The Big Picture
Most plastic surgery trips to Medellín take 10-21 days total depending on procedure. But the planning starts 4-8 weeks before you fly. This guide walks you through every phase so there are no surprises.
Medical tourism has a lot of moving parts—virtual consultations, deposits, pre-op testing, travel logistics, surgery, recovery, and follow-up. The process is actually quite structured once you understand it, but going in blind creates unnecessary stress.
This timeline covers what happens at each stage, what you need to do, and what to expect. Adjust timing based on your specific procedure—simpler surgeries need less time, complex combinations need more.
Timeline Overview
- → Phase 1: Research & Consultation (4-8 weeks before)
- → Phase 2: Booking & Preparation (2-4 weeks before)
- → Phase 3: Final Week Before Travel
- → Phase 4: Arrival Day
- → Phase 5: Pre-Op Day
- → Phase 6: Surgery Day
- → Phase 7: Early Recovery (Days 1-7)
- → Phase 8: Later Recovery (Days 8-14+)
- → Phase 9: Flying Home
- → Phase 10: Back Home & Follow-Up
Phase 1: Research & Consultation
4-8 Weeks Before Surgery
This is where you do your homework. The goal is to find a qualified surgeon, get a clear quote, and decide if Medellín is right for you.
Research Surgeons
Use the SCCP registry to find board-certified surgeons. Look for procedure-specific experience, before/after photos, and independent reviews.
Request Virtual Consultations
Most surgeons offer free WhatsApp video consultations. You'll discuss goals, share photos, and receive a preliminary assessment. Consult 2-3 surgeons before deciding.
Get Written Quotes
Request itemized quotes showing exactly what's included: surgeon fee, anesthesia, facility, implants/materials, garments, follow-ups. Compare apples to apples.
Verify Credentials
Check SCCP membership, RETHUS registration, and facility accreditation. This is non-negotiable. See our verification guide.
Phase 2: Booking & Preparation
2-4 Weeks Before Surgery
Once you've chosen your surgeon, it's time to lock in dates and handle logistics.
Pay Deposit
Typically 30-50% of surgical cost ($500-$3,000 depending on procedure). This secures your surgery date. Usually via wire transfer or credit card.
Book Flights
Aim to arrive 1-2 days before surgery. Direct flights from Miami are ~3.5 hours. Don't book return until your surgeon confirms you're cleared to fly.
Reserve Recovery House
Your surgeon often has preferred facilities. Book for your full recovery period. See our recovery house guide.
Get Medical Clearance (if needed)
Some surgeons require clearance from your U.S. doctor for patients over 50 or with medical conditions. Ask what's required.
Purchase Travel Insurance
Get medical tourism-specific coverage that includes surgical complications. Standard travel insurance often excludes elective surgery.
Start Preparation Protocols
Stop smoking (minimum 2-4 weeks before). Discontinue blood thinners, aspirin, certain supplements as directed. Start any prescribed vitamins.
Phase 3: Final Week Before Travel
7 Days Before Departure
✓ Pre-Travel Checklist
- ☐ Passport valid 6+ months
- ☐ Final payment made to clinic
- ☐ Flight confirmation printed
- ☐ Recovery house confirmed
- ☐ Travel insurance docs
- ☐ Surgeon's WhatsApp saved
- ☐ Loose, comfortable clothing packed
- ☐ Medications in carry-on
- ☐ Phone charger + adapter
- ☐ Emergency contacts shared with family
- ☐ Bank notified of travel
- ☐ Stop aspirin/supplements as directed
Your surgeon will send final pre-op instructions. Follow them exactly—especially dietary restrictions and medication stops. Most require no eating/drinking after midnight the day before surgery.
Phase 4: Arrival Day
Day -1 (Day Before Surgery)
Land in Medellín
Flight arrives at José María Córdova Airport (MDE). Immigration is straightforward for U.S. citizens—no visa required for stays under 90 days.
Transfer to Recovery House
Pre-arranged pickup takes you directly to your recovery house. ~45 minutes from airport to El Poblado. Check in, settle, rest.
Light Dinner, Early Bed
Eat light, stay hydrated. Most surgeons require fasting from midnight. Get to bed early—surgery typically starts 6-8 AM.
Phase 5: Pre-Op Day
Some Surgeons Schedule This Before Surgery Day
Depending on your surgeon, you may have a separate pre-op appointment the day before surgery, or these steps happen morning-of.
In-Person Consultation
Meet your surgeon face-to-face. Review goals, finalize surgical plan, ask any remaining questions. This is your last chance to clarify.
Pre-Op Testing
Blood work (CBC, coagulation, HIV, Hepatitis), EKG if over 40, pregnancy test if applicable. Cost: $40-$120 in Colombia. Results same-day.
Sign Consent Forms
Review and sign surgical consent, anesthesia consent, and any photography waivers. Make sure your surgeon's name is on the form.
