“Plastic Surgery in Israel” by Sharon Robinson
by Sharon Robinson, Content Marketing Manager of Hadassah Medical Center
Notwithstanding that the terms are often used interchangeably, plastic surgery differs from aesthetic or cosmetic surgery in that plastic surgery is used to correct physical defects caused by disease, trauma, burns, or birth disorders, whereas cosmetic/aesthetic surgery uses surgical and medical techniques to enhance appearance. In the course of this article, the terms may be used interchangeably.
Plastic surgeons often perform procedures in cosmetic surgery whereas some cosmetic procedures such as certain procedures involving the use of laser and Botox injections are even performed by people without a medical background. Of course, it depends on where you are and what the specific licensing laws are.
Israel has developed a specialty in plastic surgery. With an endowment of highly talented plastic surgeons, almost all of who have also trained and practiced overseas, having plastic surgery performed in Israel should be something to consider for anyone requiring such a procedure for a number of reasons:
Cutting Edge – Israel is a world leader in the fields of science and medicine, with many new technologies in these fields invented in Israel. Many of the lasers used in plastic surgery were developed in Israel, as well as innovative new skin grafting and skin growth techniques, and medical accessories such as bandages that aid healing. In short, the Israeli brains trust seems to have a never ending fount of inspiration which is often available for use in Israel a long time before it is approved by the FDA.
Cultural Similarities – all doctors in Israel speak a high level of English as do most other medical staff. Similarly, the cultural differences between the US and Israel are minimal. Israelis like Americans and visitors will feel very at home there.
The Trend is Your Friend – Israelis have taken to cosmetic surgery in increasing numbers with 30{f4e1575822752660c3387461b06f16047197db710b64f29e8565d582c3a8cd4f} year-on-year growth in 2012. Although approximately 70{f4e1575822752660c3387461b06f16047197db710b64f29e8565d582c3a8cd4f} of patients are women, men are also “getting in on the act.” It used to be that getting cosmetic surgery was a shame, these days it is common and carries absolutely no stigma – the numbers don’t lie.
Litigious –Israel is not as litigious as the US; consequently, insurance premiums for medical practitioners are not as high and surgeons can use their skills without the worry that hangs over many US plastic surgeons resulting in a better atmosphere for performing procedures.
Experience – unfortunately, due to Israel’s experience with war and terrorism, it has had the opportunity to develop expertise as it pertains to burns and other trauma caused under such circumstances. The techniques used and developed to treat these conditions are an adjunct to existing plastic surgery procedures.
Cost – the cost of plastic and cosmetic surgery in Israel coupled with its expertise in the field are the reasons that 35{f4e1575822752660c3387461b06f16047197db710b64f29e8565d582c3a8cd4f} of the medical tourists to Israel go for plastic/cosmetic surgery. Procedure usually cost between 20-50{f4e1575822752660c3387461b06f16047197db710b64f29e8565d582c3a8cd4f} less than similar procedures in the US – more than enough to cover the cost of the flight, accommodation, and a chance to recuperate in an exotic destination with year-round good weather.
By now it should be apparent why Israel is a preferred destination for plastic surgery. One thing to keep in mind is that the period around the Jewish festival of Passover is often a bumper season for these procedures as many Israelis have extended holidays over this period, thereby allowing for recuperation without taking time off work. Upon returning to work, there is often good reason why their co-workers tell them they look as good as new.
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