The first purpose-built resort to be constructed around a world class cosmetic surgical centre is being built in one of Brazil's most famous beauty spots.

Its technically advanced theatres, equipment and facilities will, say the developers, attract the world's leading cosmetic surgeons.

And the idea is that they, in turn, will attract the super-rich to come for the latest techniques in facelifts, tummy tucks and liposuction . . . paying high rents to recuperate in luxurious surroundings.

The Lagoa do Coelho Resort is in the north of Brazil between Fortaleza and the state capital, Natal city. It is a region reported by NASA to have the purest air in the world.

This is the part of Brazil closest to Europe and one famed for its sandy beaches and beautiful forests.

But while the natural beauty of the lagoon next to the Atlantic Ocean where the resort is being built is an enticement to stay, the real centrepiece in terms of attracting rental cash from "cosmetic surgery tourists" is the large 8,000sq m medical clinic on which the residential and leisure facilities are being built.

"One of the main tourist attractions of the resort will be the on-site medical centre with state of the art facilities and advanced treatments that will offer the best in cosmetic surgery, " says Michelle Prunty of agents, Pruntys Overseas Properties. "The developers insist that their clinic is designed to become a world leader, with some of the world's leading surgeons on hand."