Frequently Asked Questions
Most common questions asked about Be Slim Bariatrics and Medical Tourism
Be Slim Bariatrics’ frequently asked questions (FAQ) covers most questions staff receives from patients through our multiple communication channels: phone, email, chat, social media, support group. Covered in Be Slim Batritrics’ FAQ is our process, surgical information, and more!
Patient Process Questions
Review the Patient Process detailed on our website. Keep in mind, some patient needs are unique. If you are scheduled already please refer to your Schedule Confirmation email.
- The first step is to fill out our Health Questionnaire.
- Once submitted, this will be forwarded and reviewed by your preferred surgeon. If you don’t have a surgeon preference, we will deliver it to the surgeon best suited to your health condition and medical needs.
- Once reviewed and approved, you will receive an approval email containing the surgeon’s recommendation on what surgery is best for you and any instructions your surgeon has provided. You may schedule at this time via the link provided in your approval email. A patient coordinator will also call, text, and email you during Be Slim Bariatric’s business hours to set up your weight loss surgery plan.
As soon as you receive your surgery approval, all you have to do is pay a security deposit of $500 to secure your surgery date and lock in your price. You may schedule your surgery through our secure scheduling form.
Deposits are non-refundable due to services and arrangements taken while scheduling your surgery, and the balance is due in full two weeks before your surgery date.
You may email any FMLA (Family and Medical Leave) forms to our support team at [email protected]. Please include the FMLA form, job title, job duties, and dates requested. The expected turnaround time is two weeks. You may also bring the forms with you to your surgery appointment, and our coordinator in Tijuana will ensure to have them filled out before your departure.
When selecting a surgeon, prioritize experience, training, certifications, skills and most importantly, low complication rates. Equally significant is a surgeon who offers pre- and post-operative care and consultations with a patient-centric approach.
Roux-en-Y (gastric bypass) and sleeve gastrectomy are the most common bariatric surgery choices, but the ideal procedure is determined through consultation with your bariatric surgeon. They’ll consider your medical requirements and weight loss targets to recommend the best-suited surgery for you. Your unique needs and goals will guide the decision.
We offer phone consultations for concerned family members to ensure their worries about your safety and well-being are addressed before booking. Open communication and involving loved ones in the process can provide them with clarity and reassurance.
Financial Questions
There is a $500 non-refundable due at the time of scheduling your appointment.
The remaining balance is due and must be posted at least Fifteen (15) days prior to surgery.
Be Slim Bariatrics’ all-inclusive package includes basically everything a general bariatric patient needs besides the flight.
- Hospital, Surgeon & Surgeon Team fee
- Pre-operative tests
- Post-Op Testing/Leak Tests
- Internist Assessment
- Anesthesiologist Fee
- Nutrition Support
- Meal Planning*
- General Medication*
- General Discharge Medications*
- Pain Medications
- Antibiotics
- Analgesic treatment
- Anti-reflux treatment
- Antiseptic wound spray
- Steri-Stripes
- Incentive spirometer
- 2 nights hospital
- 1 night hotel
- Transportation
- Medical Lane Border Crossing
- Wifi & Calls to the US
- Patient Jello & Broth
- One Companion at No Charge
- Private Hospital Room
- Lifelong Aftercare Support
- Gift Bag with Goodies
Be Slim Bariatrics Bariatrics offers All-Inclusive Packages. Anything listed in these packages is included. However, there are instances that some fees arise due to medical conditions not disclosed in the Health Questionnaire or medical needs discovered the day of surgery. In this case, it is best to bring extra cash or a debit/credit card with an available balance.
If you are traveling with a debit or credit card, alert your bank to know you will be traveling and making possible purchases.
- Be transparent and thorough when filling out your health questionnaire.
- Ensure we have a current health form (90 days) before your surgery date.
- If you gained or lost weight since you last filled out a health form, please provide that detail to your patient coordinator at least 15 days before your surgery.
- Complete the suggested labs in your Schedule Confirmation email.
- Provide recent endoscopy results to our team if you suspect that you may have a hiatal hernia or if you have GERD/heartburn symptoms
- Medications prescribed to you that are not included in your surgery package, you may purchase at a reduced cost at a pharmacy in Mexico. You may also contact your primary care doctor while in Mexico to see if they will write you a prescription as soon as you get back home. Please also contact your insurance at this time to see which saves you the most money, purchasing the medication in Mexico or using your home pharmacy with your insurance coverage.
