, and how can I verify it?

The surgeon should name the specific certifying body (SCCP in Colombia, Turkish Board, etc.) and provide a verification method (website lookup, certificate copy). A good answer includes additional credentials: ISAPS membership, international fellowship training, ASPS affiliation.

2. Is the facility accredited, and by whom?

JCI accreditation is the gold standard. National equivalents are acceptable. The key is independent, external verification of safety standards. A good answer names the specific accreditation and offers to share documentation.

3. Who administers anesthesia, and what are their credentials?

A board-certified anesthesiologist should be present for the entire procedure. Not a nurse anesthetist, not the surgeon. This is non-negotiable for any procedure under general anesthesia.

4. Can I see before-and-after photos of patients with similar anatomy to mine?

A surgeon with extensive experience will have cases matching your body type, age, and goals. If they can only show results on very different anatomies, they may not have enough experience with your specific situation.

5. What is the complete cost, and what does it include?

The answer should be an itemized list: surgeon's fee, anesthesia, facility, pre-op labs, medications, compression garments, follow-up visits. Anything not included should be explicitly stated. No surprises after you arrive.

6. What is your revision policy?

Reputable surgeons typically offer one complimentary revision (surgeon's fee waived) within 6–12 months if needed. Get the policy in writing, including what's covered and what you'd pay for (facility, anesthesia, travel).

7. How many of this specific procedure do you perform per month?

Volume matters. A surgeon performing 10+ of your specific procedure monthly has significantly more pattern recognition than one doing 2–3. For complex procedures like BBL or deep plane facelift, ask about career volume as well.

8. What is the post-op follow-up schedule?

Expect at least 2–3 in-person follow-ups during your stay and a clear protocol for remote monitoring after you return home. WhatsApp photo check-ins should be standard.

9. What happens if there's a complication after I fly home?

The answer should include: who to contact, response time expectations, protocol for emergency situations, and whether the clinic has relationships with physicians in your home country. Evasive answers here are a dealbreaker.

10. Can I speak with a previous patient?

Many clinics can connect you with past patients who've consented to share their experience. This isn't always possible due to privacy considerations, but willingness to facilitate it signals confidence in their results and patient satisfaction.

For more detailed vetting guidance, read our complete surgeon selection checklist. For Colombia-specific information, visit ColombiaMedical.co.