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Plastic Surgery in Costa Rica: Complete Guide for Medical Tourists
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Get plastic surgery in Costa Rica for 30-70% less than U.S. prices. A tummy tuck costs $4,000-$7,000 in San José. This saves you $6,000-$8,000 compared to U.S. surgery.
Board-certified surgeons perform procedures at JCI-accredited hospitals in San José. About 40,000 Americans travel to Costa Rica each year for medical care. Direct flights from Miami take just 2.5 hours.
This guide covers selecting surgeons and hospitals. You’ll learn about recovery timelines and budgeting for your trip. Find cost comparisons, credentials to verify, and safety standards for quality care.
Why Choose Costa Rica Over the United States for Plastic Surgery?
Costa Rica offers cost savings of 30-70% compared to U.S. prices. Board-certified surgeons perform the same procedures for much less. These savings make quality plastic surgery accessible to more patients.
The country’s proximity to the United States makes travel convenient. Direct flights from Miami take just 2.5 hours. This reduces travel stress before and after surgery. Flight times from Canada are similar.
Costa Rica’s medical tourism industry has grown since the 1990s. Strong political stability supports the healthcare system. About 40,000 Americans travel to Costa Rica each year for medical procedures.
The recovery environment adds unique value. Costa Rica’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle offers natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Many patients report that recovering in this tropical setting reduces stress.
How Do Costa Rica Prices Compare to U.S. Prices?
Costa Rica prices are 30-70% lower than U.S. prices for the same procedures. A breast augmentation costs $3,500-$6,000 in Costa Rica versus $8,000-$12,000 in the U.S.
| Procedure | Costa Rica | United States | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breast Augmentation | $3,500–$6,000 | $8,000–$12,000 | 40–70% |
| Tummy Tuck | $4,000–$7,000 | $10,000–$15,000 | 47–73% |
| Facelift | $4,000–$8,000 | $10,000–$15,000 | 47–73% |
| Rhinoplasty | $3,000–$5,250 | $7,000–$10,000 | 48–70% |
| Brazilian Butt Lift | $4,500–$7,000 | $10,000–$13,000 | 46–70% |
These price differences allow patients to combine their surgery with recovery accommodations and still spend significantly less than they would for surgery alone in the United States.
For more details on individual procedures, see our complete guide to tummy tuck surgery in Costa Rica.
What Are the Most Requested Procedures by International Patients?
International patients most commonly seek body contouring, breast surgery, and facial procedures. Many patients combine multiple procedures in one trip. This saves money and requires only one recovery period.
Prices below reflect current costs at JCI-accredited facilities. Fees include surgeon, anesthesia, operating room, and standard post-operative care.
What Procedures Are Most Popular by Type?
Body contouring, breast surgery, and facial procedures are the most requested. Mommy makeovers combine multiple procedures to save time and money.
Body Contouring
- Liposuction: $3,250–$4,750
- Brazilian Butt Lift: $4,500–$7,000
- Tummy Tuck: $4,000–$7,000
- Mommy Makeover: $7,000–$10,000+
Breast Surgery
- Breast Augmentation: $3,500–$6,000
- Breast Lift: $4,750
- Breast Reduction: $4,500–$6,500
Facial Procedures
- Facelift: $4,000–$8,000
- Rhinoplasty: $3,000–$5,250
- Eyelid Surgery: $2,500–$4,000
Mommy makeovers combine a tummy tuck with breast surgery into one operation. This reduces costs and requires only one recovery period.
Which Board-Certified Surgeons Lead Costa Rica’s Plastic Surgery Industry?
Costa Rica’s leading plastic surgeons hold board certifications from U.S. and European institutions. Many are members of international societies like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons International.
Medical education in Costa Rica requires at least five years of training. Specialty programs last two to three more years. Many surgeons gain additional experience through fellowships abroad.
Several surgeons have established prominent practices serving international patients:
Dr. Luis Pacheco leads the Costa Rica Center of Plastic Surgery. He specializes in body contouring and Brazilian butt lifts. He performs all surgeries at JCI-accredited hospitals.
