Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Julia Osei (MBChB, MHS), Dr. Suresh Koneswaran (MD, FACC)
The Truth About Plastic Surgery in Colombia
Do you aspire to enhance your beauty? Plastic surgery in Colombia is an affordable option for you to save 50-55% costs. Moreover, getting plastic surgery in the US can be a nightmare due to the heavy cost burdens and lack of insurance coverage. Confused where to start?? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.
Read further to know more.
Plastic Surgery in Bogota, Colombia: Why Choose This South American Country?
Top 5 Reasons To Choose Plastic Surgery in Colombia
To begin with, plastic surgery adds a value of $60 billion to the medical tourism industry.
In addition, patients travel to get plastic surgery in Colombia from 34 countries, spread across 6 continents. Furthermore, data states around 90% of patients are from the US.
Source: NCBI[1]
Here are the top 5 reasons why people choose Colombia for plastic surgery:
Cost Benefits
The cost of plastic surgery in Colombia is very low when compared with the US and other western countries. You can save upto 55% by opting for Colombia to get the cosmetic surgery done.
The low cost of living in Colombia is the main reason why treatment is cheaper compared to the US.[2]
Highly Qualified Surgeons
Our partner plastic surgeons in Colombia are not only highly skilled but also board-certified. Moreover, they have been trained at reputed institutions.
State of the Art Healthcare Facilities
The healthcare system of our partners in Colombia has the same level of quality and integrity as in the US and other developed countries.
Ease of Travelling
Colombia is one of the countries which is well connected with the rest of the world. It has not only international airports but also direct flights from US and Canada, making it very easy to reach.
Holiday in Colombia
Colombia is not only best for plastic surgery but also a great place to take the work and other burdens off your shoulder and have a peaceful holiday. What can be better than a relaxing pause away from home after surgery?
Reasons to Choose Plastic Surgery in Colombia
Reasons to Choose Plastic Surgery in ColombiaTop 6 Types of Plastic Surgery in Colombia
Colombia offers a wide variety of plastic surgery procedures. Some of the procedures widely opted for and performed by our partners are as follows:
Rhinoplasty involves surgically reconstructing the nose by way of reshaping the bone and cartilage with the primary aim being functional (breathing and olfaction, aka sense of smell) and aesthetic improvements.
Source: Science Direct[3]
Video Courtesy: Güncel Öztürk
Also known as blepharoplasty, this procedure involves the surgical removal of excess fat, skin, and muscle from both the upper and lower eyelids, thus redefining the shape of the eye.
The aim of this particular surgery is to help alleviate puffy eyelids, dark circles, and wrinkles due to age, fatigue, and chronic sun exposure, and to correct drooping eyelids which can lead to visual impairment.
Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons[4]
Video Courtesy: EyeSmart — American Academy of Ophthalmology
Also known as rhytidectomy, this procedure involves the cosmetic improvement of the face and/or neck by the removal of excess fat with modifications made to the facial musculature and trimming and redraping of the skin.
This leads to a firmer and smoother face, thus making one appear younger.
Facelift surgery aims at altering the expected and sometimes unwanted changes that occur with the normal aging process.
Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons[5]
Video Courtesy: Capricious Lab
Also known as abdominoplasty, this procedure involves the surgical removal of excess fat in the middle and lower abdominal wall followed by the tightening of the abdominal wall musculature with strategically placed sutures.
It is a different procedure than liposuction and is more useful for women who want to tighten their abdominal wall and skin after pregnancy.
Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons[6]
Video Courtesy: O2Labz
Liposuction isn't an alternative to weight loss surgery, it is done to change the body's shape and contour. The procedure uses the suction technique to eliminate fat from specific areas.
The most common areas where liposuction is done are the hips, thighs, abdomen, buttock, neck, or arms.
Source: Mayo Clinic[7]
Laser Liposuction in Cali, Colombia
It is also known as augmentation mammoplasty, done with an implant to alter the size of breasts, reconstruct following surgery, or as part of gender-affirming surgery.
The procedure increases breast size, changes shape, and cures any deformity.
Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons[8]
Video Courtesy: Understand
Explore - Colombia Plastic Surgery Packages
Now that you know the popular procedures, you might be wondering how much is the cost of plastic surgery in Colombia?? Let's find out the cost in Colombia vs. the US below:
Breast augmentation in the US costs a whopping $6,525, which seems a lot if you plan to get the surgery without insurance.
