Steps to Become a Patient
After filling out the Health Questionnaire, our patient coordinator will help you through the patient process.
FAQs
Drains are used on patients to filter out the blood in the abdominal cavity and reduce the pain and the adhesions of the patient. Drains also help determine if the patient will have any surgery complications.
Related Resources
In Tijuana, we have an amazing relationship with the Hyatt Place Hotel. They are currently rated #2 out of 69 hotels in Tijuana on Trip Advisor. Hotel stay is included, although if you bring a companion, they will need to stay at the hotel during your hospital stay, given the COVID-19 pandemic. They offer top-quality service and consistently provide around-the-clock support for both patients and companions.
If you are a patient traveling to Guadalajara, we use the Malibu Hotel.
Related Resources
You might think it’s silly to be on a pre-op diet before getting weight-loss surgery – but there is a very good reason for it.
- The main reason is medical; it will assist in shrinking your liver before surgery, improving the safety of the operation as well as allowing better access to the surgeon. The liver size must be no greater than 25 cm for the surgeon to operate safely.
- It helps you lose weight prior to surgery because the healthier you are going into surgery, the better.
- The more you can change your behaviors and habits prior to surgery, the more likely you will keep the weight off long-term. Remember, surgery is just a tool to assist you.
Resources:
All medications, ointments, and recommendations from both patients and surgeons can be found in our complete guide to reducing scarring after laparoscopic surgery. Make sure you keep your incisions clean and dry until the wounds are completely closed up. You can use a variety of products that can be purchased over-the-counter; such as Vitamin E Oil or Mederma to reduce scars. Nerium also has a product to help with loose skin as well.
It is very uncommon for serious pain to arise/continue upon returning home from your surgical procedure. Please contact us immediately if such pain is experienced. Your bariatric surgeon will have recommendations to alleviate pain based on your symptoms and conditions.
We recommend that all patients have a primary care physician who supports the decision to undergo bariatric surgery in Mexico and is willing to provide aftercare treatment and follow-up as needed. If a patient requires a prescription after returning home, your Primary Care Physician will be able to provide one.
Related Resources
- What is done to minimize pain and discomfort after surgery?
- What is the average pain period I can expect?
– Back to Top (FAQ)
General Payment Instructions
- All funds are represented and payable in USD.
- A minimum non-refundable down payment of $350.00 is required to secure your surgery date (DEBIT/CREDIT CARD OR ZELLE REQUIRED FOR DOWN PAYMENT).
- Be sure your Name is on your payment receipt, to be sure the payment is applied to your account.
- Be sure you upload a copy of your payment receipts to inbound@mexicobariatriccenter.com.
- Be sure to Fax a copy of your Wire or Payment Receipt to 1-855-453-2329
Preferred Payment Options:
1) Cashier’s Check (no fee)
- Payable to: Mexico Bariatric Center
- Please send a copy/picture to inbound@mexicobariatriccenter.com (21) days prior to your scheduled surgery date
- Bring the Cashier’s Check with you to Mexico
2) Zelle (no fee)
Send money to: zelle@mexicobariatriccenter.com
Instructions to use Zelle (if you haven’t before)
You can access Zelle directly from your bank or credit union.
- Go to zellepay.com/get-started
- Find your bank
- Computer: You can click on your bank and “Continue to their website”
- Phone: You can go to your bank’s Mobile Application (or website)
- If your bank accepts Zelle, log in to your bank account (on your bank’s website/mobile app) and look for “Send Money with Zelle”
- Enroll your Email and U.S. mobile phone number
- Once you’re enrolled, you can send money from your bank account to Mexico Bariatric Center
- Send your desired amount to Mexico Bariatric Center using our email: zelle@mexicobariatriccenter.com
3) Direct Deposit* (1.5% added fee)
Alternative Payment Options:
1) Credit Card (credit-card – 5% added fee)
- We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
2) In-person Deposits* (1.5% added fee for cash deposits)
3) Wire Transfer* (wire transfer- $20 added fee)
You can contact Mexico Bariatric Center for more information
4) Cash
We also have financing options available.
Related Resources
- Make a Payment Online
- Weight Loss Surgery Costs
- Financing Options Available
- How to Pay for Bariatric Surgery
- Terms of Service
- Do you accept credit cards?
- How is Transportation Arranged When I Arrive/Depart?
- What is Included in My Surgery Package?
- Do you accept credit cards?
- What Financing Options are Available?