Dr. Rodrigo Araya has 34 years of experience. He is affiliated with the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). He operates at Hospital CIMA San José.
Dr. Victor Urzola trained at the University of Milan in Italy. He also studied microsurgery at Henri Poincaré University in France. He specializes in reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Ronald Pino uses only FDA-compliant devices and implants. His equipment standards match U.S. protocols.
What Credentials Should You Verify?
You should verify CMCCR licensure and ACCPRE membership for any surgeon you consider. These credentials confirm proper training and certification.
When selecting a surgeon, verify the following credentials:
- Licensed by Costa Rica Association of Doctors and Surgeons (CMCCR) – All practicing surgeons must hold current licensure
- Membership in Costa Rican Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (ACCPRE) – The official board certification body, active for over 35 years
- ACCPRE certification – Confirms completion of specialty training and adherence to national standards
- U.S. board certification through American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) – If claimed, verify through the ABPS online registry
Request documentation of these credentials during your consultation. Reputable surgeons readily provide verification of their training and certifications.
What Are Costa Rica’s JCI-Accredited Hospitals for Plastic Surgery?
JCI accreditation is the global gold standard for hospital quality and safety. It verifies that facilities meet international protocols for sterilization and infection control. Choose only JCI-accredited hospitals for your surgery.
JCI-accredited facilities offer savings of 30-50% compared to U.S. prices. Unaccredited clinics may advertise 80% savings but lack verified safety standards. The higher costs at JCI facilities reflect proper accreditation standards.
Both major JCI hospitals in Costa Rica have bilingual staff. Consultations, consent forms, and post-operative instructions are available in English.
What Does Hospital CIMA San José Offer?
Hospital CIMA offers full JCI accreditation and modern surgical technology. It is located near the international airport for easy access.
Hospital CIMA is an affiliate of Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas. It features modern technology and equipment that meets U.S. standards. Its location near the airport provides easy access for international patients.
The bilingual staff includes surgeons, nurses, and patient coordinators. They communicate fluently in English throughout your care.
What Does Hospital Clínica Bíblica Offer?
Hospital Clínica Bíblica offers JCI accreditation and specializes in minimally invasive techniques. It is Costa Rica’s oldest private hospital.
Hospital Clínica Bíblica is located in downtown San José. Its minimally invasive techniques often result in shorter recovery times. The hospital is known for patient-centered care.
The downtown location provides easy access to recovery facilities and hotels in San José.
What Is PROMED Quality Oversight?
PROMED is a government council that audits medical tourism providers in Costa Rica. Clinics with the PROMED Seal have passed independent quality verification.
PROMED was established in 2007 to audit medical tourism providers. It enforces quality standards specific to international patient care.
Clinics with the PROMED Seal have passed independent verification. JCI accreditation plus PROMED certification creates strong oversight for patient safety.
Read our comprehensive guide for American medical tourists in Costa Rica for more planning tips.
How Long Do You Need to Stay in Costa Rica After Surgery?
Plan for a minimum 14-day stay in Costa Rica after surgery. Your surgeon needs time to monitor healing and remove drains or sutures. Most surgeons authorize air travel around Days 12-14. Flying too soon increases the risk of blood clots.
U.S. and Canadian citizens can stay up to 180 days without a visa. Immigration officials verify you have a return ticket. Book your departure at least two weeks after surgery.
Your stay includes three phases: hospital stay, recovery facility, and final clearance. The duration of each phase depends on your procedure’s complexity.
How Long Is Recovery for Each Procedure?
