Breast Lift in Medellín, Colombia | Mastopexy Complete Guide 2026

Quick Facts: Breast Lift in Medellín 2026

Medellín Price: $3,000–$5,500 USD

USA Price: $7,000–$15,000 USD

Your Savings: 50–65% ($4,000–$10,000)

Procedure Time: 2–3 hours

Minimum Stay: 10–14 days

Back to Work: 1–2 weeks (desk job)

Final Results: 3–6 months

Patient Satisfaction: 98.2%

There's a reason Colombia has become the world's number one destination for plastic surgery medical tourism, with 35.9% of procedures performed on international patients according to ISAPS 2023 data. And breast lift surgery—medically known as mastopexy—is one of the most popular procedures bringing American women to Medellín.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: the four types of breast lifts, what to expect from pricing, how recovery works in Colombia's perfect climate, and why Medellín's board-certified surgeons consistently deliver results that match or exceed what you'd find in Miami, Los Angeles, or New York—at a fraction of the cost.

Why Women Are Choosing Medellín for Breast Lifts

Let's address the obvious question first: why fly to Colombia for a breast lift when you could have it done at home? The answer comes down to value, expertise, and experience.

The value proposition is undeniable. A breast lift that costs $7,000–$15,000 in the United States runs $3,000–$5,500 in Medellín—and that's not for inferior work. We're talking about SCCP-certified plastic surgeons (Colombia's equivalent of American Board certification) operating in JCI-accredited facilities that meet or exceed US standards. The price difference comes from lower operating costs, favorable exchange rates, and a healthcare system that hasn't been inflated by US insurance dynamics.

The expertise is world-class. Colombian plastic surgeons complete 4–5 years of specialized residency training after medical school. Many train internationally in the United States, Europe, or Brazil. The country has produced leading innovators in plastic surgery techniques, and Medellín surgeons average 294 procedures per year—31% more than their American counterparts. When you're performing that many breast lifts, you develop a level of technical refinement that's hard to match.

The experience is transformative. Instead of recovering in your same apartment, staring at the same walls, worrying about the same work emails—you're healing in the "City of Eternal Spring." Perfect 70–80°F weather year-round. Mountain views. World-class coffee. A city that's reinvented itself as a hub of innovation and warmth. Patients consistently report that the change of scenery makes recovery feel less like a medical experience and more like a wellness retreat.

By the Numbers: Medellín's Medical Tourism Industry

✓ 23,323 international medical tourists visited Medellín in 2024
✓ 8 of the top 42 clinics in Latin America are located here
✓ 98.2% patient satisfaction rate in peer-reviewed studies
✓ WHO ranks Colombia #22 globally for healthcare (vs. US #37)
✓ 850+ SCCP-certified plastic surgeons nationwide

The 4 Types of Breast Lifts: Which Is Right for You?

Not all breast lifts are created equal. The technique your surgeon recommends depends on how much lift you need, your breast size, skin elasticity, and aesthetic goals. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your specific anatomy and recommend the most appropriate approach.

Here's what each technique involves, who it's best for, and what kind of scarring to expect:

1. Crescent Lift (Minimal Ptosis)

The least invasive option, ideal for women with very mild sagging who want subtle improvement.

Technique: A small crescent-shaped incision above the areola removes a thin strip of skin, raising the nipple position slightly.

Scarring: Minimal—hidden along the upper edge of the areola.

Best for: Grade I ptosis (nipple at or just below the breast crease), often combined with augmentation.

Limitation: Cannot correct moderate or significant sagging.

2. Peri-Areolar (Donut) Lift

A versatile technique for mild sagging, with the added benefit of reducing areola size if desired.

Technique: Two circular incisions—one around the areola, one larger circle around that—remove a "donut" of excess skin.

Scarring: A single scar around the areola that typically fades to match the natural color transition.

Best for: Mild ptosis, women who also want smaller areolas, combination with implants.

Limitation: Can cause a slightly flattened breast shape if used for too much lift.

3. Vertical (Lollipop) Lift

4. Anchor (Inverted-T) Lift

The most comprehensive lift for significant sagging—maximum correction, more scarring.

Technique: Three incisions—around the areola, vertically down, and along the breast crease—form an anchor or inverted-T shape. Allows maximum skin removal and reshaping.

