Over 3.5 million medical tourists visit Thailand annually, making it one of the world's top destinations for affordable, high-quality healthcare. Procedures ranging from cosmetic surgery and dental treatments to orthopedic and care are offered at a fraction of the cost in Western countries. For example, cosmetic surgeries like facelifts can cost up to $20,000 in the US, while similar procedures in Thailand start at just $3,000. Despite lower prices, Thailand maintains exceptional standards of care, with many facilities accredited by international organizations such as the Joint Commission International (JCI). This guide by Bookimed explores the diverse medical tourism options in Thailand.
📌Key Takeaways: Thailand Medical Tourism Packages
💰 Cost savings. Medical treatments in Thailand are up to 75% cheaper than in Western countries. For instance:
Breast augmentation: $4,100–$6,600 in Thailand vs. $6,900–$15,000 in the USA.
Dental implants: $2,000–$3,000 in Thailand vs. $3,000–$4,500 in the USA.
Vaginoplasty: $10,000–$15,000 in Thailand vs. $20,000–$30,000 in the USA.
🌍 All-inclusive packages. Thailand medical tourism packages include procedures, accommodation, and transport.
🏥 World-class facilities. Thailand has over60 JCI-accredited hospitals offering cutting-edge technologies.
👩⚕️ Skilled professionals. Thai doctors are trained at globally recognized institutions likeHarvard Medical School andMayo Clinic.
✈️ Top Destinations:
💳 Flexible payments. Options include installment plans, medical loans likeLendingTree, and crowdfunding onGoFundMe.
Table of Contents:
Why Choose Thailand for Medical Tourism?
Thailand is a global leader in medical tourism, offering advanced care, skilled professionals, and affordable treatments. Thailand's medical tourism market is rapidly growing. In 2023, it was valued at about 845 million dollars.
🔎Did you know? Thailand's journey to becoming a global leader in medical tourism started during the 1997 Asian financial crisis. The devaluation of the Thai baht made medical treatments significantly more affordable. This economic shift led hospitals to focus on attracting international patients. In 2003, the government launched a policy to position Thailand as a medical hub.
🔹Medical tourists traveling to Thailand are primarily from the following regions:
Eastern Mediterranean: 38.7%
Southeast Asia: 14.1%
Europe: 13.4%
South Asia: 12.1%
North America: 9.0%
Here are the main reasons that make Thailand so attractive:
World-class facilities 🏥
Hospitals in Thailand meet international standards, and many hold JCI accreditation. These hospitals are globally recognized for their advanced medical technologies, featuring 3D imaging, robotic surgery, and other cutting-edge treatments.
Today, Thailand has over 60 JCI-accredited hospitals. These facilities rank among the top globally for quality and safety, and some of these clinics cooperate with Bookimed.
💚Explore authentic patient reviews on Bookimed to hear real stories and experiences from individuals who chose Thailand for their medical treatments. 🌟
Affordable costs 💸
Treatment costs in Thailand are up to 75% lower than in Western countries, covering a wide range of procedures such as cosmetic surgery, dental implants, and orthopedic surgery. For example, a gastric sleeve in Thailand costs $4,400-$10,400 less than in the US.
Skilled professionals 👩⚕️
Thai healthcare professionals are internationally trained, with experience from institutions like Harvard Medical School, Mayo Clinic, Royal College of Surgeons, and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin. In 2023, the number of doctors in Thailand increased to around 42,400.
Their global expertise ensures high-quality care, while multilingual medical staff provide seamless communication for international patients.
Comprehensive support 🧳
Medical tourism packages often include visa assistance, transportation, and recovery-friendly accommodations.
Government support 🏛️
The Thai government actively promotes medical tourism, ensuring patient safety and streamlining visa processes for foreign visitors.
The Thai government promotes medical tourism through key initiatives. They simplify the visa process by offering the Medical Treatment Visa (Non-MT), allowing extended stays for patients and their companions. Additionally, they encourage hospitals to meet Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation standards.
