Last updated: 10/20/2025

Buccal Fat Extraction in Mexico — get 3 top clinic matches with costs

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How Much Does Buccal Fat Extraction Cost in Mexico?

The cost of buccal fat extraction in Mexico typically ranges from $500 to $900. Prices vary depending on the clinic, the surgeon’s experience, and whether the procedure is combined with other facial surgeries. In the United States, the average cost is $6,000 (per ASPS), making buccal fat removal in Mexico about 88% less than in the U.S.

Mexican clinics usually include the initial consultation, pre-operative evaluation, post-op medication, follow-up visits, and 24/7 patient support. You’ll also get care from English-speaking staff and a personalized treatment plan. In the U.S., the listed price often covers only the surgeon’s fee, with anesthesia, facility, and follow-ups billed separately. Always confirm exactly what’s included with each clinic.

Key Benefits
Buccal Fat Extraction in Mexico offers significant cost savings compared to the US, with prices ranging from $500 to $880. This cosmetic procedure, aimed at reducing cheek fullness for a more contoured facial appearance, is significantly more affordable than US prices, where costs can be up to 87.5% higher. Mexico is a popular destination for medical tourism, particularly in cities like Tijuana and Cancun. Clinics utilize advanced techniques and adhere to high standards of care, ensuring quality results. It's crucial to research and choose experienced professionals to ensure safety and satisfactory outcomes.
The price research is based on updated and verified costs from the Bookimed partner clinics.
Authored by Anna Leonova
Head of Content Marketing Team

What factors influence the cost?

The cost of buccal fat extraction in Mexico ranges from $500 to $880 USD and is influenced by surgeon credentials, facility accreditation, geographic location, and procedure complexity. According to ISAPS 2024 data, highly experienced board-certified surgeons command premium fees, while operating room costs average $300 per minute in Mexico.

Surgeon expertise significantly impacts pricing, with leading specialists like Dr. Karla Sandoval (ISAPS member) at Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic and Dr. Jose Cortes at José Cortés Institute offering premium services. Geographic location also affects costs, with major cities like Mexico City and Cancún typically charging more than smaller cities, while all top-rated clinics maintain 5-star ratings across the price spectrum.

Facility accreditation and anesthesia type create additional cost variations, with JCI-accredited facilities charging higher fees for enhanced safety standards. COFEPRIS, Mexico's WHO Level IV-certified regulatory authority, oversees facility standards that influence pricing structures. Among 146 clinics offering the procedure, patient demand remains high with 32,266 requests served through Bookimed, indicating consistent market pricing across quality providers.

Patients should verify surgeon board certification and facility accreditation status, as these credentials directly correlate with both safety standards and cost structures in Mexico's competitive medical tourism market.

What is typically included in the price?

Buccal fat extraction pricing in Mexico typically includes the surgeon's fee, basic facility costs, and anesthesia as core components. According to Bookimed data, the procedure costs $500–$880 across 146 verified clinics, with over 32,266 patient requests served nationwide.

However, many additional expenses are often excluded from the base price quoted by clinics. These commonly include pre-operative consultations, post-operative medications, follow-up visits within the first weeks, and recovery supplies like compression garments. Top-rated facilities like Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic in Guadalajara and José Cortés Institute in Mexico City provide detailed cost breakdowns during consultations. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports similar pricing structures, with surgeon fees averaging $3,142 in the US before additional facility costs.

Patient reviews from Bookimed-verified clinics emphasize the importance of staying under medical supervision for at least 3 days post-surgery, which may involve additional accommodation costs. Leading surgeons like Dr. Jose Cortes and Dr. Karla Sandoval provide comprehensive care packages that include follow-up monitoring. Always request a detailed cost breakdown that covers all potential expenses before proceeding with treatment.

Is buccal fat removal a permanent procedure?

Yes, buccal fat removal is a permanent procedure. Once the buccal fat pads are surgically removed, they do not regenerate or grow back, providing long-lasting facial contouring results.

The permanence means the removed fat cells cannot return, but natural aging and weight changes can still affect your overall facial appearance over time. According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, while results are usually permanent, aging may cause facial disproportion that influences the final outcome. Recent studies show 91.8% success rates in standard cases, though 25% of patients experience minor complications like temporary swelling or jaw stiffness. In Mexico, 146 clinics offer this procedure with costs ranging from $500–$880, and over 32,000 patient requests have been processed through the country's medical tourism network.

