Why This Article Exists
Not everyone is a good candidate for surgery abroad. A responsible site should tell you when NOT to proceed—not just sell you on the benefits. If any of the following applies to you, pause and reconsider.
Plastic surgery in Medellín offers excellent outcomes for the right candidates. But traveling abroad for surgery adds complexity—and certain conditions make it inadvisable or outright dangerous. Here's the honest assessment.
What This Guide Covers
Medical Contraindications
BMI Requirements
BMI matters for surgical safety. Higher BMI increases risks of DVT, pulmonary embolism, wound complications, infection, and anesthesia issues.
| BMI Range | Status |
|---|---|
| Under 30 | ✓ Preferred by most surgeons |
| 30-35 | ⚠️ Some surgeons will operate with clearance |
| 35-40 | ⚠️ Limited surgeons, increased risk |
| Over 40 | ✗ Most surgeons won't operate |
Medical Conditions That Increase Risk
Conditions That May Disqualify You
- • Uncontrolled diabetes – Healing and infection issues
- • Heart conditions – Increased anesthesia risk
- • Uncontrolled high blood pressure – Bleeding risk
- • Blood clotting disorders – DVT/PE risk
- • Immunocompromised conditions – Infection risk
- • Sleep apnea – Anesthesia complications
- • Severe anemia – Blood loss concerns
- • Liver or kidney disease – Medication processing
- • Active infections – Surgery must be postponed
- • Pregnancy – Absolute contraindication
If you have any of these conditions, consult with your primary care doctor first. Some can be managed to the point where surgery becomes safe—but that's a conversation with your medical team, not a decision to make on your own.
Smoking & Nicotine
This is a Hard Stop
Smoking isn't a minor concern—it's a major surgical risk factor. Most surgeons require complete cessation for 4-6 weeks before AND after surgery. This includes cigarettes, vaping, nicotine gum, and patches.
Why surgeons take this seriously:
- Smokers have 2.3x more complications overall
- 3.3x higher infection risk
- Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reducing oxygen to healing tissues
- Can cause tissue necrosis (tissue death)—especially concerning for facelifts, tummy tucks, and breast lifts
- Poor scarring and wound separation
They Will Test You
Many surgeons perform a nicotine blood test before operating. If nicotine is detected, surgery will be postponed. Don't try to game this—the consequences are your health.
Psychological Factors
Mental readiness matters as much as physical readiness. Plastic surgery won't fix:
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
If you're obsessed with perceived flaws that others don't see, surgery likely won't bring satisfaction. People with BDD often remain unhappy after procedures—or become fixated on new "problems." Consider therapy with a specialist first.
Unrealistic Expectations
Surgery can improve, but it can't create perfection. If you're expecting to look like a specific celebrity or achieve flawless results, you'll likely be disappointed. Realistic expectations are essential for satisfaction.
External Pressure
Getting surgery for someone else—a partner, family member, or social pressure—is a recipe for regret. This decision should be entirely yours.
Recent Major Life Stress
Divorce, job loss, death of a loved one—major stressors affect your judgment and your body's ability to heal. Surgery isn't a coping mechanism. Give yourself time to stabilize first.
Untreated Depression/Anxiety
Surgery won't cure depression. If you're struggling with mental health, address that first. Some surgeons require psychiatrist clearance for patients with history of mental health issues.
Financial Red Flags
Surgery abroad is more affordable than the US, but it's not free. If any of these apply, wait until your finances are stable:
Don't Go If...
- ❌ You can't afford surgery without extreme financial strain
- ❌ You have no budget for unexpected complications
- ❌ You can't afford adequate time off work
- ❌ You're skipping travel insurance to save money
- ❌ You're seeking "cheap" surgery that compromises safety
- ❌ You're going into high-interest debt for the procedure
Complications are rare, but they happen. Extended stays, revision procedures, additional treatments—you need financial buffer for the unexpected. And if you're choosing the cheapest surgeon you can find, you're prioritizing cost over safety.
Logistical Deal-Breakers
Can't Stay Minimum 10-14 Days
If your schedule doesn't allow adequate recovery time in Medellín before flying, don't go. Flying too early is dangerous. BBL patients need 2-3 weeks minimum.
No Support System for Recovery
If you're not booking a recovery house and have no plan for post-operative care, you're not prepared. Solo travel is possible with proper support—but "winging it" is not a plan.
Can't Arrange Follow-Up Care at Home
You'll need a doctor at home for ongoing care after you return. If you can't arrange this, you're not ready.
Significant Pre-Existing Travel Anxiety
If international travel causes you severe anxiety, adding major surgery to the equation isn't wise. Address the anxiety first, or consider surgery domestically.
The Bottom Line
If you recognize yourself in any of these categories, it doesn't necessarily mean "never"—it might mean "not yet." Address the underlying issues first:
- • High BMI? Work on weight loss first.
- • Smoking? Quit for at least 6 weeks.
- • Medical conditions? Get them controlled.
- • Financial strain? Save more buffer.
- • Mental health concerns? Address them with a professional.
A good surgeon will tell you no if you're not a candidate. That's a sign they prioritize your safety over making money. Listen to them.