Universal Plastic Surgery

4.3 stars ·

Founded in 1981, one of Costa Rica's most prestigious plastic and reconstructive surgery clinics with decades of experience serving international patients.[1]

75%
Satisfaction Rate
1981
Established

Our Treatments

Cosmetic Surgery

$3,000 - $8,000

Aesthetic and reconstructive surgical procedures

Facelift

$4,000 - $7,000

Facial rejuvenation surgery

2-4 weeks
2-5 hours
  • Recovery: 2-4 weeks
  • Duration: 2-5 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

$3,500 - $6,000

Surgical reshaping of the nose

1-2 weeks
1-3 hours
  • Recovery: 1-2 weeks
  • Duration: 1-3 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Liposuction

$2,500 - $5,000

Fat removal procedure

1-3 weeks
1-4 hours
  • Recovery: 1-3 weeks
  • Duration: 1-4 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Breast Augmentation

$4,000 - $6,500

Breast enhancement surgery

2-6 weeks
1-3 hours
  • Recovery: 2-6 weeks
  • Duration: 1-3 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Tummy Tuck

$4,500 - $7,500

Abdominal contouring surgery

3-6 weeks
2-5 hours
  • Recovery: 3-6 weeks
  • Duration: 2-5 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Body Contouring

$4,000 - $8,000

Body shaping and contouring procedures

2-4 weeks
2-5 hours
  • Recovery: 2-4 weeks
  • Duration: 2-5 hours
  • Anesthesia: general

Botox & Fillers

$500 - $1,500

Injectable cosmetic treatments

None to 1 day
15-30 minutes
  • Recovery: None to 1 day
  • Duration: 15-30 minutes
  • Anesthesia: topical

Customer Reviews

4.3

Based on 8 reviews

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"When you have time can you read this Addressed to Universal cosmetic surgery: This is John Hagen a former patient who had Blepharoplasty surgery 2022 I have suffered with severe complications and have complained a few times in your office about my droopy lower eyes I had 3 doctors ( 2 in the US ) look at my eyes All 3 agree the operation you attempted was done wrong All 3 agree I can’t fully close my eyes That has caused many complications to my eyes and cosmetic issues You did acknowledge in front of a witness that you can attempt to repair it I sought other opinions from plastic surgeons and all agree if it’s fixable at all it can only be attempted by a Optometry surgeon only That cost to me is $7,500 Plus the amount you took from me for a faulty operation I’m contacting the si colegio de medicos y cirujanos ella es cirujana plastica certificada… I’m asking for my money refunded from a bad operation and the cost of repair I have not posted this yet on my social media or yours ( I have 6 Costa Rica doctors i follow) I’m trying to be fair with this before litigation and social media defamation But looking in the mirror and other doctors opinions I want to take this case forward to the CR courts and the court of public opinion Please respond ASAP John Hagen Passport 646 580 957"

John Hagen
· July 10, 2026

"Great experience. Dra Centeno always has time to take care of her patients. It was great!"

sam leslie
· July 10, 2026

"I conducted extensive research before deciding to undergo plastic surgery. I consulted several surgeons in Miami—where many of my friends had procedures performed by some of the top specialists in the United States—and I also explored options in New York City, where I am from. After discovering Dr. Centeno and her highly experienced father, I visited their clinic while vacationing in Costa Rica. From the moment I met her, I knew she was the surgeon I wanted to trust with my procedure. My experience with Dr. Madelein Centeno, her father, and their entire team was exceptional. From the very first consultation, Dr. Centeno made me feel heard, understood, and fully supported. She takes the time to explain every detail, sets realistic expectations, and genuinely cares about her patients’ well‑being. Her warm personality and excellent bedside manner immediately put me at ease. Her surgical skill is outstanding, but what truly distinguishes her is her professionalism, compassion, and the confidence she inspires. I felt completely safe in her care, and the results exceeded my expectations. The staff at Universal Plastic Surgery is organized, attentive, and compassionate, making the entire process smooth and stress and pain-free. I am incredibly grateful for the care I received and would recommend Dr. Centeno without hesitation to anyone considering plastic or reconstructive surgery. I look 20 years younger. I friends feel it is more than 20 years. I am thrilled with my results, and I am so glad I chose Dr. Centeno as opposed to having the surgery in the US."

