For those looking to enhance their figure and gain a fuller, more prominent silhouette without silicone implants, a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) in Colombia is a hugely popular option for international medical tourists seeking lower prices abroad.

This body contouring method not only adds volume to the buttocks but also refines the body’s natural curves by removing excess fat deposits from other areas via liposuction. Surgeons can use one or more donor sites, such as the tummy, lower back or thighs, to achieve a balanced, natural-looking result.

Once extracted, the fat is purified before being carefully injected into the buttocks, resulting in that widely-desired plumper posterior.

BBL Prices in Colombia:

• Brazilian butt lift prices in Colombia generally range from $2,000 to $5,000.

• In contrast, BBL surgery in the US can cost anywhere between $8,000 to $15,000.

The total cost will depend on the volume of fat transferred, which can range from 200 to 1,200 milliliters (ml) per buttock, as well as the clinic's location and your surgeon's experience. 

For updated figures, browse Medical Departures' network of BBL clinics & surgeons in Colombia – and the thousands of patients heading abroad for affordable, high-quality treatment. 

Our globally trusted booking platform makes it simple to arrange a free consultation – or connect with one of our Customer Care Team representatives to get a personalized quote.

Colombia has quickly established itself as a leading destination in the global medical tourism market–with BBLs topping the list of cosmetic procedures provided by specialist plastic surgeons. 

This is in part thanks to ongoing investment programs and recent government initiatives promoting the opportunity to combine affordable healthcare with a tropical getaway in Colombia. And it seems to be working: the country welcomed a record 85,000 medical tourists in 2023, representing a five-fold increase from 10 years prior.

Factor in drastically improved quality standards, a proliferation in expert BBL surgeons, heightened scrutiny over safety protocols, and, of course, Latin America’s not-so-secret preference for curvaceous figures, and it’s no surprise that international patients are flocking to cities like Medellin, Bogota and Barranquilla for this type of surgery.

Why Are BBLs Cheaper in Colombia?

The cost of plastic surgery in Colombia is usually much lower than in the West–making it an attractive option for prospective medical tourists. This affordability allows patients to receive their desired treatment for less while also getting the chance to visit this alluring tropical country. For example:

The stark differences between BBL prices in Colombia and North America can be attributed to factors such as higher surgeon fees, facility charges, staffing costs and generally more expensive overheads associated with running a business in the US compared to Colombia.

It is also worth bearing in mind that:

• Unlike the US healthcare system, your BBL price quote from Medical Departures includes most other charges, such as consultation/assessment fees, the surgeon's fee, anesthesia costs, and any hospital charges (if required).

• Unless booking as part of an exclusive Medical Departures’ promotional package, hotel stays, transportation and specialized post-operative care in Colombia may incur additional charges.

Medical Departures' partner surgeons in Colombia are all fully certified, with extensive education and certification both locally and internationally. 

In addition to performing Brazilian butt lifts, they often specialize in a wide range of other procedures, including liposuction, facelifts, rhinoplasty (nose job), breast augmentation, cardiology, and orthopedics.

Experienced, English-speaking BBL specialists listed on our site include Dr. Carlos Merlano (Barranquilla), Dr. Dario Juris (Bogotá) and Dr. Carlos Roman (Cartagena de Indias).

> Click here for a list of some of the best BBL surgeons in Colombia.

Colombia’s major cities, such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Barranquilla, host world-class medical facilities that adhere to international standards of safety and hygiene. These clinics and hospitals are equipped with the latest technology, several have earned the prestigious JCI accreditation, and many surgeons are members of prominent organizations such as the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS).

Other Destinations for BBLs Abroad

Medical Departures' network of BBL specialists extends across the globe. Other popular destinations in Latin America, Europe and Asia include:

• Mexico BBL Surgeons (Cancun, Tijuana, Mexico City, Guadalajara and more)

• Thailand BBL Surgeons (Bangkok, Phuket) 

• Turkey BBL Surgeons (Istanbul, Antalya, Izmir)

For more information, check out our global guide to Brazillian Butt Lift surgery here.

