Liposuction, cosmetic surgery becoming popular in UAE

Dubai - A surge in bookings for abdominoplasty means that it had overtaken cosmetic gynaecology as the third leading treatment in comparison to 2015.

Until mid-2016, liposuction remained a top trend in aesthetic medicine, as the cosmetic and reconstructive surgery industry in the UAE saw increasing demand from both residents as well as visitors to the country.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Hospital (AACSH), located in Dubai Healthcare City, had released a review of aesthetic medicine market trends in the first half of 2016, revealing that the leading procedures during this time correlate with the desire to look young and demonstrate continued popularity for traditional treatments.
While most surgical treatments steadily remained at the top, a surge in bookings for abdominoplasty means that it had overtaken cosmetic gynaecology as the third leading treatment in comparison to 2015.
A review of aesthetic medicine trends conducted in 2016, discussing the outlook for 2017, showed that the centre recorded 11 per cent year-on-year increase of visitors from the UAE, the region and the world. Factors contributing to this growth include an increasingly savvy patient base and the demand for tailor-made services, the growth of medical tourism, the increasing focus on attaining international accreditation and the growth in population and corresponding to increase in disposable income.
"There is an increasing shift towards value when it comes to aesthetic medicine, with patients opting for higher quality services and tailored care management solutions based on specific requirements - whether this is for cosmetic or medically required reconstructive procedures," said Dr Jeehan Abdul Qadir, Executive Chairperson of the AACSH.
According to the report, with the increased demand for aesthetic medicine, it is key for players in the industry to offer qualified, trained and experienced staff, state-of-the-art facilities and sanitary premises to perform procedures - all essential elements to securing patient trust.
The UAE healthcare space is growing rapidly as an increasing number of hospitals, primary care facilities, health insurance options and specialised services become available. With the growth in reconstructive and elective surgical and non-surgical procedures, it is imperative for healthcare providers to ensure they are fully equipped to offer patients superior medical care.
The report showed that patients from more than 100 different countries of origin visited the AACSH in 2016 the majority of new patients visiting the hospital are predominantly UAE nationals. Saudi nationals still remain the second largest group of visitors whilst others were from Britain (16 per cent), Qatar (17 per cent), Oman (11 per cent) and Egypt (10 per cent).
asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com