Is Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana Safe? Exploring Concerns

Is weight loss surgery in Tijuana safe? It can be if you select the right weight loss surgery program and secure trip arrangements. Read more to find safe weight loss surgery packages and board-certified bariatric surgeons in Tijuana, Mexico.

How Safe is Tijuana for Weight Loss Surgery?

Are you planning your weight loss surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, but wondering how safe is Tijuana? Find out how safe the city is and what to keep in mind.

How Safe is Tijuana, Mexico, for Weight Loss Surgery?

Weight loss surgery in Tijuana (TJ) can be safe if you go with proper research and preparation.

Security issues vary throughout the area. Yet, you can have a low-risk trip to the city. The trick is knowing where to go for a safe surgery.

While planning your trip, you may wonder, “Is Mexico safe for bariatric surgery?” Mexico welcomes more than a million patients from across the globe every year. The country is known for safe, high-quality medical treatments at low costs.[1]Global Healthcare Accreditation
Medical Tourism Statistics and Facts
“Mexico has a growing medical tourism industry, with high-quality medical facilities and affordable medical costs.”
View in Article

With Mexico Bariatric Services, you can find board-certified surgeons for your weight loss journey in Tijuana.

Discover how we provide full support throughout your weight loss journey!

Weight Loss Surgery Support in Tijuana

Our partner surgeons offer support in your weight loss journey and keep patient safety first. Read below to find out how!

Pre-Surgery Evaluation and Support

When you reach Tijuana for surgery, you will stay in a hotel located in one of the safe areas of the city.

Before your surgery, you can expect the following:

  1. Careful evaluation of your medical record for any risks.
  2. Detailed pre-op plan according to your BMI and surgeon’s advice.
  3. Lab tests such as EKG, X-rays, and blood work before surgery.

Our skilled surgeons will perform your surgery safely. Keep reading to know what you can expect!

Safe Weight Loss Surgery Procedure

Your surgery will be done with the help of clean and well-kept surgical tools. Your surgeon will make sure to follow strict safety measures throughout your operation.

  • After surgery, you will be monitored for any likely complications.
  • You will only be discharged when it’s safe and if you clear post-op evaluations such as leak tests.
  • You will stay in hotels with a dedicated medical floor for recovery.
  • Your surgeon will be available for immediate help if any issue arises.

Once you recover, you can expect to receive nutrition support for your weight loss journey.

Diet and Nutrition Support Post-Surgery

At MBS, we have ties with expert dieticians who have helped many patients achieve their fitness goals.

Meet our nutritionist, Katelyn J. Mock.

  • Katelyn is a US-registered dietician and nutritionist with over 18 years of experience.
  • She is certified by the AND, one of the largest groups for nutrition experts.
  • She has worked in multiple healthcare setups and with hundreds of patients as a diet consultant.
Talk to Katelyn J. Mock, US Registered Dietician, to understand how safe is Tijuana for your bariatric surgery!
Katelyn J. Mock

Karla Meza

  • Karla is our on-site bariatric nutritionist in Tijuana.
  • She has a Master’s in Nutrition Research from Universidad Autonoma de De Baja California, Tijuana.
  • Karla has more than 13 years of experience as a nutritionist and a health teacher.
Dr. Karla has a Master's in Nutrition Research from Universidad Autonoma de De Baja California, Tijuana.
Karla Meza

Our dietician will help you create diet plans for safe weight loss after surgery.

You can also get help from patients who have undergone a similar journey as you. Read below to find out how!

Bariatric Surgery Support Group

Do you want to know more about safe weight loss surgery in Tijuana from a patient’s perspective?

Join our Facebook support group today to:

  1. Connect with a community of 3,500+ members with similar experiences.
  2. Share your doubts about your weight loss surgery.
  3. Get first-hand advice from weight loss surgery patients worldwide.

Many patients have had safe and low-cost weight loss surgery in Tijuana. See their stories below.

Patient Reviews of Safe Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Geneta from Virginia got a gastric sleeve in Tijuana, Mexico. In the video below, she talks about her experience.

Patient’s Testimonial for gastric Sleeve

Marilyn went for a gastric bypass in Tijuana and got incredible results. Watch the video to know more!

Patient’s Testimonial for Gastric Bypass

Read below verified Tijuana weight loss surgery reviews and see what other patients have to say!

Did you know?

  • Our highly qualified US-trained, board-certified bariatric surgeon in Mexico, Dr. Hector Perez, underwent weight loss surgery as well.
  • He got a gastric sleeve which led to incredible weight loss results.
  • After 2 months of his surgery, Dr. Perez successfully lost 30-40% of excess weight!
After surgery, Dr. Perez successfully lost 30-40% of excess weight!
Dr. Hector Perez

Planning A Safe Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

To plan a safe surgery, you should keep the following points in mind.

