• Name: Caroline W.
• Age: 41
• Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
• Surgery date: August 13th, 2015
• Testimonial date: September 7th, 2015
• Surgeon: Dr. Almanza

My best friend told me about the gastric sleeve procedure and since we have both been struggling with weight issues for years and years and years, we figured that this was the tool that would be able to help us change our lives forever. At first I was hesitant because the surgery was to take place in Mexico and naturally I pictured all the terrible scenarios I had heard of regarding botched surgeries in different countries. After reading tons of testimonials and info on the procedure, the doctor, the facility however, I decided to give myself an early birthday present and take the plunge.
My friend, too, signed up and before we knew it, we were on our way to San Diego. We were picked up by a nice driver named Tony who took us to the hotel in Mexico.
The next morning we were picked up and taken to the hospital that was less then 5 minutes from the hotel. The nurses and doctors tested our heart, blood, etc. to make sure we were okay for the surgery. Dr. Almanza was very nice and the fact that he himself had had the surgery years ago made me feel very confident that I had made the right decision. We were then prepped and taken to our room.
The anesthesiologist explained that he was going to give me something to relax and the next thing I knew is that I woke up and the surgery was over! Over the next 24 hours I slept a lot and I felt a little discomfort, but surprisingly I was not really in pain. The doctors told us to walk as much as possible to get the gas used in surgery out of our bodies. All of the nurses and doctors at the hospital were super sweet and very professional. I wanted to hug all of them when we left for the hotel two days later. For the remaining two days we stayed at the hotel, we got to eat Popsicles, broth and apple juice and the doctors and nurses at the hotel were great, too. I felt very well taken care of and at no point did I think it weird that we were recovering at a hotel. I couldn't wait to leave the hospital, because their beds were KILLING me.
On our second day after surgery we were up and walking. There is a cute outdoor mall nearby and we walked there to do some window shopping. Everybody was so nice and I still feel bad for the fact that I initially hesitated, because I thought this might be some backyard chicken doctor. It was far from that. The care before, during and after could not have been any better. I have been home for a little over three weeks now and while I am still adjusting to my new situation I have already lost over 15 lbs without even trying. This was definitely the best decision I have ever made and I can only recommend Dr. Almanza and his team to everyone who is struggling like I did. You will NOT regret it, I promise. Thank you, Dr. Almanza and fabulous team!!!

* This is an actual testimonial, however, your results may vary. For more information, please read our Testimonial Disclaimer and Risks of Surgery.