Breast Augmentation at a Glance
Medellín Cost: $3,000 – $5,000
USA Cost: $6,400 – $10,000+
Your Savings: 45-55%
Procedure Time: 1-2 hours
Hospital Stay: Outpatient (same day)
Minimum Stay: 5-7 days in Colombia
Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide—and one of the best candidates for medical tourism. Unlike complex surgeries that require extended recovery, breast augmentation is relatively straightforward with a quick recovery, making the travel component manageable. Colombian surgeons perform thousands of these procedures annually and have access to the same FDA-approved implant brands used in the United States.
This guide covers everything from implant types and sizing to the full cost breakdown and what recovery looks like in Medellín.
What This Guide Covers
Silicone vs Saline: Which Implant Is Right for You?
The two main implant types are silicone gel and saline (saltwater). Each has distinct advantages, and your choice depends on your body type, desired look, and personal preferences. Medellín surgeons work with the same premium implant brands used in the U.S., including Allergan (Natrelle), Mentor, and Motiva.
| Feature | Silicone Gel | Saline |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | More natural, like breast tissue | Firmer, water-balloon feel |
| Look | Natural contours, less rippling | May show rippling in thin patients |
| Incision Size | Slightly larger (pre-filled) | Smaller (filled during surgery) |
| Rupture Detection | Harder to detect ("silent rupture") | Obvious—breast deflates |
| MRI Recommendation | Every 5-6 years for rupture check | Not required |
| FDA Age Requirement | 22+ for cosmetic | 18+ for cosmetic |
| Cost (Medellín) | $3,500 – $5,000 | $3,000 – $4,000 |
| Popularity | ~85% of augmentations | ~15% of augmentations |
Silicone Gel Implants
Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel that mimics natural breast tissue. They're the most popular choice globally for their natural look and feel.
Silicone Advantages
- • Most natural feel—similar to breast tissue
- • Less visible rippling, especially for thin patients
- • More size/profile options available
- • "Gummy bear" cohesive gel holds shape if shell ruptures
Silicone Considerations
- • Larger incision required (implant is pre-filled)
- • Silent ruptures—MRI recommended every 5-6 years
- • Slightly higher cost than saline
- • FDA recommends 22+ for cosmetic use (enforced in U.S.)
Saline Implants
Saline implants have a silicone shell filled with sterile saltwater during surgery. They're less common but still have advantages for certain patients.
Saline Advantages
- • Smaller incision (filled after insertion)
- • Rupture immediately obvious—breast deflates
- • Harmless if rupture occurs—body absorbs saltwater
- • Lower cost
- • Available at age 18+ for cosmetic
Saline Considerations
- • Firmer, less natural feel
- • More visible rippling (especially for thin patients)
- • May feel "sloshy" in larger sizes
- • Less forgiving of thin breast tissue coverage
Round vs Teardrop Shapes & Profile Options
Beyond the fill material, you'll choose a shape and profile. These decisions significantly impact your final appearance.
Shape: Round vs Teardrop (Anatomical)
| Shape | Best For | Look |
|---|---|---|
| Round | Most patients; those wanting upper fullness | Fuller upper pole, more cleavage, perky appearance |
| Teardrop (Anatomical) | Natural slope preference; breast reconstruction | Gradual slope, more fullness at bottom, subtle |
Most common choice: Round implants account for about 90% of augmentations. When placed behind the muscle, round implants often take on a natural teardrop appearance as gravity pulls them slightly down.
Profile: Low, Moderate, High, or Extra-High
Profile refers to how much the implant projects forward from your chest. For the same volume (cc), different profiles will look dramatically different.
| Profile | Base Width | Projection | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | Wide | Minimal | Wide chest, subtle enhancement |
| Moderate | Medium | Moderate | Most patients; natural look |
| Moderate Plus | Medium-narrow | More projection | Balance of natural and dramatic |
| High | Narrow | Significant | Narrow chest; dramatic look |
| Extra-High | Very narrow | Maximum | Very narrow chest; maximum projection |
💡 Profile Selection Tip
Your breast width determines your ideal profile. A good surgeon will measure your breast base width and recommend profiles that fit your anatomy—not just sizes you request. An implant that's too wide can cause the implants to touch in the middle (symmastia) or extend into the armpit.
