European vs. US surgeons: Is the trip worth it?

[Chevalier]

After much deliberation, I would like to have an implant fitted in the next few months. Until now, my impression was that you are in better hands with the top US surgeons — Eid, Clavell, Hakky — because they simply have higher surgery rates and this is more of a standard procedure in the US than in Europe.

On the other hand, is it really worth it? It is much more expensive, and surgeons in Europe may not have such sophisticated marketing as their US colleagues, but they may perform just as well. In addition, you may be in better hands at a local hospital if complications arise. In a country where you are not insured, this can quickly turn into a financial disaster, especially in the USA.

Then there is the political risk of entering the US. If the border officials are in a bad mood, you may not be allowed to enter the country and will certainly be left with the costs you have already incurred.

So the question to my European brothers is: How do you deal with this? And are American surgeons really better, or do we just believe that?

[UpNorth]

Interesting.
I would definitely want to see reviews no matter who you see.
I haven’t heard about problems coming into USA. Have all documents ready, doctors office should be able to help organize them.
In a few months? I would consider the south Atlanta or Houston. It can get pretty nasty up north.
Good Luck.

[RigiconUK202]

After much deliberation, I would like to have an implant fitted in the next few months. Until now, my impression was that you are in better hands with the top US surgeons — Eid, Clavell, Hakky — because they simply have higher surgery rates and this is more of a standard procedure in the US than in Europe.

On the other hand, is it really worth it? It is much more expensive, and surgeons in Europe may not have such sophisticated marketing as their US colleagues, but they may perform just as well. In addition, you may be in better hands at a local hospital if complications arise. In a country where you are not insured, this can quickly turn into a financial disaster, especially in the USA.

Then there is the political risk of entering the US. If the border officials are in a bad mood, you may not be allowed to enter the country and will certainly be left with the costs you have already incurred.

So the question to my European brothers is: How do you deal with this? And are American surgeons really better, or do we just believe that?

Hi,

I can honestly tell you that you have some high volume, best in class surgeons in Europe. I feel as the USA is mainly patient pay the surgeons do a fantastic job of self promotion. I’d just google surgeons like Prof Ralph, Prof Osmonov, Dr Belay, Prof Antonini, Prof Modgil, Mr Rees and you’ll see that you have a lot of options in Europe for probably half the cost.

[Tokyo_123]

I cannot believe that there aren't decent surgeons in Europe. Also, wouldn't it be paid for (or at least partially paid for) by the State, or am I wrong?

[Kodixx]

Tokyo_123, I don't know much about the situation with surgeons in Europe, but have read a lot of posts on FT from guys in Europe who've had successful surgeries. There's a list of surgeons by state that's been passed around -- I don't know whether there's something like that for Europe.

As far as who pays for it -- that would be via high taxes

- Chuck

I cannot believe that there aren't decent surgeons in Europe. Also, wouldn't it be paid for (or at least partially paid for) by the State, or am I wrong?

[body2body]

Hey

I am from Germany and flew into Turkey to get my implant about 5 weeks ago!

Did a lot of google and hopefully made the right choice. So far everything running well and looks like they did a wonderful job!

For me the main point was the number of surgeries they have already done and the recommendations. Of course also the possibility to fly back easily in case of any problems.

But if you got the chance to have a surgeon "near" you, I would sure prefer that because sometimes I would wish to have a doctor for an after-check and good instructions about using the pump etc. when the 6 weeks are over.

[Tokyo_123]

As far as who pays for it -- that would be via high taxes

- Chuck

Actually, your remark is not correct. I'm in Tokyo. The government regulates what big pharm and hospitals charge. In the USA, anything goes. This is why, for a simple operation in the US, prices can range from $5,000 to $150,000 -- for the same thing, dependent upon which hospital you go to. There is no standardized, common sense pricing. And if they can charge more, they will. This is probably also why if you pay for surgery in the US out of pocket, it can cost literally a tenth of its costs if insurance pays.

I say this because many of my US friends also head abroad to get their procedures / non-critical / critical surgeries done. My taxes in Japan are far, far lower than in the US. For dental, I regularly get my teeth cleaned and cavity filled for under $25. Few years ago, had an MRI completed for less than $80. After, I had procedure to correct two hernias (both sides of the groin) done at St. Lukes, Tokyo with an overnight stay for $1,400. The way it works for all medical, I pay 30% and the State pays 70%.

While not perfect, overall, I love my state healthcare.

[pjt1958]

i think it just depends on the surgeon volume - listed above some of the top in Europe.

In asia, have read about Dr. Park in Korea and some indian surgeons, but otherwise not many.

After much deliberation, I would like to have an implant fitted in the next few months. Until now, my impression was that you are in better hands with the top US surgeons — Eid, Clavell, Hakky — because they simply have higher surgery rates and this is more of a standard procedure in the US than in Europe.

On the other hand, is it really worth it? It is much more expensive, and surgeons in Europe may not have such sophisticated marketing as their US colleagues, but they may perform just as well. In addition, you may be in better hands at a local hospital if complications arise. In a country where you are not insured, this can quickly turn into a financial disaster, especially in the USA.

Then there is the political risk of entering the US. If the border officials are in a bad mood, you may not be allowed to enter the country and will certainly be left with the costs you have already incurred.

So the question to my European brothers is: How do you deal with this? And are American surgeons really better, or do we just believe that?

[Kodixx]

Tokyo_123, yes, my comments were in response to your comment regarding Europe. I didn't comment on healthcare in Japan, but I'm glad to hear it's working well for you there.

Agreed that in the US, if you don't have insurance or Medicare the cost can be ridiculous. Fortunately I was well into my insurance family deductible, and the surgery was only a few thousand dollars.

- Chuck

Tokyo_123, I don't know much about the situation with surgeons in Europe, but have read a lot of posts on FT from guys in Europe who've had successful surgeries.- Chuck

I cannot believe that there aren't decent surgeons in Europe. Also, wouldn't it be paid for (or at least partially paid for) by the State, or am I wrong?

[slckgg]

There are really great doctors in Turkey, especially Dr. Guleser does a great job.