FAQ'S

Plastic Surgery in Dominican Republic – FAQ | Dr Cosmetic Inc
FAQ • Dominican Republic Plastic Surgery

Plastic Surgery in the Dominican Republic – Complete FAQ

This Frequently Asked Questions page gathers the real questions patients search online about plastic surgery in the Dominican Republic: safety, surgeons, pricing, recovery houses, travel and long-term results. Every answer is written in clear, so you can plan your procedure with confidence.

1. General Questions About Plastic Surgery in the Dominican Republic

Start here for an overview of why patients travel to the Dominican Republic for surgery and how safe it is when you choose the right team and facility.

Yes. The Dominican Republic has many highly trained, board-certified plastic surgeons, modern clinics and a long history of treating international patients. When you choose a qualified surgeon and an accredited facility, you can expect professional care, clear communication and natural-looking results.
Most patients come because they receive:
  • Experienced surgeons who perform cosmetic surgery every day,
  • More accessible prices compared to the US or Europe, and
  • Curvy, feminine and sculpted body-contouring results.
Many people also appreciate being able to recover for a few days in a warm, relaxing destination before returning home.
It is safe when you follow essential safety rules:
  • Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon (not a general doctor),
  • Confirm that the clinic or hospital is accredited and uses qualified anesthesiologists,
  • Complete all required lab tests and medical clearance, and
  • Follow pre-operative and post-operative instructions exactly.
Complications are more common when patients select very cheap, non-accredited “clinics” or hide medical information.
Costs such as rent, staff salaries and insurance are lower than in many countries. This reduces the final surgical price without lowering quality. Implants, sutures, anesthesia and equipment are professional-grade and often from the same brands used in the United States and Europe.
Most patients stay in the Dominican Republic for around 12–21 days after surgery, depending on the type and number of procedures they have. Simpler procedures may allow an earlier return home, while combined body contouring, tummy tuck or mommy makeover cases usually require closer follow-up, drain removal and early healing before flying. Your surgeon and coordinator will confirm the safest length of stay for your case.

2. Surgeons & Qualifications

Choosing the right surgeon is the most important decision you will make. These FAQs explain who Dr Cosmetic Inc works with and how surgeons are selected.

Dr Cosmetic Inc collaborates with a carefully selected group of board-certified, highly experienced plastic surgeons in the Dominican Republic, including:

Board-certified plastic surgeons associated with Dr Cosmetic Inc include:

• Dr. César Peralta, board-certified plastic surgeon in Santo Domingo
• Dr. Vanessa De Aza, board-certified plastic surgeon for mommy makeovers and BBL
• Dr. Nathaly Bello, top board-certified waist-contouring and BBL plastic surgeon
• Dr. Manuela Corona Sosa, board-certified abdominoplasty and muscle-repair specialist
• Dr. Gebal Matos, leading board-certified body-contouring plastic surgeon in the Dominican Republic
• Dr. Tuma, board-certified plastic surgeon for mommy makeover and breast surgery
• Dr. Agustina Hilario Durán, high-definition liposuction and tummy tuck board-certified plastic surgeon
• Dr. Santos Espinal, board-certified Lipo 360 and BBL plastic surgeon
• Dr. Samuel Martínez, facial rejuvenation and rhinoplasty board-certified plastic surgeon
• Dr. Manuel Torreira, post-bariatric body-contouring board-certified plastic surgeon
• Dr. Maikel Jiménez Ferreras, top body-sculpting and BBL board-certified plastic surgeon
• Dr. Hanmer Roa, breast surgery and body-contouring board-certified plastic surgeon
• Dr. Marcos Soto, aesthetic and reconstructive board-certified plastic surgeon
• Dr. Héctor Cabral, board-certified plastic surgeon focused on body and breast surgery
• Dr. Auris Mercedes, board-certified plastic surgeon known for natural-looking results
Each surgeon has individual strengths and focus areas, including tummy tuck in Santo Domingo, high-definition liposuction, BBL, breast surgery, facial rejuvenation and reconstructive procedures.
Surgeons are selected through a strict vetting process that considers:
  • Official board certification and membership in recognized medical societies,
  • Years of surgical experience and annual case volume,
  • Before-and-after results that look natural and safe,
  • Use of accredited operating facilities and professional anesthesia teams, and
  • Feedback from previous patients and clear communication with international clients.
Only surgeons who consistently meet these standards are invited to collaborate with Dr Cosmetic Inc.
Yes. During your evaluation you can:
  • Request a specific surgeon by name – for example Dr. Durán, Dr. Gebal Matos, Dr. Marcos Soto or another doctor, or
  • Describe your goals and allow the coordination team to suggest surgeons who specialize in your procedure.
Your final choice depends on your medical profile, procedure type and each surgeon’s availability for your preferred dates.