Whereas the cost for the same in Colombia is $3,000. Plastic surgery in Colombia can save costs upto 55%! ($3000+)?
| Procedure | Colombia | US |
|---|---|---|
| Rhinoplasty | $3,500 | $7,650 |
| Eyelid Surgery | $3,000 | $4,725 |
| Facelift | $7,000 | $12,250 |
| Tummy Tuck | $4,000 | $8,275 |
| Liposuction | $3,900 | $6,175 |
| Breast Augmentation | $3,000 | $6,525 |
*Prices are case-dependent.
Best Plastic Surgeons in Colombia
MTC's motto is to provide its clients with the best medical treatments across the globe! Our surgeon has 35+ years of working experience.
In fact, our partner surgeon Dr. William Murillo is not only well-equipped with knowledge but also trained at reputed institutions.
Dr. William Libardo Murillo Monero
Dr. William Libardo Murillo Moreno is a highly experienced plastic surgeon in Cali, Colombia. His professional roles include:
- Presiding Magistrate of the Medical Ethics Tribunal of Valle del Cauca
- Professor at Louisiana State University, USA
He is a founding member of several scientific societies and has contributed extensively to international medical literature and conferences.
Educación
Faculty of Medical Sciences of Pernambuco in Brazil
Membresías
- Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery
- Colombian Association of Lawyers Specialists in Medical Law
- Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery
Dr. Carlos Gonzalez Legarda
Dr. Carlos Gonzalez Legarda is a renowned plastic surgeon in Bogota, Colombia.
He has completed courses in:
- Microsurgery at the Ganga Microsurgery Training Institute in India
- Transgender Plastic Surgery at IM Clinic in Barcelona, Spain.
He also appears on national and international television programs.
Educación
National University of Colombia, Bogota, Colombia
Plastic Surgery - Medical Tourism in Colombia
Once you take a trip to Colombia, you will realize how colorful it is. Moreover, the country is so diverse – culture, food, geography, climate... basically everything! Below you can find some travel tips if you plan to visit Colombia.
When you plan a trip to Colombia, you get the chance to experience its beautiful cities like Cali, Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena. You get to enjoy
- Beautiful carnivals like Barranquilla Carnival
- Mountains Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta
- Tayrona National Park.
Barranquilla Carnival
Colors of Colombia
Tayrona National Park
Also, you get to see the colors of Colombia and its beautiful streets.
Top 3 Food items you must eat in Colombia
Colombia is an excellent destination for foodies since there is new and intriguing cuisine to taste. Therefore below mentioned are some food items you must try:
- Bandeja Paisa
- Ajico Soup
- Empanadas Colombians
Bandeja Paisa
Ajico Soup
Empanadas Colombian
Although, right now, there are no mandatory vaccinations if you wish to travel to Colombia. But the health ministry of Colombia recommends to get vaccinated for measles-rubella and yellow fever.
It would be best if you took vaccination atleast 10 days before the trip.[9]
Note:
- Do remember not only to bring a prescription but also to carry it with you if you are on medication.
- No matter what the climate is, always use sunscreen and stay hydrated.
- Above all, always ask for ingredients in your meal if you are allergic to some food.
- Generally, 6 months validity of the passport is strongly recommended.
- Carry a maximum of USD 10,000 when entering or exiting Colombia.
- A tourist visa is not required if you stay for less than 90 days.
Source: Travel State Gov.[10]
Points to remember
- In Colombia, things are measured in centimeters, meters, and kilometers because they use the international system of units (SI).
- In Colombia, you will get 110 volts of altering current or 60 hertz (110 V AC, 60Hz).
Weather
One of the most unusual aspects of Colombia, specifically for overseas tourists, is the uniformity of its climatic condition throughout the year.
Because the country is situated at the Equator. Generally, December, January, July, and August are dry months. Similarly, April, May, October, and November are rainy months.
Source: Colombia Co[11]Colombia Co About Colombia “Colombia uses the International System of Units (SI), the successor of the Decimal Metric System... In Colombia, you'll find the following power outlets: flat 2-prong sockets or sockets with a third, round prong.” View in Article,[7]Colombia Co" heading="Weather" text="“One of the most surprising things about Colombia for foreign visitors is the unchanging nature of its climate... (from April to May and October to November).”" url="https://colombia.travel/en/practical-information/weather"]
Daytime Weather
Night Weather
Flights
Below is a small idea of flight duration from the top 3 cities in the US.
| Departure | Duration | Arrival |
|---|---|---|
| New York (JFK) | 5hr 37min | El Dorado (BOG) |
| Washington DC (DCA) | 5hr 25min | El Dorado (BOG) |
| Austin (AUS) | 4hr 27 min | Cartagena (CTG) |
Sim Card: Generally, you can get a local Sim card easily. Moreover, a local sim card is helpful for you to have better connectivity at low costs.[12]
Local Transport: Taxies and buses can be used for local transport used in Colombia. Not only that but you can also use these to have a tour of the city you visit.