Recovery time depends on your procedure type. Minor procedures need 7-12 days total. Complex surgeries like tummy tucks require the full 14-day stay.
| Procedure Type | Hospital Stay | Recovery Facility Stay | Total Stay Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor Procedures (fillers, minor revisions) | 0–1 days | 4–6 days | 7–12 days minimum |
| Moderate (breast augmentation, liposuction) | 1–2 days | 5–7 days | 12–14 days mandatory |
| Complex (tummy tuck, facelift, mommy makeover) | 1–3 days | 7–10 days | 14 days mandatory |
Minor procedures allow shorter stays. Your surgeon must still evaluate healing before authorizing travel. Complex procedures require the full 14-day period for proper wound healing.
Schedule consultation, surgery, and follow-ups within this timeframe. Do not shorten your stay. Premature travel can compromise results and create medical emergencies.
Where Do Medical Tourists Recover After Plastic Surgery?
Dedicated recovery centers provide specialized post-operative care for plastic surgery patients. They combine hotel comfort with medical amenities and 24-hour nursing. Many centers are in the hillsides above San José.
Recovery centers are recommended for Days 4-10 post-surgery. During this time, you need help with mobility, wound care, and compression garments. Nurses monitor vital signs and identify complications early.
All-inclusive packages cost $125-$165 per night. They include meals, nursing care, and transportation to appointments. Standard hotels cost $93-$110 per night but lack nursing supervision.
Staff at recovery facilities are bilingual. Facilities employ patient coordinators to assist international patients throughout their stay.
What Amenities Do Recovery Centers Offer?
Recovery centers offer 24-hour nursing care, meals, and transportation to appointments. They also provide assistance with mobility and compression garments.
Recovery centers provide comprehensive support during your post-operative period:
- 24-hour nursing care and vital signs monitoring – Nurses check your incisions, manage pain medications, and track your recovery progress
- Assistance with mobility and compression garments – Staff help you move safely and ensure proper garment placement for optimal healing
- All meals included – Nutritious meals support healing without requiring you to shop or cook
- Transportation to surgeon appointments – Facilities provide rides to your follow-up visits at the surgical clinic
- Massage therapy available – Therapeutic massage improves circulation and reduces post-operative discomfort
- Some have onsite doctors – Select facilities maintain physicians on-site for immediate medical consultation if needed
For minor procedures, you may recover in a standard hotel. For complex surgeries, recovery centers reduce complications and improve outcomes.
What Is the Total Budget for Plastic Surgery in Costa Rica?
Your total budget includes surgery, travel, and recovery expenses. Surgical fees are the largest expense. Airfare, accommodations, and transportation add to the total cost.
Most surgical packages include comprehensive services. Your price covers surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, operating room, and pre-op exams. Post-op medications, garments, and follow-up appointments are usually included.
The example below shows a budget breakdown for a Brazilian butt lift. Your costs will vary based on procedure, travel origin, and accommodations.
What Does a Complete Trip Cost?
A complete trip costs $7,000-$11,000 for surgery plus travel and recovery. This includes a 14-day recovery stay and all ground transportation.
| Expense | Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Surgery (example: Brazilian Butt Lift) | $4,500–$7,000 |
| Roundtrip Airfare | $300–$700 |
| 14-Day Recovery Stay | $1,750–$2,310 |
| Ground Transport | $150–$300 |
| Medications/Garments | $300–$600 |
| Estimated Total | $7,000–$11,000 |
Even at the higher end, your total cost is less than U.S. surgery alone. A BBL in the U.S. costs $10,000-$13,000 before additional expenses.
Airfare costs depend on your departure city and travel dates. Booking during green season (May-November) often yields lower fares. Recovery costs assume all-inclusive packages with nursing care.
Ground transport includes airport transfers and rides to appointments. Many recovery centers include this service. Budget extra for medications and garments beyond your package.
Should You Travel During Dry Season or Green Season?
Costa Rica has two seasons that affect costs and recovery. Dry season runs December-April. Green season runs May-November. Your choice affects budget and comfort.
Dry season is peak tourism season. Weather is comfortable but costs are highest. Hotels and recovery facilities charge premium rates. Book well in advance during these months.
Green season offers advantages for surgery patients. Airfare and accommodation costs drop significantly. Lowest prices are typically July-October. Reduced crowds create a peaceful recovery environment.
