A Turkish medical tourism agency, specializing in cosmetic surgeries for Brits, is allegedly using deceptive tactics to stop patients from sharing negative experiences about their botched procedures.
Clinic Mono, which offers treatments ranging from mummy makeovers to penis enlargements in Izmir, is reportedly pressuring clients into signing fraudulent contracts that threaten hefty fines for speaking out.
Patients Face Threats of $10,000 Fines for Negative Comments
MailOnline has uncovered that Clinic Mono forces patients to sign what they call a “customer/patient explicit consent form,” which includes an outrageous clause stating that patients will be fined $10,000 if they speak negatively about their surgery or the clinic.
The document, full of glaring spelling mistakes, claims the penalty is for the “patient’s safety and best interest,” and prohibits them from sharing any negative comments online or even discussing their surgeries unfavorably with others.
The form reads: “I accept that I will never talk in a negative or defamatory way in any platform, I will not organize other patients against Clinic Mono…
I will pay a penalty of $10,000 if I violate these obligations.”
One patient shared with MailOnline that they were forced to sign this document just before undergoing a major procedure, leaving them afraid to speak about the “horrendous” results.
Clinic Uses Fake Celebrity Endorsements to Lure Patients
The clinic is reportedly using dubious marketing tactics, showing altered or fake before-and-after pictures of celebrities like Paris Hilton and Madison Beer to convince patients that these stars underwent cosmetic surgery at Clinic Mono.
The clinic even claims that popular Welsh TV presenter Carol Vorderman underwent a series of surgeries there, without offering any proof to back up these allegations.
Despite its claims of offering “internationally distinguished” care, numerous patients have reported poorly executed surgeries and have shared their grievances online.
However, when clients post negative reviews, they are often pressured to remove them in exchange for promises of better service or discounts.
Complaints and Threats from Dissatisfied Patients
Frustrated patients have expressed their anger, stating they were ignored after suffering complications from their surgeries.
One patient explained they were repeatedly contacted by Clinic Mono asking them to delete their negative review on Trustpilot in exchange for help.
Another patient mentioned they were “threatened” over posting a one-star review and were told their medical paperwork would be withheld unless they complied.
The troubling pattern of silencing complaints raises serious concerns about the clinic’s practices, with many victims warning others to think twice before undergoing surgery at Clinic Mono.
Risks of Medical Tourism to Turkey and the Growing Number of Fatalities
Turkey has become a popular destination for cosmetic surgeries due to the affordability of procedures compared to the UK.
However, this has also led to a rise in complications and even fatalities, with at least 28 British citizens reported to have died following surgeries in Turkey since 2019.
Many patients are attracted by all-inclusive packages, which often include luxury hotel stays, airport transfers, and even sightseeing tours.
But these tempting offers mask the significant risks involved in undergoing surgery abroad.
Just last year, the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority cracked down on misleading ads promoting cosmetic surgery services abroad, particularly in Turkey, after concerns about patient safety and unethical marketing practices grew.
Experts have repeatedly warned that opting for cheaper treatments abroad can lead to disastrous outcomes, especially when proper aftercare is not available.
Surgeons Warn About the Dangers of Cheap Surgery Abroad
Dr. Barabas, an NHS consultant plastic and hand surgeon, highlighted that complications from surgeries in Turkey are alarmingly common.
Many of these procedures are rushed to meet the demand for low-cost treatments, putting patients’ safety at risk.
“Speed, not safety, is the priority,” he stated, adding that cheaper options often come with higher risks.
The NHS and the Royal College of Surgeons of England strongly advise against opting for cosmetic surgery abroad without fully researching the clinic and surgeon.
They also stress the importance of proper consultation and aftercare, which many overseas clinics fail to provide.
The Risks of Traveling Long-Distance for Surgery and Lack of Aftercare
Traveling overseas for surgery is not without its risks.
The NHS warns that flying after undergoing surgery can significantly increase the risk of blood clots, which can be life-threatening.
Patients should wait several days to a few weeks before flying depending on the type of surgery they have had.
Additionally, the lack of aftercare when traveling abroad can make it difficult for patients to address complications promptly.
Experts emphasize the importance of having a proper consultation with the surgeon before agreeing to surgery, and ensuring there is an established system for post-operative care in case something goes wrong.
Hidden Costs and the Need for Due Diligence
While the initial price of surgery abroad may seem attractive, the Royal College of Surgeons of England advises patients to consider the potential additional costs.
These can include flights for corrective procedures or extended hotel stays if complications arise.
The organization also warns that refunds for cancelled surgeries may be difficult to obtain, depending on the country’s regulations.
Choosing the right surgeon and clinic is crucial, as safety standards vary widely between countries.
It’s essential to verify that the surgeon is fully trained and insured for the specific procedure, and to ask for proof of their qualifications and experience.
What to Do Before Opting for Surgery Abroad
Before deciding on cosmetic surgery overseas, experts recommend taking several important steps.
First, ensure the surgeon has the necessary qualifications and experience, and schedule a proper consultation before booking the procedure.
It’s also essential to check that the clinic has a good reputation and offers adequate aftercare services, should complications arise.
By following these precautions, patients can minimize the risks involved in medical tourism and avoid the pitfalls of poorly performed surgeries.
However, the increasing number of tragic stories highlights the urgent need for better regulations in the medical tourism industry, especially in countries like Turkey.