Want to Get a Facelift Abroad? You Might Need a Plastic Surgery Broker
Medical tourism only continues to rise. According to a report done by Fortune Business Insights, the global medical tourism market is projected to grow from its current worth of $38.2 billion to $162.8 billion by 2032. Studies show that cosmetic and dental surgeries in countries such as Mexico, Thailand, and Hungary cost a fraction (anywhere from 25% to 50% to be exact) of what those same procedures might cost here in the US. But patients aren't letting costs be the only factor driving their decisions to seek help outside the States. They're letting incredible results pique their interests as well. 'Clients today are far more educated and outcome-focused,' Melinda Farina, founder of Beauty Brokers Inc., tells Vogue. 'They've seen global results, and they're asking for specific surgeons, not just destinations.'
Farina, whose consulting firm connects patients with its network of plastic surgeons, says that top international destinations for her clients include Turkey, Italy, Brazil, and Colombia. She explains that the quality of surgical work in the US can sometimes be disproportionate to the inflated prices of these surgeries, while surgeons abroad are delivering more nuanced and sophisticated results. 'What people don't realize is that these international surgeons aren't operating in 'discount' markets; many are setting new standards in technique and outcome,' she says. 'Some of the most sophisticated work in facial and body aesthetics is happening outside the US, and our clients know it.'
The impulsive answer would be, 'Hell yes, let's go abroad for a facelift.' But after the initial high wears off and you get down to the logistics, you'll realize that you have the extra homework of researching if a surgeon in another country is the right fit. This is where a plastic surgery broker may come in handy.
How does hiring a plastic surgery broker work?
According to Joshua Rosenberg, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon at Mount Sinai, there are a few different kinds of plastic surgery brokers. You can turn to commercial platforms that charge patients for access to their network of vetted surgeons. There are brokers who are employed by health systems or embassies that assist patients with medical care abroad. Then there are the private plastic surgery brokers that typically work on a fee basis, charging patients and/or plastic surgeons for their services as a middleman.
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Vogue
3 hours ago
- Vogue
Want to Get a Facelift Abroad? You Might Need a Plastic Surgery Broker
Those on their facelift journey are now at a crossroads. With everyone's social feeds flooded with seemingly perfect results from international surgeons (Guadalajara facelift TikTok is just one of the many tempting reasons to book a trip to Mexico), many are asking themselves if they would go to another country for a procedure at half the cost and possibly better results. Medical tourism only continues to rise. According to a report done by Fortune Business Insights, the global medical tourism market is projected to grow from its current worth of $38.2 billion to $162.8 billion by 2032. Studies show that cosmetic and dental surgeries in countries such as Mexico, Thailand, and Hungary cost a fraction (anywhere from 25% to 50% to be exact) of what those same procedures might cost here in the US. But patients aren't letting costs be the only factor driving their decisions to seek help outside the States. They're letting incredible results pique their interests as well. 'Clients today are far more educated and outcome-focused,' Melinda Farina, founder of Beauty Brokers Inc., tells Vogue. 'They've seen global results, and they're asking for specific surgeons, not just destinations.' Farina, whose consulting firm connects patients with its network of plastic surgeons, says that top international destinations for her clients include Turkey, Italy, Brazil, and Colombia. She explains that the quality of surgical work in the US can sometimes be disproportionate to the inflated prices of these surgeries, while surgeons abroad are delivering more nuanced and sophisticated results. 'What people don't realize is that these international surgeons aren't operating in 'discount' markets; many are setting new standards in technique and outcome,' she says. 'Some of the most sophisticated work in facial and body aesthetics is happening outside the US, and our clients know it.' The impulsive answer would be, 'Hell yes, let's go abroad for a facelift.' But after the initial high wears off and you get down to the logistics, you'll realize that you have the extra homework of researching if a surgeon in another country is the right fit. This is where a plastic surgery broker may come in handy. How does hiring a plastic surgery broker work? According to Joshua Rosenberg, MD, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon at Mount Sinai, there are a few different kinds of plastic surgery brokers. You can turn to commercial platforms that charge patients for access to their network of vetted surgeons. There are brokers who are employed by health systems or embassies that assist patients with medical care abroad. Then there are the private plastic surgery brokers that typically work on a fee basis, charging patients and/or plastic surgeons for their services as a middleman.