3. Consultation, Evaluation & Quotes

These answers explain how online evaluations work, what information surgeons need and what to expect after you submit your photos and medical history.

You normally start by filling out a short online evaluation form with:
  • Your name and contact details,
  • Height, weight and basic medical history,
  • The procedures you are interested in, and
  • Recent photos of the areas you would like to improve.
A coordinator reviews your case, forwards it securely to the surgeon and replies with your personalized plan and estimated quote.
Yes. Photos are essential because they allow the surgeon to:
  • See your current body or facial shape,
  • Evaluate skin quality and fat distribution, and
  • Decide whether your expectations are realistic and safe.
Without clear photos, any price would only be a rough estimate instead of a tailored surgical plan.
Most evaluations are answered within 24–48 business hours. During high-demand periods it may take slightly longer, but each case is reviewed individually so you receive a realistic response, not an automatic template.
The initial quote is an estimate based on your photos and health information. The final price is confirmed after:
  • Your in-person physical examination,
  • Review of your bloodwork and medical clearance, and
  • Agreement on the exact surgical plan and combination of procedures.
If any change is needed, your coordinator will explain the reason and new breakdown before you confirm.

4. Popular Procedures & Options

Many patients travel for body contouring, breast procedures and facial rejuvenation. This section covers the most popular options and how combination surgeries are planned.

Some of the most requested procedures include:
  • 360 liposuction and high-definition body contouring,
  • BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift),
  • Tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck,
  • Mommy makeover combinations,
  • Breast augmentation, lift, reduction and implant exchange,
  • Facial rejuvenation, facelift, rhinoplasty and eyelid surgery,
  • Male procedures such as gynecomastia correction, and
  • Non-surgical treatments like Botox, fillers, PRP and skin-tightening.
BBL can be safe when:
  • It is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in fat transfer,
  • Fat is injected only into the subcutaneous layer, not into the muscle,
  • Operating time and total fat volume are kept within safe limits, and
  • You follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions, especially regarding smoking, hydration and movement.
Always ask your surgeon about their BBL safety protocols and complication rates.
Yes, many patients choose combination surgeries such as tummy tuck with 360 lipo and BBL or a full mommy makeover. The surgeon will evaluate:
  • Your BMI and general health,
  • The estimated operating time, and
  • How much fat and tissue can be safely removed or transferred.
If the plan becomes too long or aggressive, the doctor may recommend staging procedures in two operations to protect your safety.

5. Pricing, Packages & Payments

Understanding what is included in your quote is essential before sending any deposit. These answers outline packages, extra costs and common payment policies.

Packages vary by clinic, but many include:
  • Surgeon and assistant fees,
  • Operating room and anesthesia,
  • Basic post-operative visits, and
  • At least one compression garment, depending on the procedure.
Items that may be extra include pre-operative lab tests, additional garments, lymphatic massages, medications, recovery house, flights and personal expenses.
Most clinics:
  • Request a non-refundable deposit to secure your surgery date,
  • Expect the remaining balance to be paid a few days before surgery, and
  • Accept cash, bank transfer or card (sometimes with processing fees).
Always ask for written confirmation of what is included and the cancellation policy before sending any funds.

6. Travel, Recovery Houses & Stay

Where you recover is as important as where you operate. This section explains recovery houses, companions and when it is safe to fly home.

