Vietnam and Thailand are two of the most popular destinations for cosmetic surgery in Southeast Asia. Both offer access to qualified surgeons, modern hospitals, and significantly lower costs than Australia, but they differ in several practical ways that are worth understanding before you decide.
This guide covers costs, hospital options, popular procedures, and what the experience is like in each country, so you can make an informed decision.
Cost Comparison: Thailand vs Vietnam Plastic Surgery
Costs between the two countries differ more than most people expect. Vietnam generally comes in lower across most procedures, while Thailand sits closer to the mid-range for the region. Here is a quick comparison to give you a starting point:
| Procedure | Vietnam Price Range (AUD) | Thailand Price Range (AUD) |
|---|---|---|
| Rhinoplasty (Nose job) | From $5,000 | From $10,990 |
| Breast Augmentation | From $5,000 | From $7,990 |
| Liposuction (per area) | From $2,000 | From $3,500 |
| Eyelid Surgery (Double eyelid) | From $1,800 | From $2,500 |
| Facelift | From $6,500 | From $8,000 |
| Tummy Tuck | From $8,000 | From $12,000 |
| Mummy Makeover | From $12,000 | From $18,000 |
Note: Vietnam prices sourced from cosmedconnect.com/packages. Thailand prices are indicative market estimates based on publicly available information and may vary significantly by provider. All figures are in AUD and for reference only. Contact individual clinics for accurate quotes.
Vietnam generally offers lower starting prices across most procedures. Thailand tends to cost more but often comes with a higher base level of infrastructure and English-language support at the hospital level.
For a detailed breakdown of what procedures cost when travelling from Australia, see our guides on how much a tummy tuck costs in Vietnam.
Surgeon Expertise: Who Are the Leading Plastic Surgeons?
Both countries have qualified surgeons operating in modern, licensed facilities. The level of care you receive depends largely on the specific hospital and surgeon you choose, not just the country.
Top 3 Plastic Surgery Hospitals in Thailand
Kamol Cosmetic Hospital (Bangkok)
Known globally for board-certified surgeons and a wide range of cosmetic and gender-affirming procedures. Offers advanced technology and a broad catalogue of aesthetic treatments.
Yanhee Hospital (Bangkok)
One of Asia’s best-known cosmetic surgery hospitals, with a reputation for affordable pricing and comprehensive post-operative care. Has a large team of plastic surgeons covering a wide range of procedures.
Rattinan Clinic (Bangkok)
Specialises in liposuction, body contouring, and minimally invasive procedures. Known for a more personalised setting with expertise across both surgical and non-surgical treatments.
Top 5 Plastic Surgery Hospitals and Clinics in Vietnam
Tam Anh General Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City & Hanoi)
A leading private hospital with a strong reconstructive and aesthetic surgery department. Surgeons have international training, and the hospital operates modern theatres with private recovery suites.
Thu Cuc Aesthetic Hospital (Hanoi)
Focuses on cosmetic procedures with advanced imaging technology and modern facilities. Covers a broad range of aesthetic surgeries across both surgical and non-surgical categories.
AVA Cosmetic Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City)
A specialist private hospital focused on aesthetic plastic surgery. Known for experienced surgeons, modern theatre facilities, and a strong focus on safety and client care.
Rohto Aohal Clinic (Ho Chi Minh City)
A Japanese-standard cosmetic clinic offering both surgical and non-surgical treatments. Known for precise, detail-focused care.
FV Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City)
A French-managed hospital offering European-standard care with a dedicated plastic surgery department. Full international client services are available throughout the stay.
Popular Procedures and Specialties in Each Country
Vietnam: Natural results, competitive pricing
Vietnam surgeons are well regarded for rhinoplasty that focuses on proportion and natural-looking results. Other commonly performed procedures include:
- Eyelid surgery suited to Asian facial anatomy
- Breast augmentation with a focus on natural proportions
- VASER liposuction and body contouring
- Facelift and neck lift procedures
- Non-surgical options including fillers and anti-wrinkle treatments
If you are considering body contouring in Vietnam, our guide to VASER liposuction covers how the procedure works and what results to expect.
For a full overview of the hospitals and clinics COS MEDCONNECT works with, see our list of the top plastic surgery hospitals in Vietnam.
Thailand: Wide procedure range, strong infrastructure
Thailand has a long-established medical tourism industry with hospitals that have invested heavily in international client services. Commonly performed procedures include:
- Rhinoplasty, including more dramatic reshaping
- Breast augmentation using a range of implant options
- Body contouring and liposuction
- Facelift and facial rejuvenation
- Gender-affirming procedures
Client Experience in Vietnam vs Thailand: What to Expect
In Vietnam, many hospitals operate with a more personal level of care. English-speaking support is available at most specialist facilities, and the post-operative experience is generally attentive and hands-on. For Australian clients travelling with COS MEDCONNECT, a dedicated support team is available throughout the stay.
If you want a smooth recovery with Australian support on the ground, explore our recovery packages.
In Thailand, hospitals have invested heavily in international client infrastructure. Multilingual teams, private recovery suites, and structured aftercare programs are standard at the larger facilities. The experience tends to be more formalised, with a higher baseline of English-language support built into the hospital system.
