Cabo San Lucas Medical Tourism: World-Class Care in a World-Class Destination

In recent years, Cabo San Lucas medical tourism has experienced extraordinary growth. What was once a destination best known for pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and deep-sea fishing has now become one of the most sought-after places for international patients seeking affordable, high-quality medical care.

From elective cosmetic surgeries to advanced orthopedic procedures, Cabo San Lucas combines world-class healthcare with a destination experience unlike any other. Patients can undergo life-changing treatment in modern hospitals and recover while surrounded by the natural beauty of Baja California Sur.

For those exploring orthopedic surgery abroad—particularly hip and knee replacements—Dr. Gerardo Mangino stands out as a trusted name. His combination of U.S. fellowship training, affordable care, and compassionate patient support makes Los Cabos not just a vacation spot, but a healthcare destination of choice.

You might also want to read more about hip surgery in Cabo San Lucas. 

The Rise of Medical Tourism in Cabo San Lucas

In the last decade, Cabo San Lucas medical tourism has grown from a niche trend to a thriving industry that attracts thousands of patients every year. The reasons are clear: people want access to affordable, high-quality healthcare without the long waiting times or overwhelming costs often faced in their home countries. Cabo offers a unique blend of world-class medicine and a destination that feels more like a retreat than a clinical environment.

Why Patients Travel for Healthcare

Patients from the United States, Canada, and even Europe are increasingly choosing Mexico—and especially Cabo San Lucas—as their preferred destination for medical treatments. The main factors driving this decision include:

Cost Savings

One of the most compelling reasons for choosing medical tourism in Cabo San Lucas is affordability. Orthopedic procedures, cosmetic surgeries, and dental treatments often cost 60–70% less than in the U.S., even when performed in accredited hospitals with advanced technology. For many patients, these savings make life-changing surgeries accessible for the first time.

High-Quality Care

Lower prices do not mean lower standards. Many physicians in Cabo, such as Dr. Gerardo Mangino, have completed fellowships and advanced training in the United States and Europe. This ensures patients receive cutting-edge techniques and internationally recognized protocols, without compromising safety or outcomes.

Shorter Wait Times

In countries with public healthcare systems, patients often wait months—or even years—for elective procedures. In Cabo San Lucas, surgeries can typically be scheduled within weeks, allowing patients to address health issues promptly and begin recovery sooner.

A Healing Destination

Unlike medical trips that feel stressful, Cabo San Lucas medical tourism allows patients to combine healthcare with relaxation. Recovery is enhanced by the natural beauty of Los Cabos, where gentle seaside walks, fresh air, and luxury accommodations create an ideal environment for healing both body and mind.

Why Cabo Specifically?

While Mexico as a whole is a popular medical tourism destination, Cabo San Lucas stands out for several reasons that set it apart from cities like Tijuana, Guadalajara, or Cancun.

Proximity to the U.S. and Canada

Cabo is just a short flight away from major North American cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, or Vancouver. Patients can travel with ease, making it simple to coordinate surgery and recovery without long, exhausting journeys.

Accredited Hospitals and Modern Facilities

Cabo is home to hospitals such as Hospital H+, which adhere to international standards of care. These facilities are equipped with advanced imaging, surgical technologies, and private recovery suites—often comparable to top-tier hospitals in the U.S.

English-Speaking Medical Teams

Language barriers can be a concern for international patients, but in Cabo, most medical teams—including specialists like Dr. Mangino—are fluent in English and Spanish. This ensures clear communication throughout consultations, procedures, and follow-up care, easing patient anxiety and improving outcomes.

Strong Tourism Infrastructure

Beyond the hospitals, Cabo’s robust tourism industry makes recovery comfortable and stress-free. Patients benefit from:

• Direct international flights from dozens of U.S. and Canadian cities.
• Luxury hotels and resorts offering medical recovery packages.
• World-class restaurants, spas, and wellness services that complement the healing process.

What Medical Services Are Popular in Cabo San Lucas?

The appeal of Cabo San Lucas medical tourism lies in its diversity. Patients can access a wide range of treatments, from highly specialized surgeries to preventive and wellness programs—all delivered with international standards of care.

Orthopedic Surgery

Among the most in-demand services are hip and knee replacements, especially for patients suffering from arthritis, fractures, or chronic joint degeneration. Many travelers choose Cabo because they can undergo the same advanced joint reconstruction techniques available in the U.S. at a fraction of the price.

Orthopedic care in Cabo also includes:

• Shoulder and spine surgery.
• Sports injury repair.
• Revision surgeries for patients with failed implants.

Dr. Gerardo Mangino, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, is a leading name in this field, helping patients restore mobility and return to active lifestyles.

Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery

Cabo is also recognized as a destination for aesthetic surgery. Patients seek:

• Facelifts and eyelid surgery.
• Breast augmentation or reduction.
• Body contouring procedures like liposuction and tummy tucks.

