Do you want to get rid of your excess and stubborn fat? But does it cost a fortune in your home country?
Worry not! Tummy tuck in Costa Rica comes as your savior at 50-60% lower prices than the west.
Interested? Let’s read further to know all the details!
Costa Rica: A Beautiful Destination
Cost of Tummy Tuck In Costa Rica
The cost of a tummy tuck in Costa Rica is 50% lesser than in the US or Canada.
Here, the treatment prices begin from $3,050. On the other hand, the same costs $6,000 in the US and $8,000 in Canada.
You can end up saving 50-60% on your total cost!
Here’s a cost comparison for the US, Canada, and Costa Rica.
| Procedure | Costa Rica | US | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Tummy Tuck | $3,050 | 6,000 | 8,000 |
| Tummy Tuck with Liposuction | $5,350 | 10,000 | 12,000 |
| Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck | $6,250 | 12,000 | 14,000 |
*These are estimated prices. Contact us for a free estimate!
Why Choose Tummy Tuck In Costa Rica?
There are many reasons to choose cosmetic surgery in Costa Rica. Let’s look at them:
💰 Affordable Option
- Tummy tuck in Costa Rica costs about 50-60% less than that in the US/Canada.
- The country offers great medical services at low rates due to its low cost of living.[1]Living Cost
Costa Rica vs United States
“The average cost of living in Costa Rica ($893) is 58% less expensive than in the United States ($2112). ”
View in Article
✈️ Travel Convenience
- The fastest way to reach Costa Rica is via flight.
- Costa Rica is easily accessible from the US and Canada.
- For instance, it only takes 3 hours from Miami (MIA) to San Jose (SJO).
Click here to learn more about how to reach Costa Rica.
⚕️ Experienced Surgeon
- Our plastic surgeon in Costa Rica is qualified & reputed, with 29+ years of experience.
- He is nationally accredited and certified by the North American Board of Plastic Surgeons.
To learn more about our top cosmetic surgeon in Costa Rica, scroll down.
Best Surgeon for Tummy Tuck In Costa Rica
As a world-renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Araya offers a wide range of procedures to suit your needs.
He aims to provide world-class services to both local and international patients.
Dr. Rodrigo Araya
Experience: 29+ Years
Qualifications: MD
Specializations: Plastic, Aesthetic, and Reconstructive Surgery
Affiliations:
- Mexican Council of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Cosmetic Surgery
- The Costa Rican Society of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Cosmetic Surgery
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is also known as abdominoplasty.
It is performed to tighten loose muscles and remove fat & loose skin from the abdominal wall.[2]Science Direct
Clinical outcome of patients undergoing abdominoplasty
“Abdominoplasty is a commonly performed surgical procedure to reshape the body contour by reduction of redundant fat and skin tissue. ”
View in Article
The procedure helps you to get back in your shape.
A tummy tuck can be further of various types:
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive version of abdominoplasty.
It is effective for people within their recommended weight range but has extra skin or fat under the belly.
Source: Healthline[3]Healthline
Everything You Want to Know About a Mini Tummy Tuck
“It is less invasive than a full tummy tuck. Mini tummy tucks target the area of your stomach under your belly button. They’re often effective for people who are within their recommended weight range but have extra skin or fat. ”
View in Article
Tummy Tuck with Liposuction
This is a combination of liposuction & tummy tuck, also called Liposuction Assisted Abdominoplasty (LAA).
It helps attain a better cosmetic effect on the belly & trunk as a body unit.[5]PRS- Global
A New Surgical Approach to Body Contouring
“Using these combined techniques, the plastic surgeon achieves a better cosmetic effect on both the abdomen and trunk, as a body unit. ”
View in Article
As it results in both removal of fat and a more contoured appearance.
Fleur de lis Abdominoplasty
It is used to tighten the abdominal skin both vertically and horizontally.
It uses a side-to-side and up-and-down incision between the belly button and pubic area.
Source: Very Well Health[7]Very Well Health
Tummy Tuck
“It uses a horizontal (side-to-side) incision and a vertical (up and down) incision between the belly button and pubic area. It is reserved for patients who need skin tightened both vertically and horizontally. ”
View in Article
Are You a Candidate for Tummy Tuck In Costa Rica?