We accept payments online with a 4% processing fee. We accept Visa, MasterCard and Discover. We accept check, cashier check, wire transfer, Zelle, and bank deposit as payment methods as well. On top of all of these great payment methods, Be Slim Bariatrics’ works with third party financing companies as well.
Just like securing a loan for an automobile or a home, weight loss surgery financing is even simpler. The financing company will decide the amount to loan you, and the interest rate. After the weight loss surgery, you will start paying back the loan.
Promotional pricing does not apply to financing customers. Interested patients should request a financing quote from their coordinator and then apply with one of our third party bariatric financing companies.
Generally, HSA or FSA are accepted. To be sure, please contact your HR and verify what is covered.
Medical insurance may cover the cost of your bariatric surgery depending on the plan you have. If your plan covers medical travel, then it is possible! It is important for you to reach out to your insurance provider to find out the details of what your insurance plan will cover.
Pre-Op Diet Questions
The purpose of the preoperative diet is to reduce the size of the patient’s fatty liver.
1. The preoperative diet aids in reducing the patient’s abdominal fat prior to surgery, thereby facilitating the procedure for the surgeon and minimizing risks for the patient.
2. The preoperative diet plays a crucial role in preparing the patient mentally and physically
3. The preoperative diet contributes to weight loss in the patient.
4. The preoperative diet assists in regulating the patient’s hormones.
5. The preoperative diet eliminates sugars from the body.
6. The preoperative diet is designed to educate the patient on proper post-surgical eating habits.
7. Lastly, the preoperative diet promotes faster recovery by providing the body with ample protein.
Be Slim Bariatrics’ nutritionist will guide you. A general timeline is below. This is only a general guideline.
BMI 30-34 = 1 week prior to surgery start your diet and include two days of clear liquids
BMI 35-39 = 2 week prior to surgery start your diet and include two days of clear liquids
BMI 40-44 = 3 weeks prior to surgery start your diet and include two days of clear liquids
BMI 45-49 = 4 weeks prior to surgery start your diet and include two days of clear liquids
BMI 50-54 = 5 weeks prior to surgery start your diet and include two days of clear liquids
BMI 55-60 = 6 weeks prior to surgery start your diet and include two days of clear liquids
BMI 60 plus = 7-8 weeks prior to surgery start your diet and include two days of clear liquids
Our nutritionist will email you providing additional details right after you schedule your appointment. For ongoing support, one of our dedicated coordinators is accessible anytime. Don’t hesitate to contact them for assistance.
Post-Op Diet Questions
10g or less of sugar a day is allowed on your post-operative diet plan
Your carb intake post bariatric surgery varies. Start with hydration and protein then slowly reintroduce complex carbs like whole grains and fruits. Portion control is key.
It is crucial to follow the dietary guidelines provided by your healthcare team and attend regular follow-up appointments. They will monitor your progress, assess your nutritional needs, and provide you with specific recommendations regarding the timing and types of carbohydrates suitable for your post-weight loss surgery journey.
It is recommended to use stevia and monk fruit for everyday use and splenda for occasional use
Your stomach will be substantially smaller following weight loss surgery. When you drink using a straw, you can get a lot of fluid in a short amount of time. You can overfill your pouch after bariatric surgery, producing discomfort.
However, When you use a straw, you also take in air. This can result in frequent burping and gas discomfort.
The basic line is that you should consider your personal swallowing method and be cautious when using a straw.
We advise patients not to consume carbonated beverages because they can induce bloating and damage. Soda has been linked to weight gain. And as your stomach extends from the accumulation of carbon dioxide gas, drinking carbonated soft drinks may induce frequent belching. As you belch, food and stomach acid may pass through your food pipe, causing heartburn and a sour taste in your mouth.
Drinking soda after weight-loss surgery is strongly discouraged because liquid calories are one of the primary causes of obesity. But according to a study, carbonation does not extend your pouch following weight loss surgery.
However, carbonation does produce gas, which can be quite unpleasant.And as your stomach extends from the accumulation of carbon dioxide gas, drinking carbonated soft drinks may induce frequent belching. As you belch, food and stomach acid may pass through your food pipe, causing heartburn and a sour taste in your mouth.
Alcohol is not recommended following bariatric surgery, even if you only drink socially on occasion. Alcohol is high in empty calories with little nutritious value, filling your stomach with the wrong foods while leaving no place for the good ones.
