GOING THE MILE FOR BEAUTY TWEAKMENTS

TEMPTED TO GET AESTHETIC TREATMENTS DONE OVERSEAS? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK THAT FLIGHT.

- BALVINDER SANDHU

More Singaporeans are seeking aesthetic treatments abroad, lured by low-cost flights, and the promise of paying a fraction of the price compared to what they would in Singapore. From thread lifts in Thailand to fillers in South Korea, the plan is to go for a minimally invasive procedure – while fitting in a holiday too.

These procedures are known as “tweakments”, a loose term used to describe minor cosmetic enhancements that are more subtle and natural than the more invasive ones that involve surgery.

While experts warn that a lot of research needs to be done before embarking on such a trip – and that one should not be carried away by the promise of a new face or body – the individuals we spoke to say they have done their due diligence, and seem to be reaping the benefits of getting work done at a more affordable price.

When Tina*, 31, had Korean Botox done in Seoul just earlier this year, cost was the deciding factor. She paid slightly under $200 for shots to the jaw area to treat her bruxism (a condition where you grind your teeth, especially while sleeping). She says the total sum she paid for the injections, including the cost of her hotel stay, turned out to be cheaper than doing the procedure in Singapore. She chose Seoul because these types of treatments are popular there.

“I understand aesthetic procedures are performed much more frequently [in Seoul], and have more faith in the doctors’ experience,” says the business professional. “Even with plastic surgery, the Koreans don’t seem to bat an eyelid. I spotted people wrapped in bandages shopping, eating and sightseeing without being stared at.”