- What expenses will I have while there in Tijuana?
- What Additional Fees Can I Expect?
- Which hotel will I be staying at?
Avoid medications that may alter blood clotting for 1-week post-surgery. These include but are not limited to medications or drugs containing; NSAIDs, anti-arthritic medications, and blood thinners. Estrogen-containing medications should also be avoided for two weeks post-op. Please speak to your bariatric surgeon and ask questions. Always speak to your primary care physician before changing any medications.
Related Resources
Immediately after the bariatric procedure, the wound is closed using dissolvable, nylon sutures. The better you dress your wounds, the better the chance will be of avoiding infection or serious side effects.
Related Resources
Here is the standard Travel Itinerary for our weight loss surgery packages. Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, this may vary slightly based on your procedure. Please make sure you check with your patient coordinator. Once you schedule your surgery date and secure your deposit, you will automatically receive your complete booking details.
Day 1: Arrive in San Diego
One of our drivers will be waiting for you upon arrival at San Diego International Airport. Make sure your flight arrives before 12:00 pm PST (before noon). It is usually a 20-minute drive from the airport across the border using our medical lane pass. A few blocks across the San Ysidro border is our Hospital and Hotel. You will get pre-op testing and then be driven to check-in at the #2 rated Hotel in Tijuana. Our staff will help you check-in and answer any questions you have!
● Bloodwork Pre-Op Labs and EKG
● Stay the night at the Hyatt Place Hotel
Day 2: Surgery Day
You will be picked up from the hotel early for your surgery. Stay the night in the hospital.
- Pick you up and take you to surgery. The time of surgery is in the morning, and you will be notified of the surgery time the day before
- Stay 2 Nights in Hospital for gastric sleeve
Day 3: Recovery at Hospital
Recover in hospital—Post-op testing and recovery. Make sure you walk around and drink a lot of water!
- Post-op testing is completed before discharge
Day 4: (**for Gastric Sleeve Surgery**)
The driver will pick you up from the hospital and take you to the airport for departure.
- Drive you to the airport
- Plan flight after 2:00pm
Day 4 : (**for Gastric Bypass, Mini Bypass, Duodenal Switch, and most Revision Surgeries**)
On Day 4, you will remain at the hospital for an extra night to recover.
- Final night stays at the hospital
Day 5: (ONLY for Gastric Bypass, Mini Bypass, Duodenal Switch, and some Revision Surgeries)
The driver will pick you up from the hospital and take you to the airport for departure.
- Drive you to the airport
- Plan flight after 2:00pm
Related Articles
Step #1: Get Approved for Surgery
Fill out Healthcare Questionnaire (Medical History Form)
- Once completed, our medical liaison and the requested surgeon receive an electronic copy. If you didn’t specify a surgeon, it will be reviewed by the surgeon that best fits your health and medical needs.
- You will be immediately notified by email of your results or if there is any additional information needed. Your patient coordinator will then call, text, and email you to discuss moving forward as well as any recommendations the doctor(s) may make.
Step #2: Schedule Your Surgery Date
- Once approved, you can book your surgery at this time or check availability for a specific date. Your patient coordinator checks the calendar for the selected doctor’s availability (we can usually accommodate your date of choice unless the time is already booked or the doctor is out of the office).
- You will need to follow a pre-op diet based on your BMI (anywhere from 2 days to 8 weeks prior). This includes a 2-day clear liquid diet immediately before your surgery date. (The pre-op diet is protein-based and not difficult to follow. It is required primarily to shrink your liver).
Step #3: Prepare for Surgery Date
- Once scheduled, you will receive a Booking Confirmation Email entitled “Your Surgery Date is Scheduled” and it will include specific guidelines that you will need to follow regarding booking flights, pre-op diet, and medications you may continue or discontinue before your surgery. (NOTE: Most medications for High Blood Pressure, Heart Issues, Hypo or Hyperthyroid, Diabetes, Depression, & Anxiety, etc., should NEVER be stopped or titrated down without specific instructions from the surgeon or your Primary Care Physician.)
- We require you to submit the following documents. Instructions are within your Booking Confirmation Email to upload/complete ALL documents including;
- Consent Form, copy of Flight Itinerary
- Passport copy OR Drivers License & Birth Certificate
- Final Payment or Send Proof of Cashiers Check 21 days before surgery
- Sign a COVID Consent Form. Include information regarding potential accommodations you may need such as additional hotel reservations, use of a wheelchair or assisted device, your emergency contact person’s information and phone number, your flight itinerary, and signature at the bottom of the form.
