Published on Thursday, October 23, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

President Rodrigo Chaves-Robles is recovering after undergoing surgery for prostatic hyperplasia at a hospital in the United States, the Presidential House informed on Tuesday.


The procedure treated an enlarged prostate gland, a condition that can make urination difficult. It occurs when the prostate grows and compresses the urethra, causing symptoms such as trouble urinating, a weak urine stream, or frequent urges to urinate.


According to the official statement, the surgery was successful and “the president thanks Costa Ricans for their good wishes for his recovery.”

Chaves announced last week that he chose to have the operation in the U.S. because his nephew, who is a physician, performed the procedure.

The surgery took place at a hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, and all medical costs were covered by his private health insurance.

After several days of medical observation, Chaves is expected to return to Costa Rica on Saturday, Oct. 25. Following a short recovery period, he plans to resume his official duties on Wednesday, Oct. 29.

Second Vice President Mary Denisse Munive Angermüller is serving as acting president during his absence. She assumed the role after First Vice President Stephan Lars Andreas Brunner Neibig resigned in August to run in the February 2026 presidential election.

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