Medellin and Cali have positioned themselves as two of the leading destinations for plastic surgery in Colombia, alongside cities such as Bogota and Cartagena, amid the steady growth of aesthetic medical tourism. Their combination of specialized clinics, certified surgeons, infrastructure for international patients, and competitive costs has turned both cities into true hubs for those seeking cosmetic procedures with high medical standards.
Colombia, in fact, remains one of the global benchmarks in this field. More than 485,000 aesthetic procedures are performed in the country each year, and around 30% of patients come from abroad, mainly from the United States, Spain, and Canada.
Costs, which can be 65% to 75% lower than in those countries, add to the strong reputation of Colombian specialists. Currently, the country has more than 650 plastic surgeons certified by the Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery (SCCP), supporting the quality and safety of its medical services.
Medellin: medical innovation and technology at the service of aesthetic surgery in Colombia
Medellin has built an image closely linked to medical and technological innovation. The city is home to accredited clinics that work with advanced techniques and protocols specifically designed to serve international patients. Beyond the surgical component, the experience is complemented by services such as recovery-focused hotels, private transportation, and bilingual support, making it easier for those who travel solely for surgery.
Among the most requested procedures in Medellin are liposuction or body contouring — considered the most in-demand cosmetic surgery — breast augmentation with more natural and proportionate results, and various facial surgeries. Rhinoplasty stands out, gaining prominence in 2025 thanks to ultrasonic techniques that offer greater precision and shorter recovery times. Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is also highly sought after, especially by patients over 40 interested in facial rejuvenation.
Cali: comprehensive packages and a tourism experience
Cali has strengthened its profile as an aesthetic medical tourism destination through its comprehensive care model. Several clinics offer packages that include surgery, accommodation in partner hotels, post-operative check-ups, and, in some cases, private cultural experiences. This integration of medicine and tourism has become one of the biggest attractions for international patients.
The city is particularly recognized for the high demand for body procedures such as the BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) and abdominoplasty, a procedure frequently requested by women after pregnancies or significant weight loss.
Facial rejuvenation treatments and minimally invasive procedures are also very popular, as they allow for faster recovery. Added to this is Cali’s cultural appeal, known for its music, cuisine, and warm climate — factors that influence many international patients’ decisions.
Plastic surgery trends
Nationwide, the most performed plastic surgeries in 2025 were liposuction, breast augmentation, abdominoplasty, rhinoplasty, and blepharoplasty. Trends have shifted toward more natural-looking results, harmonious proportions, and greater surgical safety, moving away from the exaggerated aesthetics seen in previous years.
However, specialists stress that the sector’s growth must go hand in hand with risk prevention. They recommend verifying that the surgeon is certified by SCCP, choosing clinics with international safety standards, and avoiding informal offers or packages without professional backing. Although prices are lower than in North America or Europe, decisions should not be based solely on cost, but on medical quality.