Affordable Medical Treatments Costs in Thailand
Medical tourism to Thailand has become increasingly popular due to its affordable healthcare. Tourists can save significantly by choosing Thailand over the US or UK for treatments. For example, breast augmentation in Thailand costs 40-60% less than in the US, while rhinoplasty can be up to 75% cheaper than in the UK.
💸Let's find out everything about medical tourism Thailand cost and why it is so low despite high quality.
1. Cosmetic and plastic surgeries ✨. Thailand is renowned for breast augmentation, facelifts, liposuction, and rhinoplasty, offering world-class expertise at affordable prices.
| Procedure | Thailand (USD) | UK (USD) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breast augmentation | $4,100 - $6,600 | $6,800 - $10,000 | $6,900 - $15,000 |
| Rhinoplasty | $3,000 - $5,000 | $7,500 - $9,000 | $6,000 - $10,000 |
| Liposuction | $4,000 - $5,000 | $6,600 - $7,500 | $3,800 - $7,500 |
| Facelift | $4,400 - $5,500 | $8,000 - $12,000 | $7,500 - $15,000 |
👉Read more about plastic surgery in Thailand here.
2. Dental treatments 🦷. Common procedures include dental implants, veneers, teeth whitening, and orthodontics, performed with advanced technology.
| Procedure | Thailand (USD) | UK (USD) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Implants | $2,000 - $3,000 | $3,000 - $4,500 | $3,000 - $4,500 |
| Veneers | $400 - $800 | $1,200 - $2,500 | $1,200 - $2,500 |
| Teeth whitening | $100 - $300 | $300 - $800 | $400 - $1,200 |
| Orthodontics (Invisalign) | $4,500 - $6,500 | $5,000 - $8,000 | $3,500 - $8,500 |
👉Learn more about Thailand's growing dental tourism industry and the packages available for patients worldwide here.
3. Gender-affirming surgeries 🌈.Thailand is a global leader in sex reassignment surgeries, providing high-quality care with experienced surgeons and specialized facilities.
| Procedure | Thailand (USD) | UK (USD) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facial feminization surgery (FFS) | $8,000 - $16,500 | $15,000 - $30,000 | $20,000 - $30,000 |
| Chest masculinization (top surgery) | $5,000 - $7,000 | $8,000 - $15,000 | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Vaginoplasty | $10,000 - $15,000 | $15,000 - $25,000 | $20,000 - $30,000 |
| Phalloplasty | $12,000 - $16,200 | $20,000 - $40,000 | $25,000 - $75,000 |
| Metoidioplasty | $5,500 - $8,500 | $10,000 - $15,000 | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Voice surgery | $1,500 - $3,500 | $5,500 - $8,000 | $5,500 - $9,000 |
👉See what makes Thailand the ultimate destination for gender-affirming surgeries here.
4. Orthopedic procedures 🦿. Patients frequently seek joint replacements, spinal surgeries, and sports injury treatments, all offered at competitive costs.
| Procedure | Thailand (USD) | UK (USD) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joint replacement (hip) | $7,000 - $12,000 | $12,000 - $20,000 | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| Knee replacement | $8,000 - $12,000 | $12,000 - $25,000 | $40,000 - $70,000 |
| Spinal surgery | $10,000 - $20,000 | $15,000 - $30,000 | $50,000 - $100,000 |
5. Fertility treatments 🤰. Thailand attracts couples for , ICSI, and egg/sperm donation, with excellent success rates.
| Procedure | Thailand (USD) | UK (USD) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $8,000 - $10,000 | $10,000 - $15,000 | $12,000 - $15,000 | |
| ICSI | $10,000 - $15,000 | $12,500 - $18,500 | $15,000 - $20,000 |
| Egg/Sperm Donation | $3,500 - $5,500 | $4,500 - $8,500 | $5,500 - $10,500 |
6. Weight loss surgeries ⚖️. Skilled surgeons perform procedures like gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric banding at a fraction of Western costs.
| Procedure | Thailand (USD) | UK (USD) | USA (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastric bypass | $15,000 - $18,500 | $18,500 - $25,000 | $20,000 - $30,000 |
| Gastric sleeve | $10,500 - $15,500 | $12,500 - $18,500 | $14,900 - $25,900 |
| Adjustable gastric band | $10,200 - $14,200 | $11,900 - $16,900 | $14,800 - $22,800 |
👉Discover the best options for weight loss surgeries in Thailand here.
