"Prior to my vertical sleeve gastrecomy, I was able to attend a free seminar in Houston, Texas given by Dr. Alvarez. He was very personable, answered all of my questions, and helped alleviate all of my concerns. Many of his former patients also attended the seminar, so I was able to network with many of them and ask more speficic patient questions. Susan is the surgery coordinator whom I had spoken to and emailed several times during my decision phase and I was able to meet her as well. She is a wealth of knowledge and compassion as well as a former sleeve patient herself. Prior to surgery, patients sign a post operative diet compliance aggreement which helps the patient to know that they are accountable for a successful post op course. 4 educational videos by Dr. Alavarez are also provided prior to surgery which consist of explaining paperwork, discharge medications, wound care and exercise, and diet phases. These are extrememly helpful and can be easily accessed. Ongoing education is very important to Dr.Alvarez. He has multiple educational videos on You Tube that address patient questions and he does a live weekly radio chat that does the same. The day prior to surgery, I flew into San Antonio by myself and I was picked up by the shuttle driver Rosy who was fabulous. The following morning, I was picked up by Rosy and driven across the border into Mexico without any problems. I never felt unsafe and the hospital was about two miles from the border check point. I met Dr. Alvarez in his office for the weigh in, pre-op photo and final questions. Dr. Alvarez also addressed the risks of the surgery. His office staff helped gather all of the necessary consents and paperwork and they were all bilingual which was very comforting. My surgery was completed without any complications and I woke up without any pain, nausea or bloating which was unbelievable and wonderful. Dr. Alvarez and his staff rounded multiple times a day to make sure that my post-operative course remained uneventful. Dr. Alvarez provides specific/detailed discharge and follow up instructions and is always available through phone, email, Facebook and Twitter. He is truly passionate about weight loss surgery as a tool to help patients on their journey to a healthier life. I am 4 1/2 weeks out of surgery and have not had one regret. I would do it again and I have told my story endlessly. I would recommend Dr. Alvarez to anyone who wants an experienced and compassionate surgeon with a desire to save lives one sleeve at a time. His staff, surgical competence and bedside manner are all impeccable. Thank you Dr. Alvarez and staff. I am sure I will be taking several more trips down South with family and friends who are interested in changing their lives forever, one pound at a time. "