- Your coordinator will save all of the appropriate documents in your file (ie: FMLA paperwork, time off request for your employer if requested, copy of cashiers’ checks and consent forms in your file).
Step #4: Preparing for Surgery
- Keep in touch with your patient coordinator for changes in your medications, health status, travel plans, or concerns.
- Make sure your passport/travel documents are up to date, read the pre-op and post-op diet instructions, and stock up on the items you will need for the first couple of weeks when you return home.
- Pack lightly, and make sure that any laptops, notepads, or electronic devices are in travel cases with your name clearly on them. The hotel and hospital have the standard U.S. outlets, free wi-fi, free phone while at the hospital, and a safe to lock up valuables.
- Make sure to pack a loose, comfy nightshirt, the role of medical tape, gauze, or larger bandages for sensitive skin, also a soft “sports bra” and take any medications you take on a regular basis with you in the original prescription bottles. It is not necessary to bring any drinks or foods with you to Tijuana; you can buy any sports drinks or juices once you arrive at the hotel.
Step #5: Arriving in San Diego
- The Tijuana patient process officially begins! One of our private drivers will pick you up take you directly to the hospital for prior testing and then the hotel, just 20 minutes from San Diego Airport, a few blocks from the San Ysidro border in Tijuana.
- At the hotel you will meet the patient advocates/coordinators, they will assist you in checking into your room. Checking into any hotel will require that you have a credit card; it will not be charged for anything unless you charge something to your room number.
- They will give you an information sheet with their phone numbers in case you would like to contact them while at the hotel. It is not necessary to dial the 011-521 numbers first because those are only the international numbers. Please give the Tijuana coordinator’s any cashier’s checks you may have taken to pay for the balance of your surgery. Periodically the coordinators will check in with you post-op to make sure you are doing great. They will also inform you what time to meet them in the lobby the morning of your surgery for a fun shuttle ride to the hospital.
Step #6: Surgery and Recovery
- Once you arrive at the hospital, you’ll meet the patient advocate/coordinator, you might have a small wait in a general waiting room area and have a chance to talk and get acquainted with the other patients that are scheduled for surgery on that day.
- Our patient advocate/coordinator will escort you to your hospital room, where you’ll be given a hospital gown, and have lab work done. The surgeons, anesthesiologists, and an internist will come in and do the pre-surgery consults. This is a very good time to ask any questions you might have for the doctors about restarting medication, vitamins, wound care, diet, and exercise. Then you will have your procedure done.
- The process times will vary depending on which surgery you have, and you will be sleeping for several hours post-op. Make sure that you tell your family members back home that you will call them when you wake up, but you may be sleepy for several hours post-op. It is not customary for the hospital staff to call family members for you. You can use the phone for free at the hospital, just ask the nurse for the phone.
- Make sure to walk, walk, walk post-op. The following day they will take you upstairs for a quick scan of the tummy to check for leaks. You will be given a small cup of contrast media (gastro graphene) to drink and also a CD of this scan to take home with you.
- The doctor(s) or their surgical assistant will be the person checking in on you daily. The morning of your release, the physician(s) will check on you and depend on which doctor you have for your procedure; they will remove any drain tubes, but sometimes the surgeon may decide to leave the drain tubes in place for another day or two. The nurses will dress your wounds, and you will be given a bag with antibiotics, pain medication, the CD of your leak test, procedure verification along with the doctor’s names, and email addresses. Make sure that you receive this bag “Before” you leave the hospital because it is tough to obtain medical records once you leave the hospital. You will then take the shuttle back to the airport along with your new “surgery buddies.” Plan on booking your flight back home after 2 pm.
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, we want to reduce any risks of having you stay an extra night at the Hotel. Therefore, at this time (9/7/2020), we will return you to the airport in San Diego to fly home after you check out of the hospital.
The driver has an exclusive license and dual insurance which will allow him to take you through the border in a special medical tourism line that lets us “Hopscotch” to the front of the line, but depending on the day and the time it will vary on the amount of time it will take to cross back into the United States.
Step #7: Flight/Drive Home
- Make sure whether you drive or fly back from San Diego to move your feet frequently!!! Stop and stretch out your legs or if traveling walk to the restroom often and make sure to keep hydrated.