Depending on the procedure, like with the gastric bypass, alcohol will be absorbed faster. This could result in liver problems. Alcohol can cause ulcers, and should only be consumed in modest amounts after six months of having surgery.
Depending on the procedure, like with the gastric bypass, alcohol will be absorbed faster. This could result in liver problems. Alcohol can cause ulcers, and should only be consumed in modest amounts.
It is highly advisable for you to quit using marijuana and nicotine products entirely after bariatric surgery. However, medical recommendations typically suggest waiting for a minimum of 3 months after bariatric surgery before resuming their use. This time frame allows your body to properly heal and adapt to the changes brought about by the surgery. Prioritizing your overall health and adhering to medical guidance is essential during your post-operative recovery phase.
No. Following bariatric surgery, patients can transition away from protein shakes once they can meet their necessary protein intake through regular food. Once their diet accommodates more food and protein, it’s possible to discontinue protein shakes based on personal preference. Your diet can evolve as your recovery progresses.
After weight-loss surgery, the size of your stomach has decreased a substantial amount. There is only so much room in your stomach after surgery. If you eat food and drink at the same time, you can overfill your new pouch. This can result in vomiting and can be painful.
Also, if you eat and drink at the same time, you will get full of fluids and not be able to take in the minimum of 4 ounces of food at one sitting, which may lead to snacking and weight gain.
If you drink after you eat without waiting thirty or more minutes, you will push the food through your stomach faster. This will cause you to be hungry sooner.
Following bariatric surgery, all patients are recommended to take multivitamins for at least two years. For those who undergo gastric bypass or mini gastric bypass procedures, lifelong multivitamin use is advised to ensure continued health and proper nutrient intake.
You may have caffeinated coffee in moderate amounts after three months of having surgery. Decaf coffee is permitted in reasonable amounts after a month of having surgery.
It is advisable to avoid medications that may affect blood clotting such as NSAID.
Estrogen-containing medications should also be avoided for 1 month. It is essential to consult your bariatric surgeon and ask any questions you may have. Always consult your primary care physician before making any changes to your medication regimen.
After undergoing bariatric surgery, patients receive ongoing nutrition care, dedicated patient support, and exclusive access to our private Facebook Support Group. To ensure your continued well-being, it’s vital to maintain regular follow-ups with your Primary Care Physician.
Yes, Be Slim Bariatrics offers a support group for individuals who have undergone bariatric surgery and who are considering bariatric surgery. We have a private Facebook page specifically designed for our patients to engage in discussions with one another, sharing experiences and providing support both before and after surgery.
Stalls are common after bariatric surgery. It’s important to maintain your diet and exercise routine consistently and avoid daily weigh-ins. Monitor your portions, opt for nutrient-rich foods, and review your exercise plan. Manage stress and seek support by consulting your healthcare provider for tailored advice.
No,”fluids only” encompass more than just plain water. Approved options include water, caffeine-free tea, Gatorade, Powerade zero, sugar-free popsicles, and sugar-free Jell-O. These choices offer hydration and variety in taste. Follow your healthcare provider’s fluid guidelines for your post-surgery journey.
Post-bariatric surgery, hunger is usually minimal. Cravings are often unrelated to hunger but rather mental cues or desires. We advise addressing these cravings with a substantial meal first, then a snack immediately following. Note that studies show snacking can hinder weight loss progress. Prioritize mindful eating to support your journey.
Achieving success post-surgery involves significant shifts in habits including eating, food attitudes, and choices. Adhering strictly to your advised diet and strategic meal planning is vital. Adopting a healthy eating routine, incorporating physical activities, exercises, and overall lifestyle changes are pivotal components to ensure success after bariatric surgery.
Yes, experiencing hunger is not unusual and varies among patients. Managing hunger involves prioritizing high-protein meals and allowing a 30-minute gap between eating and drinking. Individual responses to hunger can differ based on body dynamics, so focus on protein-rich choices and proper hydration practices.
Yes, adhering to your prescribed post-operative diet, including the pureed food phase, is vital for successful recovery and optimal weight loss results. This tailored plan supports healing, proper nutrient intake, and sustained weight loss. Deviating from it may hinder recovery, slow weight loss, and increase risk of complications. Each phase is designed to aid adjustment to surgical changes and provide necessary nutrients. Consult your healthcare team for support or adjustments if needed.
