Last fact-checked: 12 April 2024

Are you looking for an affordable world-class hospital to undergo cosmetic surgery? Join millions of other medical tourists who’ve had their procedures done in Mexico City by highly qualified surgeons and save up to 70% of the cost in the US and Canada.

Mexico City has been at the forefront of medical tourism for decades. Other than the close proximity to the US, the primary motivation for cross-border treatment is the low cost of medical care - relative to the skyrocketing costs of health care in the US. Make your dollar go further by visiting one of Medical Departure’s board-certified plastic surgeons in Mexico City who provides high-quality care for up to 70% less than clinics and hospitals back home.

Medical tourism is one of the most popular ways to save on medical expenses while getting to see more of the world. International patients to Mexico City will get to experience a uniquely rich cultural blend of ancient indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial influence while enjoying a relaxing vacation or post-surgery recovery. The best hospitals and clinics for cosmetic and plastic surgeries are located in Mexico City as well as Cancun, Tijuana, and Guadalajara.

Mexico City is an excellent option for those looking to have medical treatments such as plastic surgery for the face or body, bariatric surgery for weight loss, or fertility treatments. Keep reading to discover why Mexico City is one of the premier destinations for cosmetic procedures and find out about big discounts, travel tips, and more.

Our partner clinics in Mexico City provide cost savings between 50% and 70% compared to prices in the United States and Canada. 

See how much you can save when getting a cosmetic treatment done in Mexico City with these average price comparisons:

Note: All of the above prices are based on average estimates at the time of writing. Any currency conversions are subject to exchange rate fluctuation.

Cosmetic surgery is no longer just for the elite - with a little bit of savings, you too can get the face and body you’ve longed for. Look your best and improve your confidence by heading down to Mexico City and you’ll see why it is one of the leading cosmetic surgery destinations for Americans, Canadians and medical tourists from around the world. 

Thanks to the combination of more personalized high-standard medical care and low costs that year after year - continue to attract so many patients to Mexico City. Unlike back home, one of the best things about being a medical tourist is the freedom to choose which hospital or clinic you want to get treated; and for some patients, traveling abroad for medical reasons is not just a money saver but a way to receive faster treatment or get a treatment that is not available back home.

You can choose from our list of many partner clinics that are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities comparable to American hospitals (sometimes even better) and are staffed with highly experienced surgeons who have stellar reputations. 

Popular cosmetic treatments in Mexico include:

Plastic Surgery for the Face and Body

-Facelift: it is considered to be the most effective way to achieve a youthful appearance by pulling the skin on each side of the face after removing excess skin and tissues underneath. It can correct problems such as jowls, double chins and sagging skin.

-Forehead Lift: also known as a brow lift which involves raising the soft tissue and skin to reduce forehead wrinkles, frown lines and raises sagging eyebrows. This procedure restores a youthful contour to the forehead improving the appearance of the eyes and brows area.

-Neck Lift: this treatment helps remove neck fat and sagging skin to create a firmer and more defined neck and chin. It is often done as part of a face-lift procedure. 

-Rhinoplasty: known simply as a nose job, this surgery is performed to reshape the nose. This surgery can involve changes to bridge the nose as well as cartilage at the tip of the nose. For most patients, it’s for aesthetic reasons - however, few patients undergo rhinoplasty to improve their breathing.

-Arm Lift: involves removing the sagging skin, fat and tissues between the elbow and the underarm for a more sleek and sculpted shape.

-Body Lift: this is to help improve loose and sagging skin that hangs around after a substantial weight loss. A body lift typically targets areas such as the abdomen, waist, buttocks, hips and thighs in one procedure by removing excess skin, fat and tissues.

-Tummy Tuck: also known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess fat and skin to restore weakened muscles and create a flatter, smoother and firmer abdominal profile. A tummy tuck procedure may be combined with liposuction.

-Mommy Makeover:  is a procedure to restore the shape of a woman's body after childbirth which targets a number of issues like loose skin, excess fat and deflated breasts. The tailor-made procedures typically involve a combination of a tummy tuck, breast lift and liposuction - for the convenience of having one recovery period.

-Liposuction: is a procedure that removes excessive fat accumulated in specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, face, neck, upper arms, buttocks, hips, legs and thighs. It is usually done in combination with other procedures.

Bariatric Surgery

-Gastric Band: is a weight loss surgery that uses an adjustable tube implanted in the upper portion of the stomach to reduce its size without permanently dividing it; This restricts the amount of food a patient can eat at a time. The gastric band has the lowest complication rate compared to other bariatric procedures and it can be easily removed when necessary. 

-Gastric Bypass: is a weight loss surgery that permanently changes the digestive system. The procedure uses surgical staples to create a small pouch at the top of the stomach. The pouch is then connected directly to the small intestine which bypasses the rest of the stomach. This allows patients to feel full with less food and absorb fewer calories. 

