Dr. Santiago Ruiz

Dr. Santiago Ruiz is a private plastic surgery practice in Bogotá's Chapinero district. Led by its founding surgeon, the clinic focuses on aesthetic and reconstructive procedures for the body, face, and breasts. The facility combines surgical expertise with non-surgical aesthetic medicine.

Experience and Accreditations

The clinic is led by Dr. Santiago Ruiz, a plastic surgeon with over 25 years of experience. He trained in both Colombia and the United States, and this dual education shapes his surgical techniques.

The practice holds accreditation from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This signals adherence to international safety and ethics standards. Dr. Ruiz is also a member of the Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Ruiz participates in the international medical community as an educator and speaker. He has contributed to training programs on botulinum toxins and facial fillers.

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The clinic performs a wide variety of body contouring and facial enhancement procedures. Each surgical plan begins with a structured assessment of medical history and skin characteristics. Surgeons evaluate patient goals against anatomical reality to ensure safe outcomes.

Body and facial surgical options include:

• Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) to remove excess skin and tighten abdominal muscles
• Liposculpture and liposuction for targeted fat removal
• Rhinoplasty using both open and closed (scarless) techniques
• Sliding genioplasty and chin implants for facial harmony
• Otoplasty to correct ear shape or position

For facial surgeries like rhinoplasty, patients must arrive in Bogotá 72 hours before the procedure. This allows time for in-person exams, anesthesiology consultations, and altitude adjustment. Surgery typically lasts one to three hours under general anesthesia.

Specialized Breast Surgery

The breast surgery program offers four primary surgical pathways. These address both aesthetic enhancement and removal of previous implants. The surgeon clearly explains potential limitations and risks for each method.

Breast procedures performed at the clinic include:

• Breast augmentation and reduction
• Breast lift (mastopexy) to improve shape and position
• Explantation for permanent removal of breast implants
• Breast implant revision surgery

The clinic also treats gynecomastia – abnormal breast tissue growth in men. Treatment may involve liposuction, subcutaneous mastectomy, or both techniques combined.

Aesthetic Medicine and Technology

Non-surgical treatments are available for patients seeking skin rejuvenation without invasive surgery. These methods improve skin texture, firmness, and radiance. The clinic uses Liftera technology for non-invasive lifting and tightening.

The aesthetic medicine department provides several injectable and laser services:

• Botulinum toxin injections for forehead wrinkles and crow's feet
• Hyaluronic acid fillers for facial volume and contouring
• Laser hair removal
• Radiofrequency skin treatments

Botox results typically appear within 3–7 days and last up to six months. Aftercare instructions include avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours after injection.

Services for International Patients

The clinic has a dedicated pathway for international patients from the United States and Ibero-America. The process can begin with a free virtual assessment. Surgeons review clinical history and images remotely to plan necessary steps before arrival.

Support services for patients traveling to Bogotá include:

• Assistance with lodging and apartment rentals in local neighborhoods
• Coordinated airport transfers
• Specialized post-operative nursing support for initial recovery days
• 24/7 team availability for post-surgery emergencies

Follow-up care continues through virtual consultations after patients return home. This ensures long-term monitoring of healing and surgical results.