Top-rated Mexican specialists like Dr. Jose Cortes at José Cortés Institute and Dr. Karla Sandoval at Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic maintain 5-star patient ratings and follow international safety protocols. COFEPRIS, Mexico's health regulatory authority, maintains WHO Level IV certification standards for cosmetic surgery facilities. Since the procedure cannot be easily reversed, thorough consultation with qualified surgeons is essential to ensure it aligns with your long-term aesthetic goals.

How does the cost in Mexico compare to other countries?

Buccal fat extraction in Mexico costs $500–$880, representing up to 88% savings compared to the United States where the procedure averages $3,142–$4,000. This positions Mexico as one of the most cost-effective destinations globally, with substantially lower prices than Canada ($1,500–$3,500 CAD), the UK (£1,500–£3,000), Australia ($1,500–$4,000 AUD), and South Korea ($1,200–$3,000).

Mexico's competitive pricing is supported by 146 clinics offering buccal fat extraction, with 32,266 patient requests served through Bookimed's platform. Top-rated facilities include Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic and José Cortés Institute, both maintaining 5-star ratings and featuring surgeons certified by international organizations like ISAPS. The procedure is regulated by COFEPRIS, Mexico's health authority, which maintains WHO Level IV certification standards.

However, patients should verify clinic accreditation and surgeon credentials, as systematic reviews show a 25% overall complication rate for buccal fat extraction globally, with edema and pain being most common according to recent meta-analysis. The CDC advises medical tourists to carefully evaluate facility qualifications and healthcare professional credentials before treatment.

Mexico offers the most affordable buccal fat extraction globally while maintaining regulated healthcare standards through certified facilities.

Who is a good candidate for this surgery?

Good candidates for buccal fat removal are healthy adults aged mid-20s to 40s with naturally fuller, round cheeks who maintain stable weight and have realistic expectations about achieving a more sculpted facial appearance. According to recent systematic reviews, the procedure has a 91.8% success rate in standard cases, though 25% of patients experience some complications like temporary swelling or jaw stiffness.

In Mexico, 146 clinics offer buccal fat removal with procedures ranging from $500 to $880, serving over 32,266 patient requests. Top-rated specialists include Dr. Jose Cortes at José Cortés Institute, who is accredited by ASPS and AMCPER, and Dr. Karla Sandoval at Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic, an ISAPS member. Verified patient reviews consistently rate their experience, doctor expertise, and personal care as 5 out of 5.

Ideal candidates must be non-smokers with good overall health and no uncontrolled medical conditions like diabetes or heart disease. The CDC recommends evaluating facility accreditation and healthcare professional credentials when considering cosmetic procedures abroad. Mexico's healthcare system is regulated by COFEPRIS, a WHO-certified Level IV regulatory authority that ensures international medical device and safety standards.

Candidates should have persistent cheek fullness despite weight loss and understand that recovery involves temporary swelling and dietary restrictions for optimal results.

What should be considered when choosing a Mexican clinic or surgeon?

When choosing a Mexican clinic or surgeon for buccal fat extraction, prioritize CMCPER board certification verification, facility accreditation through Joint Commission International (JCI), and understanding that recent studies show a 25% complication rate for this procedure. Mexico's 146 verified clinics have served 32,266 patient requests for buccal fat extraction, with top-rated facilities like Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic and José Cortés Institute maintaining perfect 5.0 patient ratings.

Verify your surgeon's credentials through multiple channels: confirm CMCPER certification on their official website, check their Cédula Profesional status via Mexico's government database, and look for international memberships like ISAPS. Leading surgeons such as Jose Cortes hold multiple certifications including ASPS and AMCPER membership, while Karla Sandoval maintains ISAPS certification. COFEPRIS, Mexico's WHO-certified Level IV regulatory authority, oversees medical facility compliance and safety standards.

Plan comprehensive aftercare since systematic reviews show common complications include 38.4% edema and 30.1% trismus rates. Stay in Mexico for 7–10 days post-surgery, arrange follow-up care with your home physician, and consider medical tourism insurance that covers potential complications. The CDC recommends thorough pre-procedure evaluation and warns that complications can significantly compound initial treatment costs.

Thorough research and credential verification are essential for safe buccal fat extraction in Mexico's competitive medical tourism market.

What is the recovery process like?