Both countries have their strengths. Vietnam suits clients who want competitive pricing with personal, coordinated support. Thailand suits those who prefer a more established international hospital environment. Individual experiences vary depending on the specific provider chosen.
Vietnam or Thailand: Which Is the Better Fit?
The right choice depends on what you are prioritising. Here is a practical way to think about it.
Vietnam may suit you if:
- You want lower starting costs across most procedures.
- You prefer a coordinated experience with an Australian support team on the ground.
- You are considering rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, liposuction, or eyelid surgery with a focus on natural-looking results.
- You want a single point of contact managing your full journey from consultation to return home.
Thailand may suit you if:
- You prefer a large hospital environment with established international client infrastructure.
- You are considering gender-affirming procedures, where Thailand has a longer clinical track record.
- You are comfortable arranging your own coordination and support independently.
Both countries have qualified surgeons and modern facilities. The difference comes down to the type of support you want around the clinical experience, and which procedures you are considering. Individual results and experiences vary regardless of destination.
What to Look for When Choosing a Provider
Choosing the right provider matters more than choosing the right country. Here are the key things to check before committing:
- Surgeon qualifications: Confirm your surgeon holds a recognised specialist qualification in plastic or cosmetic surgery, not just a general medical degree. International training or fellowship is a positive indicator.
- Hospital licensing: The facility should be a licensed, accredited hospital or day surgery. Ask for the facility’s registration details if they are not published on the website.
- Transparency on costs: A reputable provider gives you a clear, itemised quote before you travel. Vague pricing without a full breakdown is a red flag.
- Pre-operative screening: A safe provider requires medical tests and a formal consultation before surgery is confirmed. Providers who skip this step are not following safe clinical practice.
- Post-operative follow-up: Check whether post-op reviews are included before you fly home, and whether there is a point of contact if you have concerns after returning to Australia.
For more on what separates a safe provider from a risky one, read our guide on how to choose a cosmetic surgeon.
COS MEDCONNECT vets all surgeons and hospitals in its network and provides an Australian support team throughout your stay in Vietnam.
How Long Do You Need to Stay?
For Australian clients, the length of stay is an important practical consideration. Most surgeons advise waiting until day 9 post-surgery before flying home. There are specific reasons why long-haul travel after surgery can be risky, and understanding them helps you plan your return safely.
For most procedures, this means planning a total trip of around 10 to 14 days, covering your consultation, surgery, recovery, and pre-departure check.
Direct flights from Australia to Ho Chi Minh City are typically 8 to 9 hours, comparable to Bangkok. Both cities have strong connections from major Australian airports.
COS MEDCONNECT coordinates surgery in Vietnam only. If you are considering Thailand, you would need to arrange your own provider and support independently.
COS MEDCONNECT – Australia’s cosmetic surgery coordinator in Vietnam
COS MEDCONNECT is an Australian-founded medical tourism company that coordinates cosmetic surgery procedures in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The company connects Australian clients with qualified surgeons, managing the full journey from online consultation and travel logistics through to post-operative recovery support.
Website: cosmedconnect.com
Email: hello@cosmedconnect.com
Facebook: facebook.com/cosmedconnect
Instagram: @cos_medconnect
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vietnam or Thailand better for plastic surgery?
Neither country is universally better — it depends on the procedure, your budget, and the level of support you want. Vietnam generally offers lower costs and suits clients who want a coordinated experience with on-the-ground support. Thailand has a larger medical tourism infrastructure and a broader range of specialties.
Is it safe to get plastic surgery in Vietnam?
Surgery in Vietnam can be safe when performed by a qualified surgeon in a licensed hospital. The key is choosing a vetted provider, confirming surgeon credentials, and ensuring pre-operative screening is completed before surgery is confirmed. Individual outcomes depend on a range of clinical and personal factors.
How much cheaper is plastic surgery in Vietnam compared to Thailand?
Vietnam starting prices are generally 20–40% lower than Thailand for most procedures, and significantly lower than Australia. Exact savings depend on the procedure and provider. See the cost comparison table above for reference figures.
How long do I need to stay in Vietnam for surgery?
Most surgeons advise waiting until day 9 post-surgery before flying home. For most procedures, plan for a total stay of 10–14 days, covering your consultation, surgery, recovery, and pre-departure check.
Does COS MEDCONNECT coordinate surgery in Thailand?
No. COS MEDCONNECT coordinates cosmetic surgery in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam only. If you are considering Thailand, you would need to arrange your own provider and coordination independently.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for general educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. All surgery carries risks and may not be suitable for everyone. Individual results vary, and outcomes depend on factors such as patient anatomy, surgical technique, lifestyle, and post-operative care.
Always consult with a qualified, board-certified plastic or cosmetic surgeon before making decisions about surgery. This blog does not replace a personalised consultation, medical assessment, or professional guidance tailored to your individual circumstances.
COS MEDCONNECT does not provide medical advice or perform surgical procedures. We coordinate cosmetic surgery and recovery services with third-party providers. All clients are encouraged to seek a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner before proceeding with any elective surgery.
Jane is the founder of COS MEDCONNECT. She enjoys sharing knowledge about cosmetic surgery and is passionate about helping people find trusted providers
