With the revolutionary plastic surgery options available today, you can nip, tuck, and inject to a slimmer, more youthful you. Erase those smile lines, jowls, and wrinkles with a facelift or tighten that stomach with a tummy tuck.

Although many of us would like to alter our physical reality, not everyone can afford expensive plastic surgery. The alternative? Medical tourism, or traveling abroad for procedures. Why get a tummy tuck in Boston when you can get it done at a bargain price in Tijuana, Mexico.

By traveling abroad, people can save 40 to 80 percent for plastic surgery, depending on the procedure and the country. Brazil, Japan, Italy, and Mexico are among the top international destinations of choice for cosmetic surgery, according to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).

Why Travel for Plastic Surgery?

Mexico is a not only a popular vacation spot, but also a top destination for plastic surgery. As part of the booming medical tourism trend, tourists increasingly look to Mexico for combining an exotic getaway and a physical transformation.

Let’s take a closer look at the plastic surgery scene in Tijuana, Mexico, and things you should consider if you are thinking about plastic surgery south of the border.

20% of cosmetic surgery patients in Mexico are from other countries, which is the second highest percentage among countries worldwide. Most patients travel to Mexico from the US and Canada.

-Plastic Surgery Tijuana Center

 

Reasons to Choose Tijuana, Mexico for Plastic Surgery

1 Cost

Plastic surgery is more affordable in Mexico compared to the US. Depending on the doctor, the length of stay, and the procedure, plastic surgery in Mexico can cost about half or more of what it costs in the US.

Board-certified doctors and nurses at a fraction of the cost, the affordability of plastic surgery abroad is a huge draw for patients.

2 Quality of Care

Mexico comes at the top five for highest number of plastic surgeons, with 1,750 accredited plastic surgeons across the country. These doctors are board-certified and qualified to practice surgery.

Additionally, there are large hospitals and private clinics with the facilities and equipment to provide top service. Given that you do your research, you can receive top-notch medical treatment for a portion of the US price tag.

3 Proximity

Many people traveling from the US like that Mexico is relatively close by, just south of the border. This cuts down on traveling time and makes them feel more comfortable that they are not that far from home.

Most Popular Procedures

• Breast Augmentation
• Mommy Makeover
• Liposuction
• Eyelid Surgery
• Rhinoplasty (nose job)
• Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

Do your Research

While most patients have returned from Tijuana, Mexico satisfied, there are always a number of risks that come with medical tourism. It’s necessary to take precautions in choosing a board-certified surgeon and an accredited facility.

Critical Questions to Ask

1 Is your doctor certified?

Be sure to confirm that your doctor is licensed and certified by the local board of plastic surgery. A medical degree is not enough, as plastic surgery requires more years of specialization. If your doctor is not board-certified, find another healthcare provider.

2 How familiar is your surgeon with your procedure?

A plastic surgeon gains knowledge and mastery of technique from years of experience performing many procedures. Don’t be afraid to ask about your doctor’s experience. Look for before and after photos and talk to previous patients to get a sense of how familiar your surgeon is with the procedure.

3 Where will the surgery be performed?

Some procedures are performed in hospitals, and some in private clinics. When determining where to have your surgery, your doctor should consider the procedure’s complexity, and any specific health issues you have.

4 Have you been informed of the risks

Surgery comes with associated risks. An experienced surgeon should have a discussion with you to explain what the risks are, and help you weigh the pros and cons of surgery. If your surgeon claims there are no risks, that is a red flag.

Having plastic surgery in Mexico can be a transformative experience that can provide you with a top-notch plastic surgery experience at a fraction of the cost. But remember, it is also very important that you do your due diligence in choosing a surgeon and facility that is experienced and accredited.