- Do not try to lift your bag into the car or overhead storage compartment, ask for assistance. Drink juice and water for the flight home. No coffee or tea.
Step #8: Post-Op Diet
- A good rule of thumb for the post-op diet, starting from your surgery day;
– 1st Week continues clear liquids
– 2nd Week add to your diet with liquids
– 3rd Week adds pureed foods
– 4th week adds soft solid foods - Restart your medications as instructed by the doctors. If you are diabetic and use insulin, you may have to adjust the amounts as your dietary needs have changed. Make sure to sip fluids all day long.
- Make sure to discuss with the doctor when to start daily vitamins, Hair, Skin & Nails (biotin), calcium chews, and sublingual B-12. Your stomach will be rumbly for several weeks!! Refer to the post-op diet plan for which foods to incorporate back into your diet.
- Go slow when starting on solid foods again, remember you are trying to give your tummy time to heal and let the swelling go down. If you have any questions regarding your post-op diet you can email them to the Mexico Bariatric Center, Dietitian/Nutritionist who can be found on our staff page. Any medical questions should be directed to the doctor or their assistants. Your surgery coordinator can assist you in sending your questions to the physician.
- Finally, make sure to schedule a follow-up appointment with your primary care doctor within ten days of returning home.
Related Resources
- Hospital Mi Doctor
- Hyatt Place Hotel in Tijuana
- Patient Process
- Traveling to Tijuana, Mexico
- Passport Requirements
- About Tijuana
- Is Tijuana, Mexico Safe?
- What should I pack?
- Advisory Board
- Do I Qualify for Weight Loss Surgery?
- Do you accept credit cards?
- What expenses will I have while there in Tijuana?
- How is Transportation Arranged When I Arrive/Depart?
- What Additional Fees Can I Expect?
- Which hotel will I be staying at?
Mild pain or discomfort may be experienced for up to 1-week post-op. After 1 week, the pain experienced is often caused by gas, commonly referred to as “gas pain”, and can be alleviated by walking or over-the-counter gas-relieving medications. Walking is one of the most important things you can do to improve post-op recovery and healing. Stay hydrated and walk!
Related Resources
- What is done to minimize pain?
- Should I bring my own pain medication?
- What should I do if pain can’t be relieved when I return home?
- Is removal of the drain painful?
- Why do I have so much gas after bariatric surgery?
– Back to Top (FAQ)
Our all-inclusive package includes basically everything besides the flight.
- Ground Transportation
- Hospital Fees
- Surgeons Fees
- Anesthesiologist Fees
- Antibiotics and Pain Medicine
- Registered Dietitian
- 2 or 3 Nights at Hospital
- 1 Night Hotel Stay (Pre-Op)
- Titanium Staples
- Discharge Medication
- On-Call Surgeon Liaison (Medical Specialist)
- Pre-Op Lab Testing/Blood Work
- Post-Op Testing/Leak Tests
- Aftercare Support (Facebook support group with over 5,000 past patients)
- Patient Coordinator for all your needs
- Medical Instruments/Equipment
- WI-FI in hospital and hotel
- Optional Medical Tourism Insurance Coverage
- Companion at $245 for sleeve and $390 for other procedures due to COVID protocols
Related Resources:
A variety of methods are used to ensure patients are comfortable after surgery. At the hospital, pain medication is administered via IV. Though it’s not common, if stronger medication for pain is required, your surgeon will alter your dose or change your medication. When discharged from the hospital, patients are sent home with medication for pain in tablet form.
What Can Patients Do To Minimize Discomfort?
Walk. Most of the discomfort is because of the gas right after surgery. So patients must walk and move around as much as they can right after surgery.
Related Resources
- Should I bring my own pain medication?
- What can I do if pain can’t be relieved when returning home?
- Is removal of the drain painful?
- How is nausea treated?
- What is the average pain period I can expect?
– Back to Top (FAQ)
A $350.00 USD surgery deposit payment is due at the time of booking your WLS appointment. Finance companies DO NOT provide the deposit payment funds and will be your responsibility. Financing options include;
Personal Loan
Multiple Lenders, including SoFi, Bank of America
Apply Here
United Credit
855-503-1800 or 949-534-0599
UnitedCredit.com
*Add a $150 processing fee for any loan secured through United Credit.
eFinancing Solutions:
800-728-9585
efinancing-solutions.com
Financing in Canada
iFinance Canada: 888-689-9876
Medicard.com
Related Resources
This is entirely up to you and your experience.. tipping and any extra things is completely optional but there is no additional expenses if you don’t want to pay for anything extra. The hotel provides you with your aftercare liquid diet. If you want, you can bring extra vitamin water, Gatorade, etc.
