FAQs

How does it work?

Stunning Makeovers can provide a no obligation estimate of costs for your preferred surgery or treatment including accommodation.

This will be a price guide for you to consider. If you feel that having surgery or treatment overseas is of interest to you we can have your case reviewed by the plastic surgeons or dental specialist overseas.

For plastic surgery cases, we feel that it is important for you to have different opinions and costs to compare before making a decision.

Stunning Makeovers point of difference is that we have your case reviewed by a number of plastic surgeons for you to consider.

After choosing your preferred surgeon and selecting travel dates, Stunning Makeovers will check available appointments so you can work with your travel consultant for your flight arrangements.

We will make your in-country arrangements such as meet and greet at the airport, transfers to and from the hospital, accommodation with special privileges etc. You will be provided with a detailed travel pack including an in-country itinerary for your appointments.

Is it safe?

Surgical procedures have benefits and risks whether you have it here in your own country or abroad. You should familiarise yourself with the risks associated with your surgery.

You should consider the option of overseas treatment carefully. We recommend that you discuss this option with your doctor if you have any concerns and ask if this is right for you.

Having a review of your case by sending photos and completing the form does not replace an individual assessment in person by a healthcare professional.

Is there an age restriction for surgery?

Yes. Thai law prohibits elective surgery being carried out on patients under the 20 years of age. Prior to this age, your body has not fully developed.

What are the facilities like?

For surgery cases, Stunning Makeovers only works with internationally accredited private hospitals and not clinics. The hospitals are of the highest standard and have full medical facilities.

Each hospital also has its own specialist clinics. Some have clinics for IVF treatments, cancer treatment, heart surgery, joint replacement and bone marrow transplant etc.

For cost effective dental treatment and a rapid turn-around for veneers, bridges, implants and dentures we work with leading dental clinics outside of the hospital.

The dental specialist’s centres adhere to international standards of treatment and hygiene.

How can I have my case reviewed before I go overseas for surgery?

Stunning Makeovers point of difference is that we have your case reviewed by a number of plastic surgeons for you to consider.

We feel that it is important for you to have different opinions and costs to compare before making a decision.

When you get an estimate from us, you will be provided a User name and password. You will be able to sign in, submit the necessary information and upload photos.

How can I get a dental assessment?

It depends upon the treatment needed.

For dental implants, a special OPG x-ray is needed and Stunning Makeovers can refer you to a radiologist who will send the x-ray directly to the dental specialist in Thailand for assessment.

For smile makeovers, photos are needed and for more complex cases, you may be asked to provide a dental report from your dentist.

Is the quality compromised because surgery is less expensive?

No. The surgeons, specialists and medical facilities we work with are world class. The standards meet and/or exceed those in New Zealand and Australia. The private hospitals have highly advanced medical equipment which may not even be available in some hospitals at home.

What qualifications do the Surgeons have?

You can review the surgeon’s C.V. on our website. We only work with board certified plastic surgeons (not cosmetic surgeons) for plastic surgery cases.

Does surgery performed by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon ensure that I will get a perfect results?

Board certification means that the surgeon has completed rigorous requirements for full time practice as a specialist in plastic surgery.

However, no guarantee of perfection can be given regarding surgery outcome. This applies whether you have your surgery locally or overseas.

It is important to familiarise yourself with the risks for your surgery before agreeing to proceed.

Are the dentists qualified?

Yes. The dental practitioners are highly skilled and many have trained and graduated overseas. Some have qualified in Thailand, Britain, USA and Australia. For some procedures, you will have a specialist that ONLY performs that particular procedure.

What happens during the initial surgery consultation?

To ensure you don’t overlook any questions, we recommend that you write them down and take them with you to the consultation.

You should be prepared to clearly explain your concerns and the outcome you seeking.

The more specific you are about the result you want, the better.

You should have some understanding about what will be done so that you can appreciate the magnitude of the procedure. You also should be aware of the risks and potential complications associated with the procedure.

Since plastic surgery is elective in nature, you should be well-informed and certain that it is what you want. You should carefully weigh the benefits that you will receive from the surgery and the cost of the procedure which includes risks, inconvenience, discomfort and expense.

Should you have doubts about proceeding with the surgery, you should seek and have a full explanation of the procedure and defer surgery until your doubts are resolved.

If you agree to have surgery after giving all aspects full consideration, you will be asked to sign a surgery waiver and will be assisted with the registration and payment process before admission to the ward.

Is there finance or payment plan available?

Stunning Makeovers do not provide finance but we offer interest free payment plans. A plan can be made to suit your budget and planned surgery date. With this option, payment in full is required before having surgery.