Green season weather benefits recovery. Mornings are sunny and pleasant. Afternoon rain showers encourage rest. This pattern helps you limit activity during Days 4-10.
Your 14-day stay aligns with green season weather. You’ll rest indoors during afternoon showers. Enjoy pleasant mornings for short walks.
For best value, schedule surgery between July and October. You’ll save money and benefit from weather that promotes healing.
What Safety Standards Apply to Plastic Surgery in Costa Rica?
Costa Rican regulations require facilities to meet international safety guidelines. Leading facilities use U.S.-imported equipment and match U.S. sterilization protocols.
The Ministry of Health does not disclose infection rates or complication data. You cannot compare facilities using objective metrics. Rely on accreditation and surgeon credentials as quality indicators.
All plastic surgery carries risks regardless of location. Pulmonary embolisms occur in about 1 of 5,000 patients. These baseline risks exist in Costa Rica and the U.S.
Medical tourism adds risk factors. A UK survey found 37% of surgeons treated complications from procedures abroad. Many complications came from choosing facilities based only on price.
Your safety depends on verification before committing to a surgeon. Follow these steps to minimize risk.
What Steps Should You Take to Verify Safety?
You should confirm JCI accreditation and verify surgeon credentials before booking. Never choose a facility based only on the lowest price.
- Confirm surgery at JCI-accredited hospital only – Never accept surgery at unaccredited private clinics regardless of advertised savings
- Verify surgeon’s CMCCR license and ACCPRE membership – Request documentation and confirm active status with both organizations
- Check U.S. board certification through ABPS if claimed – Use the American Board of Plastic Surgery online registry to verify credentials
- Review surgeon’s portfolio for consistent results – Examine before-and-after photos of procedures similar to yours performed on similar body types
- Verify hospital privileges at accredited facilities – Confirm your surgeon holds active operating privileges at JCI-accredited hospitals
- Never choose based solely on lowest price – Facilities offering prices significantly below market rates often lack proper accreditation and safety protocols
- Budget for minimum 14-day recovery stay – Rushing your departure increases complications and eliminates access to your surgical team if problems arise
Prioritize verified credentials over cost savings to protect your health. The modest reduction in savings at JCI facilities is essential insurance against complications.
Learn more about medical tourism facilitators and what to expect in our complete guide.
How Do You Schedule and Prepare for Surgery in Costa Rica?
Proper planning ensures smooth coordination of surgery, travel, and recovery. Begin at least two months before your desired surgery date.
How Do You Plan Your Surgery?
You should start by scheduling a virtual consultation with your chosen surgeon. Verify their credentials and confirm surgery at a JCI-accredited hospital.
Schedule a virtual consultation with your chosen surgeon. Most surgeons offer video consultations to discuss goals and medical history. Send clear photos from multiple angles for accurate assessment.
Verify credentials before committing to any surgeon. Confirm CMCCR licensure and ACCPRE membership. If U.S. certification is claimed, verify through the ABPS registry.
Confirm surgery at a JCI-accredited hospital, not a private clinic. Request the hospital name and verify JCI status independently.
Secure your surgery date in writing before booking flights. Book departure at least 14 days after surgery for adequate recovery.
What Are the Pre-Operative Requirements?
You must arrive two days before surgery for final consultations and testing. Complete an ECG, any required X-rays, and medical photography.
Arrive two days before surgery. This allows time for jet lag recovery and pre-operative testing. Your surgeon will conduct a physical examination.
Complete pre-operative exams before surgery. These include an ECG, X-rays, and medical photography. The tests confirm you’re healthy enough for surgery.
Your surgeon will review and explain informed consent documents. Read carefully and ask questions. Consent forms are available in English.
What Are the Entry Requirements?
You need a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of $100 per month of stay. U.S. and Canadian citizens can stay up to 180 days without a visa.
