Is Panama Safe for Medical and Wellness Tourism in 2025?

Question 1

Why is Costa Rica popular for breast augmentation surgery?

Accepted Answer

Costa Rica combines skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons, modern accredited facilities, and costs that are typically 30–70% lower than in the U.S., Canada, or Europe. Many surgeons train internationally and speak English, and patients can recover in a destination known for beaches, rainforests, and wellness resorts. The country’s stable healthcare infrastructure and growing medical tourism sector add to its appeal.

Question 2

How much does breast augmentation cost in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Typical pricing ranges from $3,000–$6,000, often with all-inclusive packages. Examples: Rosenstock Clinic ~$3,500–$4,000; Medical Group Costa Rica ~$4,500. By comparison, the U.S. averages ~$8,000–$15,000, Canada ~$9,000–$14,000, and the U.K. ~$9,500–$12,500. Savings commonly fall between 30–80% depending on clinic and home country.

Question 3

What implant options are available in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Clinics offer the same FDA-approved choices as in North America/Europe: Saline (lowest cost, adjustable, but more rippling/firm feel), Silicone (moderate cost, more natural feel, less rippling, requires MRI monitoring), and “Gummy Bear” cohesive gel (premium feel stability and shape retention; may need textured/teardrop options and can be firmer). Some clinics price gummy bear implants the same as standard silicone, creating strong value.

Question 4

How safe is breast augmentation in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Procedures follow international protocols with FDA-approved implants and care in accredited centers (e.g., JCI-certified hospitals and AAAASF-accredited facilities). Complication and infection rates are comparable to developed countries when using accredited providers. The Ministry of Health regulates operations with strict authorizations and inspections; however, legal recourse for malpractice is more limited than in the U.S./Canada, so choosing credentialed surgeons and proper insurance is important.

Question 5

How do I choose a qualified plastic surgeon in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Verify board certification with ACCPRE, membership in FILACP, and registration with the CRCPS. Many top surgeons trained at prestigious international institutions and practice in San José’s metro area near SJO airport. Review independent patient feedback (e.g., RealSelf) to assess outcomes and communication style before booking.

Question 6

What’s included (and not included) in typical Costa Rica packages?

Accepted Answer

Usually included: pre-op consults and tests, surgeon/anesthesiologist/staff fees, anesthesia and monitoring, facility fees, FDA-approved implants, post-op care/follow-ups, and ground transportation (airport, clinic, recovery). Typically not included: specialized medical travel insurance, certain recovery accommodation upgrades, extended stays beyond the standard period, and revision surgery if complications occur. Many clinics offer transparent “all-inclusive, no surprises” pricing.

Question 7

What are the key steps to getting breast augmentation in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

1) Schedule a virtual consult to discuss goals and candidacy. 2) Complete required pre-op tests (e.g., blood work, EKG, mammogram as indicated). 3) Plan a stay of at least 2–3 days for surgery/early recovery (most fly home after ~1 week with clearance; full recovery ~4–6 weeks). 4) Gather documents (passport, return tickets, proof of funds). 5) Review contracts and consider medical tourism insurance. 6) Follow post-op restrictions, wear surgical bras as directed, and secure surgeon clearance before traveling home.

Question 8

What is the procedure like, and how is pain managed?

Accepted Answer

Breast augmentation is typically an outpatient procedure performed in accredited surgical facilities and lasts about 1–2 hours, depending on technique. Many Costa Rican surgeons use modern methods, including regional nerve blocks, to markedly reduce post-operative discomfort and minimize the need for strong pain medications, supporting a smoother recovery.

Question 9

What is recovery like in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Patients often stay in dedicated recovery inns with nursing support, meal service, and transport coordination. Follow-ups typically include immediate checks, 24–48-hour visits, and a one-week assessment before travel. Packages usually include dressings, medications, compression garments, coordinators, and transportation. Light activity generally resumes in weeks 3–4 with surgeon approval; full activity is about one month, avoiding swimming/hot tubs early on.

Question 10

Can I combine breast augmentation with other procedures in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Common combinations include Mommy Makeover (augmentation plus lift/reduction), tummy tuck (often in all-inclusive packages), and Brazilian Butt Lift for full-body contouring. Combined procedures can reduce overall costs and consolidate recovery but usually require longer stays (e.g., 2–3 weeks for abdominoplasty combos) and stricter recovery protocols.

Question 11

When is the best time to schedule surgery in Costa Rica?

Accepted Answer

Rainy season (May–Nov) offers lower costs and easier booking but higher humidity (less comfy in compression garments). Peak season (Dec–Apr, Jul–Aug) brings ideal weather and full amenities at higher prices and with busier schedules. Fall/winter (Oct–Jan) is cooler for garments and aligns with holiday downtime, though December–January can have peak pricing and travel complexities.

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Is Panama Safe for Medical and Wellness Tourism in 2025?