Implant Placement: Over vs Under the Muscle
Implants can be placed either above the pectoral muscle (subglandular) or partially below it (submuscular/dual-plane). Your surgeon will recommend placement based on your body type and goals.
| Factor | Subglandular (Over Muscle) | Submuscular (Under Muscle) |
|---|---|---|
| Recovery | Easier, less pain | More discomfort initially |
| Natural Look | Good with adequate tissue | Better for thin patients |
| Rippling | More visible | Muscle provides extra cover |
| Capsular Contracture Risk | Slightly higher | Lower |
| Mammogram Visibility | May obscure more tissue | Less interference |
| Animation Deformity | None | May shift when flexing |
| Best For | Good tissue coverage, active lifestyles | Thin patients, natural result |
Most common: Submuscular (under the muscle) or "dual-plane" placement is preferred for about 85% of augmentations. This technique places the upper portion under the muscle while the lower portion sits behind the breast tissue, providing the most natural look with good coverage.
Choosing the Right Size
Sizing is where many patients feel overwhelmed. Implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), not cup sizes—cup sizes vary between bra manufacturers and don't translate directly to implant volume.
Size Ranges by Desired Result
| Volume Range | Typical Result | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 200-300cc | Subtle enhancement, +1 cup size | Petite frames, "no one will know" |
| 300-400cc | Moderate, +1-2 cup sizes | Most popular range; natural-looking |
| 400-500cc | Fuller, +2 cup sizes | Average to larger frames |
| 500-600cc+ | Dramatic, +2-3 cup sizes | Larger frames, dramatic look desired |
⚠️ Sizing Reality Check
The most common regret after breast augmentation is wishing they'd gone bigger—but going too large has real consequences:
- • Increased back and shoulder pain
- • Faster tissue stretching over time
- • Higher risk of bottoming out
- • More revision surgeries needed
A good surgeon will recommend sizes that fit your anatomy—not just fulfill a request.
Sizing Methods Your Surgeon May Use
- Rice sizers at home: Fill a sock with measured rice (1cc = 1 gram) to test in a sports bra
- Implant sizers: Actual implant samples to try in consultation
- 3D imaging: Digital simulation of your results with different sizes
- Measurements: Breast width, tissue thickness, and chest anatomy guide options
Complete Pricing Breakdown
Breast augmentation in Medellín offers significant savings compared to U.S. prices, with the same FDA-approved implant brands.
| Procedure | USA | Medellín | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breast Aug (Saline) | $6,400 | $3,000 – $4,000 | 45-55% |
| Breast Aug (Silicone) | $7,455 | $3,500 – $5,000 | 45-55% |
| Breast Aug + Lift | $12,000 – $18,000 | $5,500 – $8,000 | 50-55% |
| Breast Revision | $8,000 – $12,000 | $4,000 – $6,000 | 50-55% |
✓ What's Typically Included
- • Surgeon's fee
- • Anesthesiologist
- • Operating facility
- • Implants (brand will be specified)
- • Post-op compression bra
- • Follow-up appointments
What's Typically Extra
- • Pre-op blood work ($40-$80)
- • Medications ($50-$100)
- • Additional compression bras ($30-$50 each)
- • Airport transfers (often $30-$50 if not included)
Implant Brands Used in Medellín
Leading surgeons in Medellín use internationally recognized, FDA-approved implant brands:
- Allergan (Natrelle): Industry leader, extensive warranty programs
- Mentor: Johnson & Johnson subsidiary, long safety record
- Motiva: Premium European brand with innovative safety features (SmoothSilk surface, BlueSeal indicator)
- Sientra: Less common but available at some clinics
💡 Always Confirm the Brand
Ask your surgeon exactly which implant brand they'll use, and get it in writing. Pricing should specify the brand—if it doesn't, ask. Reputable surgeons proudly share that they use premium implants.