Let’s find out if you are a good candidate for tummy tuck or not.
✔️ Eligible
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Do not smoke
- Are in good health
- Have a BMI ≤30 kg/m²
- Are fully recovered from your prior pregnancies
- Have already lost some weight before the surgery
Source: ASPS[9]ASPS
Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
“You may be a good tummy tuck candidate if: You are physically healthy and at a stable weight You are a nonsmoker..”
View in Article, Healthline[10]Healthline
Does Abdominoplasty (‘Tummy Tuck’) Surgery Benefit Your Health?
“Often, the best candidates for this surgery are those who have already lost weight or have recovered from pregnancy.”
View in Article
❌ Ineligible
You may not be a good candidate for tummy tuck if you:
- Are a smoker
- Have a high BMI(>30 kg/m²)
- Might plan pregnancy in future
- Have serious illnesses like heart disease or diabetes
- Have complications from previous abdominal surgery
Source: StatPearls[11]StatPearls
Abdominoplasty
“Patients with poor health including advanced cardiopulmonary disease, cirrhosis, and uncontrolled diabetes are poor candidates for this procedure. Smoking is severely detrimental to the abdominoplasty. ”
View in Article, Mayo Clinic[12]Mayo Clinic
Tummy tuck
“Your doctor might caution against a tummy tuck if you: Might consider pregnancy in the future Have a body mass index that’s greater than 30 Have had a previous abdominal surgery that caused significant scar tissue.”
View in Article
What Is the Difference Between Tummy Tuck and Liposuction?
Tummy tuck and liposuction may seem like similar procedures.
But there are some key differences between the two. Let’s have a look:
| Features | Tummy Tuck | Liposuction |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Removes excess fat and skin | Removes small fat deposits |
| Results | Is considered permanent | Fat deposits may appear |
| Recovery | A more serious operation | Carries little risk or recovery downtime |
| Areas Covered | Covers only abdomen | Covers hips, thighs, and stomach |
Source: Healthline[13]Healthline
Liposuction vs. Tummy Tuck
“Liposuction may be a good fit if you’re looking to remove small fat deposits. In addition to removing excess fat from the abdomen, a tummy tuck also removes excess skin. up to a year after the procedure, the fat deposits reappear…”
View in Article
How is Tummy Tuck in Costa Rica Performed?
Here’s the complete procedure for tummy tuck in Costa Rica:
Pre-Op Preparations for Tummy Tuck Surgery
- Stop smoking
- Get your medical evaluation
- Adjust your current medications
- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs & supplements
Source: ASPS[14]ASPS
Tummy Tuck
“In preparing for tummy tuck surgery, you may be asked to: Get lab testing or a medical evaluation Take certain medications or adjust your current medications Stop smoking Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements.”
View in Article
The Procedure of Tummy Tuck in Costa Rica
A tummy tuck procedure includes the following steps:
Step 1: Anesthesia
You will be administered general anesthesia or IV sedation for a painless procedure.
Step 2: Incision
A horizontal incision will be made between the pubic hairline and the belly button.
A second incision may be needed around the navel to remove the upper abdominal skin.
Step 3: Excess Skin Removal & Reconstruction
After the incisions are made, excess skin in the upper abdomen is removed.
The excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is sutured together.
A new belly button opening is created, popped through, and sutured into position.
Step 4: Closing the Incisions
Your surgeon will close all the incisions with sutures, adhesives, tapes, or clips after excess skin removal.
Source: American Society[15]American Society
What are the steps of a tummy tuck procedure?
“A tummy tuck procedure includes the following steps: Step 1 – Anesthesia Medications are administered for your comfort during surgical procedures……”
View in Article
Tummy Tuck Procedure
Treatment Timeline for Tummy Tuck in Costa Rica
Now, you will wonder how long your surgery or stay will last.