Medical treatments in Thailand are cheaper due to lower living costs, reduced staff wages, and government support for medical tourism. High patient volumes allow hospitals to lower prices, and favorable exchange rates further reduce costs for foreign patients. Still, Thailand medical care is known for its high quality.
Top Thailand Medical Tourism Packages
Healthcare in Thailand for tourists is highly regarded. Thailand provides diverse thailand medical tourism packages all inclusive for various treatments. Booking a package often reduces costs by bundling services like medical procedures, accommodation, and transportation. Patients can save up to 70% compared to arranging each service separately.
Health tourism in Thailand is thriving. Clinics and hospitals frequently partner with hotels and transport providers to offer discounted rates.
💚 Booking with Bookimed helps patients save more than booking directly with clinics, thanks to exclusive deals and limited-time offers.
- Dr. Isabella Bernaschina is certified by the RCG, Mexico's top regenerative medicine community.
- Medical Center Juventa serves 500 patients annually, attracting visitors from Europe, the USA, and more.
- Included Services: Consultation with a doctor, apartments, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 3 days stay in the hotel, food not included.
- Method: 50 million package for alopecia.
- Dr. S Ayas has performed numerous FUE hair transplantation procedures with a high success rate.
- C L I N I S T A ® frequently serves patients from Italy, Spain, Great Britain, the Middle East, and North Africa.
- Included Services: VIP transfer.
- Technique: FUE hair transplantation.
- Dr. Anna Korotich is a certified trainer in injection techniques for Twac and Phillex drugs.
- Herhel clinic serves patients from over 20 different countries annually.
- Included Services: Video or text consultation.
❗The services and inclusions mentioned in Thailand's medical tourism packages may vary depending on the procedure, hospital, or clinic. Patients have to confirm the details of their chosen package with their medical provider to ensure it meets their needs.
Here is a general idea of what services are most likely included in the majority of the procedures and what has to be confirmed.
| Service | ✅ Included | ❌ Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Core medical procedures | Cosmetic surgery, dental implants, joint replacement | Additional treatments |
| Preoperative tests | Blood tests, ECG, chest X-ray | Helicobacter Pylori test, audiometry |
| Consultations | Surgeon, anesthesiologist | Specialist consultations from doctors of other fields |
| Anesthesia & medications | General anesthesia, pre- and post-op meds | Anti-inflammatory treatments |
| Compression garments (for some plastic surgeries) | Included for post-op | Additional garments |
| Accommodation | 4-5 star hotels (5-7 nights) | VIP suites |
| Transport | Airport-hotel-clinic transfers | VIP transfers |
| Postoperative care | Follow-up exams, nursing services | Lymphatic drainage massage |
| 24/7 assistance | Personal medical coordinator | Extra language support |
Popular Medical Tourism Destinations in Thailand
Bangkok and Phuket both stand out as top choices for international patients. But which city to choose?
Bangkok: a hub for medical tourists 🌆
Bangkok is ideal for patients needing specialized care and advanced treatments in a bustling urban setting. Medical tourism in Bangkok advantages include:
Pros
Advanced healthcare infrastructure 🏥. Bangkok offers a wide range of medical services, from routine check-ups to complex surgeries.
Highly qualified medical professionals 👩⚕️. Bangkok attracts top-tier doctors. Doctors in Bangkok are trained at internationally recognized institutions such as Harvard Medical School, Mayo Clinic, and the Royal College of Surgeons.