The Procedure & Incision Options
Breast augmentation is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 1-2 hours. You'll be at the clinic for 3-4 hours total including prep and recovery.
Incision Location Options
| Incision | Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inframammary | Breast crease (underneath) | Most control, all implant types work, hidden under breast | Visible if breast lifts up |
| Periareolar | Around nipple edge | Well-hidden scar | Risk to sensation, may affect breastfeeding |
| Transaxillary | Armpit | No scar on breast | Limited control, needs endoscope |
| TUBA | Navel (belly button) | No scar near breast | Saline only, rare, limited surgeons |
Most common: The inframammary (under-breast crease) incision is preferred by most surgeons because it provides the best visibility and control during placement, works with all implant types, and heals to a thin line hidden in the natural fold.
Recovery Timeline in Medellín
Breast augmentation has one of the easier recoveries among cosmetic surgeries, but you'll still need to plan for rest and follow restrictions carefully.
Day of Surgery
Outpatient procedure—you'll go home or to your recovery house the same day. You'll feel groggy from anesthesia and have chest tightness. Someone must accompany you.
Days 1-3
Most discomfort occurs now—tightness, swelling, bruising. You'll wear a surgical bra 24/7. Light walking encouraged. Arms must stay below shoulder height. Sleep on your back, slightly elevated.
Days 4-7
Discomfort decreases significantly. Swelling peaks around day 4-5 then starts to subside. You can do light activities, short outings. First post-op appointment around day 5-7.
Days 7-10: Ready to Fly Home
Most patients are cleared to fly after 7 days. Final check-up before departure. Still wearing surgical bra. Some swelling remains but manageable for travel.
Weeks 2-4 (Back Home)
Can return to desk work after 1 week. No lifting over 10 pounds. Swelling continues to decrease. Implants may sit high initially—this is normal.
Weeks 4-6
Can resume most normal activities. Light exercise permitted. Implants start to "drop and fluff"—settling into final position.
3-6 Months
Final results visible. Implants fully settled. Can resume all activities including chest exercises. Scars continuing to fade (will continue improving for 1-2 years).
"Drop and Fluff" Explained
Your implants will look too high and feel too firm initially. Over 3-6 months, they'll "drop" into a natural position as the chest muscle relaxes and "fluff" as swelling resolves and the lower pole fills out. This is normal—don't panic if your day-1 results don't match your expectations.
Total Trip Budget Example
Here's what a complete breast augmentation trip to Medellín typically costs, including all travel expenses.
Silicone Breast Augmentation: 8-Day Trip
Comparable U.S. cost: $7,500+ (surgical fee only, no travel or recovery support)
Your savings: ~$1,800+ even with flights and accommodation
Are You a Good Candidate?
✓ Ideal Candidates
- • In good overall health with no serious medical conditions
- • Non-smoker (or willing to quit 4-6 weeks before and after)
- • Realistic expectations about results
- • Stable weight (not planning significant weight loss)
- • Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- • Done having children (or aware implants may need adjustment later)
- • Comfortable traveling for 7-10 days
✗ May Not Be Good Candidates
- • Active smokers unwilling to quit
- • Active infections or illness
- • Currently pregnant or breastfeeding
- • Unrealistic expectations (implants can't fix body image issues)
- • History of severe keloid scarring
- • Certain autoimmune conditions (discuss with surgeon)
Final Tips for Breast Augmentation in Medellín
- Verify credentials: Confirm SCCP membership, check RETHUS registry. See our verification guide →
- Get implant details in writing: Brand, size (cc), profile, and placement should all be documented before surgery
- Bring a supportive sports bra: You'll need front-closure bras for the first few weeks
- Plan for rest: Even though recovery is easier than other procedures, you still need downtime
- Don't rush sizing: Bigger isn't always better—let your surgeon guide you based on anatomy
- Ask about warranty: Most implant manufacturers offer lifetime replacement warranties for rupture