The recovery process for buccal fat extraction involves 5-7 days of initial healing with mild swelling and discomfort, followed by 3 weeks for complete recovery. ISAPS data shows that 38.4% of patients experience temporary swelling, while 30.09% have limited mouth opening during the first week.

Mexico's 146 clinics offering buccal fat extraction have served over 32,266 patient requests, with top-rated facilities like Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic and José Cortés Institute maintaining 5 out of 5 patient ratings. Verified patient reviews emphasize that staying under medical supervision for at least 3 days significantly improves healing outcomes. Patients report that having experienced surgeons like Dr. Karla Sandoval personally manage post-operative care accelerates the recovery process.

The procedure requires adherence to soft diet restrictions and special oral hygiene protocols since incisions are made inside the mouth. Recent systematic reviews indicate a 25% overall complication rate, with most issues being temporary and manageable through proper medical supervision. Recovery success depends heavily on choosing COFEPRIS-regulated facilities with board-certified plastic surgeons who are members of international societies.

Most patients return to normal activities within one week, with final facial contouring results visible after several months once all swelling subsides.

Are there risks associated with the surgery?

Yes, buccal fat extraction carries significant risks, with recent studies showing a 25% overall complication rate. The most common complications include edema (38.4%), trismus or jaw stiffness (30.1%), pain (19.4%), and facial asymmetry (11.7%). More serious risks include facial nerve paralysis (0.97%) and infections requiring emergency intervention (0.48%).

In Mexico, 146 clinics offer buccal fat extraction with 32,266 patient requests served. Top-rated facilities like Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic and José Cortés Institute maintain 5.0 ratings. Leading surgeons such as Dr. Karla Sandoval hold ISAPS memberships, while Dr. Jose Cortes has multiple international certifications. However, the CDC warns that medical tourism adds risks including antibiotic-resistant infections and varying facility standards.

COFEPRIS regulates Mexican aesthetic surgery facilities, requiring proper certification and infrastructure compliance. Patient reviews indicate smooth experiences with professional care, though one patient recommended staying 3 days under medical supervision for optimal recovery. Success rates vary significantly, with 91.8% success in patients with previous facial procedures versus 100% in first-time patients.

Choosing accredited clinics with experienced surgeons and following post-operative guidelines significantly reduces complication risks.

Discover the Best Buccal Fat Extraction Clinics in Mexico: 8 Verified Options and Prices

The Bookimed clinic ranking is based on data science algorithms, providing a trusted, transparent, and objective comparison. It takes into account patient demand, review scores (both positive and negative), the frequency of updates to treatment options and prices, response speed, and clinic certifications.
Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic

Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic

Mexico, Guadalajara

Karla Sandoval

13 years of experience
accreditations :
Clinic is certified :
Hospital de la Familia
José Cortés Institute

José Cortés Institute

Mexico, Mexico City

Jose Cortes

19 years of experience
accreditations :
Clinic is certified :
Riviera Institute For Plastic Surgery
Innovare Hospital

Buccal Fat Extraction in Mexico: Your Travel Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Mexico
  • You should arrive at the designated airport, such as San Diego or directly in Mexico, depending on the clinic's location.
  • Ensure you have arranged transportation with the clinic. A pre-arranged driver can pick you up from the airport.
  • Check into your accommodation. Some clinics partner with nearby hotels or suggest specific accommodations like www.restandrecover.com.
  • Relax and prepare for the upcoming pre-surgery appointments.
Day 2: Pre-Surgery Preparations
  • You need to attend scheduled pre-surgery consultations with your plastic surgeon. This may include a videoconference consultation if not done prior.
  • Complete necessary preoperative tests. Blood work may cost approximately $100 USD, and a COVID-19 PCR test can cost around $250 USD.
  • Undergo a cardiological evaluation if required, especially for patients over 45 years old, costing around $100 USD.
  • Discuss the surgical plan, including the buccal fat extraction and any additional procedures like chin liposuction or lip fillers if applicable.
  • Ensure all paperwork and payments are in order, including any deposits required for surgery scheduling.
Day 3: Surgery Day
  • You should arrive at the clinic early in the morning for your scheduled surgery.
  • The buccal fat extraction, also known as bichectomy, is performed under sedation and local anesthesia. It takes approximately 30 minutes.
  • Expect moderate inflammation post-surgery, typically lasting 5-10 days.
  • The procedure is ambulatory, meaning you can return to your accommodation the same day.
  • Receive post-operative instructions and medications. These may include antibiotics, pain meds, and anti-inflammatory medications, costing around $80 USD.
Days 4-11: Post-Surgery Recovery
  • You need to rest and follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon.
  • Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled by your clinic. Typically, a minimum stay of 10 days post-surgery is required for evaluations.
  • Utilize any included post-surgical therapies, such as ultrasound or light therapy, to aid recovery.
  • Maintain communication with the clinic for any concerns or questions. Use provided contact numbers for your medical team.
  • Avoid strenuous activities and follow dietary recommendations to support healing.
Day 12: Final Evaluation and Departure
  • Attend a final evaluation with your surgeon to assess recovery progress and address any remaining concerns.
  • Receive clearance for travel and any additional post-operative care instructions for home.
  • Arrange transportation back to the airport. Ensure you have all necessary travel documents and medical records.
  • Depart Mexico and return home. Continue to follow any post-operative care advice provided by your surgeon.