Scarring: Most visible of all techniques, but scars are positioned to be hidden by bras and swimwear.

Best for: Severe ptosis (Grade III), very large breasts, significant skin excess, post-weight-loss patients.

Trade-off: More scarring, but dramatic improvement for patients who need it.

Complete 2026 Pricing Breakdown

Let's talk numbers. Here's exactly what you can expect to pay for breast lift surgery in Medellín compared to major US cities—and what those prices include.

Procedure	Medellín 2026	USA Average	Your Savings
Breast Lift (mastopexy only)	$3,000–$5,500	$7,000–$15,000	$4,000–$10,000
Breast Lift + Implants	$4,000–$6,500	$10,000–$18,000	$6,000–$12,000
Breast Lift + Reduction	$4,500–$7,000	$12,000–$20,000	$7,500–$13,000
All-Inclusive Package*	$6,500–$10,000	N/A	Complete care

*All-inclusive packages typically include surgery, anesthesia, facility fees, recovery house (7–10 nights), airport transfers, nursing care, compression garments, medications, and follow-up appointments.

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Why the Price Difference?

The massive cost savings aren't because of inferior care—it's economics:

• Lower facility and staff costs in Colombia
• Favorable exchange rate (Colombian peso vs. US dollar)
• No US malpractice insurance inflation
• Government support for medical tourism keeps prices competitive
• Surgeons earn well by local standards while charging less than US rates

What's Included in Your Breast Lift Package

When comparing prices, make sure you're comparing apples to apples. Here's what a typical Medellín breast lift package includes—and what you'll need to budget separately.

Typically Included

✓ Surgeon's fee
✓ Board-certified anesthesiologist
✓ Accredited surgical facility
✓ Pre-operative lab work
✓ Post-operative medications
✓ Surgical compression bra
✓ 2–4 follow-up appointments
✓ Bilingual patient coordinator
✓ WhatsApp access to surgical team

Budget Separately

• Flights ($200–$700 from most US cities)
• Accommodation/recovery house ($85–$150/night)
• Meals (unless in recovery house)
• Lymphatic massage ($20–$50/session)
• Medical tourism insurance ($100–$400)
• Implants if adding augmentation
• Extra compression garments
• Transportation (Uber: $2–$5/ride)

Finding the Right Breast Lift Surgeon in Medellín

Your results depend entirely on your surgeon. Here's how to find a qualified professional and verify their credentials:

Non-Negotiable Requirements

SCCP Certification: The Sociedad Colombiana de Cirugía Plástica is Colombia's board certification. Verify at cirugiaplastica.org.co/buscar-cirujano/
RETHUS Registration: All legitimate doctors are registered in this national database
Accredited Facility: Look for JCI accreditation or ICONTEC certification
Breast Lift Experience: Ask specifically how many mastopexy procedures they've performed
Before/After Portfolio: Request photos of patients with similar anatomy to yours

Additional credentials that indicate excellence: ISAPS membership (International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery), ASPS membership (American Society of Plastic Surgeons), fellowship training abroad, faculty positions at medical schools, or published research.

Recovery Timeline: What to Expect Day by Day

One of Medellín's biggest advantages is the recovery environment. The comfortable climate, dedicated recovery houses with 24/7 nursing, and change of scenery make healing feel less clinical. Here's what to expect:

Day 1: Surgery Day

The procedure takes 2–3 hours under general anesthesia. You'll wake up in the recovery room wearing a surgical compression bra. Most patients spend one night in the clinic or transfer to a recovery house that evening. Drains may or may not be placed depending on technique. Expect grogginess, mild discomfort, and restricted arm movement.

Days 2–3: Early Recovery

This is when you'll feel the most discomfort—tight, sore, and swollen. Pain medication keeps it manageable. The surgical bra stays on 24/7. Short walks around your room are encouraged to prevent blood clots. Sleeping is propped up at an incline. Your nurse will help with basic tasks like bathing.

Days 4–7: Turning the Corner

Significant improvement in how you feel. First follow-up appointment around day 5–7. If drains were placed, they're typically removed now. You can shower (gently). Swelling and bruising start to subside. Light walking outside is encouraged—Medellín's perfect weather makes this enjoyable rather than a chore.

