Plastic surgery is no big deal these days. The number of people wanting to improve their self image with some form of cosmetic procedure is commonplace. Sites like LiftMagic.com even allow you to upload a photo and see a simulated photo of how youd l

Whats really interesting, though, is how many of these people are choosing to have their surgery or procedure done right here in Mexico.

Mexico is close, treatment comes at a significantly lower cost, and it offers the latest in techniques, and excellent facilities and doctors. World-renowned medical schools are found here, among them the University of Guadalajara and the Institute of Reconstructive Surgery. Many American and other international students come here to study.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing one of the areas leading reconstructive surgeons, Dr. Victor Ledezma, who teaches at both the institutions above, and is also the director of the Florencia Clinic in Guadalajara. Dr. Ledezma has been in medical practice for 33 years, with 27 of those spent doing reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries.

I was really impressed by Dr. Ledezmas donation of time and services to the Operation Ismael Mexico Foundation, a non-profit organization that offers free reconstructive surgeries for children with facial deformities. According to the doctor, "Plastic surgery helps people to have the confidence they need to succeed in life. Beauty is power in our society. I agree that beauty is important but confidence in yourself and self-esteem is far more important."

Dr. Ledezma uses a morphing program similar to LiftMagic.com, but far more sophisticated, to show you the results before going under the knife so that youll be able to work with the doctor to communicate clearly what look you want. "In the end," he told me, "I want the result to be very natural. I want my patients to hear they look younger, happier and well-rested...not that they obviously had surgery."

Dr Ledezma quoted a few prices to me, just to give an idea of the total cost. These are approximations and are converted into USD. Also, these prices include the hospital fees, anesthesiologist, surgeon, etc. Not included are the required blood tests before surgery or the initial consultation fee.

Facelift: $5,000. USD Tummy Tuck: $4,500 USD Breast Implants: $3,500 USD Liposuction: $4,000 USD Eyelid and Eyebrow Tuck/Lift: $2,500 USD

Since plastic surgery procedures are generally not covered by health insurance, there is little incentive to pay top dollars in the U.S. Plastic surgery clinics in Mexico are offering less expensive options for people who otherwise could never afford to have this work done and in the hands of a recommended and qualified surgeons, the results can be amazing and affordable.

In Ajijic, Casita Montana, a cozy B&B owned by Ann Dyer, caters to people from north of the border who come to Mexico for affordable, elective surgeries who can then recover there at her B&B while being pampered and taken care of by a registered nurse.