Are you planning to have a gastric sleeve or another bariatric surgery in Tijuana, Mexico?
Mexico is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for medical tourism. That is because of its world-class medical facilities, top doctors, and affordable medical care. If you are considering a gastric sleeve or another weight loss surgery in Mexico, you might be wondering if you should choose a hospital or surgical center. This is a question that you will want to talk to your doctor about. There are some advantages to both. We’ll take a closer look at the differences between hospitals and surgical centers. But first, let’s talk about weight loss tourism in Tijuana.
Weight Loss Tourism in Tijuana
Located just 15 minutes from the United States border, Tijuana draws a large number of visitors from Canada and the United States. It is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico for medical tourism, especially for people from San Diego and other areas in California. There are a variety of world-class hospitals and bariatric surgical centers in Tijuana. The city of Tijuana has strict quality control guidelines for hospitals and surgical centers that perform bariatric surgeries. This results in an excellent standard of care.
Is Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico Worth It?
Absolutely! If you’ve found yourself grappling with weight loss attempts on multiple occasions, and conventional methods have proven unsuccessful, bariatric surgery emerges as a viable and potentially transformative option. The compelling factor lies in the fact that the benefits derived from such surgical interventions often far outweigh the associated risks and complications, particularly for individuals facing persistent challenges in shedding excess weight through conventional means.
Choosing Mexico as a destination for bariatric surgery adds another layer of practicality to this decision-making process. The cost-effectiveness of undergoing bariatric procedures in Mexico stands out as a significant advantage. The relatively lower expenses make this option more accessible for individuals seeking effective weight loss solutions without an exorbitant financial burden. Moreover, Mexico has gained recognition for providing quality healthcare services, drawing individuals from various parts of the world in pursuit of bariatric excellence at a fraction of the cost compared to some other countries.
In essence, if conventional weight loss methods have proven futile, and you’re contemplating the prospect of bariatric surgery, considering Mexico as your destination holds merit. The combination of potential life-changing benefits and cost efficiency makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a viable solution to their weight loss challenges.
In general, gastric sleeve and other weight loss surgeries are safe and effective in Mexico. Plus, patients can save thousands by choosing to have surgery in Mexico.
Where Is the Best Place To Have Gastric Bypass Surgery in Mexico?
So, where should you have bariatric surgery? Here’s a look at some of the differences between hospitals and bariatric surgical centers.
Hospitals
A hospital has everything that is needed for major medical specialties like an ER, MRI, ICU, pharmacy, and more. This is beneficial if you are considering other medical procedures besides gastric sleeve. By choosing a hospital, you can avoid multiple trips to different medical centers. In the case of an emergency, you have everything needed in one place. Many hospitals have cafeterias, concierge services and other amenities, which is ideal if you are traveling with a companion.
Surgical Centers
Bariatric surgery centers specialize in bariatric surgery. They may have multiple operating rooms. These hospitals feature the latest medical and surgical bariatric equipment. Some, like the Obesity Surgery Center, feature advanced amenities, including single patient rooms, high-speed internet, and more.
Questions to Ask Your Surgical Staff
To help you evaluate where to have your surgery, there are some questions that you should ask your surgeon or the bariatric clinic staff.
- What emergency care is available?
- Do you offer private hospital rooms?
- Where are you located?
- Do you provide transportation from the airport?
- What facilities are available for companions?
- What is the recovery center like?
How to Choose a Hospital or Surgical Center
Selecting the appropriate facility for your bariatric surgery is undeniably one of the paramount decisions on your weight loss journey. This decision holds significant weight, as the facility you choose becomes the crucible in which the transformative and often life-altering process of bariatric surgery unfolds. The impact of this choice resonates across various facets of your well-being, from the surgical expertise and patient care to the overall environment in which the procedure takes place.
In delving into the intricacies of this decision-making process, it becomes imperative to consider factors beyond mere legality and licensing. Look for a facility that not only possesses full licensing for bariatric surgeries but also exhibits a track record of excellence in performing such procedures. Scrutinize the credentials of the medical professionals, the overall infrastructure, and the support systems in place to ensure a comprehensive and holistic approach to your weight loss journey.
Moreover, the chosen facility should be equipped with a supportive and compassionate team that understands the unique challenges associated with bariatric surgery. Communication and collaboration between healthcare providers and patients play a pivotal role in achieving successful outcomes, making it crucial to assess the interpersonal dynamics within the facility.
By dedicating due diligence to the selection process, you are essentially investing in your health and overall well-being. The right facility not only enhances the safety and efficacy of the surgical procedure but also provides a conducive environment for post-operative care and recovery. In essence, choosing the right facility for your bariatric surgery becomes a cornerstone in the foundation of your transformative journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Here are some things to look for when choosing a hospital or bariatric surgical center.
Are the Surgeons Board Certified?
Doctors who are awarded board certification in bariatric surgery have advanced training in bariatrics. The doctor’s credentials are carefully reviewed by the board certification body before they are awarded board certification.
Surgeons with board certification have documentation of excellent follow-up of patients including dietary care, nursing care, psychological care, and exercise. Board certification means the surgeon has high success rates, excellent patient satisfaction, and low rates of complications.
Make Sure It Is Fully Licensed
It is imperative to thoroughly verify and confirm that the medical facility you select possesses complete and valid licensing to conduct bariatric surgeries. This crucial step ensures not only the legality but also the competence and adherence to established standards by the facility in the provision of bariatric surgical procedures. By taking the time to ascertain the facility’s full licensing status, you contribute significantly to the assurance of a safe and regulated environment for undergoing bariatric surgeries, thereby prioritizing the well-being and health outcomes of individuals seeking such medical interventions.
Look for Accreditation
If you choose to have surgery at a hospital, look for accreditation by the General Health Council of Mexico (CSG). Only three hospitals in Mexico have this accreditation. Hospitals that have CSG accreditation offer the highest standards of infection control and patient safety.
Another accreditation to ask about is The International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO). Members that receive this accreditation adhere to strict standards for bariatric surgery.
Check Out Patient Reviews
Patient reviews are important when it comes to choosing a bariatric surgery center. Ask if they have testimonials from real patients and before and after pictures. What kind of success stories are available?
Are The Staff Bilingual?
Make sure the facility has a fully bilingual staff. Look for doctors, nurses, and administrators that are bilingual in Spanish and English.
How Many Years of Experience Do The Surgeons Have?
Years of experience are important when it comes to bariatric surgery. At Renew Bariatrics, our surgeons have more than 50 combined years of experience in performing bariatric procedures. Together, they have performed thousands of procedures.
Choose the Right Bariatric Surgery Center
Embarking on a journey to Mexico for bariatric surgery represents a potentially transformative and life-changing experience. However, the success and safety of such a significant medical undertaking hinge heavily on the careful selection of an appropriate surgical center or hospital. To ensure that your medical journey is not only rewarding but also secure, it is paramount to conscientiously consider and prioritize certain crucial factors.
By paying meticulous attention to the points outlined above, you empower yourself to make an informed decision and choose a high-quality hospital that aligns with your specific needs and expectations. This comprehensive approach guarantees a more holistic assessment, fostering confidence in the selection process and ultimately contributing to the overall success and well-being of your bariatric surgery experience in Mexico.
