The ultimate guide to Tummy Tuck in Costa Rica

Last fact-checked: 4 November 2019

Opting for a tummy tuck in Costa Rica can be an effective way to get rid of sagging skin while recuperating in one of the most beautiful places in the world. This procedure, which is suitable for both men and women, helps to get rid of excess skin that commonly results from significant weight loss. 

Keep reading to learn more about tummy tucks in Costa Rica, including prices, recommended clinics and booking options.

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

When you have lost a large amount of weight, excess skin is often left behind. In most of these cases, even a perfect exercise and diet regime can correct sagging skin. Undergoing a tummy tuck can correct this problem, giving you a boost in self-confidence at the same time.

Also known as abdominoplasty, the procedure can help give you that toned and contoured abdomen you desire. Along with removing extra fat and skin, a tummy tuck can also give you tightened abdominal muscles. It's important to note here that a tummy tuck is not the same as liposuction; if you are not finished losing weight, it is often advised to wait before going through with the procedure. 

Why Undergo a Tummy Tuck in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is recognized around the world for its incredible natural beauty. Before surgery, explore the impressive Arenal Volcano, Manuel Antonio National Park, or just laze around on one of the country's spectacular beaches. For nature enthusiasts, Costa Rica is also known for its incredible array of wildlife.

But more importantly for medical tourists, this beautiful Latin American country has an excellent selection of healthcare facilities. Most doctors here speak English and are affiliated with professional organizations, such as the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. The cost for a tummy tuck is also much less expensive in Costa Rica than in the US (as explained further down), and it's a relatively short flight from most states, making it a particularly convenient option.

When planning to travel to Costa Rica for a tummy tuck, it is important to research your options first. Medical Departures helps in this process by conducting the research for you. We only include clinics on our list following an exhaustive background check that includes confirming professional memberships and qualifications. We also perform legal and civil checks as well as visit the facilities in person.

How Long Does it Take to Have a Tummy Tuck and What Is the Recovery Like?

Before your tummy tuck, you will meet with your physician to discuss your goals as well as which type of abdominoplasty will be best to meet those goals. Options include a total tummy tuck or a mini-tummy tuck.

• Total Tummy Tuck:
  An incision will be made from hip to hip in a complete tummy tuck. Your doctor will then contour tissue, muscle, and skin as needed. During the procedure, your doctor will also need to relocate your belly button. Following the procedure, you should expect the presence of drain tubes to help with swelling. Patients can expect this procedure to last between two and four hours.
  
  
• Mini Tummy Tuck:
  A mini tummy tuck is also sometimes known as a partial tummy tuck. If you have fat deposits below the navel, this may be a good option. Unlike with a full tummy tuck, there is no need to relocate the belly button in a partial tummy tuck. This procedure typically takes about two hours to complete.

The recovery time for a tummy tuck is about four hours. Your doctor may advise you to avoid strenuous activity for up to six weeks after your tummy tuck. You should expect the presence of some scarring, which should go away within a year. Patients are often advised to wear a compression garment for up to four weeks after having a tummy tuck to provide necessary support and reduce swelling.

What Is the Cost of a Tummy Tuck in Costa Rica Compared to the U.S. and Canada?

The average cost of a tummy tuck in Costa Rica is $4,000 (AUD $5,377, GBP £2,810, EUR €3,634) compared to $10,100 (AUD $14,125, GBP £7,002, EUR €9,055) in the United States.

For exact prices, as well as clinic photos, surgeon profiles, patient reviews and other useful information, check out these two leading clinics in Costa Rica for Tummy Tucks:

• Miguel Alfaro Dávila
• Gustavo Chavarria

Getting Started with Medical Departures

Learn more about our quality-checked surgeons and clinics.

Ready to go ahead and book an appointment? See below for more details on scheduling a trip or contact our Customer Care Team for more details about tummy tucks in Costa Rica.

Sources:

Salemy, Shahram, MD. Which tummy tuck is right for me? American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 21 April 2016. 
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/which-tummy-tuck-is-right-for-me

Costa Rica. Lonely Planet. Website accessed: 4 November 2019. 
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica

Tummy Tuck. WebMD. Website accessed: 4 November 2019. 
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-tummy-tuck

Image by: Arturo Sotillo licensed under Creative Commons