For clients that prefer to have surgery or dental treatment and then make payments, we recommend contacting your bank for the best interest rates and terms.

How far ahead do I have to book?

We recommend that you get the feedback from the surgeon or dental specialist at least two months before going overseas. That way you will know which surgeries are likely to be required and the length of stay needed. The surgeon may request tests prior to arrival as well.

A firm booking is recommended at least one month from your planned travel dates.

Is surgery cheaper if I go directly to the Hospital or Dental Practice?

No. The cost of surgery is controlled by the hospital and the cost of dental treatment by the practice. You don’t pay us for the surgery or treatment so you know you are paying the same price even if you went direct.

Will I get a cheaper price if I go to another agent or facilitator?

The cost of surgery is controlled by the hospital and the cost of dental treatment by the practice. If you have the same surgery or dental treatment at the same facility, it will be the same cost.

Why make my arrangements through Stunning Makeovers?

Stunning Makeovers is a professional medical tourism facilitator. We are specialists in this area. We have selected hospitals and dental practices that we feel offer the best in service, value for money and adhere to international standards.

We personally visit the hospitals and hotels and meet with management at least twice a year.

Being right here in your part of the world, we can provide you with advice and assistance. We can answer all of those questions that keep you up at night worrying about your arrangements before, during and after your makeover.

Making your own arrangements can be stressful, with miscommunication, delays and without having the best information, making the wrong choices can have serious implications.

When you are overseas and having just step off the plane, the reality of not having the support of an organisation behind you can be unnerving.

Why not benefit from our extensive experience and enjoy our stress free service and a comforting voice that speaks your language on the other end of the phone.

Can I have multiple procedures?

Yes. You may combine some plastic cosmetic surgeries. It may also be able to have dentistry, LASIK vision correction and some non surgical treatments.

Whether you can have all of your surgeries or treatments during one trip will be advised by your surgeon based on your age, health and medical history and length of stay overseas.

Some common multiple surgeries include, Tummy Tuck and Breast Surgery and Liposuction or Breast implants and breast lift or reduction.

If you are conasidering a face or neck lift and dental treatment, you may have to allow for additional time overseas to complete all the surgeries.

Can I choose a surgeon?

Yes. You can make your selection from the list of surgeons on our website. If you aren’t sure which surgeon to choose, the hospital will refer your case to the most appropriate surgeon for your case.

Why is it more affordable to have surgery in Thailand?

Our currency is very strong and costs are lower in Thailand. This makes it very affordable to have surgery and dental treatment in Thailand.

Why is it more expensive to have surgery in Phuket?

There is only one international hospital in Phuket. By comparison, there are many privately owned international hospitals in Bangkok competing for patients from overseas. 

Private hospitals are run like a business so with a lack of competition and many wealthy tourists from overseas holidaying in Phuket, the hospital can charge more.

The higher cost is not a reflection of standards, services or surgeons qualifications.

What happens if something goes wrong?

The surgeons, hospital and Stunning Makeovers want you to have the best outcome from your surgery. If there are complications associated with your surgery, the surgeons and hospital will work with you to resolve them. If you are dissatisfied with the result and your expectations are realistic, the surgeon will address the concern for you. The solution would be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Additional costs may apply in the same way they do at home.

What happens when I return home?

Stunning Makeovers will be in touch to follow up on your experience. If you have any questions during your recovery, Stunning Makeovers will refer them to your surgeon. In the case of a medical issue, you should visit your G.P. in the first instance.

Can I get Insurance for Elective Surgery?

Yes. Some overseas companies offer policies for elective plastic surgery. We can provide the details on request.

You should also take out general travellers insurance for lost baggage etc. Be sure to declare that the purpose of your travel is for surgery or dental treatment. Please check the policy terms and conditions carefully before purchase.

Can I speak to a past client?

Yes. We need to get your surgeon’s feedback first and then we will try to put you in touch with a past client that had the same surgery with the same surgeon.

Is it safe for me to travel on my own?

Stunning Makeovers facilitates arrangements specifically with this in mind. Most of our clients are female and many travel on their own. This is why we have a driver pick you up from the airport and take you to and from the hospital, safely and efficiently.

Can I travel with others?

Yes. Stunning Makeovers arranges a group trip twice a year (normally during June and October). This is a great way to travel if you don’t have a companion or if you just prefer to share the experience with others.

Can my companion stay in the hospital with me?

Yes. Your private hospital room will have a sofa bed that your companion can use. No additional costs apply except for your companion’s meals if required.

How long will I be in hospital?