-Sleeve Gastrectomy: the permanent weight loss procedure involves removing most of the stomach, around 75%, leaving behind a stomach in the shape of a narrow tube or sleeve. The reduction in stomach size restricts food intake and reduces the production of the hunger hormone called ghrelin, which should lessen the desire to eat.

Fertility Treatment

-IVF: In Vitro Fertilization is an assisted reproductive treatment in which eggs are combined with sperm for fertilization in a laboratory. The process is followed by embryo implantation for conception. IVF is one of the most effective treatment options for people with infertility problems or for preventing genetic disorders.

Soaring healthcare costs in recent years have left many Americans and Canadians without proper medical care. The surge has been exacerbated following a sharp rise in spending from the pandemic, and there’s still no end in sight. For this reason, Mexico City is a viable solution for many patients from north of the border and from around the world.

Mexico is able to keep its healthcare costs low due to the country’s three-tier model. The system includes a basic level of care available to citizens with no income; health care provided by the Mexican social security system that is partly funded by a company and their employees; and of course, there is the private sector preferred by expats and medical tourists. 

The private health sector set the gold standard for high-quality care in Mexico. Utilizing the best-trained doctors and the latest technology, yet prices remain affordable for international patients - thanks to relatively lower wages and cost of living that allow Mexico to offer surgeries at much lower rates than the US while retaining high-quality standards.

Other reasons to choose Mexico City for Your Next Treatment:

Highly Skilled Doctors

Medical professionals at our partner clinics in Mexico City are highly experienced and qualified. Plastic surgeons are board certified by the Mexican Board of Plastic Surgery (CBPM). This board ensures that the doctor has graduated from an accredited institution and has completed the required training as a resident surgeon in an accredited program organized by the Accreditation Council for Medical Education. Moreover, our doctors also have a current medical license from the Secretariat of Health (SSA), which is the department overseeing all health services in Mexico. 

Additionally, most plastic surgeons have completed part of their training in the US, Canada or Europe and some are American board-certified; therefore, most surgeons are able to speak English in addition to Spanish. With the expansion of the private sector catering to international patients, many hospitals are tailoring their services by offering a wider variety of advanced medical specialties to meet the demand of the medical tourism market.

Location

The close proximity to the United States and Canada makes this bustling city an easy and convenient destination. The best way to get there is to fly to Mexico City Airport (MEX), which is reachable from almost all major airports around the world, with non-stop flights including 100 destinations from 25 countries. A direct flight from Los Angeles International Airport takes just under 4 hours, around 5 hours from Toronto - and 5 hours 30 minutes from New York.

Short Waiting Times

Due to a well-run private healthcare system with less bureaucracy, waiting times in Mexico are quick and sometimes non-existent. International patients in Mexico are offered comprehensive personalized care, with their own private room and one-on-one interaction with their doctor. Our partner Hospitals and clinics are equipped with up-to-date technology and well-staffed with medical personnel who are ready to attend to all types of medical tourists. 

Combined Treatment With a Holiday

Emerged from an ancient foundation and transformed into a Megalopolis, Mexico City is the perfect place to combine medical treatment with some unique cultural heritage. Perhaps before your treatment, there’s time to stroll around because the city is home to more than 150 museums that offer exhibitions for almost every interest - that’s currently more than any other city in the world!  Visit one of the best boroughs, Coyoacán, known for its beautiful cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Then, take a ride on the colorful rajinera boat through the canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO heritage site, Anywhere you visit, you’ll come away with a memorable and unique experience along with new knowledge of Aztec history. 

Get a million-dollar service for only a few thousand bucks. Here are Mexico City’s first-rate medical centers we partner with and highly recommend:

Plastic Surgery Clinics

• Dr. Xavier Sanchez Garcia
• Dr. David de Rungs - Plastic Surgery

Bariatric Surgery Clinics

• Dr.Itzel Fernandez
• Dr. Ismael Jonathan Vázquez Bailón
• Dr. Diego Lozano

Other Top Destinations in Mexico for Medical Care

Medical Departures has a large network of verified clinics across Mexico. Take a look at other top destinations for cosmetic procedures.

Tijuana

Conveniently located just south of the US-Mexico border, Tijuana offers a wide range of options for cosmetic procedures. Patients close to the border can save on travel costs by driving, park the car on the US side, then walk across to catch a bus or just take a 20-minute walk into Tijuana. Many clinics may offer transportation as a part of the treatment package.

Cancun

Cancun is another hugely popular destination for medical tourists from around the world. It is the perfect place to combine medical treatment with beachside recovery. Cancun has a large number of first-class clinics that cater to international tourists offering a wide variety of advanced medical specialties. 

Guadalajara 

Guadalajara is the second largest city in Mexico and home to some of the country’s best hospitals. Due to a large number of qualified medical experts, Guadalajara has turned into one of the top medical tourism destinations in recent years. Patients can easily catch a flight to its international airport just 25 minutes outside the city center. It is the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila - and home to an inspirational collection of Neoclassical architectural wonders. 

