Q: What Risks Are Involved By Traveling Overseas for Medical procedures?
A: All medical treatment and surgical procedures carries risks, although the risks are no greater using a qualified representative or having procedures conducted in Thailand, in comparison to Australia. We still take surgery very seriously, and Australia has had numerous complications in the media due to inexperienced GP's or Cosmetic surgeons conducting inexperienced procedures. The advantage of using AAB is that you receive a qualified surgeon for the procedure selected.

Q: Why Have Surgery In Thailand and Not Malaysia?
A: You Have Chosen One Of The Best destinations In The World for medical procedures! No Other Country In The World Welcomes So Many Medical Tourists Each Year, with our main supplier treating more than 400,000 International clients annually, and rated as one of the world's top 10 hospitals. The reasons are quite simple: excellent health care facilities with International JCI and ISO standards, with American and Australian executives managing many of these hospitals, this alone should restore some confidence. Malaysia may be marginally cheaper, however has proven not to be a desired destination, with local GP's and Cosmetic surgeons conducting plastic surgery procedures with dramatic results. For more information read our media page or contact channel nine. A Current Affair.

Q: Why Thailand seems like a safer destination to Queensland's paradise?
A: Although we have seen stories in the press about oversea's medical disasters, we have also seen equivalent stories in the press about Australian and Gold Coasts consultants organizing procedures with disastrous results by cosmetic surgeons. For more information read our media page or contact channel nine. A Current Affair.

Q: Are Post Operative Consultations after surgery required?
A: On discharge of hospital you will be required to report back to your surgeon approx 5 to 10 days after surgery depending on the procedure requested for your post op consultation, and as a result we encourage you remain close to your chosen hospital for 7 to days post surgery with the exception of a tummy tuck which is 14 to 21 days post surgery before you can depart.

Q: Can I travel alone to have surgery?
A: Many clients travel overseas alone to have surgery. AAB has increased our services to cater for those people traveling alone by introducing our very own post operative service. As we are Thailand's most active representative you usually have plenty of other clients traveling at the same time, if you want companionship.

Q: Is Post Operative Care Important?
A: Many clients travel overseas alone to have surgery, some procedures are minor and some are major. Post operative care creates a feeling of comfort and security, knowing that you are not alone and that if you need assistance or support that we are close at hand. Many people use our services as post operative care is important to them, and we are the only representatives that do not contract this service to others.

Q: What procedures do the hospitals specialize in?
A: The private hospitals utilized are like five star hotels. They pride themselves in their cardiac and intensive care units. They have the facilities and expertise to perform all major medical procedures.

Q: What are the most common procedures for overseas patients?
A: Because of the publicity we get a lot of cosmetic surgery patients. However we also see many hip replacement, knee reconstruction and dental patients. Each patient varies in their needs. Depending on the nature of your procedure you will either return to your hotel and be cared for by our post operative care assistant, or you will recover in your chosen hotel.

Q: What type of clothing should I take?
A: Bangkok has a tropical climate and is warm throughout the year. Bangkok, Thailand is great for shopping, so many people bring minimal clothing and buy the rest when they arrive. Clothing that you could bring would be loose dresses, skirts, shorts, swimsuits, and sandals.

Q: Why does the Australian Media show horror stories of overseas Medical procedures?
A: Recent "horror stories" making the headlines say more about the importance of thoroughly planning your surgery abroad. Research is the first step. Choose a country and a facility where you are assured of only the highest quality treatment and after care. Find a medical facilitator, such as All About Beauty, who has thoroughly reviewed the surgeon and the facility, interviewed former patients and prepared you for your post-op care. This all assists to reduce your risks.

Many people have increased confidence to travel overseas without the assistance of a consultant, because their friend has done it, a family member, or they have seen successful procedures through the media, and this creates a false sense of security, as already addressed complications do not discriminate against their patients. In spite of due care the results of cosmetic surgery are not as predictable as we expect. Every procedure involves obvious inherent risks. Every patient can be dissatisfied with some aspect of the results of their operation. Your anesthetic expectations cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is not an exact science. A happy outcome is when the benefits outweigh the drawbacks and limitations. If a patient is unfortunate to be dissatisfied after the procedure the patient has no where to turn and often the surgeon or hospital may not have the time to respond and the patient does not know the procedure to rectify a problem, or an avenue for support as a result the patient visits a local surgeon who immediately sees an opportunity to expose a medical malfunction overseas, which is highly frowned upon by the Australian Medical Association due to the large amounts of money going to overseas hospitals annually for medical procedures.

Q: Have other representatives had complications?
A: All representatives have had some complication. Beware of agents that state they have a 100% success rate. If they have sent 1000 clients to Thailand and have not had some concern during their operation of business. You should question their credibility and integrity.

Q: Does AAB have surgeons available in Australia if I have a concern when I return?
A: All About Beauty has established relationships with some GP's and Plastic Surgeons that will conduct an objective consultation for our clients if you have concerns after returning. We strongly suggest that clients do not return until they have had their post op consultation and are satisfied with their results.

