How to Choose Bariatric Surgery in Mexico?

Medically Reviewed by Katelyn J. Mock, US-Registered Dietician (R.D.)

Before embarking on a life-changing journey like opting for weight loss surgery in Mexico, it is advisable to research thoroughly for choosing the safest option for you.

Though attractive and cheap packages will be easy to come by, you may be uncertain about the quality and safety of the services offered.

1. Check for the Center/Hospital Credentials

• Check for their credentials, years of service, any seals of approval from quality-authenticating bodies and certifications from medical associations.
• Information about the technology they use and the infrastructure should be readily available on their website.
• Look online for pictures of the hospital rooms, operating rooms, waiting areas, and other sections.

2. Bariatric Surgery Staff in Mexico

• Bilingual or English speaking staff can help defeat a lot of your worries.
• The presence of an on-site nutritionist is a considerable asset to any bariatric center as the surgery is only half the work. The rest depends on your diet and fitness regime.
• Ensure that their support does not end as soon as you leave the hospital after your weight loss surgery as that increases the chances of relapse.

3. Choosing the Right Bariatric Surgeon

The success of your surgery rests on the shoulders of your surgeon.

Check the Credentials

• You can easily find information about your surgeon’s credentials like education, experience, and affiliations with Mexican and international medical societies and associations. If such information is not visible, that’s a red flag.
• Some of the associations you could look out for in the resume when appraising a weight loss surgeon in Mexico are:
  • American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS)
  • International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)
  • Mexican General Surgeon Board

Keep an Eye Out for Complication Rates

• Choose a bariatric surgeon whose complication rates are either at par or below the average figures. According to the ASMBS, mortality rates in bariatric surgery are about 0.1%, and the chances of occurrence of a significant complication are 4%.
• Take a look at the following table which shows the 30-day serious complication rates and 30-day mortality various weight-loss surgeries (source: ASMBS):

Are Your Questions Being Answered?

• Does the surgeon inform you of the benefits as well as the risks of choosing bariatric surgery in Mexico, and lists the safest options at your disposal? Or does he conceal essential facts like possible complications that may arise, even after you ask?

4. Online and Offline Support Groups

5. Read the Bariatric Patients’ Reviews/Testimonials

• An excellent surgical center and organization will make it comfortable and convenient for you to read real patient reviews.
• Look for reviews for choosing safe weight loss surgery in Mexico in the form of blogs or even better, videos on their YouTube channels and other social media platforms.
• It is better to find real feedback on neutral online avenues. For example, Yelp, Bing and their local Google business listing.