Related Resources
Use a carry-on, wheeled suitcase (if possible) for traveling. If you must check luggage, use a wheeled suitcase to avoid unnecessary lifting. Do not lift anything greater than 30 pounds for 6-8 weeks post-op. Have someone assist you once you arrive at your home airport.
- Leave jewelry (which must be removed before surgery as well as any metals, piercings, etc) and valuables at home.
- Bring lightweight clothing (pajamas and a few outfits) with elastic bands, some slip-on shoes, personal hygiene items, and all your current prescription medications in their original bottles.
- Audiobooks, a portable DVD player, a small laptop, or iPods are great lightweight items for your travel to/from Mexico and throughout your post-surgical recovery period. Most of the television stations in Mexico are all Spanish speaking programming!!
- Only 1-2 smaller sized suitcases should be brought. You will be in the hospital for the majority of your stay. The drivers do not have extra room for excess luggage and packages.
- Do NOT forget your Passport (Unless your Patient Coordinator authorized you to bring a Drivers License AND Birth Certificate instead)
Read a complete packing list of what our patients recommend
Suggested Items
Below are comfort items to consider but NOT mandatory for your hospital stay and ride home:
- Sleep Aids (Earplugs, Sleep mask)
- Entertainment (Music player, DVD player, laptop, tablet, smartphone, etc. Batteries/Charger electronic devices. Books, magazines, or other reading material.)
- Clothes (Slippers, Clean robe – the hospital will provide a gown, A loose-fitting outfit, robe, jumper, or dress to wear home, Flip-flops to wear in the shower, Clean underwear, and socks
- Hygiene (Personal toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and hairbrush. Female sanitary towels – tampons may be too uncomfortable to use/apply)
Other Suggestions to Bring
- Notebook and pen to take notes and help remember questions to ask
- Pillow for the ride home and in case hospital pillows are uncomfortable
- Throat lozenges
- Chapstick for dry lips after surgery
- Gas X Strips suggested for gas relief medication
Helpful Articles
Additional Fees (If Applicable and are subject to change. Please check the health questionnaire for up to date fees and pricing):
Additional Fees | Price |
---|---|
Umbilical Hernia | $1,095 |
First Companion | $245 to $390 |
Second Companion | $195 to $295 |
Consultation | $350 |
Detailed Invoice | $45 |
Endoscopy | $395 |
Extra Expenses | $650 |
Extra Hospital Day | $400 |
Extra Hotel Nights | $159 |
Extra Hotel Nights Suite | $189 |
Financing Convenience Fee (under 5,000) | $395 |
Financing Convenience Fee (over 5,000) | $595 |
Gallbladder Removal in Surgery | $995 |
HIV | $995 |
Hepatitis B | $995 |
Hepatitis C | $995 |
Hiatal Hernia | $395 |
High BMI 48.6 | $395 |
High BMI 58.6 | $695 |
High BMI 68.6 | $995 |
High BMI 78.6 | $1395 |
High BMI 88.6 | $1895 |
High BMI 98.6 | $2395 |
Lipoma | $650 |
Medical Record Copy | $45 |
Medical Tourism Insurance (MTI) | $149 |
Open Surgery/Abdominal Trauma | $995 |
Private Nurse | $250 |
Yes, you should bring your own pain medication – especially if it’s prescribed. Many pain medications do NOT cause ulcers or bleeding. Surgeon’s request that patients bring their prescription pain management drugs.
Related Resources
- What is done to minimize pain and discomfort?
- What should I do if the pain doesn’t get better when I return home?
- Does it hurt to remove the drain? Is it painful?
- What is the average time period that I can expect to experience pain?
– Back to Top (FAQ)
Yes, of course. Normally, all patients have difficult veins because they’ve been doing a special diet; you’re fasting at that time and traveling. Many of the patients are dehydrated, and the anxiety and nervousness about the surgery add to that. Normally it’s hard to find veins in that type of patient. We have personnel with a lot of expertise in getting an IV on difficult patients, so it’s no problem. We also have special vein finder equipment, and we do this all day so that getting your IV in won’t be a problem.
We offer a special “buddy” discount of $150 off each procedure for patients who schedule their surgeries together for the same date. To be eligible, patients are required to share transportation and a room at the hotel and hospital.