Q: What kind of electrical appliances can I use in Bangkok?
A: The electricity current in Bangkok, Thailand is 220 volts, so if you have to bring electrical appliances from Australia, the UK or the USA, an adaptor is advised, or you could buy one in Bangkok.

Q: When can I go back to work?
A: Depending on what type of work you do, you can go back to work as early as 7 days after surgery. If you have a more physical job, you should wait at least 14 days or until you feel comfortable before returning to work.

Q: Can I swim or sun bake after surgery?
A: Depending on the procedure you have received swimming is generally not permitted for up to 3 weeks after surgery and sun exposure is also not permitted on the effected area's. We suggest you use sun block and remain under a shelter or umbrella when out doors.

Q: How can I reduce the risk of scars?
A: Scar Fade Gel for Scars helps scars appear softer and smoother. Scar Fade for Scars is a topical gel formulated to help scars appear softer, smoother and less visible. Scar Fade hydrates the scar tissue and promotes the normal skin healing process. Scar Fade can be used in scars that result from surgery, accidents, burns or acne as well as stretch marks. Scar Fade can be used in both new and old scars. This product is available from All About Beauty

Q: What happens if something goes wrong when I return home?
A: Unfortunately with surgery, there are no guarantee's with your desire outcome, however reputable hospitals with integrity have procedures in place with their representatives, where committee's are held and the procedure discussed and usually resolved.

Q: What Risks Are Involved By Traveling Overseas?
A: All Medical Treatment Carries Risk, And You Should Be Aware Of And Understand Fully The Risks Associated With Treatment Overseas. It Is Important That You Know And Understand The Policies Of The Hospital And Make Certain To Take Practical Steps To Ensure

Q: Do I Need A Visa To Visit Thailand?
A: If you are an Australian Citizen and staying less than 30 days a Visa is not required for Thailand.

Q: Do I Need To Have Any Vaccinations?
A: We suggest Hepatitis A and B for Bangkok and Phuket, however if you are planning on extending your travel to other countries or villages, we suggest you discuss this further with a travel GP for more information

Q: Will it cost me more to take a travel companion?
A: The only additional cost should be for airfare, as most hotel room fees usually are for two people.

Q: When is it High or Low Season in Phuket?
A: High season begins in November and features higher percentage occupancy in hotels and higher prices for goods and services. In Phuket, the change in prices can be pretty dramatic. The weather is generally clear and sunny. The coolest weather is in late December through early January. Peak high season is the Christmas-New Year period, and most school holidays. It's crowded and more expensive. Mid-April through to October is known as the "low season". The seasons are the opposite on the east coast (the Gulf of Siam side.) Ko Samui for example, has its high season during Phuket’s low season.

Q: What does ISO 9001:2000 mean?
A: The International Organization of Standardization, (ISO) is a worldwide organization that develops many different kinds of Standards. ISO 9001 is a series of documents that define requirements for the Quality Management System Standard. ISO 9001 is one of the documents in this set; it contains the actual requirements an organization must be in compliance with to become ISO 9001 Registered.

Q: What does JCI mean?
A: JCI displays leadership for quality and safety in health care, around the world, health care organizations are working to provide quality clinical care and services in safe, efficient, and well - managed facilities. Joint Commission International (JCI) supports organizations and nations by working directly with health care organizations to achieve their quality goals, as well as helping health ministries, government agencies and health professional groups develop national accreditation programs. Our relationships include partnerships with international agencies such as the World Health Organization, and with national accreditation programs to offer joint accreditation awards.

Q: Can I use Arnica tablets to assist me after surgery?
A: Arnica tablets may provide temporary relief of strains, sprains, bruising and sore, aching muscles. Arnica is particularly useful for the relief of muscular pain caused by over-exertion, surgery, heavy work or sporting activities. All About Beauty can assist you with your purchase, at our store.

Q: Can I take prescribed medication with me oversea's?
A: Most prescribed medication is legal to take with you into most countries, including Thailand, however illegal drugs or prescribed drugs without a script or letter of confirmation, may carry heavy penalties. Please consult with your GP, Embassy or travel consultant to confirm any discrepancies or concerns are alleviated before departure.

Q: Can I take Panadeine Forte with me oversea's?
A: Panadeine Forte if prescribed for you is legal to take into Thailand. If you are not allergic to the components to this medication we suggest you request a script from your GP prior to departure, however all medication must be cleared by your surgeon. Pain medication provided in Thailand is equivalent to the strength of panadol, which does not work well with most westerners.

Q: Can I obtain health insurance for oversea's procedures?
A: It is with regret that at this time oversea's medical procedures are not endorsed by the Australian government, and as a result no health insurance company will protect you. As medical tourism is being better accepted in the US, Australia will eventually reconsider their options in the future, however at this time, you can only hope that your medical facilitator in Australia has your health and well being as their number 1 priority. Travel insurance will cover all other matters and accidents.