Medellín at night
International patients
Plastic surgery in Medellín, Colombia, for international patients
Medellín is one of the leading medical tourism destinations in Latin America. Patients mainly from the United States, Canada and Europe travel here for body contouring and breast surgery.
The city offers a mild climate all year, modern clinics and neighborhoods such as El Poblado and Laureles, close to where most patients stay during their recovery.
foreign patients arrive in Medellín each year for health services and aesthetic procedures (Portafolio, 2025).
About the surgeon
Dr. Jonathan Masson
Plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgeon
“I am convinced that every surgery should be designed for the person who lives it. That is why my work brings together surgical precision, aesthetic judgment and an honest assessment before any decision.”
I am a physician from Universidad Libre de Barranquilla, Colombia, and a specialist in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, certified by the School of Medicine of the University of Buenos Aires and the Medical Board of the Province of Buenos Aires (Argentina). I have practiced as a plastic surgeon in Medellín since 2023, when Colombia’s Ministry of National Education validated my degree (Resolution 006009).
I believe trust is the first step toward a good result, and it is built in both directions. I commit to being clear with you at all times, and I ask the same of you: to share your health history, medications and habits honestly. That honesty allows me to truly take care of you and make the best decisions for your safety.
My approach begins with an individual consultation, because every person arrives with different expectations, needs and characteristics. That is why I make it a priority to listen carefully, carry out a complete medical assessment of your case, give you clear information and support you through every decision responsibly and safely.
- Physician (MD) · Universidad Libre de Barranquilla, Colombia
- Specialist in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery · University of Buenos Aires (UBA), Argentina
- Specialist Certificate in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery · Ministry of Health of Argentina
- Degree validated in Colombia · Ministry of National Education (Res. 006009 of 2023)
- Licensed medical practice · Antioquia Health Department, Medellín
Why Dr. Jonathan Masson
What you can check before you travel
Verifiable credentials
Specialist in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, certified by the University of Buenos Aires. Degree validated in Colombia and registered in ReTHUS, the official registry of health professionals.
Licensed operating rooms
Surgery at AC Quirófanos and Quirófanos 2Sur in Medellín, facilities listed in the Ministry of Health registry (REPS).
Experience with patients from abroad
Dr. Masson has operated on patients who traveled from other countries. Some of them share their experience in the videos below.
Language
Care is in Spanish, with an interpreter and translation technology so you understand every step of your process.
Step by step
Your process, from the first message to your flight home
- 01
Virtual consultation
Every process starts with a video call. Dr. Masson reviews your medical history, photos and goals, and tells you if surgery is right for you before you buy any flights.
- 02
Planning your trip
We tell you which tests to do and how many days to plan for your procedure. For surgeries under three hours, arrive at least three days before; for longer surgeries, at least five days before.
- 03
In-person consultation and surgery
In Medellín you have your in-person consultation with Dr. Masson. Surgery takes place at AC Quirófanos or Quirófanos 2Sur.
- 04
Recovery in Medellín
You recover in the city, with in-person check-ups while you are here. We guide you in choosing where to stay and help you find a trusted nurse if you need one.
- 05
Back home
Dr. Masson tells you when it is safe to fly. After you return, follow-up continues virtually.
Planning your stay
How long to stay and when to fly
Approximate ranges by procedure. Dr. Masson defines your exact dates in your consultation.
| Procedure | Recommended stay | Flying home |
|---|---|---|
| Liposculpture | 15 days or more | From day 5 to 7 |
| Breast augmentation or lift | 15 days or more | From day 5 to 7 |
| Tummy tuck | About 2 weeks | From day 7 to 10 |
| Lipoabdominoplasty or combined surgery | More than 3 weeks | As indicated by Dr. Masson |
| Gluteal fat transfer | 2 to 3 weeks | As indicated, with special care when sitting |
| Eyelid surgery | About 1 week | From day 7 to 10 |
Orientative ranges based on the travel guidance of international plastic surgery societies. They are not a fixed rule: your health and the extent of your surgery come first.
Planning your budget
What to include in your budget
We do not publish prices on the website: each plan is defined after your consultation. These are the items to consider when you plan your trip.
Surgeon’s fee, anesthesia and operating room. Your quote is given after the virtual consultation.
Lab work and the tests indicated for your case.
Garment or surgical bra for your recovery.
Recovery house, hotel or apartment, paid directly to each provider.
Optional, especially for the first days if you do not stay in a recovery house.
Your flights, and rides by app such as Uber or DiDi.
Lodging and meals for the person traveling with you.
Ask every question about costs during your virtual consultation, before buying flights.
Where you stay
Lodging and support during your recovery
We help you choose
We guide you according to your needs and budget, from a recovery house with nursing to a hotel or apartment near the clinic. Lodging is booked and paid directly with each provider.
- Recovery houses with nursing and meals
- Hotels in El Poblado and Laureles
- Furnished apartments for you and your companion
Nursing and getting around
If you stay in a hotel or apartment, our team helps you find a trusted nurse for the first days.
Most patients get around with ride apps such as Uber or DiDi. Let us know when you arrive at each appointment and we stay in touch throughout your stay.
Medellín
The city for you and your companion
Ideas for the days before surgery or for the person traveling with you.
Graffiti tour and outdoor escalators, a symbol of the city’s transformation.
Cable car ride over the city to a forest reserve.
Downtown square with Fernando Botero’s sculptures.
Replica of a traditional Antioquian village with views of the city.
Green space next to Parque Explora and the planetarium.
Cafés, restaurants and the area where many patients stay.
After surgery your trip is about recovery: no sun, pools or alcohol until Dr. Masson allows it. Plan tourism for the days before your surgery or for your companion.
Videos
Why patients travel to Medellín
Frequently asked questions
Before you travel
Do I need to speak Spanish?
No. Care is in Spanish, with an interpreter and translation technology during your process.
How do I verify my surgeon?
In ReTHUS, Colombia’s official registry, search with first name Yonathan and first surname Masson: he appears with the Plastic Surgery specialty. In REPS, search for registration DHSS0590938.
Is the first consultation virtual?
Yes. It is always first by video call. The in-person consultation takes place in Medellín before surgery.
Where do I stay during recovery?
In Medellín, wherever suits you best: a recovery house, a hotel or an apartment. We guide you in choosing and help you organize nursing support if you need it.
Can someone travel with me?
Yes, and it is recommended, especially for the first days after surgery.
Should I decide quickly?
No. Take your time after the virtual consultation and ask every question you have before booking flights.
Remember. This information is general. It does not replace a medical consultation: each case is evaluated individually.
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