"If you are considering VSG surgery, look no further! I know there are a lot of surgeons out there but I just can't say enough about how absolutely engaging, reassuring and talented Dr. Alvarez really is. In my opinion, having Dr. Alvarez and his staff perform my VSG was one of the best decisions I have made in my life.
From the moment I first contacted the office to now, almost 6 weeks post surgery, my impression of Dr. Alvarez and his entire staff is one of extreme professionalism and immense compassion.
Right from the start, Susan responded to my emails quickly and always provided me with the answers I was looking for in a concise manner and helped to calm my nerves. Getting everything arranged to fly from Canada to have my surgery in Mexico was simple. Susan and the office looked after the majority of it and I just had to get a flight into San Antonio.
I went on Dr. Alvarez's YouTube channel and watched all of his videos about the surgery. It was like sitting in a room talking with him so I felt like I knew him already. I would recommend this to anyone considering surgery.
When we (my sister had the surgery too) finally arrived in Piedras Negras we met Dr. Alvarez and right away I felt at ease. He answered all of my questions and I just had a feeling come over me that everything was going to be alright.
I really liked how he had an extensive pre-op diet and provided me with the post-op diet expectations for 5 weeks BEFORE I had my surgery. I knew EXACTLY what to expect and things pretty much played out as Dr.Alvarez laid it out in both his book and in the literature that was emailed to me.
The hospital was a little better than I had actually expected. Our room had recently been redone and was very comfortable. The only problem was they were still replacing the tile floors in the hallway so the construction noise I must admit was a little annoying. The only other suggestion I would make is that the shocks in the van that transports you over to Mexico get an overhaul! :-) The road is a bit rough and while on the way over it`s okay...the ride back was a little more of an issue. I feel for Rosy the driver...she does the drive everyday!
The entire surgical staff came into my room prior to surgery to greet me and was in our room multiple times a day while we were recovering. Even the anesthesiologist came in every day after surgery! I`m sorry I forget his name but he was wonderful too...as were all the doctors and nurses. I can honestly say I don`t remember seeing the doctor that much at a hospital here in Canada...let alone a whole crew of them!
I really enjoyed talking with Dr. Alvarez`s young bilingual staff that stayed to help us out with whatever we needed and who acted as translators in the evening when we were under the care of the nursing staff who didn`t speak English. Again...too many drugs to remember their names...but they were awesome and do a wonderful job!
So..the surgery went well...and I have been thrilled to say that I have had no complications. I am now back in Canada and when I encounter an issue I send Dr. Alvarez an email and he responds really promptly. It`s probably seems strange to say that I do feel like I have excellent aftercare considering my surgeon is in Mexico and I am in Canada...but I really do.
I truly feel like Dr.Alvarez has given me the jump start to improve the quality of my health and my life. It`s not a decision I entered into lightly and I am so grateful I took the time to seek out Dr. Alvarez. I felt confident going into surgery with Dr. Alvarez and still feel confident that he will be available to me as I continue on my journey.
Please feel free to personal message me on OH if you would like me to answer any more specific questions for you.
Good luck making your decision.
Renee"
