Off the plane and under the knife

Medical tourism in Asia is giving people access to treatment at a fraction of the cost of developed countries – but there's a downside.

Need a hip replacement? Get on a plane to Bangkok. What about a nip and tuck? There are some good deals right now in Singapore. No more hospital waiting lists, overworked nursing staff and indigestible food. The only waiting you'll do is for the waiter to bring you another plate of chilli crab, washed down with a Singapore sling by the poolside.

If you need treatment, hospitals in Singapore, Malaysia, India, Thailand and Dubai want your business. They'll do your do medical check-ups, dental treatment, cosmetic surgery, joint replacements, heart…