This depends on where you go for the surgery. Normally, it is cheaper to get surgeries abroad, since doctors abroad often pay less for malpractice insurance. In some cases, care is of less quality however.
It may be cheaper but there are other factors to consider. Safety and sanitary conditions are high on the list of issues to investigate. The requirements of medical certification and training may not be as stringent and easily verified as in the United States. If any problems arise it may be more difficult to contact the doctor performing surgery.
Yes, medical tourism as it is called is a growing business. Many reputable hospitals do provide services at far cheaper rates than the US, even with travel costs.
Countries that promote "medical tourism" can often be much cheaper, even when you consider the cost of travel. India, Turkey, Thailand and Malaysia have good and cheap medical care.