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Yahoo
This Is the Best Luxury Resort in Mexico for Families With Teens
This Is the Best Luxury Resort in Mexico for Families With Teens originally appeared on Parade. When it comes to the Conrad brand of hotels and resorts, I know what to expect from the popular Hilton-owned properties. It doesn't matter if it's a hotel in New York City or, as in this case, a resort in the heart of the Riviera Nayarit in Mexico; I know that I'm going to experience unparalleled service with unmatched accommodations. Not to mention, a hypnotizing signature scent that's bound to awaken my senses with a single whiff, like all their properties have. The moment my family of four arrived at Conrad Punta de Mita, just 45 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport, I knew that we were in for a relaxing and memorable family vacation. For me, balancing activities with tranquility is paramount for most trips. Plus, with a tween and teen in tow, it's imperative to pack in the fun. After all, no one wants to hear the dreaded words: 'we're bored,' after shelling out thousands of dollars on a vacation. While keeping the kids entertained is a top priority, they're not the only ones who want to enjoy their time. That's why squeezing in a bit of R&R is a must for me, and this property offers the perfect mix of thrill and chill. Here's everything you need to know about staying at the best luxury resort in Mexico for parents and grandparents traveling with teens. Related: The Hotel: Natural World Meets Contemporary Coastal The lush tropical landscape, coupled with sweeping views of the turquoise-blue sea, was the first indicator that the resort would be a lavish paradise. What's more, the open corridors and thoughtful design featuring apertures that open to the sky and other spaces create an airy, nature-centric vibe. Like other Conrad properties, Punta de Mita upholds the standard of catering to the cultured world traveler that marries bold, contemporary design that's locally inspired and seamlessly connects guests with the place. It's evident that the resort embraces and honors the region's rich heritage. In fact, it was the perfect backdrop for filming an episode of Bravo's The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, which aired in 2022. The Rooms: Modern Luxury With Mexican Influences With 265 guest rooms and 59 suites, the 55,000-square-foot property can accommodate a variety of travelers. My husband and two kids stayed in a one-bedroom suite. Our stay was comfortable and spacious thanks to the large patio, plunge pool, expansive bathroom, soaking tub and double vanities. As someone who shamelessly travels with a ton of makeup and toiletries, the latter is a major plus. My husband is always happy when he can have his own side of the sink. While we had plenty of space in the bathroom, the kids slept on the pull-out sofa bed in the living room. Although they didn't have separate beds, it was more than enough room. Drenched in natural hues and thoughtfully outfitted with Mexican touches like decorative ceramic plates and eye-catching artwork, the living room also opened to the patio. Furnished with two loungers, a couch, a plunge pool and a table ideal for al fresco dining, the outdoor space is a great place to play games and spend time with family. My husband and I stayed in the separate bedroom, which also led to the ample outdoor space. The property also offers two-bedroom suites, which are perfect for families traveling with extended family, like grandparents. Related: Teen-Friendly Amenities and Activities Finding ways to keep preteens and teens engaged while traveling is not always easy. After they've outgrown kids' clubs, finding age-appropriate activities can be challenging. So, when we spotted the water slide, we knew that it would make a splash with my water-loving kids. With three onsite pools, they had a couple to choose from (one is adults only). Trust me, they enjoyed every moment in the water. When they wanted to beat the heat, they found refuge in the cool game room. They spent hours playing ping pong, foosball, air hockey and video games. The resort also offers complimentary bikes. We took them out for a relaxing yet adventurous ride around the property. Throughout our journey, we spied a few coatis, also known as 'red raccoons,' leaping in and out of the bushes. Startling at first, we soon found the long-snouted creatures to be cute—but of course, we didn't get too close. Additionally, we also visited the property's tennis and basketball courts to keep our bodies moving while having fun. The Spa: A Cultural Oasis The moment I stepped inside the spa, my mind, body and spirit felt at ease. Greeted by a warm and friendly