Ensuring a Safe Procedure

  1. Discuss the right weight loss procedure for you with your surgeon in detail.
  2. Take note of your medical history and any condition that might affect your surgery.
  3. Check if you have any allergies, such as from anesthesia.

Finding the Right Surgeon

  1. Make sure your surgeon is board-certified and has vast experience in weight loss surgeries.
  2. Find trusted patient reviews and success records of your surgeon to make an informed decision.
  3. Choose surgeons who you can easily communicate with throughout your weight loss journey.

When planning your weight loss surgery in Tijuana, you should know about the potential risks that occur. Keep reading to find out.

Potential Risks of Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

As with any other procedure, there are certain risks in weight loss surgery. Some of these risks include:

  • Bleeding: Bleeding during and after surgery is a common complication and can become harmful if not treated on time.[2]Karger
    Assessing Bleeding Risk in Bariatric Surgeries: A Retrospective Analysis Study
    “Bleeding was the most frequent complication that occurred in 122 (1.3%) patients.”
    View in Article
  • Leaks: There is a rare chance that foods and fluids could leak out of your stomach, causing an infection.[3]NHS
    Complications of weight loss surgery
    “In the days or weeks after a gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, there’s a small chance that food could leak out of your tummy (abdomen). This can cause a serious infection inside your tummy that will need antibiotic treatment.”
    View in Article
  • Dumping Syndrome: Dumping syndrome occurs when the food moves too fast from your stomach to the small intestine. This can cause issues such as nausea and diarrhea.[4]NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
    Symptoms & Causes of Dumping Syndrome
    “You may have digestive symptoms, such as – diarrhea – nausea”
    View in Article

Most of the complications from weight loss surgeries can be treated. If you want added protection for your surgery, consider medical tourism insurance options that cover costs within 180 days.

Are you still wondering if your surgery will be safe or dangerous? Continue reading to explore!

Is Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana Safe or Dangerous?

Your weight loss surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, can be dangerous if you don’t take the right steps to ensure safety.

A woman who underwent weight loss surgery in Tijuana experienced complications that resulted in medical bills amounting to $1 million.[5]The Salt Lake Tribune
After going to Mexico for affordable weight-loss surgery, a Magna woman got sick, had to use a feeding tube and racked up $1 million in medical debt
“Following the operation in Tijuana, Rodriguez flew back to her home in Idaho, eager to begin shedding pounds. After a week and a half, she said, surgeons found a grapefruit-sized abscess in her abdomen. Three years later, she owes $1 million in medical bills.”
View in Article

In 2019, 11 Americans went to Tijuana for weight loss surgery and got infected by an antibiotic-resistant “superbug” during their stay.[6]The San Diego Union-Tribute
CDC: Superbug involved in Tijuana bariatric surgery infections showed ominous mutation
“The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a travel warning this week, notifying the public that 11 Americans who traveled to Tijuana hospitals for weight-loss surgery had become infected with drug-resistant pseudomonas aeruginosa infections during their stays.”
View in Article

In both cases, the surgeons were not reliable and did not provide follow-up care and quality standards.

While there are risks to weight loss surgery in Tijuana, reports of Tijuana weight loss surgery deaths are rare. Moreover, if you choose expert surgeons in Tijuana, the risks go down even more!
Our surgeons boast a 0% complication rate in their surgeries. They are certified by global associations such as IFSO and comply with international quality standards.

You can also find out the safety trends below!

More than 8 million tourists visit Tijuana every year[7]Visit Mexico
A Rebound in Tourism Is Projected To Close the Year in Baja California
“Despite challenging circumstances, Tijuana is on track to outpace last year’s visitor record of 8.6 million by the close of summer, as reported by the Tourism and Conventions Committee.”
View in Article, although it is not a highly safe city. Tijuana is infamous for crimes and security troubles.

