Manta Hospital Center (MHC) is a private specialty hospital located in Manta, Manabí, Ecuador.It offers more than 30 medical specialties, 4 operating rooms equipped with state-of-the-art technology, a 12-bed ICU, a full-service clinical laboratory, and a diagnostic imaging center. International patients traveling to MHC from the United States and Canada save between 50% and 70% on procedures such as bariatric surgery, plastic surgery, and dental implants, with quality standards comparable to those of U.S. hospitals.
This guide covers everything an international patient needs to know: available procedures, a comparison of costs with the United States, travel logistics, recovery, and how to get started.
Last updated: March 2026.
Do you already know which procedure you need? Request a free consultation through our virtual assistant MiDi or message us on WhatsApp at 098 347 7365. Our team will respond within 24 hours.
Why Choose Ecuador for Medical Tourism?
Ecuador is one of the most attractive emerging destinations formedical tourism in Latin America. Unlike Colombia, Mexico, or Brazil, Ecuador has used the U.S. dollar as its official currency since 2000, which completely eliminates exchange rate risk for patients from the United States and Canada.
Medical procedures in Ecuador cost between 50% and 70% less than in the United States. According to Bloomberg data, Ecuador ranks among the top 20 countries globally in terms of healthcare spending efficiency, with an annual per capita cost significantly lower than that of the United States.
Ecuadorian doctors have received training abroad. Many MHC specialists have completed fellowships at institutions in the United States, Europe, Argentina, and Chile. Their credentials are verified by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Public Health (MSP), and they are active members of national and international medical societies.
U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Ecuador. The permitted stay is up to 90 days, which is sufficient time for any medical procedure and full recovery. All that is required is a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration.
What Medical Procedures Does MHC Offer to International Patients?
Manta Hospital Center is a full-service private hospital, not an outpatient clinic focused on a single procedure. It features 4 operating rooms, an ICU, a 24/7 laboratory, an imaging center (CT scans, MRI, digital X-rays), and 30 private rooms. Any complications are treated on-site, without the need for transfers.
The three specialties in highest demand among international patients are bariatric surgery, plastic surgery, and dentistry.
Bariatric Surgery in Ecuador: Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass
Bariatric surgery is the most in-demand procedure among international patients at MHC. We perform gastricsleeve and gastricbypass procedures using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques.
Who is eligible? Patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher, or with a BMI of 30 or higher accompanied by comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. The World Health Organization (WHO)classifies obesity with a BMI of 30 or higher as a chronic disease requiring medical treatment. Globally, more than 1 billion people are living with obesity, and its prevalence continues to rise in virtually every country (WHO, 2024).
In the United States, the CDCreports that more than 40% of the adult population is obese, which has driven demand for bariatric surgery both within and outside the country.
What does the gastric sleeve package at MHC include?
- Surgeon's fees
- Medical Assistant Fees
- Adjunct Anesthesiologist
- Supplies and Medications
- 24-Hour Suite
- Laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging
- 6 post-operative follow-up visits
- Power Supply Kit
The package does not include:
- Initial medical consultation
- Pre-surgical medical consultation
Recovery time: Most patients can fly home 7 to 10 days after surgery. Follow-up appointments are conducted via video call.
Price of the gastric sleeve package: $4,800.00
Plastic Surgery in Ecuador: Cosmetic and Reconstructive Procedures
The MHC plastic surgery team consists of board-certified surgeons with experience in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. All procedures are performed in a hospital operating room with an anesthesiologist present, continuous monitoring, and immediate access to the ICU.
Available procedures:
- Body contouring:Liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), buttock fat transfer / BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift)
- Breast surgery: Breastaugmentation,breast reduction,breast lift
- Facial surgery:Rhinoplasty,blepharoplasty,facelift
- Combined Procedures: Mommy Makeover (a postpartum combination of abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, and liposuction)
- Other: Otoplasty, mentoplasty, gynecomastia
Why a hospital and not an outpatient clinic? Safety. The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) states that the most reliable measure of safety is to verify that the surgeon operates in an accredited facility with trained staff and emergency protocols. Its clinical guidelines for facility accreditation recommend rigorous standards for infrastructure, equipment, hygiene, and emergency protocols for any facility where cosmetic surgery is performed.