Despite its name, a BBL doesn’t involve physically lifting the buttocks; instead, using an advanced fat transfer technique, the surgeon strategically enhances the size of the buttocks, creating a more hourglass-shaped figure.

The allure of the Brazillian Butt Lift lies in its ability to deliver natural-looking, customizable results, as well as its dual benefit of body contouring and buttock augmentation. Other key advantages include:

• Results are long-lasting, as long as patients maintain their body weight. 

• BBL surgery can create a more personalized outcome that looks and feels natural (once healed).

• Minimal scarring and less invasive compared to implants.

• Can potentially reduce the appearance of cellulite around donor area(s).

• Removing fat from the abdomen or lower back can also make the waist appear slimmer.

• Many patients experience an increased sense of confidence and satisfaction* with their new shape.

*86% of patients expressed satisfaction with their outcomes according to a recent 2024 study published in the Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal that sampled 3000 BBL cases.

While a BBL has its advantages, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks, which are outlined further down this page. Always consult an experienced plastic surgeon to discuss whether treatment is right for you.

The procedure for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) involves a number of steps and advanced cosmetic techniques–specifically liposuction and fat transfer–to enhance the size and contours of the buttocks.

1. Liposuction: Once the patient is asleep, fat is first harvested from areas with excess deposits, such as the thighs, abdomen, back, or flanks. The surgeon makes small incisions and inserts a thin stainless steel tube, called a cannula, connected to a suction device that gently removes the fat. 

2. Fat Purification: Performed outside of the body, this process separates the fat from other fluids. Centrifugation or other filtration methods remove unwanted components, ensuring only clean and healthy fat cells remain, ready for transfer. 

3. Fat Injection: The purified fat cells are strategically injected into different areas of the buttocks through three to five small incisions to achieve the desired shape and volume–with the upper portion of the butt usually requiring the most attention. 

4. Sculpting and Closure: The surgeon shapes the buttocks and liposuctioned areas to ensure a smooth, proportionate result. The incisions are then closed with sutures and affected areas are wrapped with a compression band to help minimize bleeding. 

How Long Does BBL Treatment in Colombia Take?

The duration of BBL surgery typically ranges from two to four hours, depending on the amount of fat being transferred, the number of areas being treated and the individual's specific needs.

The surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can head back to their hotel or other place of stay on the same day as their surgery.

For Americans, Canadians, and other international patients getting their BBL in Colombia, doctors will generally advise you to stay in the country for at least 10 to 12 days. 

As well as avoiding the health risks associated with flying following plastic surgery, this period allows for a proper initial recovery, monitoring for any complications, and follow-up appointments with the surgeon in Colombia.

BBL Anesthesia Options

BBLs are almost always carried out under general anesthesia administered by a qualified anesthesiologist.

However, an ‘awake BBL’ procedure using local anesthesia with oral or IV sedation is possible–but only in rare cases where minimal fat is being transferred. 

Some studies have even looked into whether awake BBLs can actually negate one of the main safety concerns with this type of surgery.

Am I a Suitable Candidate for a BBL?

Ideal candidates for a BBL should meet the following criteria:

• Good skin quality: Firm, elastic skin is essential for optimal results and recovery.

• Have excess fat: Enough fat in areas like the thighs, abdomen, or back is required for harvesting and transferring to the buttocks. So for those with low body fat percentages, BBLs are not a viable option.

• Overall good health: Candidates should be free of serious medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or bleeding disorders.

• Stable body weight: Significant weight fluctuations can affect the outcome and also predict potential complications in the future, so a stable weight is crucial.

• Non-smoker (or willingness to quit): Smoking impairs healing and fat survival rates, so patients must be smoke-free or ready to quit several weeks before and after surgery.

The recovery process for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) demands careful attention to promote proper healing and achieve the best results. Patients are advised to take at least two weeks off from work to allow for adequate recovery and ensure successful results. Here’s what patients can generally expect during the recovery phase:

Immediate post-op care: Compression garments are applied to the affected areas where liposuction was performed to reduce swelling and promote healing. Patients are monitored for a few hours before being discharged, usually on the same day.