The government is actively taking steps to improve police presence and surveillance in Tijuana. As a result, there has been a drop in Tijuana’s crime rates in recent times.[8]Chester
Is Tijuana Safe? 2024 Safety Guide
“However, in recent years, Tijuana has taken steps to improve its safety record. Today, Tijuana is considered safer than it has been in the past. The Mexican government has increased the presence of police in the city, and they have also implemented more surveillance cameras throughout Tijuana’s streets and public areas. As a result, crime rates have gone down, and people can feel safer walking around Tijuana’s many neighborhoods and districts.”
View in Article

As a visitor, you can plan your stay in Tijuana’s safer neighborhoods. Some of the safest areas in Tijuana are [9]EasyTravel4U
Where to Stay in Tijuana, Mexio: 5 Best Areas
“The best areas to stay in Tijuana are Centro Tijuana, Playas De Tijuana, Zona Rio, Rosarito, Chula Vista. These are popular districts for tourist that offers a wide variety of attractions and amenities.”
View in Article

  1. Zona Centro (Downtown Tijuana)
  2. Playas De Tijuana
  3. Zona Rio
  4. Rosarito
  5. Chula Vista

At MBS, we plan your weight loss surgery and stay in secure areas around Tijuana.

You should also consider the important travel tips listed below to plan your visit better.

Travel Advisory for Safe Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

In Tijuana, make sure to get safety advice from trusted locals.

Stay in touch with your healthcare team in Tijuana to clear any worries about your surgery. Keep yourself updated with the latest news from the city.

Travel Safety Tips To Keep in Mind

  1. Limit your travel in Tijuana to safer neighborhoods.
  2. Be especially careful when visiting ATMs or banks in Tijuana.
  3. Use toll roads as much as possible, and don’t drive alone or at night.
  4. Ensure that you book your travel and stay from trusted sources.
  5. Know the contact information of your country’s embassy or citizen’s services.
  6. Keep your family and friends informed about your travel plans in Tijuana, Mexico.
  7. Avoid carrying or wearing any expensive items, such as watches or jewelery, during your travel.

Source: Bureau of Consular Affairs[10]Bureau of Consular Affairs
Mexico Travel Advisory
“If you decide to travel to Mexico: Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend. Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities. Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.”
View in Article

Emergency Contact Information

If any crisis occurs, make sure to keep the contact information shared below handy.

  • Emergency Services: 911.
  • Canadian Consulate: (+52) 664 684 0461
  • United States Consulate General: (+52) (664) 977 2000
  • British Consulate: (+52) (664) 686-5320 and (+52) (664) 681-7323

Places To Avoid in Tijuana, Mexico

The most risky areas in Tijuana are the ones known for high crime rates and security concerns.

Some of the neighborhoods to avoid in Tijuana are

  • Reforma
  • Sánchez Taboada
  • Camino Verde
  • Mariano Matamoros.

Source: Travel Safe – Abroad[11]Travel Safe – Abroad
How Safe Is Tijuana for Travel?
“The most dangerous neighborhoods in Tijuana are those that are known for being a center of drug trafficking and organized crime. Avoid the eastern part of the city as it is simply not safe and will have little to see for a tourist. Do your best to avoid neighborhoods such as Reforma, Sánchez Taboada, Camino Verde, and Mariano Matamoros.”
View in Article

Conclusion

Is weight loss surgery in Tijuana safe? You can get a safe bariatric surgery in Mexico, right in Tijuana, if you plan your surgery and visit wisely.
Choose credible surgeons and secure, all-inclusive weight loss surgery in Tijuana.

FAQs

Normally, Tijuana is safe for families. Know the details of your family’s location and contact information at all times.

Always go out in a group of known people. Inform someone when you travel alone in the city.

Tijuana is safe for American tourists traveling with precautions.

The US State Department recommends taking safety measures for safe travel, stay, and transportation while in Tijuana.

You can book secure and reasonable cab rides using mobile apps such as Uber and DiDi.
For safe transportation in Tijuana, Mexico, choose reputed travel services with a good safety record.

Start your journey today!

Get in touch

References

  1. Global Healthcare Accreditation: Medical Tourism Statistics and Facts
  2. Karger: Assessing Bleeding Risk in Bariatric Surgeries: A Retrospective Analysis Study
  3. NHS: Complications of weight loss surgery
  4. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: Symptoms & Causes of Dumping Syndrome
  5. The Salt Lake Tribune: After going to Mexico for affordable weight-loss surgery, a Magna woman got sick, had to use a feeding tube and racked up $1 million in medical debt
  6. The San Diego Union-Tribute: CDC: Superbug involved in Tijuana bariatric surgery infections showed ominous mutation
  7. Visit Mexico: A Rebound in Tourism Is Projected To Close the Year in Baja California
  8. Chester: Is Tijuana Safe? 2024 Safety Guide
  9. EasyTravel4U: Where to Stay in Tijuana, Mexio: 5 Best Areas
  10. Bureau of Consular Affairs: Mexico Travel Advisory
  11. Travel Safe – Abroad: How Safe Is Tijuana for Travel?

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