At MHC, if any complications arise, patients have immediate access to a 12-bed ICU, a 24/7 laboratory, and a staff of emergency medical professionals on call. That safety net does not exist in outpatient clinics.
Recovery time: Varies depending on the procedure. Liposuction: 5–7 days before flying. Mommy Makeover: 10–14 days. Rhinoplasty: 7–10 days. The medical team will coordinate your recovery plan before you travel.
Dental Tourism in Ecuador: Implants, Veneers, and Oral Rehabilitation
Dental procedures in Ecuador cost between 60% and 70% less than in the United States, using international-brand materials of the same quality. A single dental implant that costs between $3,000 and $5,000 in the United States costs significantly less in Ecuador.
Dental treatments available at MHC:
- Single and multiple dental implants
- Complete oral rehabilitation: All-on-4, All-on-6
- Porcelain veneers
- Dental crowns and bridges
- Endodontics ( root canal treatment)
- Professional teeth whitening
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Why have dental work done at a hospital? For dental surgical procedures such as implants or maxillofacial surgery, hospital support ensures access to advanced diagnostic imaging (CT scans, digital X-rays), professional anesthesia, and the ability to manage complications without the need for transfers.
Recovery time: Most dental treatments allow patients to resume normal activities within 24–48 hours. For implants, the typical treatment plan involves two visits spaced 3–6 months apart (placement of the abutment followed by the final crown), although immediate loading options are available depending on the clinical case.
How Much Does a Medical Procedure Cost in Ecuador Compared to the United States?
Medical costs in Ecuador are between 50% and 70% lower than those in the United States for equivalent procedures. The following table shows the average price ranges in the U.S. based on data from U.S. healthcare industry sources, as well as the approximate savings patients achieve by having the procedure performed in Ecuador.
| Procedure | Cost in the U.S. (USD) | Savings in Ecuador | Recovery time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastricsleeve | $15,000 – $25,000 | 50%–70% | 7–10 days |
| Gastricbypass | $20,000 – $35,000 | 50%–70% | 7–10 days |
| Liposuction | $4,000 – $8,000 | 50%–65% | 5–7 days |
| Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) | $6,000 – $12,000 | 50%–65% | 7–10 days |
| Breast augmentation | $5,000 – $10,000 | 50%–65% | 5–7 days |
| Rhinoplasty | $5,000 – $15,000 | 50%–70% | 7–10 days |
| BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) | $8,000 – $15,000 | 50%–65% | 10–14 days |
| Mommy Makeover (combined) | $10,000 – $20,000 | 50%–65% | 10–14 days |
| Single-tooth dental implant | $3,000 – $5,000 | 60%–70% | 1–2 days |
| All-on-4 (full arch) | $20,000 – $30,000 | 60%–70% | 2–3 days |
| Porcelain veneers (per unit) | $900 – $2,500 | 60%–70% | 1 day |
| Dental crown | $800 – $1,500 | 60%–70% | 1 day |
Prices in the U.S. are averages published by leading sources in the North American healthcare sector. The savings percentages are estimates based on the cost difference between the two countries. To find out your exact cost at MHC, request a personalized quote with no obligation.
Request a personalized quote: Message us on WhatsApp with the procedure you're interested in, and you'll receive a detailed quote within 48 hours.
How to Plan a Medical Trip to Manta, Ecuador?
Planning a medical trip to MHC is a 4-step process that takes between 2 and 4 weeks from the initial consultation to the travel date.
Step 1: Initial Virtual Consultation
It all starts with a remote consultation. The patient contacts MHC through the MiDi virtual assistant (available 24/7 on the website), WhatsApp (098 347 7365), or email. The coordination team connects the patient with the appropriate specialist for a video call.
