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Cosmetic surgery is booming in the US, with an estimated 800,000 Americans undergoing a procedure in 2006.
However, with the costs of surgery rising, they are looking overseas for alternatives ; and one place that has become increasingly popular is Costa Rica. Known as the "Beverly Hills of Latin America", Costa Rica is attracting thousands of overseas visitors for surgery. Indeed its estimated that 14% of visitors are there for a dental or medical procedure.
Medical tourism expert Richard Feldman said, “You can save up to 75% off U.S. prices for most procedures."
A gastric bypass in Costa Rica costs $10,000, while it is between $35,000 to $45,000 in the U.S. A breast augmentation is $3,000 compared to $7,000 to $10,000 in the U.S. Getting a face-lift in Costa Rica costs just $4,700 but costs up to $15,000 in the U.S.
There are even packaged deals for $2,000 more that includes airfare and a stay at a five-star hotel staffed by nurses.
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