Week 2: Pre-Flight Assessment

Final in-person follow-up before flying home. Your surgeon confirms you're healing properly and clears you for travel. Most sutures dissolve or are removed now. You can see the new breast shape emerging, though still swollen. Most patients can fly home between days 10–14.

Weeks 3–6: Continued Healing at Home

Back to desk work by week 2–3. Continue wearing the surgical bra or transition to a supportive sports bra. Most restrictions lift by week 6—you can resume exercise, sleep on your side, and wear regular bras. WhatsApp check-ins with your surgeon continue as needed.

Months 3–6: Final Results

Swelling fully resolves and your breasts settle into their final shape and position. Scars continue to fade (full maturation takes 12–18 months). You can wear underwire bras. This is when you'll truly appreciate your results.

Are You a Good Candidate for Breast Lift?

A breast lift can be transformative—but it's not right for everyone. Here's how to know if you're a good candidate:

Ideal Candidates

✓ Breasts sag or have lost volume/shape
✓ Nipples point downward or fall below the breast crease
✓ Areolas have stretched larger
✓ One breast sits noticeably lower than the other
✓ Breasts look "deflated" after pregnancy/weight loss
✓ Non-smoker or can quit 4–6 weeks before/after
✓ Stable weight for 6+ months
✓ Finished having children (ideally)
✓ Realistic expectations about results
✓ Good overall health

Wait If:

✗ Currently smoking or vaping
✗ Planning pregnancy in the next 1–2 years
✗ Actively losing weight (wait until stable)
✗ Have unrealistic expectations
✗ Uncontrolled diabetes or heart conditions
✗ Cannot commit to recovery time
✗ Making the decision under pressure
✗ Cannot stay in Colombia 10–14 days

Breast Lift with Implants: The Best of Both Worlds

Many women want both lift and added volume—and combining the procedures is one of the most popular options in Medellín. An augmentation mastopexy lifts sagging tissue while implants restore fullness, especially in the upper pole of the breast.

Combination Surgery Details

Price: $4,000–$6,500 USD in Medellín

USA comparison: $10,000–$18,000

Surgery time: 3–4 hours

Recovery: Similar to lift alone, slightly more swelling

Implant options: Silicone (most popular) or saline

Shapes: Round or anatomical (teardrop)

Placement: Above or below the muscle

Brands available: Mentor, Allergan, Motiva

One surgery or two? For most patients, combining lift and implants in one surgery is safe and produces excellent results. However, for patients with significant ptosis, some surgeons recommend staging the procedures 3–6 months apart for optimal outcomes. Your surgeon will advise based on your specific anatomy during consultation.

The Medellín Experience: Beyond the Surgery

Your breast lift trip to Medellín isn't just a medical procedure—it's an experience. Here's what makes the city special for medical tourists:

The Climate Advantage

Medellín sits at 5,000 feet elevation in a valley surrounded by mountains. The result? Perfect 70–80°F (21–27°C) weather year-round. No extreme temperatures to make recovery uncomfortable. You can take gentle walks outside during healing—something that's harder in a Chicago winter or Houston summer.

Recovery House Culture

Medellín's recovery houses are a unique advantage. These aren't just hotels—they're staffed with nurses 24/7, serve surgery-appropriate meals, handle all your transportation, and create a supportive community of patients healing together. Many women form friendships that last long after they return home.

El Poblado Neighborhood

You'll likely stay in El Poblado—the safest, most tourist-friendly area of Medellín. Tree-lined streets, excellent restaurants, upscale shopping centers, and a relaxed atmosphere. Everything you need is walkable or a short Uber ride away. It feels more like a wellness retreat than a medical trip.

The Change of Scenery

There's something psychologically powerful about recovering somewhere new. You're not staring at the same walls, worrying about work emails, feeling guilty about not doing chores. You're focused entirely on healing—and that mental shift shows up in patient satisfaction rates.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

A breast lift in Medellín offers the same quality results you'd find at top US practices—at 50–65% lower cost, with recovery in one of the world's most beautiful cities. The first step is a virtual consultation with a board-certified surgeon who can assess your anatomy and recommend the best approach.

Request your free consultation →