Planning for plastic surgery abroad requires careful preparation and knowledge. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from your initial research to your safe return home after surgery in Colombia. Follow this roadmap to ensure a smooth, safe, and successful medical tourism journey.
1. Initial Research and Planning (3-6 Months Before) Research Procedures Identify exactly what procedure(s) you're interested in Understand the typical recovery time and requirements Research typical costs both in your home country and in Colombia Join online communities of medical tourists for first-hand experiences Research Destinations in Colombia Major medical tourism hubs include Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, and Barranquilla Each city has different specialties, climates, and recovery environments Consider factors like elevation (Bogotá is at high altitude) and weather Set a Realistic Budget Procedure costs Flights and accommodation Recovery time and potential lost income Additional expenses (medications, compression garments, etc.) Emergency fund (approximately 20% of your total budget) 2. Selecting Your Medical Team (2-4 Months Before) Research Surgeons Verify credentials, board certifications, and specializations Review before-and-after photos of their work Read patient testimonials and reviews Check years of experience and procedure specialization Research Facilities Look for international accreditations (JCI, ISO, etc.) Review hospital infection rates and safety records if available Confirm emergency protocols and ICU availability Virtual tours or photos of the facilities Consider Working with a Medical Tourism Facilitator Companies like MedTravelCol can help navigate the process Services typically include surgeon selection, appointment scheduling, translation, and logistics Verify the facilitator's reputation and track record 3. Initial Consultations (2-3 Months Before) Virtual Consultation with Surgeon Prepare specific questions about the procedure Discuss your goals and expectations Be honest about your medical history Request a detailed treatment plan Discuss potential risks and complications Get a Detailed Quote Ensure it includes all fees (surgeon, anesthesia, facility, etc.) Confirm what pre-operative tests are included Understand what post-operative care is covered Ask about revision policy if results aren't satisfactory 4. Pre-Travel Medical Preparation (1-2 Months Before) Complete Medical Evaluation at Home Get necessary lab work and tests as recommended by your surgeon Obtain medical clearance from your primary care physician if required Discuss your plans with your doctor and get advice on post-op care Prepare Your Body Maintain a healthy diet Stay well-hydrated Exercise regularly (if appropriate) Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery Avoid alcohol in the weeks leading up to surgery Discontinue certain medications and supplements as advised by your surgeon 5. Travel Logistics (1-2 Months Before) Book Flights Plan to arrive at least 2-3 days before surgery Book a return flight that allows for the full recommended recovery period Consider flexible return dates or travel insurance that covers changes Book direct flights if possible to minimize travel fatigue Arrange Accommodation Recovery houses specializing in post-surgical care Hotels with medical tourism packages Airbnb or vacation rentals for longer stays Consider proximity to the medical facility Purchase Travel Insurance Get comprehensive coverage that includes medical complications Ensure it covers the specific procedures you're having Consider medical evacuation coverage 6. Final Preparations (2-4 Weeks Before) Prepare Your Home for Return Stock up on recovery supplies Arrange for help during your recovery period after returning Set up a comfortable recovery space Communication Plan Arrange international phone service Download translation apps Share your itinerary with family/friends Research emergency contacts in Colombia Pack Strategically Comfortable, loose clothing for recovery All necessary medications (with prescriptions) Essential documents (passport, insurance, medical records) Comfort items for recovery 7. Arrival in Colombia (2-3 Days Before Surgery) Adjust to the Environment Allow time to acclimate, especially in high-altitude locations like Bogotá Stay hydrated and rest adequately Follow any pre-surgery dietary instructions In-Person Consultation Meet your surgical team in person Complete any remaining pre-operative tests Take final pre-operative photos Sign consent forms (request English translations) Confirm all details of your procedure Prepare Mentally Practice relaxation techniques Ask any remaining questions Confirm post-operative care plans 8. Surgery and Immediate Recovery Day of Surgery Follow all pre-operative instructions (fasting, medication, etc.) Arrive on time with a companion if possible Leave valuables at your accommodation Wear comfortable, loose clothing Immediate Post-Op Period (1-3 Days) Follow all medical instructions carefully Take prescribed medications on schedule Report any unusual symptoms immediately Begin gentle movement as recommended 9. Recovery in Colombia (1-3 Weeks) Follow Up Appointments Attend all scheduled check-ups Ask for detailed instructions for ongoing care Get clearance for travel before booking return flight Recovery Activities Gradually increase activity as permitted Consider gentle sight-seeing if approved by your surgeon Follow dietary recommendations Monitor for any signs of complications 10. Preparing for Return Home Final Medical Consultation Get written post-operative care instructions Discuss long-term recovery expectations Ask about when you can resume normal activities Get contact information for emergency questions Travel Preparations Obtain necessary medical letters for travel Pack medications properly Arrange comfortable transportation to the airport Wear compression garments as advised for the flight 11. Long-term Follow-up Continued Care at Home Find a local doctor willing to provide follow-up care Share your surgical records if necessary Continue following all post-operative instructions Stay in touch with your Colombian surgical team as needed Monitor Your Results Take progress photos as recommended Be patient with the healing process Contact your surgeon with any concerns Working with MedTravelCol At MedTravelCol, we simplify this entire process by providing comprehensive support at each step. Our services include:
Surgeon selection based on your specific needs Scheduling consultations and appointments Arranging all in-country transportation Booking appropriate recovery accommodation Providing translation services 24/7 support during your stay in Colombia Assistance with follow-up care coordination Contact us to learn how we can make your medical journey to Colombia smooth, safe, and successful.
Ready to Start Your Journey? Contact our medical tourism experts today for a free, personalized consultation about your cosmetic procedure in Colombia.
Get Your Free Consultation 