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Medical Tourism

Why Travel to Brazil for Top Surgery: Political Climate, Cost & Expertise

November 11, 20248 min read

In 2024, over 500 US patients traveled to Brazil for top surgery with Dr. Cornélio. Despite the 10-hour flight and international travel logistics, they chose Brazil over local surgeons in Miami, Los Angeles, and New York. Why?

The answer isn't just about cost—though that's significant. It's about escaping political uncertainty, avoiding 18-24 month wait times, and accessing surgical expertise that simply isn't available in most US cities.

1. Political Safety & Legal Protection

The elephant in the room: US political climate for transgender healthcare

The US Reality in 2024:

  • ⚠️20+ states have passed or proposed restrictions on gender-affirming care
  • ⚠️Insurance denials increasing due to political pressure on providers
  • ⚠️Surgeon hesitation in conservative states due to legal liability concerns
  • ⚠️Uncertain future with changing administrations and state legislatures

Brazil's 40-Year Track Record:

  • Since 1997: Gender-affirming surgery covered by public healthcare (SUS)
  • Legal name change without surgery requirement since 2018
  • Cultural acceptance: Brazil has one of the world's largest Pride celebrations
  • Medical expertise: 40+ years of transgender healthcare infrastructure

"In Brazil, transgender healthcare isn't political—it's medical. You're treated with dignity and respect, not as a political statement."

— Alex M., California patient, 2024

2. Transparent Pricing & Real Savings

Save 40-60% even after travel costs—here's the math

US Costs (Florida)

Surgery fee:$10,000-$15,000
Liposuction (extra):$3,500-$4,000
Hospital fees:$2,000-$3,000
Anesthesia:$1,500-$2,500
Total:$17,000-$24,500

Brazil with Dr. Cornélio

All-inclusive package:$6,000-$8,000
Round-trip flight:$800-$1,200
Meals (7-10 days):$300-$500
Incidentals:$200-$300
Total:$7,300-$10,000

Save $7,000 - $14,500

Even after all travel expenses, you save 40-60%

What's Included in Dr. Cornélio's Package:

Complete surgical procedure
Liposuction (always included)
7-10 nights hotel accommodation
All transportation
Hospital fees
All medications & supplies
Post-op care & follow-ups
24/7 English support

3. No 18-24 Month Wait Times

Get your surgery in weeks, not years

US Wait Times (2024):

  • Miami: 18-24 months for top surgeons like Garramone and Gallagher
  • San Francisco: 12-18 months average
  • New York: 15-20 months for experienced surgeons
  • Chicago: 10-16 months

With Dr. Cornélio:

Priority Scheduling

International clients prioritized

We prioritize international clients due to their travel arrangements - skip the wait

"I was facing a 2-year wait in Miami. I had my surgery with Dr. Cornélio 6 weeks after my first consultation. Two years of my life back."

— Jordan T., Florida patient, 2024

4. World-Class Surgical Expertise

Not just cheaper—actually better

What Makes Dr. Cornélio Different:

3D Sculpting Protocol™

Proprietary technique creating natural definition—not just flat removal

MD, PhD Credentials

Board-certified + doctoral research background

1,000+ Procedures

Dedicated focus on chest masculinization

Hospital Setting

Santa Casa (ONA Level III accredited)—not a clinic

Compare to US Surgeons:

  • Liposuction included (US surgeons charge $3,500-4,000 extra)
  • Identity-aligned outcomes (Masculine/Neutral/Soft-Neutral vs. one-size-fits-all)
  • Plus-size expertise (200+ patients with proven definition)
  • Structured post-op care (Form Stabilization Protocol™)

The Bottom Line

Traveling to Brazil for top surgery isn't about settling for "good enough" care at a lower price. It's about accessing:

  • Political safety in a country with 40 years of transgender healthcare infrastructure
  • Superior technique (3D Sculpting Protocol™) not available from most US surgeons
  • Priority scheduling for international clients - skip the 18-24 month wait times
  • Significant savings ($7,000-$14,500) even after travel
  • Hospital-based safety with ONA Level III accreditation

Over 500 US patients chose Brazil in 2024. They didn't compromise—they upgraded.

Ready to Learn More?

Schedule a free consultation to discuss your goals and get personalized answers about traveling to Brazil