Yes, protein shakes with a water base can contribute to your water intake goal. While water remains the primary fluid source, water-based protein shakes are included in daily hydration. Be aware of shake contents, as some may contain calories or sugars. Prioritize water and use protein shakes to supplement. Follow surgeon’s guidelines and consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice, considering factors like activity and health status.
Yes, constipation is common after bariatric surgery. Dietary changes, reduced food intake, and medications can contribute.
Some helpful tips to address constipation are:
- Hydration: Drink sufficient water to soften stools and encourage regular bowel movements.
- Fiber: Gradually introduce fiber-rich foods, following your surgeon’s guidance.
- Activity: Light exercise, like walking, can aid digestion and alleviate constipation.
- Medications: Consult your provider before using remedies like stool softeners or fiber supplements.
- Diet: Follow dietary guidelines, avoiding meal skipping and focusing on balanced eating.
If constipation persists, consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice and intervention.
Medical Questions
Intensive therapy
Echocardiogram
Cardiologist assessment
Anticoagulant treatment
Gallbladder Removal
Hiatal hernia
Abdominal hernia
Vasectomy
Tubal ligation
More
You may email any FMLA (Family and Medical Leave) forms to our support team at [email protected]. Please include the FMLA form, job title, job duties, and dates requested. The expected turnaround time is two weeks. You may also bring the forms with you to your surgery appointment, and our coordinator in Tijuana will ensure to have them filled out before your departure.
Please bring all prescribed medications with you to your surgery appointment. Doing so assists our team in having accurate records of your medication use and allows our medical team to provide you with a safe surgery. If you are on pain medication regimens, we may even enable you to use those pain medications during your stay.
Important: Ensure you listed all medications on your health questionnaire; if you did not, email [email protected] a list of all medications now.
Keep your incisions clean and covered so they can heal and scab over properly. The stitches will dissolve on their own.
Leaks after a bariatric surgery are uncommon, happening in about one out of every 200 patients. Rapid heart rate, dizziness, shortness of breath, fever, worsening abdomen discomfort, left chest or shoulder pain, are all symptoms of stomach leak.
Here at Be Slim Bariatrics, our staff will perform three leak tests prior to your discharge to ensure patient safety. And though very rare, please know that It’s important to contact us if you experience continued or increasing pain and discomfort
At Be Slim Bariatrics, we prioritize safety with 2 leak tests. During surgery, methyl blue is used and surgeons check for dye in the abdomen. The next test is post-surgery, where patients drink a contrast solution and X-rays identify leaks. This comprehensive approach minimizes complications and ensures patient well-being.
It’s safe to get pregnant after bariatric surgery – after your weight stabilizes. Your body goes through potentially stressful changes after surgery, as well as major dietary instability, which might pose problems for a growing baby.
Doctors recommend women not to get pregnant for at least 18 months after surgery to protect themselves and their newborns from malnutrition. A woman’s weight should be steady, and be able to provide her baby with enough nutrition.
While “hormones” cover a range, including sexual hormones like birth control or hormone replacement, it’s recommended to pause them one month before and after bariatric surgery. It is not recommended to stop the use of thyroid hormone.
Sore incision, gas pain, and discomfort may be present. This discomfort can be relieved by walking and using medications that will be provided to you by the medical team, part of the package. Walking is highly beneficial for improving postoperative recovery and promoting healing. It is important to stay hydrated and do regular walks
A surgical drain is used post bariatric surgery to remove excess fluid and identify potential bleeding issues. Drains help prevent complications and are usually removed on the second day, before being discharged from the hospital. This approach ensures timely detection and resolution of potential issues.
Drains are used to filter out the blood in the abdominal cavity and reduce the patient’s pain and adhesions. Drains also help determine if the patient will have any surgery complications.
After the bariatric surgery, dissolvable nylon sutures are used for wound closure. Precise wound dressing is essential to reduce infection and potential complications. Our approach emphasizes proper wound care for optimal healing and patient well-being.
Re-sleeving is generally not advised; revision to gastric bypass is often recommended. In specific cases, sleeve revision surgery might be considered after individual assessment. Evaluation includes endoscopy and upper GI to gauge pressure. Consultation with our experts helps determine the suitable approach.
Medically, having surgery during your menstrual period isn’t an issue. However, the choice to proceed depends on your comfort level and personal preference. We prioritize your well-being and can accommodate your preferences to ensure a positive experience.