Documents required for the appointment:
- Relevant medical history (previous illnesses, current medications, prior surgeries)
- Any recent test results you may have (blood tests, diagnostic imaging)
- Photos of the area to be treated (in the case of plastic or dental surgery)
- Patient goals and expectations
After the consultation, the patient receives a detailed estimate that includes medical fees, operating room costs, hospitalization, tests, and supplies.
Step 2: Travel Logistics
Once the budget is approved, the MHC coordination team assists the patient with travel planning.
Flights: International flights arrive in Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE). Both cities have direct flights from Miami, Houston, New York, Fort Lauderdale, and other U.S. cities. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Manta (35–45 minutes) or travel by land from Guayaquil (approximately 3.5 hours).
Visa: Citizens of the United States, Canada, and the European Union do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. A valid passport is all that is required.
Currency: Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar. U.S. credit cards work without conversion fees. ATMs dispense U.S. dollars.
Language: Spanish is the official language. MHC has staff who can assist in English throughout the entire medical process.
Accommodations: Manta offers beachfront hotels, furnished short-term rental apartments, and options for every budget. The MHC team can help you find the best options based on the length of your stay.
Step 3: Procedure at MHC
Day 1: Arrival, hospital registration, preoperative tests (if not previously performed), and an in-person consultation with the surgeon to confirm the surgical plan.
Day 2 (or as scheduled): Surgical procedure. Hospital stay in a private room with a bathroom, cable TV, Wi-Fi, and a bed for a companion. The length of the hospital stay ranges from 1 to 3 nights, depending on the type of surgery.
Follow-up days: Outpatient postoperative checkups, care instructions, medication, and assessment of readiness for the return trip.
Step 4: Return and Remote Follow-up
Before departure, the patient receives a comprehensive medical report detailing the procedure, postoperative instructions, prescriptions, and a schedule of follow-up appointments via video call. Remote follow-up is included and is coordinated directly with the treating surgeon.
Why Choose Manta for Your Recovery?
Manta offers ideal conditions for post-operative recovery that few medical tourism destinations can match.
Climate: Average temperature of 26°C (79°F) year-round, with no cold winters or sudden temperature changes. The warm, stable climate promotes healing and overall well-being during recovery.
Cuisine: Manta is known for its seafood. Fresh fish, ceviche, and Pacific seafood are staples of the local diet, making it ideal for a nutritious, protein-rich diet during recovery.
Peace and quiet: Unlike Quito or Guayaquil, Manta has a slower pace of life, less traffic, less pollution, and a growing expat community. It is a safe city with modern amenities.
Post-recovery activities: Walks along the beach, the Manta boardwalk, Los Frailes Beach in Machalilla National Park, and local cuisine. All just minutes from the hospital.
What Makes Manta Hospital Center Different?
MHC differs from outpatient clinics and specialized medical tourism centers in five key ways:
A full-service hospital, not an outpatient clinic. It features 4 operating rooms, a 12-bed ICU, a clinical laboratory, an imaging center (CT scans, MRI, digital X-rays, endoscopy), a pharmacy, and 30 inpatient rooms. Any complications are handled on-site.
More than 50 board-certified medical specialists. MHC’s medical team performs more than 500 surgeries and 10,000 consultations per month. The specialists have received training both domestically and internationally, and their credentials are verified by the Ecuadorian Ministry of Public Health (MSP).
More than 30 specialties under one roof. If a condition requiring care from another specialty (cardiology, pulmonology, endocrinology) is detected during the preoperative evaluation, it is treated at MHC without the need for external referrals.
Technology comparable to that found in hospitals in Quito and Guayaquil. CT scans, MRIs, digital X-rays, endoscopy, echocardiograms, and a full-service clinical laboratory. All available 24/7.
Comprehensive coordination for international patients. From the first video call to the final follow-up appointment, a patient coordinator supports the patient every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Tourism at MHC
Do I need a visa to travel to Ecuador from the United States?