receptionist, I was handed a delicious detoxifying drink infused with natural fruits to promote hydration and support my body's natural detoxification process. While the spa offers a mix of treatments inspired by ancient Huichol culture, I opted for the traditional deep tissue massage. My massage therapist worked out all the tension, stress and knots, leaving my muscles and limbs fully relaxed. Walking out of the spa, I felt light as a feather and rejuvenated. It was the perfect time to reconnect with myself and unwind while my husband and kids were in the pool. Dining and Culinary Highlights If there's one thing about my family when it comes to food, it's that they're picky eaters. Although my daughter suffers from egg, nut and soy allergies, she's still easy to please. However, my husband and son are the exact opposite. Thankfully, Conrad Punta de Mita has seven onsite restaurants, including Codex, Tuki, Arbol, Aura, Mezquite, Colibri and Paleta, which boast a wide variety of cuisines. Our favorite was Mezquite, which serves a fresh take on Mexican and American favorites in an open-air setting with a seasonal menu. I ordered a mouth-watering catch of the day, which left a lasting impression. Among the variety of eateries, we were able to find something on the menu to satisfy everyone's taste buds. My daughter is a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur, so she was pleasantly surprised to see pizza on the menu at Paleta. The best part? My 11-year-old son's meals were all complimentary. Children 12 and under can order a dish from the kids' menu for free when accompanied by a paying adult purchasing a main course in the restaurant. Why It's the Best Resort in Riviera Nayarit for Parents and Grandparents of Teens Finding luxury properties that cater to families is no easy feat, especially when it comes to traveling with preteens and teens. Conrad Punta de Mita mastered the balance: fun for the teens and five-star comfort for the adults. My kids appreciated the teen-friendly amenities and activities, while my husband and I enjoyed the elevated service and top-notch pampering. From the water slide to the plentiful food options, everyone in my family left the resort happy, full and more than content. Not every trip is a success on all fronts, but this Mexico gem nestled along the Riviera Nayarit nailed it. This Is the Best Luxury Resort in Mexico for Families With Teens first appeared on Parade on Aug 17, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 17, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
10 hours ago
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7 Things to Know Before Booking an All-Inclusive Hotel With Points, According to The Points Guy
7 Things to Know Before Booking an All-Inclusive Hotel With Points, According to The Points Guy originally appeared on Parade. All-inclusive resorts have come a long way from the spring break clichés of the past. Today's top properties offer elevated dining, design-forward suites and amenities tailored to every type of traveler, from couples seeking candlelit dinners on the beach to families chasing waterpark thrills. And increasingly, travelers are using points to unlock these experiences. 'The major hotel brands, Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton, are all pushing the envelope in the all-inclusive space,' says Tanner Saunders, senior hotels reporter at The Points Guy. 'If you haven't been to an all-inclusive resort, now's the time to give it a chance.'But before you cash in your points for that beachfront suite, there are a few things you should know. Points programs vary widely. For example, Hyatt uses a fixed award chart for all-inclusives, while Hilton and Marriott rely on dynamic pricing. Flexibility with dates is key, and it's imperative to always double-check guest count before booking to avoid unexpected charges. Whether you're dreaming of the Dominican Republic's newest luxury openings or a laid-back escape in Mexico, these seven tips from seasoned travel pros will help you book smarter and better, with points. Related: 7 Tips for Booking Hotels Using Loyalty Points 1. Not All Points Programs Work the Same Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott, the major hotel players, offer all-inclusive properties that can be booked with points. However, their systems differ. According to Tanner, each brand offers different types and levels of point systems. 'Hyatt uses a fixed award chart, often offering the best value,' he said. 'While Hilton and Marriott use dynamic pricing, meaning point costs fluctuate depending on demand.' 