Since opening Yager Esthetics in 1997, I have focused on the education and safety of the Hispanic community with regards to cosmetic plastic surgery.  I have been fortunate to build a thriving practice in New York City’s Washington Heights community, and develop a good reputation in my field.  Through interviews on television, newspaper and magazine articles, as well as internet articles and blogs, I get more and more inquiries from around the US and from other countries.  Many want to come to NYC and have plastic surgery with me, so I thought I might address the pros and cons.

I have many patients who live in New York, but want to travel to other countries for surgery.  The main reason is saving money.  I always caution them about making sure you know the training and safety record of the doctor, making sure proper testing is done, that they can stay longer than anticipated if a complication arises, and that they know the emergency plan of the doctor. By that, I mean if a strange allergy occurs, or a complication that needs hospitalization or advanced care, how do they get to a qualified center quickly and who pays these costs?  Even if your surgeon is fantastic, things happen that are not the doctor’s fault, and you need to think of all situations. With a well trained surgeon, in an accredited center with a well qualified anesthesiologist, there is little if any savings when travel is factored in.

These same considerations must be explained to patients who travel to Yager Esthetics.  They need to have a place to stay during recovery, and a plan for staying longer if anything should happen that is out of the ordinary.  Medical insurance which covers you for this procedure in New York is helpful. My office is literally across the street from New York Presbyterian Hospital, so getting there is easy.  In today’s modern society, with email and phone, most details such as fees, time of surgery, and health can be assessed before travel.  When you meet me and see my center, just as in any doctor’s office, you and I must feel comfortable with each other before we proceed.

While I am flattered when anyone chooses me to help them achieve their cosmetic plastic surgery goals, when people fly in from other states or countries the compliment is also much appreciated.  Usually, excellent Board Certified Plastic Surgeons exist in all states, and I encourage you to seek local options if you feel they are equivalent.  If you have your heart set on Yager Esthetics, we will do everything possible to make the process safe and easy.