No. U.S. citizens can enter Ecuador without a visa for up to 90 days. All that is required is a valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration. Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar as its official currency, which eliminates exchange rate risk and credit card conversion fees.
How much can I save on a medical procedure in Ecuador compared to the United States?
International patients save between 50% and 70% on medical procedures in Ecuador compared to the United States. The savings vary depending on the procedure: bariatric and plastic surgery range from 50% to 70%, and dental procedures range from 60% to 70%, using materials from equivalent international brands.
Do the doctors at MHC speak English?
Several specialists at MHC speak English. In addition, the hospital has bilingual coordinators who assist international patients in English throughout the entire process: initial consultation, preoperative care, hospitalization, and postoperative follow-up.
Can I have a virtual consultation before I travel?
Yes, that is the recommended process. The initial consultation is conducted via video call with the specialist to assess the case, determine the treatment plan, and provide a detailed estimate before the patient purchases their plane ticket. You can schedule an appointment through MiDi (24/7 chatbot) or WhatsApp.
What happens if a complication arises after surgery?
MHC is a full-service hospital with a 12-bed ICU, a 24/7 emergency department, a laboratory, an imaging center, and more than 30 medical specialties. Any complications are managed on-site without the need for transfer to another facility, which is a key advantage over outpatient medical tourism clinics.
How many days should I stay in Manta after the surgery?
The recovery time varies depending on the procedure: bariatric surgery requires 7–10 days; plastic surgery takes 5–14 days, depending on the complexity; dental implants take 2–3 days (except for full-mouth restorations). The surgeon will provide a specific timeline for each case during the initial consultation.
How do I get to Manta from the United States?
You can fly to Quito (UIO) or Guayaquil (GYE) on direct flights from Miami, Houston, New York, and Fort Lauderdale. From there, a 35- to 45-minute domestic flight connects to Manta. Alternatively, the drive from Guayaquil takes approximately 3.5 hours.
Does MHC offer all-inclusive packages for international patients?
MHC is developing packages that include the surgical procedure, hospitalization, preoperative tests, and logistical coordination. Currently, each patient receives a personalized proposal based on their clinical case. Contact us via WhatsApp (098 347 7365) to request a quote.
Can I combine multiple procedures into a single trip?
Yes. Many international patients combine procedures to make the most of their trip: bariatric surgery with dental work, or several plastic surgery procedures performed during a single surgical session (Mommy Makeover). The surgeon assesses the feasibility based on the patient’s health status.
Is postoperative follow-up included?
Yes. Remote follow-up via video call with the surgeon and medical team is included in the quote. The patient receives a comprehensive medical report, written instructions, and direct communication channels for any questions during their recovery.
What currency is used in Ecuador?
Ecuador adopted the U.S. dollar as its official currency in 2000. Visitors from the United States can use their credit and debit cards without incurring currency conversion fees. ATMs dispense U.S. dollar bills.
Is it safe to have surgery in Ecuador?
Ecuador has a medical regulatory system overseen by the Ministry of Public Health (MSP). MHC is a private hospital with operating rooms, an ICU, a 24/7 emergency department, and more than 50 board-certified specialists. Its safety and sterilization standards, as well as its surgical protocols, are on par with those of leading international medical centers.
Take the First Step: Request Your Free Assessment
Planning a medical trip to Manta starts with a no-obligation consultation. The MHC team reviews the case, answers questions, and provides a transparent quote before the patient makes any decisions.
Three ways to contact MHC:
- MiDi Virtual Assistant: Available 24/7 at mantahospitalcenter.com.ec to schedule an appointment.
- WhatsApp: 098 347 7365 — We'll get back to you within 24 hours.
- Phone: 052 590 420 (landline) | 098 347 7365 (cell phone).
Manta Hospital Center — 16B Street and 40th Avenue, Manta, Manabí, Ecuador.
This content has been reviewed by the medical team at Manta Hospital Center. The information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The savings percentages are estimates based on cost comparisons between Ecuador and the United States and may vary depending on each patient’s specific needs. Last updated: March 2026.