The timing varies individually. Full recovery from surgery, which usually takes several weeks, is generally advised before resuming sexual activity. Listen to your body, consider healing, and communicate with your partner. Follow your surgeon’s guidelines and consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice, considering factors such as comfort, healing, and overall well-being.
Sunbathing after bariatric surgery depends on your surgery type, healing process, and surgeon’s guidance. Generally, wait until incisions heal, usually a few weeks. Protect healing incisions from sun exposure to avoid scarring or discoloration by using high SPF sunscreen and gradually increase sun exposure. Consult your surgeon for personalized advice, considering surgery type, healing progress, and skin protection. Additionally, avoid pools, hot tubs, or jacuzzis for 4-6 weeks.
The timing for using a body shaper after bariatric surgery may vary based on individual healing and surgeon recommendations. It is important to follow your surgeon’s guidelines, as they have specific knowledge of your procedure and unique circumstances. Here are some general considerations:
Healing process: Allow your body enough time to heal before using a body shaper. This typically involves waiting until your incisions have fully healed, any swelling has subsided, and your surgeon gives you the green light.
Compression garments: Body shapers or compression garments can provide support, contouring, and comfort after weight loss surgery. They may help with skin tightening and reducing swelling. Your surgeon will guide you on when it is appropriate to start wearing compression garments and which specific types are recommended.
Proper fit: Ensure that the body shaper fits properly and provides adequate support without excessive tightness or discomfort. Ill-fitting garments can potentially interfere with proper healing or circulation.
Gradual use: Start by wearing the body shaper for shorter durations and gradually increase the time as tolerated. This allows your body to adjust and prevents excessive pressure or discomfort.
Yes, its normal. Some patients can experience hair loss after bariatric surgery. It is temporary and it will start regrowing by itself around 6 months after. Adequate intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals will help to ensure hair re-growth, and avoid longer term thinning.
Hair loss after weight loss surgery, also known as telogen effluvium, can be a common occurrence. It is typically temporary and occurs as a result of the physiological stress that the body undergoes after surgery, changes in nutrient intake, and rapid weight loss. Here are some important points to consider:
Timing: Hair loss often begins around three to six months after weight loss surgery. It may continue for a few months before gradually resolving on its own. The duration and severity of hair loss can vary from person to person.
Nutritional factors: Rapid weight loss and changes in nutrient absorption can affect the hair growth cycle. Inadequate protein, vitamin, or mineral intake can contribute to hair loss. It is essential to follow your surgeon’s recommended post-operative dietary guidelines and consider appropriate supplementation if needed.
Hair regrowth: The majority of individuals experience regrowth of their hair once their body adjusts to the changes. However, it may take several months for the regrowth to become noticeable.
Consult your healthcare provider: If you are concerned about excessive hair loss or have any specific concerns, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation, evaluate your nutritional status, and provide guidance or recommend appropriate interventions.
Be patient: It is important to remember that hair loss after weight loss surgery is usually temporary. Taking steps to maintain a balanced diet, ensuring adequate protein intake, and practicing good hair care habits can support healthy hair regrowth.
It is common to experience some discomfort or pain while eating or drinking in the immediate weeks following bariatric surgery, regardless of the specific procedure performed. This discomfort is a normal part of the adjustment period after bariatric surgery. However, if you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms or pain, it is important to reach out to your surgeon or your primary care physician for further evaluation and guidance. They can assess your condition, provide appropriate recommendations, and address any concerns you may have.
A patient can get bariatric surgery 2 months after vaginal delivery and
6 months after C-section delivery.
Bariatric surgery may be subject to cancellation in cases where the iron level falls below 10.
The requirement for a bariatric surgery revision fee arises from your prior weight loss surgery or procedures related to the stomach area, whether performed through open or laparoscopic methods. This fee is essential to cover the costs associated with addressing undesirable scar tissue that can accumulate from your previous surgery. By addressing this scar tissue, surgeons ensure a safe and effective foundation for proceeding with the bariatric revision.
After a successful surgery and during the recovery phase, the utilization of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine might be deemed necessary. This is due to the continued effects of sedating drugs and anesthesia on your upper airway, which can mimic a sleeping state. This precautionary measure is taken to ensure safety, as it accounts for the possibility of this situation occurring.
Yes! All Be Slim Bariatrics surgeons are board certified and highly qualified to perform bariatric surgery.
If a patient has heart problems, our surgeons may require an echocardiogram test and cardiologist clearance before proceeding with surgery. Please let our team know so we can best accommodate you.