Here’s table depicting the treatment durations of your tummy tuck in Costa Rica:
| Procedure | Surgery Time | Hospital Stay | Hotel Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Tummy Tuck | 1-2 hours[16]WebMD Tummy Tuck “The procedure may only take up to two hours, depending on your case. ” View in Article |
Not needed | 3-7 days |
| Fleur de Lis Tummy Tuck | 3-5 hours[17]Healthtuition What Is a Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck? “A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck typically takes between three hours and five hours. ” View in Article |
Not needed | 6-7 days |
| Tummy Tuck with Liposuction | 4-5 hours[18]NCBI Liposuction Assisted Abdominoplasty “The usual length of surgery was 4–4.5 hours. ” View in Article |
1 night | 6-7 days |
Recovery After Tummy Tuck in Costa Rica
The recovery time for a tummy tuck is about 4 to 6 weeks.[19]NHS
Tummy tuck
“You will need to take about 4 to 6 weeks off work and exercise. It takes about 6 weeks to fully recover and to see the full effect of a tummy tuck. ”
View in Article
However, it may vary from person to person and the procedure chosen.
Post-Op Care for Tummy Tuck Surgery
Post-surgery care also plays a huge role in the process of recovery after tummy tuck surgery.
Tummy Tuck: Post-Surgery Care
Is Tummy Tuck In Costa Rica Safe?
Costa Rica ranked 38th in the Global Peace Index 2022 out of 163 countries and is 1st in Latin America.[20]International Living
Safety in Costa Rica
“Costa Rica is ranked 38th in the 2022 Global Peace Index, out of 163 countries, and takes the top stop in Latin America. ”
View in Article
The surgeries are usually as fast, safe and comfortable as in North America but at low costs.[21]Costa Rica Information
Medical Tourism & Cosmetic Surgery
“These surgeries are usually equally as fast, safe, and comfortable as services in North America but for significantly less. ”
View in Article
The doctors here are skilled, bilingual and hospitals are well-equipped with the latest technology like:
- MRI, CT Scan
- 24-hour Pharmacy
- X-ray & Ultrasound
- Full-service Laboratory
Medical Tourism in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is famous for its amazing natural wonders and rich biodiversity.
It’s home to some of the world’s most beautiful rainforests, beaches & mountains.
Source: Nomads[22]Nomads
25 THINGS COSTA RICA IS KNOWN AND FAMOUS FOR
“Costa Rica is famous for its incredible natural wonders, rich biodiversity, aromatic coffee, and progressive government. It is home to some of the most beautiful rainforests, beaches, and mountains in the world.”
View in Article
Medical Tourism in Costa Rica
How to Reach Costa Rica?
There are frequent flights connecting the US and Canadian cities directly to Costa Rica.
Check out the flights from various US and Canadian city airports to San Jose airport (SJC):
| US City | Flight Duration | Canada City | Flight Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami (MIA) | 3 hours | Toronto (YYZ) | 5.5 hours |
| Houston (IAH) | 3.5 hours | Montreal (YUL) | 6 hours |
| Dallas (DFW) | 4 hours | Ottawa (YOW) | 7 hours |
| New York (JFK) | 5.5 hours | Vancouver (YVR) | 7.5 hours |
Documents Needed To Enter Costa Rica
- A valid passport.
- A return ticket to exit Costa Rica.
- Proof of funds of at least US$100 per month for a stay in the country.
- Visa (US/Canadian citizens don’t need it for a visit of up to 90 days).
Source: Costa Rica Embassy[23]Costa-Rica Embassy
Visas, Permits
“US nationals do not require an entry visa to Costa Rica. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica within 90 days. (Either to return to your country or to go to another country). ”
View in Article [24]Costa Rica Embassy
Visas
“1) a valid passport (which must have a validity of at least 1 day left); 2) proof of economic solvency of at least US$100 per month of legal permanence in the country; 3) a ticket to exit Costa Rica within the maximum authorized period of 90 days.”
View in Article
Travel Tips for Tourists
- Always exercise caution.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Keep an eye on your belongings.
- Do not flash expensive items or jewelry.
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
Source: Travel.state.gov[25]Travel.state.gov
Costa Rica Travel Advisory
“Be aware of your surroundings. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad.”
View in Article
Places To Visit in Costa Rica
Video Courtesy: James B
Here are some famous tourist attractions in Costa Rica. that you can visit during your trip.
🏖️ Jaco
It is the closest beachside to San Jose[26]US News
Jaco
“It’s also the closest beachside retreat to San José.”
View in Article, full of shops, hotels & restaurants.
Jaco has two beaches, Playa Herradura and Playa Blanca, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
You can also visit the nearby national parks and waterfalls.