Related Resources
- What Financing Options are Available?
- What expenses will I have while there in Tijuana?
- How much does Weight Loss Surgery Cost in Mexico?
Yes, we have a drain primarily to remove excess fluid and also to help identify “bleeding” complications. It will be removed before you leave the hospital. Our doctors use drains because it removes the blood in the abdominal cavity, which will reduce the pain and the adhesions of the patient. Ultimately, having a drain is an easy way to avoid post-surgery complications. Drains are removed on the 2nd day, which coincides with the period with the most complications. Most of the time, when the complications happen, we can be aware of that and help resolve them.
Related Resources
It should not hurt to have the drain removed after your weight loss procedure. It may be uncomfortable feeling something moving inside of you – but it is typically not painful having the drain removed. You will be under the direct care of your bariatric surgeon at this time so there is no need to worry. You couldn’t be in better hands.
Related Resources
- What is done to minimize pain after surgery?
- Should I bring my own pain medication?
- What should I do if pain can’t be relieved?
– Back to Top (FAQ)
The staples are very safe to use and will not cause any issues with the scans.
A personal loan is a form of cash advance that can be used without limitations. Receiving funds is quick, and repaying the loan is expected in short to medium term. Some lenders give you better rates by considering your education, employment history, etc.
Avoid making too many loan inquiries in a short period of time, as it could affect your credit score.
For example, let’s say you need $4,000 to pay for gastric sleeve surgery and are approved for a 2-year loan at a 20.00% annual percentage rate (APR). Over two years, you’d pay back about $4,655 over 24 monthly payments at $193.95. You can compare personal loan financing options here.
Best places to secure a personal loan:
- Partnership with SuperMoney.com
- Banks (needs excellent credit history)
- Credit Unions (lower rates and low credit scores)
- Peer-to-Peer / Marketplace Lenders (average to fair credit)
- Online Lenders (relaxed credit requirements and quick funding)
Related Resources
It depends on your height, weight, and goals. A good first goal is 60 grams of protein per day. After that, the appropriate amount will likely be between 60 and 90 grams of protein daily.
If you want specific recommendations, make an appointment with our nutritionist or email her at nutrition@mexicobariatriccenter.com.
Related resources
You can choose to pay a deposit of $350.00 (non-refundable) or $500.00 (partially-refundable) must be made in order to schedule your surgery. You can pay your deposit online > Make a Payment
Remaining Balance Deposit: Twenty-one (21) days prior to surgery, you need to pay the entire remaining balance of the surgery or if you choose to pay with a cashier’s check please send proof to your patient coordinator 21 days prior to surgery.
Please make sure your Health Questionnaire is approved prior to paying your surgery deposit.
Related Resources
We always perform 3 leak tests to prevent any complications after surgery. There are two during surgery. The first is where methyl blue is injected into the stomach and with the scopes, the surgeons look for blue dye in the abdominal cavity. In the second, the removed stomach is inflated with CO2 and is observed for deflation. The patient is not consciously aware of this either of these. The next leak test is one day after surgery. The patient will drink a hydrosoluble contrast solution and any leaks will be detected by X-ray. A patient receives a copy of the results of this last leak test.
90% of leaks are identified within 24 hours. 97% within 72 hours. This is why the surgeons have patients spend 2 to 3 nights in Mexico after surgery so that if any complication arises, they can treat it immediately. 3% of leaks are not identified before a patient leaves, so only 1 in 97,000 patients statistically will have a leak discovered after returning home. It’s extremely rare but nevertheless a risk you must be made aware of.
Related Resources:
Approximately 24 hours before your departure, our driver will call you to confirm all of your flight/parking information. You should schedule your flight arrival before 12:00PM (noon) and departure flight after 2:00PM.
Victor Cabrera is our full-time driver who will coordinate all transportation from arrival to departure and everything in between.
Option #1: Flying in/out of San Diego International Airport
- If you are flying into the San Diego, CA International airport, the driver arranges to pick you up at the airport and take you straight into Tijuana, Mexico.
Important Tips for Flying:
- Make sure whether you drive or fly back from San Diego to move your feet frequently!!! Stop and stretch out your legs or if flying walk to the restroom often and make sure to keep hydrated.
- DO NOT try to lift your bag into the car or overhead storage compartment on the airplane, ask for assistance.