2. Flexibility Is Key to Finding the Best Value Just like you'll often save when booking flights with more flexible dates, the same is true for booking with points. Award availability also frequently shifts: users report that rooms vanish and reappear as cancellations happen, and some have saved up to 30,000 points by canceling and rebooking once rates fell. 'The more flexible you are with your travel dates, the better chance you'll have of scoring a great deal,' Tanner said. 'High-season trips, like summer holidays in Europe or spring break trips in Florida, will typically require more points, especially with Hilton and Marriott.' 3. Always Input the Correct Number of Guests When booking an all-inclusive, the number of guests in your party directly affects the price, even when using points. Forgetting to include a child or partner can result in unexpected fees upon check-in. According to Sarah Blevins, a lifestyle blogger at Our Little Lifestyle and points booking pro, this is the number one mistake many travelers make. "Unlike many standard hotels, all-inclusive properties are often priced based on double occupancy and charge extra for additional guests. When people do not include children in their booking, they are frequently met with additional charges at check-in," she said. 4. You Really Can Leave Your Wallet Behind According to Saunders, one of the biggest perks of all-inclusives is the peace of mind that comes from knowing what you're spending upfront. Aside from optional extras like excursions or special dinners, most expenses are covered, making points redemptions feel even more rewarding. "I would just say: If you haven't been to an all-inclusive resort, now's the time to give it a chance. The know-what-you-pay-upfront resorts have been getting better, and when I'm at one, I love the stress-free nature of leaving my wallet behind and not worrying about how much money I'm spending. To me, that's a great vacation," he said. (And by leave behind, we mean in your room, because you should never travel anywhere without your wallet!) 5. Explore All Your Options—Both Credit Cards & Hotels For Sarah, getting into points was all about maximizing the ways she and her family (four in total) can travel together most affordably. She's taken more than a dozen international trips on points—something she credits to strategic research and a well-curated lineup of travel credit cards. "For me, I found it best to focus on credit cards that allow transferable currencies, such as Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Citi Thank You Points, and Capital One Miles," Sarah said. "These allowed me to transfer points directly into my hotel loyalty programs as needed for each trip, as opposed to only earning and redeeming points with one hotel chain. " She also found that you often get more value for your points this way, rather than redeeming them for travel through the bank's travel portal. Related: 6. Maximize Your Points for More Amenities One of the best ways to get more out of your points is by pairing redemptions with elite status or co-branded credit card perks, which can unlock valuable extras like free nights, waived fees or room upgrades."Some hotels offer additional free nights on stays booked with points and/or if you hold a credit card or status," Sarah said. "For example, Marriott offers the 5th night free on award stays. So, when using points for a Marriott stay, you get the best value when booking five nights. On the other hand, Intercontinental Hotel Group (IHG) offers the 4th night free on all stays to certain cardholders. And, Hilton offers the 5th night free on some stays for elite members." So, for Sarah, pairing additional benefits, whether they come from elite status or various co-branded credit cards, can help you stretch your points further. "Also, with some hotel chains, added resort fees and/or parking charges are waived on points stays or for elite members. So, see where those extra benefits would come into play and consider that when making a decision," she said. 7. Don't Overlook the Standout Properties If you're using points, know which properties are worth the splurge. Saunders recommends the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic: an adults-only beachfront resort you can book with World of Hyatt points, with access to sister property Ziva's waterpark and restaurants. It's a great example of how luxury and loyalty programs can intersect. The W, which is set to open later this summer, is a brand-new member of Marriott's portfolio and sits along a pristine stretch of Uvero Alto beach and boasts amenities abound, including four restaurants, 9 bars, private beach access, a spa, and more.7 Things to Know Before Booking an All-Inclusive Hotel With Points, According to The Points Guy first appeared on Parade on Aug 8, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 8, 2025, where it first appeared.