Medical tourism is on the rise but not all private clinics catering to tourists are up to international standards. Become an educated and informed patient by booking with Medical Departures. Don’t fall victim to substandard or unethical medical institutions that are cutting corners and looking to make a quick buck - these places don’t make it on our list. 

With a strict verification process, every clinic must pass a series of vigorous background checks before it's listed on our site. We also look at patient reviews, verify surgeon’s qualifications, and carry out investigations into any legal proceedings or complaints against the clinic. 

Undergoing surgery anywhere in the world involves risks. Some people may have heard stories about botched plastic surgeries in unsanitary clinics in Mexico; however, the truth is - this type of clinic can be found anywhere in the world. For those who have never been to a private clinic in Mexico or have had a frightful experience, surgery in Mexico is safe and effective when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon at an accredited medical institution. 

However, in the rare case that something were to go wrong and there is a problem related to your procedure or treatment, Medical Departures is here for you and will step in to help you get a resolution.

You may wish to consider getting travel insurance in case of medical complications, which covers additional travel and accommodation charges in case you have to stay longer than expected or are required to return to your clinic.  

How Long Will I Need to Stay in Mexico City?

Patients will need to discuss the length of their stay with their medical provider to check what level of activity to expect after the surgery is complete. A minor surgery may only require a day or two of rest - but following a major surgery, the patient will be restricted to the confines of the hotel room for several days.  

Most Americans will not experience culture shock when visiting Mexico. However, travelers still need to do some research before going to another country. Below are some helpful travel tips to help you prepare for your exciting, and perhaps, life-changing journey.

Visa Requirements 

Citizens and residents of the U.S. or Canada can stay up to 180 days without a visa, simply bring a passport. Patients from other Western countries may not need to apply for a visa but do check online here: current visa requirement for Mexico. 

Transport in Mexico City

The Mexico City Metro train is a clean and efficient way to get around town - and to most tourist attractions in the city. The first two cars of each train are reserved for women and children only. It does get very crowded during rush hours and suitcases are never permitted on the train.

Mexico City's Metrobús is another cheap and super crowded way to get around. Passengers will need to purchase a smartcard available at all Metro stations vending machines. Women-only buses are also available; to get on one, just wait at the designated platform. For a spectacular three-hour sightseeing city tour, check out the red double-decker bus called Turibus. 

Taxi or Uber provide the safest and most convenient way to move about the city. Most restaurants and hotels can call an official car for you, or wait at the designated Sitio stands located around town. Flagging one down the street is not advised. 

Accommodations

Plenty of accommodation options are available in Mexico City. You can find familiar hotel chains throughout the city such as The luxurious Four Seasons, JW Mariott, and St. Regis; or mid-range hotels like Holiday Inn, Best Western, Hotel Catedral, and Hampton Inn & Suites Mexico City. Many reasonable options are also available on Airbnb.

For a more Mexican experience, consider booking into a local boutique hotel. Their prices vary, but this option will give you more of a traditional feel. Read here for more information on accommodations. 

Things To Do

Mexico City is one of the most bustling cities in the world, but there are some interesting neighborhoods popular with tourists and expats. We recommend these activities before undergoing your surgery. 

Discover Mexico City’s multicultural history by visiting the city’s historic center, Centro Histórico, where colonial architecture meets indigenous ruins. Check out Roma and Condesa - try some of their trendy restaurants, bars and shops, as well as pop-up weekend markets. Take a stroll at Parque Lincoln in Planco and experience the more relaxed city life, afterward, enjoy fine dining at one of Palanco’s swanky restaurants. 

Read here: for more things to do and see in Mexico City.

Look below for easy ways to contact us. Browse through our list of treatments and clinics, or contact our Customer Care Team (free of charge) to obtain a no-obligation quote for treatment at your chosen clinic or to book an appointment. 

FAQ

What Payment Methods Are Accepted in Mexico City?

Most facilities in Mexico accept credit/debit card payments, personal or traveler’s checks, and US dollars. If paying by a credit card, you may be charged a 3-4% processing fee. We recommend that you confirm the accepted payment method with your clinic before going abroad.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Mexico City?

You can undergo treatment in Mexico City all year round, but the most popular time tends to be in the cooler winter months between December and February. This is peak season so if you’re planning to visit around this time, it is advisable to book your accommodation and treatment well in advance.

Sources

Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons in Mexico. Web accessed 10 July 2023. https://www.theaestheticsociety.org/consumers/find-a-plastic-surgeon/MX

Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Web accessed 10 July 2023.https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/412/

Mexico Visa Requirements. Web accessed 10 July 2023. https://www.mexicocity.com/v/visa-requirements/

Where to Stay in Mexico City? Web accessed 10 July 2023.https://mexicodave.com/best-places-mexico-city

Best things to do in Mexico City. Web accessed 10 July 2023. https://www.timeout.com/mexico-city/things-to-do/best-things-to-do-in-mexico-city