Comprehensive treatment options 🩺. Patients in Bangkok have access to a wide variety of medical specialties, ranging from cosmetic procedures to advanced surgeries.
Accessibility ✈️. Well-connected through Suvarnabhumi Airport and major airlines, Bangkok ensures convenient travel.
Cons
Urban congestion 🚦. Heavy traffic and crowded areas can delay commutes, potentially affecting access to facilities during peak hours.
Higher costs 💰. Living and treatment expenses in Bangkok are higher compared to other Thai cities but still significantly cheaper than in Western countries. The cost of living in Phuket, Thailand, is about 10% lower than in Bangkok, Thailand.
Noise levels 🔊. The bustling city environment may not be ideal for patients seeking a calm recovery space.
Bumrungrad International Hospital
Bumrungrad Hospital consists of 30 specialty centers. The Medical Center has JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation that proves the high-quality standards of healthcare services and patients’ safety. Bumrungrad Hospital is the 1st Asian medical facility to receive JCI certification.
Bumrungrad International Hospital is a global medical facility in Bangkok, Thailand that specializes in oncology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, neurosciences, heart surgery, check-ups, etc. Over 1 million patients choose Bumrungrad annually. 50% of them are international ones from over 190 countries.
The hospital is one of the largest private centers in Southeast Asia and one of the most significant world’s outpatient clinics. Bumrungrad International is recognized as TOP-10 best hospitals and TOP-30 most technologically advanced clinics in the world.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Septoplasty | $6370 - $7300 |
| Coronary artery bypass grafting | $22830 - $39420 |
| I Fertilization | $9755 - $12260 |
| Heart Valve Replacement | $33800 - $40000 |
| $137000 - $170000 | |
| Myomectomy (removal of uterine fibroids) | $7300 - $11840 |
| Mammoplasty | $5418.05 - $6514.47 |
| Lobectomy | $16900 - $21500 |
| Hysterectomy (uterus removal) | $7600 - $12440 |
| Brain tumor removal | $16700 - $25800 |
| Breast cancer surgery | $9700 - $15700 |
| Liposuction | $5544.61 |
| Robotic da Vinci prostatectomy | $29270 - $32350 |
| Transnasal resection of tumor | $18900 - $21900 |
Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDS)
BIDS specializes in the dental care services. It is one of the largest dental clinics in Thailand. The Center has accreditation of JCI.
Bangkok International Dental Center (BIDC) is one of the largest and most reputable dental clinic in Thailand, treating over 20,000 worldwide patients per year according to the international standards and approved by JCI and ISO 9001:2008 UKAS. The list of provided treatment includes all possible dental care services from cosmetic dentistry to dental surgeries and dental implant replacements.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Porcelain Veneer | $352.36 - $440.44 |
| Composite Veneer | $146.81 - $176.18 |
| All-on-6 Dental Implants | $10864.3 - $13506.97 |
| All-on-4 Dental Implants | $8808.89 - $9983.41 |
Phuket: a tropical medical tourism destination 🌴
With its serene environment and affordability, Phuket is better suited for those prioritizing peaceful recovery and leisure.
Pros
Serene environment 🌊. Phuket provides a peaceful recovery setting with pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Quality healthcare services 🏨. The island offers reputable healthcare facilities with modern equipment and skilled professionals. Additionally, specialists in Thailand hold certifications from prestigious boards like the American Board of Surgery.
Cost-effective treatments 💵. Medical services in Phuket are generally more affordable than in Bangkok, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious patients. For example, a full body checkup in Phuket typically costs between $300 and $500, while in Bangkok, it can range from $350 to $600, resulting in savings of approximately 14% to 16.67%.
Tourism appeal 🏖️. Patients can combine medical treatments with a vacation, exploring Phuket's beaches, islands, and cultural attractions.
Cons
Limited Specializations ⚕️. Phuket may not offer the same range of specialized medical services as Bangkok, making it less suitable for highly complex procedures.
