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Adverse Outcomes of Travel-Related Cosmetic Procedures among US Residents, 2014-2024

Kiara McNamara, Adam Rowh, Rhett Stoney

    Emerging Infectious Diseases
    |June 2, 2026
    PubMed

    Insights

    Travel for cosmetic surgery can lead to infections and adverse outcomes. Tracking these outbreaks is challenging due to widespread patient and procedure locations across states and countries.

    Area of Science:

    • Public Health
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Medical Procedures

    Background:

    • Cosmetic procedures are increasingly sought by US residents, both domestically and internationally.
    • Adverse events following cosmetic procedures pose a significant public health concern.
    • Geographic dispersion of patients complicates the identification and management of procedural complications.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To describe infections and adverse outcomes in US residents undergoing cosmetic procedures.
    • To highlight the challenges in detecting and investigating outbreaks related to cosmetic surgery.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of adverse events and infections reported among US residents.
    • Analysis of travel patterns associated with cosmetic procedures (domestic and international).
    • Examination of outbreak characteristics and investigation difficulties.

    Main Results:

    • Infections and adverse outcomes were identified in US residents who traveled for cosmetic procedures.
    • Outbreaks associated with these procedures often spanned multiple states.
    • Geographic separation of affected patients presented challenges for timely detection and response.

    Conclusions:

    • Cosmetic procedures, particularly those involving travel, are associated with significant risks including infections.
    • The decentralized nature of cosmetic tourism complicates public health surveillance and outbreak response.
    • Enhanced monitoring and coordinated investigation strategies are needed to mitigate risks associated with cosmetic procedures.
    Keywords:
    United Statesbacteriacosmetic procedureshealthcare-associated infectionsmedical tourismtravel

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