Sunset View in Jaco
Jaco Beachside
🏞️ La Paz Waterfall Park
This is an exciting attraction for the whole family
It includes five waterfalls, rainforests, and various flora and fauna.[27]Culture Trip
Must-Visit Attractions in Costa Rica
“There are five waterfalls, cloud forests and rainforests as well as a snake, frog, orchid..”
View in Article
It offers a great experience of some of the natural wonders of Costa Rica, all in one place.
La Paz Waterfall
Couple Enjoying in La Paz
🏝️ Manuel Antonio National Park
It is known for its serene beaches, vibrant wildlife, and lush greenery.
You can also take a guided tour and explore the natural bliss of the place.
Manuel Antonio Beachside
Capuchin Monkey in Manuel Antonio
Apart from these beautiful locations, you can also enjoy the delicious cuisines & cocktails of Costa Rica.
Casado
Patacones
Gallo Pinto
⭐ Tipping in Puerto Rico is very much similar to the US.
⭐ You can tip the waiters and bartenders 15-20% of the total bill.
Jaguar Colado
Guaro
Coco Loco
FAQs
How long does a tummy tuck last?
Tummy tuck results can last long if you maintain a stable weight & follow a healthy lifestyle.
This includes:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Discontinuing smoking
- Refraining from excess alcohol
- Participating in regular physical exercise
Source: StatPearls[28]StatPearls
Abdominoplasty
“When performed by experienced surgeons on properly selected patients, the majority of patients remain satisfied with the results after abdominoplasty. However, it is vital to educate patients on changes in lifestyle to prevent reaccumulation…”
View in Article
How painful is tummy tuck in Costa Rica?
Tummy tuck in Costa Rica is not painful as you are administered with anesthesia.
However, you can experience mild to moderate pain for a few days after the surgery.
You might feel fatigued, swollen, and sore, although this will slowly improve.
You are advised to focus on rest and healing during this time.
Source: American Society[29]American Society
Five things to consider before getting a tummy tuck
“At the beginning, you will be fatigued, swollen and sore. It is normal to have moderate pain during these first several days, although this will steadily improve. It is vital to allow yourself time to focus on rest and healing. ”
View in Article
How should I sleep after a tummy tuck?
After a tummy tuck, you must sleep in a flexed (semi-fowler) position for 2 weeks.
This will help to avoid straining on the incision and lowers the risk of scarring.
Source: NCBI[30]NCBI
Abdominoplasty
“Postoperatively, it is important that the patient remains in a flexed (Semi-Fowler) position for 2 weeks. This positioning helps avoid excessive straining on the incision and reduce the risk of hypertrophic scar formation. ”
View in Article
Conclusion
Tummy tuck in Costa Rica can be a great solution to remove your unwanted fat!
Not only will it help to regain your confidence, but it will also improve your quality of life.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today for a free quote and begin your transformation journey!
References
1. Living Cost- Costa Rica vs United States
2. ScienceDirect- Clinical outcome of patients undergoing abdominoplasty
3. Healthline- Everything You Want to Know About a Mini Tummy Tuck
4. PRS – Global- A New Surgical Approach to Body Contouring
5. Very Well Health- Tummy Tuck Recovery Tips
6. Health Tuition- What Is a Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck?
7. ASPS- Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
8. Healthline- Does Abdominoplasty Surgery Benefit Your Health?
9. StatPearls- Abdominoplasty
10. Mayo Clinic- Tummy tuck
11. Healthline- Liposuction vs. Tummy Tuck
12. ASPS- How should I prepare for a tummy tuck?
13. American Society- What are the steps of a tummy tuck procedure?
14. WebMD- Tummy Tuck
15. NCBI- Liposuction Assisted Abdominoplasty
16. NHS- Tummy tuck
17. International Living- Safety in Costa Rica
18. Costa Rica Information- Medical Tourism & Cosmetic Surgery
19. Nomads- 25 Things Costa Rica Is Known And Famous For
20. Costa Rica Embassy- Permits, Visas
21. Travel.state.gov- Costa Rica Travel Advisory
22. US News- Jaco
23. Culture Trip- Must-Visit Attractions in Costa Rica
24. ASPS– Five things to consider before getting a tummy tuck