This depends upon your procedure and the surgeon’s recommendation. Generally for breast augmentation you will only be required to stay in hospital for one night, Other procedures may require a longer period in hospital.

What brands of breast implants are used?

It depends on the surgeon and the type best suited to your body type. The major brands from U.S.A and Europe such as McGhan, Mentor, EuroSilicone are the ones mostly commonly used. Some surgeons can provide the “furry” Brazilian implants from Silimed as well.

How long do I have to stay overseas?

The length of stay overseas depends upon the procedure you are having. Normally, 12 nights is needed for most procedures requiring hospitalisation. The surgeon will advise you when he reviews your case about the length of stay for your recovery. For dental treatment or a smile makeover, a stay of as little as 10 days may be possible. For dental implants a longer stay may be needed. The specialist will advise you once he reviews your case.

Can I return home earlier? I am very busy with family/work commitments

The recommended stay for plastic surgery is to allow you to have sufficient recovery time before flying long-haul as well as allowing for follow up consultations with your surgeon. Leaving earlier than the recommendation may put you at risk of complications such as deep vein thrombosis and other serious conditions. If you cannot stay the recommended period, it is best not to have surgery overseas.

What happens when I am overseas?

We will have the driver waiting for you at the airport when you arrive. You will be taken to the hotel and rest overnight after your flight.

On your scheduled consultation and surgery day, the driver will take you to the hospital.

At the hospital you will meet the in-hospital English speaking coordinator Stunning Makeovers has arranged for you. The coordinator will assist you with hospital registration, get you to your appointment with the surgeon and answer any questions for you.

When you are discharged from the hospital, the driver will pick you up and take you back to the hotel to recover and enjoy your holiday in Thailand.

On the day of your follow up consultation, you’ll be picked up and taken back to the hospital by the driver to see the surgeon. This usually takes place 7-10 days after surgery when your body has healed sufficiently. You may also have your sutures removed at this time.

Transfers are provided as part of the accommodation package booked through Stunning Makeovers or at an additional cost if you arrange your own accommodation.

Will I have a number to call when I am overseas?

Yes. You can contact Stunning Makeovers at any time. We will also be in touch with you when you are overseas.

We will also provide you the contact details for the hospital and coordinator and driver.

You will be provided a personalised comprehensive pack containing your in-country arrangements which includes a detailed itinerary, contact details and helpful information about your surgery and about Thailand.

Can I go back to the hospital before my scheduled follow up appointment?

Yes. You can return to the hospital at any time without an appointment. You can contact the coordinator in the hospital if you have any questions or concerns too.

When and who do I pay?

Payment for surgery or dental treatment is made directly to the hospital or dental practice after your consultation. A surgery booking payment is made in advance to Stunning Makeovers Ltd so we can make your arrangements with the surgeon or dental practice.

How can I help myself to get the best outcome from surgery?

Firstly it is important to have realistic expectations.

You should declare all pre-existing medical or psychological conditions, past medical history as well as current medications and supplements you are taking.

You should stay the recommended period of time overseas for recovery and follow-up consultations.

If you are planning to a tummy tuck or breast lift then it may be best to wait until your final pregnancy.

If you are planning to lose weight, reaching your goal weight prior to surgery may be advisable. Continuing to lose weight following surgery may result in more excess skin.

Stop smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages at least two weeks before and after surgery.

You should follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions fully for the recommended period of time. Don’t be swayed by others or by things you read on the internet. Your surgeon will provide the best aftercare instructions for you.

What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?

Plastic surgery is a very specialised field dealing with both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

Reconstructive surgery may be performed to correct a deformity caused by birth defect, cancer or trauma. Examples of reconstruction include cleft lip, breast cancer reconstruction and microsurgery.

Cosmetic plastic surgery is an elective procedure to enhance appearance. Examples of cosmetic surgical procedures include prominent ear correction, nose reduction, sagging eyelids correction, face lift or breast enhancement.

Do I need to see my doctor before travelling overseas?

Yes. For all clients having surgery, we ask that you provide a medical certificate from your family doctor. Your G.P. will perform a general health check and detail any relevant information about your past and present health, medications and allergies. For clients with certain pre-existing medical conditions, the surgeon may ask you to provide specific test results or a report from your doctor.

Do I need any Vaccinations before travelling?

Your G.P. will advise you whether you need vaccinations.

Can I change the surgery date after I have booked?

Yes. We will do our best secure an appointment for your revised dates but it is subject to the surgeons appointment schedule. If you are postponing your surgery, please remember you will have to extend your stay by the same amount for your recovery.