Muscat – A study by Khoula Hospital has raised concerns over rising health risks linked to cosmetic surgeries performed overseas, after dozens of patients returned to Oman with serious complications.

The study published in the Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal found that 191 patients sought treatment in Oman between 2013 and 2023 following aesthetic procedures abroad. The cases resulted in 488 medical encounters, including emergency visits, hospital admissions and outpatient follow-ups.

The research, conducted by specialists from Khoula Hospital’s plastic and reconstructive surgery department, provides the first broad review of complications affecting Omani patients who travelled for cosmetic treatment.

Doctors said the findings expose the risks associated with ‘aesthetic tourism’, where patients seek lower costs or shorter waiting times in other countries.

Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, was the most common procedure, accounting for 50.8% of cases. Liposuction followed at 29.3%, while breast surgeries represented 17.8%.

Iran was the leading destination, chosen by more than 60% of patients. India accounted for 15.2% and Thailand 6.8%. Researchers noted that promotional packages and reduced prices were key factors influencing decisions.

However, many patients returned with complications requiring further treatment. The most frequent problems were wound infections with surgical gaps (36.1%), fluid accumulation known as seroma (20.4%) and cellulitis (11%).

Some cases involved abscesses, deformities or systemic infections. Of the 191 patients, 94 required hospital admission, with an average stay of ten days. Around 20% needed intensive or high-dependency care.

Several patients underwent corrective surgeries, including reconstructive procedures and skin grafts, to address the damage.

Medical specialists said limited post-operative follow-up abroad may contribute to complications becoming more severe once patients return home. They called for structured pre-travel counselling and stronger awareness campaigns to inform patients of potential risks.

Doctors also warned that treating complications from surgeries performed overseas places additional pressure on the national healthcare system, as many patients eventually seek care at public hospitals.

The study recommends closer monitoring of medical tourism trends and improved patient education to reduce preventable harm linked to cosmetic procedures abroad.

Cosmetic surgery abroad

50.8% underwent abdominoplasty

29.3% had liposuction

17.8% had breast surgeries

60% travelled to Iran

15.2% travelled to India

6.8% travelled to Thailand