Local Currency: The local currency of Colombia is the Colombian peso (COP). The currency is in the form of coins as well as banknotes.
There are coins in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 pesos, as well as banknotes in denominations of 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 pesos.
Local Transport
Colombian Pesos
Is Plastic Surgery in Colombia Safe?
According to the ISAPS Global Statistics 2016, Colombia ranks #9 in the world in the total number of surgeries. In fact, Colombia ranks #2 in the world in terms of plastic surgeries performed per capita.
Source: Research Gate[13]
Not to mention Colombia's plastic surgery statistics speak how safe it is. Colombia is safe not only for treatment but also for tourism.
Above all, your safety is our priority, and that's why we provide you with handpicked and verified doctors and hospitals.
MTC also provides some additional services:
- Full travel assistance, including help in booking air tickets and visa and passport expedience also.
- Destination manager ready to assist 24*7.
- Free airport pick-up.
- Pre and post-treatment.
- Hotel stays at low prices.
And a lot more!
*Note that we do not offer all these facilities at every hospital.
Before and After Plastic Surgery in Colombia
Now that you know all the details about plastic surgery being performed in Colombia. Let's explore some images of the procedures performed by Dr. William Murillo.
Abdominoplasty
Facelift
Liposuction
Plastic Surgery in Colombia - Reviews
Laura PineloCosmetic Surgery, Colombia
Dr. Willian Murillo is one of the best doctors I've encountered. Professional, friendly, and thorough. Highly recommend!
TrejosCosmetic Surgery, Colombia
Excellent .. Very professional Doctor!
FAQs Plastic Surgery in Colombia
Colombia has popped up as the hub of plastic surgery in the medical tourism sector. It is identified for its beautiful people and outstanding quality of cosmetic procedures.
Colombia has amazing doctors with excellent surgical skills.
As per the global data of ISAPS, Colombia ranks #9 in the world for the number of surgeries performed. The data states the truth about plastic surgery in Colombia.
Plastic surgery is popular in Colombia because its culture has a long history associated with it. People want to look more attractive and younger women in particular.
Even among adolescent girls, cosmetic surgery is not a taboo subject.[14]
Because of the emphasis on physical beauty, the Colombian plastic surgery sector has become popular.
Yes. The average cost of plastic surgery in Colombia is 50 - 55% less than the rest of the world, especially in the US and Canada.
For instance, facelift surgery in Colombia would cost a patient approximately USD 7,000, whereas the same procedure is going to cut your pocket in the US.
It would cost you USD 12,250. Approximately USD 5,200 more than Colombia. Given the facts and figures, wouldn't you choose Colombia to get plastic surgery done?
The average cost of a tummy tuck cost USD 4,000 in Colombia, whereas the cost for the same in the US is USD 7,650, which is more than double.?
Why would you choose to pay such a high amount when you can get the surgery done in Colombia for half the price?
Any plastic surgery procedure for body alteration would start from USD 3,000 and can go upto USD 7,000 according to the case of the patient.
Opting for any procedure in Colombia would be approximately 50- 55% of the cost compared to the US.
The starting price of any procedure in the US is nearly double the price of Colombia. (See table)
A breast implant would cost you somewhere around USD 3,000 if you choose to get it done in Colombia.
But if you choose to get it done in the US, it would cost you USD 6,525, which will save more than 50% on the cost of the procedure performed in Colombia. Choose wisely!
Conclusion
Do you wish to get yourself a younger and more attractive look? Then, plastic surgery in Colombia is your go-to option. MTC is here to help you prepare an itinerary for your comfortable travel and surgery.
References
1. NCBI: Plastic Surgery Medical Tourism in Colombia
2. MY LIFE ELSEWHERE: COST OF LIVING COMPARISON
3. Science Direct: Rhinoplasty
4. American Society of Plastic Surgeons: What is eyelid surgery
5. American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Facelift Surgery
6. American Society of Plastic Surgeons: What are the steps of a tummy tuck procedure?
7. Mayo Clinic: Liposuction
8. American Society of Plastic Surgeons: Breast Augmentation
9. Ministry of Health and Social Protection: Health tips for travelers
10.Travel State Gov: Quick Facts
11. Colombia Co: About Colombia
12. Colombia Co: Weather
13. Phone Travel Wiz: 10 Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Colombia
14. Medellin VIP: Why is Colombia Famous for Plastic Surgery