Our Doctors

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verified

Karla Sandoval

13 years of experience

Dr. Karla Sandoval is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. She specializes in rhinoplasty, BBL, blepharoplasty, and liposuction. She also has advanced skills in minimally invasive and laparoscopic surgery. Dr. Sandoval graduated from the University of Guadalajara. She completed her specialization at the Instituto de Cirugía Reconstructiva Dr. José Guerrerosantos.

Dr. Sandoval is known as one of Mexico’s top rhinoplasty and BBL surgeons. Her patients report high satisfaction rates. She works at Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic. Dr. Sandoval is a member of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) and the International Association of Plastic Surgeons.

verified

Jose Cortes

19 years of experience
  • Uses precision techniques for buccal fat extraction, ensuring minimal scarring.
  • Trained in Mexico, with advanced courses in aesthetic surgery.
  • Ranked as a top plastic surgeon by Doctoralia and Lideres Magazine.
  • Certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and AMCPER.
  • Member of International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science.

Video Stories from Bookimed Patients

Skye
Premium clinic, top-notch transfer, a sweet hotel stay. And I saved 24 grand!
Procedure: Liposuction

Reviews about Bookimed: Discover Patients' Insights

All reviews
Harrison King • Facelift
United States of America
Jun 25, 2025
Verified review.
The surgeon was good but the coordinator Carlo made too many mistakes. 1. Didn’t book continuous days at hotel. 2. As a result, I was kicked out of room the day I was in surgery. . 2. Need more after care days to remove drainage. I was abruptly kicked out of TJ while I was still feeling weak. Needed more days in Tijuana. At least 2 more. Return to America and no one wanted to remove drainage tubes. 3. The day nurse talked bad about me to everyone. The night nurse , Paulina was perfect. I would never recommend surgery in Mexico. No need to go viral with this because all of USA know this. Mexican are much better at picking fruits!
Laura Roza • Facelift
United States of America
Jul 26, 2024
Verified review.
Dr
Dr. Marraquin was amazing. He spent over an hour with me on my consultation before my surgery. Let me know absolutely everything that was going to happen. His years of training is quite obvious to anybody who is requesting his services. He answered every question I could possibly think of. Additionally, he was available through text messaging 24 hours a day. He’s response time was impressive. I was very pleased with the outcome of my facelift. I would refer him to any buddy I know.
Working with the doctor
The recovery house that was recommended to me
Melissa Hollingsworth • Facelift
United States of America
Mar 6, 2025
Verified review.
my doctor, Dr
my doctor, Dr. M was amazing. He was available by text very experienced knowledgeable. I cannot comment on the outcome as of yet. I’m only 10 days out but definitely will be back to update my review so far he has a 10 out of 10 would recommend to anyone thinking of Having surgery. I really cannot say enough about his professionalism
I liked how the doctor explained everything to me in details that I understood made sure I understood exactly what was happening as well as being realistic about how long it will take in the journey to get there. And just knowing that he and his staff were there for me at all times during my stay.
Overall, it was a very positive experience and I don’t think I have any one particular item that I did not like of course nobody likes having surgery done however they made it as comfortable as possible
About Bookimed service
Without Bookimed I could not have found Dr. M and the wonderful Rehaus that I stayed in. I give them a 10 out of 10 if I could.
Graciela suarez • Facelift
Canada
Mar 17, 2025
Verified review.
Very knowledgeable and capable in the extreme!
A wonderful Dr! Very knowledgeable and capable in the extreme! On top of this He is a pleasure to converse with . Highly recommend! It should be noted that the Dr. Is fluent in both English and Spanish which is very desirable for many.
Melva • Facelift
United States of America
Nov 14, 2022
Verified review.
The doctor was very professional and caring
A little more knowledge of what to expect after surgery and the following week. The Staff was really nice I felt like everyone tried to help us communicate with the English/Spanish language.
About Bookimed service
Yes