Option #2: Driving to/from San Diego Airport
- If you are driving into the San Diego, CA International Airport (or somewhere local within San Diego), here is a link that will guide you right into the airport: Driving directions to SD airport.
- Traveling towards the Border – Our driver will cross you through the San Ysidro port of entry to Tijuana. You might want to check out BorderTraffic.com – where you can view the traffic (via live feed) of all the different entry points in Mexico.
Option #3: Driving yourself into Mexico
- If you plan on driving into Mexico, certain vehicle documentation will be needed in addition to your passport; i.e. permits, Mexican insurance, etc.
For detailed information on these requirements, please see: Requirements for driving your car into Mexico and Info about Mexico Car Insurance
Related Resources
We treat nausea just before it starts. We use special drugs that are specifically designed to combat nausea. Nausea is one of the MOST common post-op symptoms/side effects. Maybe not immediately post-op, but definitely within the first week. It also depends on the procedure. For example, sleeve gastrectomy might have more nausea than lap-band or gastric bypass. We combat this by administering medication within the IV. If you continue feeling nausea, we will use a different medication or increase the dosage.
Related Resources
- What is done to minimize pain and discomfort immediately after surgery?
- Should I bring my own pain medication?
- What should I do if pain can’t be relieved when I return home?
- Is removal of the drain painful?
- What is the average pain period I can expect?
– Back to Top (FAQ)
In order to schedule your surgery date, we first need a security deposit. The required deposit is $350 (non-refundable) or $500 (partially refundable). You can pay your deposit here. After you make your payment, please reach out to your patient coordinator to get your surgery officially scheduled.
If you need to change your surgery date, we do allow 1 reschedule. If you reschedule more than one time, we require an additional $350 (non-refundable) deposit which is also applied to your final balance. You must make your final payment or have proof (if cashier’s check or cash) 21 days prior to your surgery date!
Related Resources
Yes, we do accept it, but it is up to your FSA/HSA provider.
Here are steps you can try:
- Make a payment online: You can try paying your $350 deposit online using your FSA/HSA card. If it doesn’t go through, continue to the next step.
- Send an email to kathy@mexicobariatriccenter.com to request a Letter of Medical Necessity (Reimbursement Request) to submit to your HSA/FSA provider.
If you have any questions or need additional help, contact your patient coordinator or our main office at 855-768-7247.
Related Resources
Mexico Bariatric Center accepts major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express. We also offer a variety of additional payment options like cash, wire transfer, money orders, and cashier checks.
(DEBIT/CREDIT CARDS ARE REQUIRED FOR INITIAL DOWN PAYMENT)
If you want to make a payment online with a credit or debit card, click here to make a payment. *Remember there is a 5% fee for credit/debit payments.
- See more payment options
- Financing options available
- Weight loss surgery costs and pricing
- How is Transportation Arranged When I Arrive/Depart?
- What is Included in My Surgery Package?
- What Financing Options are Available?
- What expenses will I have while there in Tijuana?
- What Additional Fees Can I Expect?
- Which hotel will I be staying at?
CareCredit is accepted, but because we perform surgery in Mexico, your card may only work if it is a Mastercard and Discover.
You can try paying your deposit on our website and your coordinator will contact you if the payment did not go through.
Contact your coordinator or our main office at 855-768-7247 if you have any questions or need help with your payments.
Related Resources
A current passport is advised for all individuals in your party. If you do not have a passport or your passport is expired, we suggest ordering an expedited passport application/renewal in order to receive your passport prior to your departure to Mexico.
If you do NOT have a passport
If you are crossing the border, you may use one of the following instead of a conventional passport only upon approval from your Patient Coordinator.
- Passport ID Card
- Enhanced Driver’s License (Currently only the following states that provide these are: Washington, Vermont, Michigan, Minnesota, and New York)
- Both a Valid Driver’s License/ID Card AND Original U.S. Birth Certificate (no copies). It is also highly suggested to bring your Social Security card as well as a recent utility/cell phone bill that matches your name and the address shown on your license/ID (in combination with License and original U.S. Birth Certificate)
The more documentation you have, the better off you will be, so be prepared!
- For more information, visit: Passport Applications & Info
- Watch this YouTube Video: Applying for U.S. Passport
Or you may call:
- 1-877-487-2778 US State Department– American Travelers Services
- Link to: US Embassy in Mexico – American Travelers Services while in Mexico
Helpful Articles
Not required at this time, but it is highly recommended to do a PCR test (or at-home kit test) before departure.