Hospital São Rafael

Hospital São Rafael is a private surgical hospital in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The facility centers on elective surgery, combining a surgical center, inpatient unit, and diagnostic institute in one complex. Patients can complete pre-operative assessment, surgery, and recovery without leaving the hospital.

Accreditations and Safety Standards

The hospital holds JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation. Safety protocols follow a zero-tolerance policy for care-related infections. The clinical team maintains an infection rate of 0.33% through strict flow control and mandatory checklists. An on-site sterilization center tracks all surgical materials and medications.

Surgical Specialization and Capacities

Hospital São Rafael operates 22 operating rooms designed for elective procedures. The medical team coordinates care across seven departments, including plastic surgery, urology, and otorhinolaryngology.

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

The hospital offers both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. Specialists perform complex procedures such as oncoplastic breast reconstruction after mastectomy. The department also covers body contouring and facial surgeries:

• Rhinoplasty
• Lipoaspiration and VASER lipo for gynecomastia
• Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
• Facial lifting
• Breast augmentation with gummy bear implants

An on-site hyperbaric therapy unit supports surgical recovery.

Gynecology and Urology

Gynecology specialists focus on laparoscopic techniques for endometriosis and uterine fibroids. This minimally invasive approach reduces physical trauma, so patients recover faster. The urology department treats kidney stones using endoscopic and laparoscopic methods. Patients can complete check-ups, imaging, and surgery at one location.

Otorhinolaryngology (ENT)

The ENT department handles functional and surgical treatments for the ear, nose, and throat. Surgeons use endoscopic routes for many procedures. This improves precision and shortens hospital stays. Common conditions treated include:

• Deviated septum
• Chronic or recurrent sinusitis
• Tonsil problems requiring tonsillectomy
• Snoring and hearing alterations

Diagnostic Capabilities

The Instituto Médico e Diagnóstico (IMD) is the hospital's central diagnostic hub. Most test reports are ready within 24 hours, allowing rapid surgical planning. Available diagnostic tools include:

• High-definition MRI and CT scans
• Mammography with tomosynthesis for detailed breast imaging
• Ultrasound including Doppler sonography and heart ultrasound
• Specialized endoscopic exams such as cystoscopy and nasal endoscopy

Digital integration connects results directly to the patient's medical record for use in the operating room.

Patient Accommodation and International Services

The hospital has 56 individual beds for post-surgical recovery. Patients may choose between 30 luxury suites with private bathrooms or 26 standard rooms. A transition unit helps patients bridge the gap between discharge and returning home through assisted rehabilitation.

International patients receive support from a relationship team fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. During surgery, the hospital provides status updates to companions every 2 hours. Companions also have access to in-room sofa beds and food vouchers to stay close throughout the visit.