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Updated: 06/25/2025
Authored by
Anna Leonova
Anna Leonova
Head of Content Marketing Team
A certified medical writer with 10+ years of experience, developed Bookimed’s trusted content, backed by a Master’s in Philology and medical expert interviews worldwide.
Fahad Mawlood
Medical Editor & Data Scientist
General practitioner. Winner of 4 scientific awards. Served in Western Asia. Former Team Leader of a medical team supporting Arabic-speaking patients. Now responsible for data processing and medical content accuracy.
Fahad Mawlood Linkedin
This page may feature information relating to various medical conditions, treatments, and healthcare services available in different countries. Please be advised that the content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or guidance. Please consult with your doctor or a qualified medical professional before starting or changing medical treatment.

FAQ about Buccal Fat Extraction in Mexico

These FAQs come from real patients seeking medical assistance through Bookimed. Answers are given by experienced medical coordinators and trusted clinic representatives.

Is Mexico a good place for Buccal Fat Extraction procedure?

According to Bookimed, Mexico is a great place for Buccal Fat Extraction with several specialized clinics and experienced plastic surgeons.

  • Jose Cortes Aesthetic Clinic displays a 95-99% success rate for rhinoplasty and serves 2,500 patients annually.
  • Innovare Hospital in Guadalajara has more than 40 correlated specialists in a single complex focused on plastic surgery.
  • Riviera Institute in Mexico City is led by Dr. Nain Maldonado, listed by Forbes as the best plastic surgeon in Mexico.

Patients' reviews indicate high satisfaction with the service and attentive care provided by the medical staff, as well as the affordable prices. Medical tourists travel from the USA, Europe, Commonwealth, Canada, and Australia to receive medical care in Mexico.

How long does it take to get Buccal Fat Extraction in Mexico?

Total time for a Buccal Fat Extraction trip to Mexico will depend on the individual procedure and recovery time, but typically ranges from 5-10 days.

Which hospital is best for Buccal Fat Extraction in Mexico?

Bookimed's rating has revealed the top 5 hospitals in Mexico for Buccal Fat Extraction:

  1. Hospital de la Familia
  2. Jose Cortes Aesthetic Clinic
  3. Innovare Hospital
  4. Riviera Institute For Plastic Surgery
  5. Marroquín & Sandoval Plastic Surgery Clinic

Who is the best Buccal Fat Extraction doctors in Mexico?

Bookimed has identified the top doctors in Mexico who excel in performing Buccal Fat Extraction:

  1. Jose Cortes, Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology, Plastic Surgery, 17 years experience
  2. Karla Sandoval, Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology, Plastic Surgery, 11 years experience
  3. Luis Morales, Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology, 23 years experience
  4. Marco Tulio Marroquin Batres, Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology, 15 years experience
  5. Arturo Munoz Meza, Aesthetic Medicine and Cosmetology, 25 years experience

What Should You Know about Mexico before the Trip?

Currency

Mexican peso (you also can pay for services in dollars)

Best period for the trip

December-April

Language

Spanish (most of medical staff speaks English fluently)

Visa

required for some countries

Time difference with Europe

7 hours

Time difference with the USA

1 hour

Capital

Mexico City

Medical tourism center

Mexico City

Popular resorts

Central and Southern Mexico

What hotel services are provided here?

In Mexico, hotels of different price ranges and service levels are presented. Most tourists choose 4 and 5 star hotels with all-inclusive meals. Such hotels have everything for a comfortable stay: varied food, a large well-groomed territory, animation for children and adults. Some hotels have their own water park, which guests can use for free. Budget travelers can afford to book an economical 3-star hotel with half board or no meals at all.

What Documents Are Required to Apply for a Visa to Mexico for Treatment?

Visas for travel to Mexico require a number of documents. Lists of documents includes:

  • ID card
  • confirmation of online registration and filling out the questionnaire
  • certificate of income and availability of funds
  • insurance policy for a stay in Mexico (original and copy)
  • 2 photos (5x6)
  • visa receipt
  • booking of flight and hotel
  • medical opinion about the need for treatment.

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