Pay Remaining Balance
Final payment typically due 24-48 hours before surgery. Wire transfer, credit card, or cash accepted.
Phase 6: Surgery Day
Day 0
Wake Up & Transport
No food or water. Shower with antibacterial soap (provided). Recovery house driver takes you to the clinic/hospital.
Check-In & Prep
Change into surgical gown. IV placed. Meet anesthesiologist. Surgeon marks surgical sites with marker. Final questions answered.
Surgery
Under general anesthesia. Duration varies: breast aug ~1-2 hours, tummy tuck ~2-3 hours, BBL ~3-4 hours, mommy makeover ~4-6 hours.
Recovery Room
Wake up in PACU (Post-Anesthesia Care Unit). Nurses monitor vitals for 1-3 hours. You'll feel groggy, possibly nauseous. Compression garments already on.
Transfer to Recovery House or Hospital Stay
Minor procedures: return to recovery house same day. Major procedures (tummy tuck, mommy makeover): 1-2 night hospital stay common.
Phase 7: Early Recovery
Days 1-7
The first week is the most critical. You'll be in your recovery house with 24/7 nursing support. Expect to feel tired, sore, and swollen—this is completely normal.
Rest & Medication
Mostly sleeping. Nurses manage pain meds, antibiotics, anti-nausea. Walk to bathroom with assistance. Eat light (broth, crackers).
First Post-Op Visit
Surgeon checks incisions, may remove drains (if early removal). Swelling peaks around day 2-3. First lymphatic massage often starts day 2.
Gradual Improvement
Energy slowly returns. Short walks around recovery house. Appetite improving. Drains removed (if not already). Daily lymphatic massage.
Feeling More Human
Pain managed with OTC meds for many patients. May feel well enough for short outing (cafe, pharmacy). Sutures may be removed. Swelling still significant but improving.
⚠️ BBL Patients: Special Rules
No sitting directly on buttocks for first 2-3 weeks. Use BBL pillow when you must sit. Sleep on stomach or side. This is critical for fat cell survival.
Phase 8: Later Recovery
Days 8-14+
Increased Activity
Walking more, possibly light tourism. Continue daily lymphatic massage. Follow-up with surgeon. Some patients transition to hotel or Airbnb.
Pre-Flight Check
Final appointment with surgeon. Flight clearance given if healing properly. Instructions for home care, when to resume activities, follow-up schedule.
Phase 9: Flying Home
Departure Day
✓ Flight Day Checklist
- ☐ Compression garments on (wear during flight)
- ☐ Compression socks on (DVT prevention)
- ☐ BBL pillow if applicable
- ☐ All medications in carry-on
- ☐ Medical documentation from surgeon
- ☐ Surgeon's WhatsApp for ongoing communication
- ☐ Loose, comfortable travel outfit
- ☐ Stay hydrated (avoid alcohol/caffeine)
Flying Tips Post-Surgery
- Walk every 30-60 minutes during flight to prevent blood clots
- Do calf exercises while seated (pump feet up and down)
- Request aisle seat for easy bathroom access
- Bring extra gauze/pads in case of drainage
- Avoid lifting bags—ask for assistance or check everything
- BBL patients: Stand when possible, use pillow when sitting
Phase 10: Back Home & Follow-Up
First Weeks at Home
Continue Compression
Wear compression garments as directed (typically 6-8 weeks for body procedures, 4-6 weeks for breast).
Continue Lymphatic Massage
Find a certified lymphatic therapist at home. You'll need another 5-10 sessions over the next 2-4 weeks.
WhatsApp Check-Ins
Your Medellín surgeon will check in via WhatsApp. Send photos as requested. Video calls if concerns arise.
Activity Restrictions
No heavy lifting (>10 lbs) for 4-6 weeks. No gym/exercise for 6-8 weeks. Light walking encouraged. Listen to your body.
Results Timeline
Swelling takes 3-6 months to fully resolve. Final results visible at 6-12 months depending on procedure. Be patient.
Total Trip Duration by Procedure
| Procedure | Minimum Stay | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Breast Augmentation | 7 days | 8-10 days |
| Rhinoplasty | 10 days | 12-14 days |
| Liposuction 360 | 10 days | 12-14 days |
| Tummy Tuck | 12 days | 14-18 days |
| BBL | 14 days | 18-21 days |
| Mommy Makeover | 14 days | 18-24 days |
| Facelift | 12 days | 14-18 days |
The Bottom Line
Plan for 4-8 weeks of preparation before your trip and 10-21 days in Medellín depending on your procedure. The process is well-established and structured—once you understand each phase, it feels much less overwhelming.
The key to a smooth experience: choose a qualified surgeon, book adequate time, follow all pre-op and post-op instructions, and don't rush the process. Your body needs time to heal.