- Airport · CNX
- Chiang Mai International Airport
- Surgeons listed
- 12
- Hospitals & clinics listed
- 11
Chiang Mai at a glance
Chiang Mai has a major university hospital and several private hospitals with aesthetic services. The choice of specialist surgeons is smaller than in Bangkok; for less common or complex procedures, patients often compare with Bangkok before deciding.
Why patients choose Chiang Mai
- A calmer city atmosphere for recovery
- Generally lower accommodation and living costs than Bangkok
- Cooler weather in the cool season, roughly November to February
Airport and getting around
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) is close to the city, about 1 hour 15 minutes by air from Bangkok, with some regional international routes.
- The city is compact; ride-hailing apps and taxis make hospital visits straightforward.
Air quality in the smoky season
Agricultural burning and forest fires can cause high levels of fine-particle pollution (PM2.5) in northern Thailand, typically in the dry season from about February to April. If you have asthma or other breathing conditions, or are having facial or nasal surgery, discuss timing with your surgeon and check air-quality forecasts.
Recovery considerations
Choose accommodation near your hospital with air-conditioning and, in the smoky season, good air filtration. Many serviced apartments suit longer stays.
Choosing a provider in Chiang Mai
Check the surgeon's licence with the Medical Council of Thailand, their specialist training, and where the operation will take place. Hospital accreditation can be checked on the HA Thailand and JCI websites. For complex or combined surgery, ask whether the hospital has intensive-care facilities. See our checklist.
Procedures in Chiang Mai
Surgeons, hospitals and clinics in Chiang Mai
Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai
Rajavej Chiang Mai Hospital
Chiangmai Ram Hospital
Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital
Sriphat Medical Center
Nakornping Hospital
Chiangmai Hospital
Dr.Puttan Plastic Surgery (คลินิกศัลยกรรมตกแต่งหมอพุดตาน)
Chiang Mai Surgery Clinic
Dr. Wimon Plastic Surgery (คลินิกหมอวิมล)
Lannawadee Clinic (ลานนาวดีคลินิก)
Dr. Suphitcha Pantarote
Asst. Prof. Dr. Krit Khwanngern
Dr. Woraya Khattipattanapong
Dr. Sanathorn Ratenapoompinyo
Asst. Prof. Dr. Puttan Wongtriratanachai
Dr. Praelada Wongsirimeteekul
Dr. Pimpika Korantimanon
Asst. Prof. Opart Pinchai
Asst. Prof. Chirakan Charoenvicha
Dr. Anan Watcharhachittitam
Dr. Phattana Ongkasuwor
M.D. Somboon Chaisrisawadisuk
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Chiang Mai for surgery?
Fly into Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), about 1 hour 15 minutes from Bangkok, or on some regional international routes.
When is the best time for surgery in Chiang Mai?
The cool season, roughly November to February, is the most comfortable. Many people avoid the smoky season from about February to April.
Is Chiang Mai cheaper than Bangkok for surgery?
Accommodation and living costs are often lower, but surgery prices depend on the surgeon and hospital. Compare written quotes.
Are there good hospitals in Chiang Mai?
Chiang Mai has a major university hospital and private hospitals with aesthetic services. Check each provider's licence and accreditation.
Is air pollution a problem for recovery?
It can be in the smoky season. Discuss timing with your surgeon if you have breathing conditions or are having nasal or facial surgery.
Sources
- Chiang Mai International Airport. Airports of Thailand. Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Tourism Authority of Thailand. Tourism Authority of Thailand. Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Medical Council of Thailand. Medical Council of Thailand. Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Healthcare Accreditation Institute (HA Thailand). Healthcare Accreditation Institute (Public Organization). Accessed 2026-09-23.
- Find JCI-accredited organizations. Joint Commission International. Accessed 2026-09-23.
This page is written by our editorial team from the sources above. Independent review by a licensed surgeon is being arranged; until then it is marked as review pending. See our medical review policy.