"Where to start? As a health care professional my first thought for Bariatric Surgery was not Mexico. However, having already had a lap band surgery, my insurance would not pay for a 2nd weight loss surgery - so I really began to explore options. The more I looked - the more I liked the information I found on Dr. Alvarez. His patients - even those 4 years out seemed to still maintain a great relationship with him. His statistics were better than an US Bariatric physician I looked at. So I contacted his nurse Susan - and the rest was easy. I immediately received paperwork to complete and return. Susan was available seemingly around the clock. Her answers came so quickly I began to wonder if she was a real person (but she is). Once I was approved I figured out when I could take vacation and we set a date.
Now for my experience. I went to Mexico in January 2012 hoping for a revision. Like every other review you will read - walking into Dr. A's office was comforting. He answered all my questions - weighed me and reviewed my medical history. Then his helper Jessica took a picture :( and away we went to the lab and Xray.
Jessica is a sweetie and was with me the whole way. I knew it would be different in Mexico - but I admit I was surprised to be check in on a typewriter (how many years since I saw one in a US hospital? Close to 20 years - it has all been computers. However, the process was quick and accurate.
Then on to my room. The room was very clean. Cleaner than most hospital rooms in the US. Shortly I was headed to surgery. When I awoke Dr. A was there and he told me he had removed my band but was unable to do the revision due to the amount of scar tissue from my band. He had told me I had about a 50/50 chance of this happening - so while I was disappointed I was prepared and he had been very upfront about the possibility.
I had to go home and heal and return - which I did. When I returned in June 2012 - it was like coming home. I was greeted with a hug and a big smile by both Dr. A and his colleague Dr. Gabe. The surgery went without issue and I awoke in my room - no oxygen - no NG tube - no pain. Day 1 I was up to the bathroom and took a couple walks... but mostly just rested. The only problem I had was nausea - they were giving me meds in my IV but I have always had problems with nausea - and this was no different. I have to say Dr. A and/or Dr. Gabe were in my room every few hours checking on me - listening to my tummy - checking my pulse and oxygen level. And they would add more nausea meds when ever I could have them. It was comforting to know they were that close and checking on me.
The hotel was great - the driver Rosie is a sweetie. They all make the process as seamless and easy as possible. I felt like I was competent in hands throughout the process. Be it crossing the border - meeting the surgeon, going to surgery or during my recovery.
You will find this team to be caring and loving - of each other and of of anyone who they care for.
Dr. A followed up with me after I returned home as did Susan. Also I received reminder emails checking on me at 1 week, 3 weeks and 4 weeks - all just reminding me of what I should or shouldn't be doing at those milestones. I feel at any time I can send Dr. A or Susan an email and get a response - not only now but in the future as well. I would recommend Dr. A and his team to anyone looking for a sleeve surgery. I would go back again and actually may go back to visit sometime in the future. "