Accessibility 🛫. Phuket has fewer direct international flights, often requiring connecting flights, which can lengthen travel time.
Seasonal variations 👥. Tourist seasons may impact accommodation availability and service quality, especially during peak periods.
Siam Clinic Phuket
Siam Clinic Phuket, located in Phuket, Thailand, offers a range of aesthetic services, including facial reshaping, body sculpting, fillers, Botox, thread lifting, liposuction, and more.
Siam Clinic Phuket is an aesthetic clinic based in Phuket, Thailand. The clinic provides facial reshaping, body sculpting, filler injections, botox injections, thread lifting, mesofat, growth factor, liposuction, cool sculpting, facial massage, and laser treatments.
Latest review
| Rhinoplasty (nose job) | $1200 - $1500 |
| Liposuction | $1592 - $4000 |
| Tummy tuck | $1145.16 - $3817.19 |
Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute
Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute, a top medical facility in Phuket, specializes in aesthetic medicine and plastic surgery, drawing patients from across the globe.
For years Phuket has been one of the world’s favourite tourist destinations, which now welcomes millions of visitors each year, many who come for a plastic surgery makeover. Others come for the modern infrastructure, luxury resorts, fantastic shopping and restaurants or just to get away to enjoy a secluded paradise
Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute is one of the well-known medical facilities in Phuket, Thailand. Aesthetic medicine and cosmetology, Plastic Surgery are the strongest specialties. Patients from the United States, Canada, the UK, and other countries choose Phuket Plastic Surgery Institute for healthcare.
Planning Your Medical Tourism Trip to Thailand
Careful planning ensures a stress-free experience. Below are some practical insights to help patients make the most of their medical tourism trip to Thailand.
Thailand facts visitors should know 🌏
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Currency 💵 | Currency 💵 Thai Baht (THB). Credit cards widely accepted; cash needed for small vendors. 💲1 USD ≈ 34.57 THB; 1 EUR ≈ 36.31 THB; 1 GBP ≈ 43.66 THB *Please note that exchange rates fluctuate regularly. |
| Language 🗣️ | Thai is the official language. English is standard in hospitals; translators are available. |
| Transportation 🚖 | Public transport includes BTS Skytrain, MRT Metro, and taxis. Ride-hailing apps like Grab. Some clinics on Bookimed offer free airport-hotel-airport transfer. |
| Time zone ⏰ | Indochina Time (ICT), GMT+7. Plan appointments and recovery around time differences. |
| Safety measures 🛡️ | Strict healthcare protocols. Ensure travel insurance or hospital plans for added safety. |
| Cultural etiquette 🙏 | Use a wai for greetings. Dress modestly at religious sites. Tipping is appreciated. |
| Emergency contacts 📞 | Tourist Police: 1155 Emergency Medical Assistance: 1669 ❗In Thailand, 191 serves as the universal emergency number, connecting callers to police, fire, and medical services. However, English proficiency among operators may vary. For assistance in English, it’s advisable to contact the Tourist Police at 1155, who are equipped to help foreign visitors. For medical emergencies - dialing 1669. |
Easy tourism visa procedure for medical tourists 🛂
As of December 2024, citizens of 93 countries, such as the US, U.K., Canada, China, and most EU nations, can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days. Visitors from 31 other countries are eligible for a 15-day visa on arrival. Patients requiring extended stays for medical care can apply for a Medical Treatment Visa, which permits stays of up to one year.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Application | Apply through the Royal Thai Embassy or consulate in your country. |
| Required documents | Medical appointment proof, financial stability, travel details. |
| Visa duration | Up to 60 days, with extensions available for longer treatments. |
| Assistance | Bookimed medical coordinator offers visa application help. |
Best time to visit Thailand (climate for medical tourism) 🌞☀️🌧️
❗While the cool season is ideal, visiting during the hot or rainy seasons can offer convenience through reduced wait times and more affordable medical tourism packages.
| Season | Months | Weather | Average temperature | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cool season | November - February | Pleasant and dry | 25°C (77°F) | Ideal for medical tourists and recovery |
| Hot season | March - May | Very high temperatures | 35°C (95°F) | May be uncomfortable after procedures |
| Rainy season | June - October | Heavy rains and high humidity | Varies, with frequent rains | Travel-sensitive patients should avoid |
Payment and Financing Options for Medical Tourists in Thailand
Elective procedures such as plastic surgeries, dental work, and sex reassignment surgeries are typically not covered by standard health insurance plans, as they are often deemed non-essential.