If a patient has psychological conditions, surgeons may require clearance from your psychologist. Bariatric surgery affects hormones in the body and can improve or exacerbate any preexisting mental health conditions.
The bariatric surgery mortality rate with BSB is 0%. The national average mortality rate for bariatric surgery is approximately 0.3%. Bariatric surgery has been found to be one of the safest procedures to have and is often considered safer when compared to elective surgeries.
Determining which bariatric surgery is the best fit for you is based on your medical history and surgeon recommendation. This is to ensure the utmost safety for you and minimize any risks. Contact our team so we can help find the best fit for you.
When undigested foods reach the small intestines, it reacts with the fluid in the intestines, causing dumping syndrome.
Dizziness, nausea, discomfort, bloating, diarrhea, or a dip in blood pressure are all symptoms of dumping syndrome that bariatric patients may experience. These symptoms can occur simultaneously or sequentially in patients. Some people may experience dumping syndrome for the first year, but only 15% of patients will have it for the rest of their lives.
In general, patients must stay away from sweets and fatty foods to prevent dumping syndrome.
Medical Travel Questions
The required documents are to be turned in 14 days before surgery. See the list below:
- Payment in Full
- Passport or Driver’s license/State ID with Birth Certificate
- Consent Form
- Copy of flight schedule
- Emergency Contact Details
- Travel Partner Identification and Details, if applicable
- COVID Test, which should be taken 5 days before the surgery.
Don’t pack too much, Just a small suitcase or a carry-on will do. (remember the driver may have to pick up multiple patients).
Here are some recommendations from past patients:
Clothes
- Comfortable bra and loose underwear
- Slip on shoes to wear there and on the way home
- Warm socks and/or house slippers to walk the hospital halls
- Loose fitting clothes to wear there and on the way home
- Compression Knee-High Stockings for the trip home (at least 12mmgh)
Personal Items
- Make sure you have your passport or Identification and birth certificate
- Face Mask for yourself and travel partner (required)
- Reading material
- Cell Phone Chargers
- Eye mask / Earplugs
- Pen / Small Pad of Paper
- Download a translator app on your mobile device
- Cash for tipping or odds and ends that you want to purchase
Pharmaceuticals
- Prescription Medications/Pill Crusher (if necessary)
- Wash rags (hotel does not always have extras on hand)
- Lotion / Deodorant/Razor
- Toothbrush / Paste/Breath Strips
- Shampoo / Conditioner/Soap – travel size body soap or wash
- Brush
- Throat lozenges
- Tissues / Wet wipes
- Lip Balm
- Heating Pad for Pain Relief
- Gas X
- Broth
Before catching your flight, have some broth to carry you over. Please plan on what you will be having on your day of travel. You can get juice, hot and cold water and tea on most flights. Plan on what you can mix with water. It is essential to keep hydrated; it will prevent problems during your recovery.
Arrival Time: Arrive One day before surgery. We recommend arriving between 10 am and 2 pm PST for ample time for labs and EKG testing. Arriving between these times also allows you to get enough rest for the day before the surgery.
Departure Time: Day of departure is listed on your Surgery Confirmation email. We advise patients to schedule flights after 1 pm PST on the day of discharge to have enough time to do the post-operative tests and travel back over the border. Please do not book your flight too late in the day, we want you comfortable, and we do not want you to have long waits at the airport.
Our driver coordinator will handle all transportation arrangements from your arrival to departure and everything in between. Their contact information will be sent to you a week before your surgery date.
If you are flying into San Diego, CA International Airport, our driver will pick you up at the airport and take you directly to the hospital/hotel.
If you require alternative options like driving or flying to Tijuana on your own, please discuss any changes to your itinerary with your coordinator.
Yes, you can. Please note that direct flights to Tijuana might be pricier and you will need to bring a valid passport for travel.
Hotel Pueblo Amigo Plaza Casino in Tijuana. This hotel is strategically located in the business district of Tijuana and is just a few minutes’ drive south of the San Diego Border. Rated “Very Good” on Tripadvisor, expedia.com, and booking.com, this top-rated hotel is located in the city center, making restaurants, markets, and commercial centers easily accessible. Most importantly, Quartz Hotel conforms to COVID – 19 protocols to protect patients and help prevent the spread of Coronavirus. Hotel Pueblo Amigo Plaza Casino will also provide your bariatric diet via room service or at the restaurant on the Lobby floor as well.