Alison Stanford
· July 10, 2026

"The entire staff is amazing. They are patient, professional and equip you with everything you might need. They take the time to understand exactly what you want and deliver fantastic and safe results. I was checked on for the entire time I stayed with them, went home and even through the weeks of recovery. From the lady at the front desk to the doctor they are absolutely wonderful. Cannot recommend them more!"

Shy Pratt
· February 25, 2026

"Dra. Centeno and her staff are the epitome of medical professionalism! I came to Costa Rica for my procedure from Texas and I had some anxiety. The good people at Universal addressed my every concern and took fantastic care of me all the while treating me like family. I cannot praise them highly enough! I would recommend them without reservation."

John Bowden
· February 25, 2026

"Dra Madelein along with her father performed my abdominal plastic surgery and BBL liposuction fat transfer. She made me feel at ease from the moment we met. Her personal care and involvement from the moment she prayed with me prior to surgery to the continued attention 6 weeks after has just been amazing. Being in Costa Rica without family, I was concerned about aftercare, but the post surgery center was the option I chose to stay for 5 days until I felt comfortable going home. I have been treated so kind by all the nurses, the massage therapist and especially the receptionist. I am very happy with my results. I have never had a butt and now I actually have a butt. 🤣 And my stomach is snatched at 54 🥰!!! Thank Dra. Madelein 😘👏🏽❤️🙏🏽"

Vivian Johnson
· February 25, 2026

A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the Treatment Process

01

How to Prepare for Your Medical Journey with Vayby

Discover how Vayby simplifies your health/medical treatment plan ahead today.

02

Navigating Your Treatment Options with Confidence and Clarity

Explore various treatments tailored to your needs and preferences.

03

Post-Treatment Care: Ensuring a Smooth Recovery Process

Follow our guidelines for a successful recovery after your treatment.

Why Choose San Jose, Costa Rica?

Discover the perfect destination for your medical journey

Top dental and cosmetic surgery destination for North Americans. Short flight from US cities. American-trained dentists and surgeons. Costs 40-60% less than US. Biodiversity-rich recovery environment.

74

Destination Score

70%
Savings vs. US Prices
2
JCI Accredited
#1
global rank
70,000+
patients/year
67
Healthcare & Safety
70
Safety
77
Cost & Value
75
Travel & Getting There
65
Internet Speed
89
Climate
92
Climate & Environment

Healthcare & Safety

System Quality Excellent
Hospitals 3+
JCI Accredited 2 facilities
Emergency Services Good
Pharmacies 24/7 widely available
Safety Rating High
Insurance International insurance widely accepted at private hospitals like CIMA and Clínica Bíblica, with direct billing options for many providers

Travel & Getting There

Airport Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)
Distance to City 20 km (~30 min)
English Level Moderate
Public Transit Moderate
Taxis & Rideshare Taxis and rideshares like Uber widely available, especially in San Jose and Escazu; reliable for airport transfers and city travel

US/Canada/EU/UK/Australia: visa-free for up to 90 days. Other nationalities: check Costa Rican consulate.

Cost & Value

Daily Budget $50
Hotel (mid-range) $120/night
Restaurant Meal $15
Daily Transport $20
Currency Costa Rican Colon (CRC)
Tipping Tipping 10% at restaurants if service not included; optional for taxis and hotels
Savings vs. US Prices
dental
70%
cosmetic surgery
70%
cardiac
65%
orthopedic
60%
fertility
55%

Climate & Environment

Average 20.3°C · Tropical monsoon

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Green bars = comfortable range (18-28°C)

Best Time to Visit December to April
Air Quality (AQI) 42
Water Quality Bottled recommended
Internet Speed 50 Mbps
Mobile Network Good 4G/LTE

Medical Tourism Hub

#1 global rank 70,000+ patients/year Excellent recovery environment
DentalCosmetic SurgeryOrthopedicCardiovascularFertilityOphthalmicBariatric
Government-backed program
Patient rights protection

Clinic Location

While Your Companion Recovers

Historical tours (National Theater, Gold Museum)
Nature excursions (nearby volcanoes, parks)
Shopping districts (Multiplaza Escazu)
Wellness retreats

Practical Information

Languages Spoken

Spanish
English

Business Hours

Monday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Universal Plastic Surgery?

Get in touch with us today to discuss your treatment options and plan your medical journey.

This clinic speaks: Spanish, English

Universal Plastic Surgery typically responds within 24 hours. For urgent inquiries, please contact them directly.

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