However, insurance may cover a portion of the costs if a procedure is considered medically necessary—such as reconstructive surgery following an accident. The exact percentage varies by policy and provider, so it's crucial to consult your insurer for specific details. Companies like Allianz Care or AXA Travel Insurance often have flexible options for medical tourists.
✅Despite limited insurance coverage, undergoing these procedures in Thailand remains cost-effective. Medical treatments in Thailand can be up to 75% cheaper compared to the US and the UK. Even after accounting for travel and accommodation expenses, patients often find significant savings by choosing Thailand for their medical needs.
📦Additionally, many Thai hospitals offer comprehensive medical tourism packages.
Financing options
For higher-cost procedures like gender-affirming surgeries, financing options make treatments in Thailand more accessible. Here are practical solutions to help patients manage costs:
Installment plans 🗓️
Thai hospitals offer installment payment options to spread out costs over time. You may consult with a Bookimed medical coordinator for more insights.
Key benefits include:
Low or zero interest rates. Interest-free options for limited periods.
Flexible payment terms. Custom schedules tailored to your financial situation.
💚Patients can arrange installment plans directly with the hospital's finance department during pre-treatment consultations.
Medical loans 💵
Specialized lenders, includingLendingTree and local financial institutions, offer healthcare-specific loans. Many hospitals also partner with finance companies to streamline this process.
These loans can cover a wide range of treatments, including gender-affirming surgeries, advanced cardiology procedures, and even full-body check-ups.
Other financing options
Crowdfunding 💻. Platforms likeGoFundMe can help raise money for medical procedures, especially for life-changing surgeries.
Savings plans 💳. Hospitals often provide discounts for patients paying upfront with personal savings.
Hospital partnerships 🤝. Some hospitals partner with credit card companies or banks to offer promotional financing deals.
FAQs
What makes Thailand a leader in health tourism Asia?
Thailand's reputation in health tourism Asia stems from its blend of modern medical technology, skilled professionals, and warm hospitality.
Cost of medical treatment in Thailand
Medical procedures in Thailand can be up to 75% less expensive than in Western countries. For example, a heart bypass surgery that might cost $100,000 in the US can be performed for around $10,000 in Thailand.
How do I plan a medical tourism vacation in Thailand?
Start by selecting a reputable medical tourism agency Thailand like Bookimed to guide you through the process. We will assist in choosing the right package, organizing your medical vacation Thailand.
Related Articles
- Tourist MT (Medical Treatment) Visa - สถานเอกอัครราชทูต ณ กรุงพริทอเรีย. สถานเอกอัครราชทูต ณ กรุงพริทอเรีย. URL: https://pretoria.thaiembassy.org/en/page/tourist-mt-medical-treatment-visa?menu=62ab4d31885bc53fb24473f3 (date of access: 06.12.2024).
- Full Cost of Living comparison Phuket vs Bangkok. Expatistan, cost of living comparisons. URL: https://www.expatistan.com/cost-of-living/comparison/bangkok/phuket (date of access: 06.12.2024).
- Topic: Medical tourism in Thailand. Statista. URL: https://www.statista.com/topics/12559/medical-tourism-in-thailand/ (date of access: 06.12.2024).
- Noree T., Hanefeld J., Smith R. Medical tourism in Thailand: a cross-sectional study. Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2015. Vol. 94, no. 1. P. 30–36. URL: https://doi.org/10.2471/blt.14.152165 (date of access: 06.12.2024).