You will stay at the hotel for one night. On your arrival day, you will be taken to the hospital first for your labs and EKG. After completing this, our driver will transport you to your hotel.
If you are traveling far and want to stay another day at the hotel after your discharge from the hospital, talk to your patient coordinator, and they will make arrangements for you.
Hospital Ciba is a modern hospital in Tijuana located just south of the San Diego border. Hospital CIBA is committed to providing excellent care to our patients, equipped with modern technology, world-class facilities, and experienced medical staff, which guarantee a safe, convenient, and comfortable place for your bariatric treatment.
Since Hospital Ciba only works with bariatric patients, patients with Be Slim Bariatrics can expect the same kind of service they would receive at a United States hospital. Hospital Ciba includes a full ICU, Laboratory, and even a Helicopter Landing Zone.
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
- On-Board Nutritionist
- Private Rooms
- WiFi
- Cable TV
- Laboratory
- Pathology
- Blood Bank Access
- Radiology
- Pharmacy Access
- Helicopter Landing Zone
You will stay in the hospital for two days. The day of your surgery and the next day is your recovery day. The medical team will be periodically checking you on this day,too.
While other patients prefer to bring companions, most patients do come alone. Be Slim Bariatrics medical team will be your strong support while you are in Tijuana. We will provide the utmost care a patient needs and ensure that your needs are well taken care of.
Yes. You can bring a travel partner at no extra charge. They will stay at the hotel with you when you are at the hotel, and they will also be at the hospital while you are at the hospital.
Bringing one companion is part of our All-Inclusive surgery packages but is allowed only upon space availability. Talk to your patient coordinator so we can make the necessary arrangements for you.
Important: You can only bring one travel partner as the hospital only allows one visitor for each patient. The Be Slim Bariatrics’ team requires if you bring a travel companion that they come to be supportive to your recovery needs. If choosing to travel with a companion, make sure they are apt to support your surgery process.
Travel companions are expected to:
- Be supportive to the patient
- Be able to take care of self
- Be able to make decisions for patient*
- Be able to entertain themselves (books, tablet)
Your travel companion should be there to assist in your recovery. However, if your travel companion wants to get out a bit, there are many food places within walking distance. They could visit a nearby casino, park, and can even go shopping. Keep in mind your companion will be in charge of their own transportation. Most people opt to use UBER or rent a taxi.
Important: You can only bring one travel partner as the hospital only allows one visitor for each patient. The Be Slim Bariatrics’ team requires if you bring a travel companion that they come to be supportive to your recovery needs. If choosing to travel with a companion, make sure they are apt to support your surgery process.
Travel companions are expected to:
- Be supportive to the patient
- Be able to take care of self
- Be able to make decisions for patient*
- Be able to entertain themselves (books, tablet)
Tipping, buying souvenirs, and any additional amenities are completely optional, and there are no extra charges if you choose not to avail yourself of any extras.
Recovery
Each patient has different needs and healing times and this is dependent upon the procedure and recovery process. Most bariatric patients can resume light duty and go back to work at least 2 weeks after the procedure. Most bariatric patients can resume work duties without restrictions at 6 weeks after the procedure.
Physical activity will aid in your recovery after weight loss surgery. It will aid in the improvement of circulation, the prevention of blood clots, wound healing, and bowel function. You can begin walking within the first week. At first, attempt to go for numerous short walks each day as walking can help you heal faster and have less discomfort.
Walking on a daily basis is recommended to boost your physical activity level. You should walk more and increase the distance and effort as you feel competent. Aerobic exercises like fast walking and riding can be done right after weight loss surgery. These will be limited generally by the degree of discomfort that these activities cause.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous workouts from 4 to 6 weeks post op.
It varies depending on the patients’ typical activities and daily routine. It normally takes only a few days. However, patients must wait at least four to six weeks before engaging in heavy lifting and workout and strenuous exercises.
A variety of methods are used to ensure patients are comfortable after bariatric 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.
You should walk to minimize discomfort after bariatric surgery. 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 bariatric surgery.
We treat nausea just before it starts. We use special drugs that are specifically designed to combat nausea before bariatric surgery. Nausea is one of the most common post-op symptoms/side effects and may occur immediately post-op, or 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 nauseous, we will use a different medication or increase the dosage.
It is very uncommon for serious pain to arise/continue upon returning home from your bariatric surgery. 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.