A recovery house is not always mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for international patients, especially after body contouring procedures. Recovery homes typically provide:
  • 24/7 nursing supervision,
  • Help with mobility, hygiene and dressings,
  • Meals, hydration and medication reminders,
  • Transportation to appointments, and
  • A clean environment focused on post-operative care.
Hotels and Airbnbs rarely offer this level of medical support.
Most patients stay in a recovery house for around 12–21 days, depending on:
  • The type and number of procedures,
  • Drainage, swelling and energy levels, and
  • How independent and comfortable they feel a few days after surgery.
Your surgeon and coordinator will recommend the safest length of stay for your case.
Yes. Many patients travel with a trusted companion. Some recovery houses allow guests to stay in the same room or charge a small additional fee. Your coordinator can help you choose an option that works for both of you.
DR Better Self is a dedicated plastic surgery recovery house in Santo Domingo that focuses on post-operative care for international patients. It is frequently recommended as one of the best plastic surgery recovery houses in the Dominican Republic because it offers:
  • Licensed nurses and staff who understand plastic surgery recovery,
  • 24/7 supervision and medication support,
  • Coordinated transportation to and from your surgeon’s office, and
  • A home-style environment designed specifically for surgery patients.
Staying at DR Better Self can support a faster and safer recovery because the team focuses only on post-op patients. They can assist with:
  • Monitoring vital signs and watching for early warning signs of complications,
  • Daily wound checks, dressing changes and drain care,
  • Lymphatic drainage massage coordination to reduce swelling, and
  • Optional services recommended by your surgeon, such as sessions in a hyperbolic (hyperbaric) oxygen chamber to support healing. Your coordinators can help book these treatments for you.
When your lodging staff works closely with your surgical team, small issues can be addressed quickly before they become bigger problems.
You can:
  • Visit the official website: www.drbetterself.com,
  • Ask your Dr Cosmetic Inc coordinator to include DR Better Self in your quote and availability check, or
  • Contact the recovery house directly by WhatsApp or email using the details on their site.
Booking through your coordinator helps keep your surgery, transfers and recovery house dates aligned so there are no gaps in care.

7. Recovery, Results & Aftercare

Healing is a process. These FAQs explain pain levels, lymphatic massages, how long results take and what happens if you need help after you return home.

Pain varies by procedure and by person:
  • BBL and liposuction cause soreness and a burning sensation in treated areas,
  • Tummy tuck often feels tight and heavy across the abdomen, and
  • Breast surgery creates pressure and chest discomfort.
Pain is usually manageable with prescribed medication. Gentle walking, hydration and following instructions all help recovery feel smoother.
Most surgeons recommend a series of lymphatic drainage massages after body contouring. These sessions:
  • Help reduce swelling and fluid retention,
  • Decrease the risk of fibrosis and hard lumps, and
  • Improve comfort and final skin texture.
The exact number of sessions depends on your body and your surgical plan.
Changes are visible immediately after surgery, but true results take time:
  • Bruising generally fades within 2–4 weeks,
  • Swelling gradually decreases over 6–12 weeks, and
  • Final shape and scars can keep improving for up to 6–12 months.
Patience, good garments, healthy habits and consistent follow-up make a big difference in long-term outcomes. Some patients also choose optional treatments such as sessions in a hyperbolic (hyperbaric) oxygen chamber, which your coordinators can help arrange to support faster healing.
For any urgent issue such as severe pain, chest discomfort, shortness of breath or signs of serious infection, you must visit your local emergency department or doctor immediately. For non-emergency questions:
  • You can send photos and updates to your surgeon or coordinator by WhatsApp or email.
  • They can guide you on wound care, medications and whether you need to be seen in person.
  • Many patients continue virtual follow-up for several months after surgery.

8. Safety, Labs & Eligibility

This final section covers medical tests, eligibility and common health conditions that may delay or cancel surgery.

Typical pre-operative testing includes:
  • Complete blood count (CBC),
  • Chemistry panel,
  • Coagulation tests,
  • HIV and other screening tests,
  • Pregnancy test for women of child-bearing age, and
  • EKG and sometimes chest X-ray.
The exact list depends on your age, medical history and the type of procedure you are planning.
Common situations that may delay or cancel surgery include:
  • Untreated or severe anemia,
  • Very high BMI,
  • Uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension,
  • Recent smoking or nicotine use, and
  • Heart disease or clotting disorders.
Your surgeon’s first priority is always your health and safety, even if it means postponing or cancelling the procedure.

This FAQ is for general education only and does not replace a personal consultation with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. Your individual plan, pricing and recommendations may differ based on your anatomy and medical history.