Tijuana has become a major destination for medical tourism, drawing people seeking plastic surgery due to significant cost savings compared to prices in the United States and Canada. This affordability results from lower overhead, labor costs, and a favorable currency exchange rate. Understanding the full financial picture involves more than just the surgical fee, requiring a clear look at the total financial commitment for the procedure, travel, and recovery. This guide outlines the estimated expenses and necessary planning involved in pursuing cosmetic surgery in this border city.
Average Cost Breakdown for Popular Procedures
The primary appeal of plastic surgery in Tijuana is the dramatic reduction in procedure costs, which can be 40 to 70 percent lower than in the US. Prices vary based on the surgeon’s reputation and the complexity of the operation, but they follow predictable ranges for common procedures. For example, a Mommy Makeover, a combination procedure, typically costs between $7,000 and $15,500, depending on the components included.
Individual procedures have specific ranges. A Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty) generally falls within a $3,000 to $7,000 range. Breast Augmentation typically costs between $2,000 and $5,800, often including the cost of implants. Liposuction may be priced from $1,500 to $5,500, while a Rhinoplasty (nose job) ranges from $2,500 to $5,000.
These estimated prices usually encompass the surgeon’s fee, facility or hospital fee, anesthesia costs, and pre-operative lab work. Patients must confirm what their quote includes, as many packages do not cover required post-operative garments or medications. Travel, lodging, and specialized recovery care are nearly always separate expenses, though some all-inclusive packages may bundle these logistical costs.
Logistics of Planning Medical Travel and Recovery
The journey begins with a pre-operative phase, often involving a virtual consultation to assess candidacy, sometimes requiring a Body Mass Index (BMI) below 30. Once approved, patients must complete required medical clearance, including blood work, an EKG, and a cardiologist evaluation. This clearance ensures the patient is medically stable enough to undergo the operation before surgery is officially scheduled.
Lodging and post-operative care represent a significant addition to the surgical fee. Most major procedures necessitate a minimum stay in Tijuana of 7 to 14 days for initial healing and follow-up appointments. Patients often choose dedicated recovery houses, which typically cost between $140 and $185 per night for a shared or private room.
These specialized recovery facilities provide 24/7 care from trained nurses, daily meals, and assistance with mobility. Transportation costs must also be factored in, including private shuttles from the San Diego airport or across the border, which can cost around $140 for a round trip. Many clinics provide a Medical Lane Pass for a faster border crossing back into the US, which can save hours but may cost $30 to $50 if not complimentary.
Vetting Surgeons and Facilities
Quality and safety must be paramount when budgeting for surgery abroad. Patients must prioritize confirming a surgeon’s specialized training and board certification, provided by the Mexican Council of Plastic, Aesthetic, and Reconstructive Surgery (CMCPER). This certification can be verified through the CMCPER’s online directory and ensures the surgeon has completed the required residency training and passed rigorous examinations.
Verifying the accreditation of the surgical facility is equally important, as surgeons should not operate in uncertified office spaces. The Mexican Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risk (COFEPRIS) regulates and inspects all healthcare facilities for sanitary and operational standards. Clinics that are COFEPRIS-compliant demonstrate adherence to national health guidelines and infrastructure quality, which is the necessary baseline for safe surgery.
For added assurance, some elite facilities seek international accreditation from organizations like the Joint Commission International (JCI). JCI accreditation is a voluntary process that signifies the facility meets stringent global standards for patient safety and quality of care, often comparable to those found in the US. Choosing a facility with these verifiable national and international accreditations is a fundamental part of the due diligence process.