Costa Rican immigration requires specific documentation upon arrival:
- Valid passport – Must remain valid for the duration of your stay
- Return ticket – Immigration officials verify you have confirmed departure travel
- Proof of economic means – You must demonstrate access to at least $100 USD per month (or partial month) of your planned stay
Keep these documents readily accessible during immigration processing. Most U.S. and Canadian citizens receive automatic entry for up to 180 days without requiring a visa.
How Is Follow-Up Care Coordinated?
Your package includes 1-2 check-ups before you travel home. After returning, follow-up continues through video calls or coordination with your home doctor.
Your package includes 1-2 check-ups before you travel home. Appointments occur around Days 7 and 12-14. Your surgeon monitors healing and provides flight clearance.
After returning home, follow-up continues through video calls. Your surgeon reviews photos and guides recovery. For suture removal, coordinate with your home doctor. Medical records transfer on request.
Establish the follow-up plan before leaving. Exchange contact information with your surgeon’s office.
Is Costa Rica the Right Choice for Your Plastic Surgery?
Costa Rica balances 30-70% cost savings with high clinical standards. Choose JCI-accredited facilities and board-certified surgeons. This makes quality plastic surgery accessible to more patients.
Your success depends on verifying credentials and facilities. Choose only JCI-accredited hospitals. Confirm CMCCR licensure and ACCPRE membership. Never decide based on price alone.
About 40,000 Americans travel to Costa Rica yearly for medical procedures. This volume reflects quality outcomes and positive experiences.
Beyond savings, Costa Rica offers practical advantages. Skilled surgeons have international training. Modern facilities use U.S.-standard technology. Many procedures schedule within weeks.
Costa Rica’s natural beauty creates a pleasant recovery environment. Recovering in peaceful, tropical surroundings reduces stress.
Costa Rica works for plastic surgery when you prioritize safety over cost. Confirm credentials and plan for the 14-day stay. Budget realistically for all expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Plastic Surgery in Costa Rica Safe?
Yes, plastic surgery in Costa Rica is safe when you choose JCI-accredited hospitals and ACCPRE-certified surgeons. JCI accreditation is the global gold standard for hospital safety. It verifies that facilities meet international protocols for sterilization and infection control.
How Much Can I Save on Plastic Surgery in Costa Rica?
You can save 30-70% compared to U.S. prices. A tummy tuck costs $4,000-$7,000 in Costa Rica versus $10,000-$15,000 in the U.S. Your total trip including surgery, travel, and recovery costs $7,000-$11,000.
Do Costa Rican Surgeons Speak English?
Yes, surgeons at JCI-accredited hospitals have bilingual staff. Consultations, consent forms, and post-operative instructions are all available in English. Recovery centers also employ bilingual patient coordinators.
How Long Do I Need to Stay in Costa Rica After Surgery?
You should plan for a minimum 14-day stay after surgery. Your surgeon needs time to monitor healing and provide medical clearance to fly. Most surgeons authorize air travel around Days 12-14 post-operation.
What Is JCI Accreditation?
JCI is Joint Commission International. It is the global gold standard for hospital quality and safety. JCI accreditation verifies that a hospital meets international protocols for sterilization, infection control, and surgical procedures.
Can I Combine Multiple Procedures?
Yes, you can combine multiple procedures in one trip. Mommy makeovers combine tummy tuck with breast surgery. This approach reduces overall costs and requires only one recovery period.
What If I Have Complications After Returning Home?
Follow-up care continues through video consultations after you return home. Your surgeon reviews photos you submit and provides recovery guidance. For suture removal or minor issues, you can coordinate with your home doctor. Medical records transfer on request.
Ready to Start Your Plastic Surgery Journey?
Medical Tourism Packages coordinates your entire plastic surgery journey in Costa Rica. We connect you with board-certified surgeons at JCI-accredited hospitals. We arrange your travel, accommodations, and recovery care. Bilingual support is available throughout your treatment.
Get a free consultation to discuss your goals and receive a personalized quote.
Contact us today to start planning your affordable plastic surgery in Costa Rica.