Avoid sitting: One of the most important aspects of BBL recovery is avoiding sitting or lying directly on the buttocks for at least three weeks. Special cushions or pillows can be used to offload pressure from the area when necessary. When traveling on a plane, use a donut cushion to minimize pressure.

Manage swelling and bruising: During the first few weeks, patients commonly experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Prescribed pain medications and compression garments can help manage these symptoms.

Rest and limit movements: Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for about six weeks, but light walking is encouraged to promote circulation.

Follow-up appointments: Regular follow-ups with the surgeon are essential to monitor healing and ensure the fat grafts are settling in.

Feed the fat: This refers to consuming enough nutritious, healthy fats and calories to support the survival of the newly transferred fat grafts. It usually takes about three to six months for the fat cells in the buttocks to stabilize and integrate naturally into the body. 

Full recovery: Most patients can return to normal, non-strenuous activities after four to six weeks. Total recovery may take around six months to see the final results as swelling fully subsides.

Buttock Implants

Ideal for individuals with insufficient body fat for BBL fat transfer, buttock implants is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of the buttocks using solid silicone implants. 

The implants are placed either above or within the gluteal muscles, offering a more defined and fuller appearance. Incisions are made in the natural crease between the buttocks to minimize visible scarring. Recovery time usually involves several weeks, and patients need to avoid sitting directly or putting pressure on the buttocks during the healing period. 

Buttock Lifts

A buttock lift, or gluteoplasty, is a surgical procedure aimed at providing a firmer and more youthful look to the lower body by removing excess skin and fat. Unlike a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), which focuses on adding volume through fat transfer, a buttock lift is designed to address sagging or loose skin, typically caused by aging, weight loss, or genetics.

During the butt lift procedure, incisions are made along the top of the buttocks or in the lower back area t remove the excess skin and fat. The remaining skin is then tightened and repositioned to create a smoother, more lifted appearance. 

Non-Surgical Buttock Fillers

Non-surgical buttock fillers are alternative treatments designed to enhance the shape and volume of the buttocks without the need for invasive surgery. The procedure is usually performed in a cosmetic clinic or medical office as it does not require incisions or general anesthesia. 

The non-invasive procedure involves a series of injections to strategically place the filler material into the buttocks. Results are immediate, with little to no downtime, allowing patients to return to daily activities quickly. However, the effects are temporary, generally lasting from 6 to 18 months depending on the type of filler used. 

Commonly used fillers are FDA-approved dermal fillers made of poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) and calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse), which are injected directly into the buttocks to create a fuller, more contoured appearance.

Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) carry several surgical risks, which patients should be aware of before undergoing the procedure. These risks and complications include but are not limited to:

• Infection: Every surgical procedure comes with a risk of infection, which can delay healing and impact the outcome. Following proper post-operative care and maintaining good hygiene are crucial to reducing this risk.

• Fat Embolism: A serious risk linked to BBLs is fat embolism, where fat cells enter the bloodstream and can travel to the lungs or other organs, leading to potentially life-threatening complications.

• Asymmetry or Uneven Results: Variations in fat absorption or placement can lead to asymmetrical or uneven results, which might require corrective procedures.

• Scarring: Even small incisions carry risks of scarring, especially if proper care is not taken during the healing process.

• Seroma or Hematoma: Accumulation of fluid (seroma) or blood (hematoma) under the skin can occur, requiring additional medical intervention to drain the fluid and reduce swelling.

• Poor Fat Graft Survival: Some of the transferred fat may not survive, potentially leading to less dramatic results or the need for additional procedures.

• Complications from Anesthesia: Risks related to general anesthesia include allergic reactions, respiratory issues, or cardiovascular complications.

Patients should discuss these risks with their surgeon, and follow all pre- and post-operative care instructions and follow-up appointments to minimize risks and complications.

Colombia is an ideal destination for medical tourists due to its high standard of healthcare along with rich cultural diversity, stunning natural landscapes, and welcoming locals. 

The country offers a variety of interesting experiences, from the bustling, historic cities of Bogotá and Cartagena to the lush Amazon rainforest and the scenic snow-capped peaks of the Andes mountains. Colombia’s Caribbean and Pacific coastlines provide tranquil beaches and opportunities for water activities before your surgery or beachfront post-op recovery.

