A new study published in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Emerging Infectious Diseases journal is shining a spotlight on the growing health risks associated with cosmetic surgery tourism, as demand for procedures performed outside patients’ home region continues to rise.
The findings arrive as the medical tourism industry experiences rapid growth worldwide. The global medical tourism market was valued at $34 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach $126.2 billion by 2035, with cosmetic procedures accounting for the largest treatment category, representing 24.2% of the market. As this market expands, driven by lower treatment costs, shorter wait times, and growing consumer demand for aesthetic enhancements, public health experts are increasingly concerned about the risks of seeking procedures outside traditional healthcare systems and regulatory frameworks.
The study reviewed CDC consultations between 2014 and 2024 involving US residents who experienced infections or other complications after traveling for cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks, breast augmentations, and gluteal augmentation surgeries. Of the 2,162 consultations reviewed, 34 involved patients who had traveled specifically for medical care.
Researchers identified 21 cases involving approximately 145 patients who experienced adverse outcomes, including serious infections linked to both domestic and international surgery centers and clinics. Four consultations involved deaths.
"More and more people are getting medical procedures outside the United States, but there are risks," said Kiara McNamara, DNP, BSN, AGPCNP-BC, CDC nurse, epidemiologist, and lead author of the study within the press release. "It is essential for patients to be informed and prepared before making decisions about seeking cosmetic surgery abroad."
While cosmetic tourism has become increasingly normalized, the CDC’s report highlights the challenges public health officials face when tracking and responding to outbreaks linked to procedures performed across multiple locations and jurisdictions.
Postsurgical infections were reported in 20 of the consultations reviewed, including 12 involving suspected or confirmed infections with nontuberculous mycobacteria, a group of bacteria that can be particularly difficult to diagnose and treat. Most consultations were linked to surgery centers or clinics rather than individual practitioners.
The study also revealed significant concerns regarding prevention and control. During one domestic and one international investigation, assessments identified deficiencies in environmental cleaning protocols, hand hygiene practices, use of personal protective equipment, and reprocessing of surgical equipment.
Beyond the impact on patients, the findings underscore broader challenges for the aesthetics industry as cosmetic procedures become increasingly globalized. As consumers weigh affordability and accessibility against quality of care, industry stakeholders face growing pressure to improve transparency around safety standards, accreditation, and postoperative support.
The CDC is calling for stronger surveillance systems, continued collaboration between healthcare providers and public health agencies, and more proactive patient education efforts. According to the agency, earlier identification of adverse outcomes and improved reporting mechanisms will be critical to preventing future outbreaks and protecting patients seeking elective cosmetic procedures.
As cosmetic surgery continues to evolve into a global consumer market, the report serves as a reminder that price and convenience are only part of the equation. For patients, providers, and regulators alike, the challenge will be ensuring that the rapid expansion of cosmetic tourism does not outpace safeguards designed to protect health and safety.