A nip here, a tuck there. Less fat on the belly, butt, and thighs. Nearly half of all American adults admit they wouldn't mind looking "a little more perfect"--if they could afford the high price of cosmetic surgery. Now they can, by joining the flocks of medical tourists who are venturing to exotic overseas locales for cosmetic procedures that are equal to or better than those provided by the best doctors in Beverly Hills for as little as 10 percent of the cost.

It's how journalist Schult got his new smile, and he was so impressed with his dental work that he went on to investigate the medical tourist industry and top medical centers from Costa Rica to Brazil to Thailand. The result is Beauty from Afar, a guide that offers consumers the pros and cons of traveling abroad for cosmetic or other elective surgeries. Readers will get the facts on the locations, the doctors, and the facilities, as well as the spalike resorts where patients recover. The book also offers guidelines on how to do your own research, interview prospective surgeons, and get information about hospitals and amenities--what to expect every step of the way, even once you return home.

This gives new meaning to the idea of going on vacation and coming back renewed.