The country is also renowned for its lively culture, including dance, music, and festivals like the Carnival of Barranquilla. Visitors can explore Colombia's colonial architecture, take a stroll through the coffee plantations in the famous Coffee Triangle, or discover ancient archaeological sites such as Ciudad Perdida.

Additionally, Colombia has a growing reputation for its safety improvements, making it more accessible and attractive to international travelers. With its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture, Colombia offers a unique and memorable travel experience for every visitor.

Flights to Colombia

The most common and convenient option to Colombia is by air. Direct flights are available from major cities such as Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Houston, and Toronto to Colombia's major airports, including El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá, José María Córdova International Airport in Medellín, and Rafael Núñez International Airport in Cartagena. 

Flight times can range from three to seven hours, depending on the departure city.

Several airlines, including American Airlines, Air Canada, JetBlue, Avianca, and United Airlines, operate regular flights to Colombia. Upon arrival, travelers can use taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber, or public transport to reach their final destination within the country.

Visa Requirements

To enter Colombia, US, Canadian, and UK citizens need to have a valid passport, and a visa is not required for short stays of up to 90 days. However, always check for the latest entry requirements before you arrange your flights.

> US citizens can check the latest entry requirements here.

Q1: How much is a BBL in Colombia?

The price ranges from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on a few factors such as the doctor’s experience and the complexity of your case. 

Q2: Is it safe to get a Brazilian butt lift in Colombia?

We only list surgeons who are board-certified and highly qualified to perform BBL procedures to help ensure patients receive safe and high-standard medical care. 

Q3: Do BBL surgeons in Colombia speak English?

All our partner surgeons are fluent in English as many of them have completed parts of their medical training or fellowships in the US or Europe. 

Q4: How long will the result of the BBL last?

The results can last for several years and even over a decade without needing follow-up treatments. However, as your body naturally changes with age, these results may gradually be affected. 

Q5: Is it safe to travel to Colombia?

Traveling in Colombia is generally safe, especially in popular tourist destinations like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Due to the government’s efforts to reduce crime, these cities have seen significant improvements in safety from increased security measures. 

Q6: When is the best time to get a BBL in Colombia?

The best time to visit Colombia depends on the region but generally, the dry seasons are the most favorable–December to March and July to August—are ideal for most travelers.

Take a look through our list of best BBL surgeons in Colombia; compare prices and check out the before and after photos. You can book an appointment directly through our site, free of charge, or contact us. 

The Medical Departures Customer Care Team is available 24/7 to provide assistance and any additional information about undergoing a BBL in Colombia – or any other type of plastic surgery that our wide network of partner doctors across the region may offer.

Sources:

What Is a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)? WebMD. Website accessed: 9 September 2024. https://www.webmd.com/beauty/what-is-a-brazilian-butt-lift

International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS). Website accessed: 9 September 2024. https://www.isaps.org/

20 Best Places to Visit in Colombia, According to Locals and Experts. Travel + Leisure. Website accessed: 8 September 2024. https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-places-to-visit-in-colombia-8553598

Colombia International Travel Information. U.S. Department of State. Website accessed: 9 September 2024. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Colombia.html

The Economic Impact of Medical Tourism on Colombia’s GDP. MDE Care. Accessed: 12 July 2024.

Güzey S, Ergan Şahin A. Brazilian Butt Lift: An Experience Over 3000 Patients. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Journal. Published: July 2024. doi: 10.1007/s00266-024-03965-8.

Chia CT, Theodorou SJ, Dayan E, Tabbal G, Del Vecchio D. "Brazilian Butt Lift" under Local Anesthesia: A Novel Technique Addressing Safety Concerns. Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Journal. 2018 Dec. doi: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000005067.

Brazilian Butt Lift: Overview. Cleveland Clinic. Website accessed: 8 September 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/23308-brazilian-butt-lift

Buttock lift: Overview. Mayo Clinic. Website accessed: 10 September 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/buttock-lift/about/pac-20393277

Nonsurgical Butt Lift. Cleveland Clinic. Website accessed: 9 September 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/non-surgical-butt-lift