What makes Cabo attractive is not only the cost savings, but also the fact that many surgeons are internationally certified, with training in Europe, the U.S., and Mexico.

Dentistry

Affordable, high-quality dental care is another pillar of medical tourism in Cabo. Services include:

• Dental implants.
• Full-mouth restorations.
• Cosmetic treatments like veneers and whitening.

Dental tourism is particularly popular because procedures are fast, results are visible immediately, and costs are significantly lower compared to North America.

Preventive Medicine and Wellness

Medical travel to Cabo isn’t always about surgery. Patients also come for:

• Comprehensive check-ups and lab testing.
• Wellness retreats combine nutrition, exercise, and holistic care.
• Anti-aging treatments and regenerative therapies.

This integrative approach makes Cabo a complete destination for both curative and preventive healthcare.

Spotlight: Orthopedic Care with Dr. Gerardo Mangino

Who Is Dr. Mangino?

Dr. Gerardo Mangino is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee joint reconstruction. His background includes:

• Fellowship training in Indiana and Ohio, USA, under internationally recognized surgeons.
• Over a decade of practice in Cabo San Lucas, treating patients from Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
• Bilingual communication, ensuring international patients feel comfortable and informed at every step.

What Patients Can Expect

Patients who choose Dr. Mangino benefit from:

• Virtual consultations before traveling.
• Clear, transparent treatment plans with no hidden fees.
• Personalized guidance, from preoperative preparation to long-term recovery.

Why International Patients Choose Him

• Savings of up to 70% compared to U.S. costs.
• Access to Hospital H+, one of Los Cabos’ most advanced hospitals.
• The opportunity to recover in one of the most beautiful medical tourism destinations in Mexico.

Combining Surgery and Recovery in Cabo

Healing in a Vacation Setting

Recovery is as important as the surgery itself, and Cabo provides an unmatched environment. Patients can begin rehabilitation while enjoying warm weather, sea breezes, and peaceful surroundings that make the process less stressful. Walking along quiet beaches or relaxing in luxury accommodations often complements the physical therapy experience.

Support for Companions

Medical travel often involves family members or caregivers. Cabo makes the journey rewarding for everyone:

• Resorts offer comfortable stays and leisure activities for companions.
• International restaurants and cultural experiences enrich the trip.
• Families can share in the recovery journey while enjoying a vacation-like atmosphere.

What to Expect: Cabo San Lucas Medical Tourism Step by Step

Step 1: Virtual Consultation

Before booking a flight, patients can connect with specialists like Dr. Mangino online. During this consultation, they review medical records, imaging results, and discuss treatment options.

Step 2: Travel and Arrival

The clinic may assist with travel logistics, including lodging and transportation. Upon arrival, patients are welcomed into modern hospitals staffed by bilingual teams who guide them through every step.

Step 3: The Procedure

Whether it’s orthopedic, cosmetic, or dental care, surgeries and treatments are performed with internationally recognized protocols, using the latest technology in sterile, accredited environments.

Step 4: Recovery in Cabo

• Hospital stay: Typically 2–4 days for major surgeries like hip replacement.
• Rehabilitation: Begins immediately with physiotherapy and guided exercises.
• Extended recovery: Many patients choose to stay in a resort setting, where comfort and relaxation accelerate healing.

Step 5: Follow-Up Care

Even after returning home, patients remain connected. Surgeons like Dr. Mangino provide virtual follow-ups to monitor progress and answer questions, ensuring continuity of care.

How Much Can You Save with Cabo San Lucas Medical Tourism?

Cost is a driving factor, and the numbers speak for themselves:

• Hip replacement in the U.S.: $35,000–$50,000.
• Hip replacement in Cabo San Lucas: $10,000–$15,000, including hospital stay.

These savings extend across multiple specialties: cosmetic surgery can cost 50% less, and dental implants can be up to 70% cheaper than in North America. For uninsured patients, or those with high deductibles, this makes critical treatments accessible.

FAQs About Cabo San Lucas Medical Tourism

Is the quality of care the same as in the U.S.?

Yes. Many doctors, including Dr. Mangino, completed advanced training in the U.S. or Europe, and hospitals operate under international standards.

Do doctors speak English?

Yes. Specialists and staff are bilingual, providing seamless communication.

How long should I stay in Cabo after surgery?

It depends on the procedure, but most patients remain 1–2 weeks for follow-up and initial recovery.

What about follow-up care once I return home?

Virtual consultations ensure ongoing guidance and support after patients travel back.

Cabo San Lucas—Where Medicine Meets Paradise

Cabo San Lucas medical tourism offers something few destinations can match: world-class healthcare combined with the tranquility of a coastal paradise. For patients, it’s not just about saving money—it’s about experiencing care that is safe, compassionate, and delivered in a setting that promotes recovery.

For those seeking orthopedic excellence, Dr. Gerardo Mangino provides advanced joint replacement surgery, personalized attention, and affordable treatment packages that make mobility and pain-free living accessible again.