• Name: Shelby Mcdonald
• Age: 43
• Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
• Surgery date: July 2nd, 2014
• Testimonial date: July 21st, 2014
• Surgeon: Dr. Almanza

I was always overweight as a child, teenager, and adult. I would always hear, your face is beautiful! or Your so pretty, you just need to lose a few of those extra pounds. I would go from one diet to the next. I would lose then gain back. The yo-yo never seemed to stop! I had a girlfriend that wanted me to go with her to Mexico and have this surgery done and I chickened out. She went without me and I regret not going then! She came back had no complications. Began to lose weight and looked & felt GREAT! I made the decision then to have it. I researched it and was convinced! I got a friend of mine who needed it as well and we decided to embark on this journey together.

She & I booked our surgery and we were set! I HIGHLY recommend flying with SouthWest Airlines. They were great, my friend needed a wheelchair and bc we booked our flight together I enjoyed the benefits of her needing a wheelchair. We were escorted around the airport, seated first on the flight AND given and extra seat between the two of us at no extra charge. We didn't have to ask. They saw the need and accommodated discreetly.

We arrived in San Diego, called the shuttle number in 15-20 we were on our way to Mexico and our new life! The entire process was smooth, the biggest barrier was the language. Only a few of the staff knew English or could find someone who did understand what you said or ask. My advice would be to ask ALL the questions you have before you go!! Any and EVERY question you could EVER think of.

Do not think that the hospital is HIGH TECH - it's not- comparing to the US. It may be upscaled for Mexico but I have seen nicer Doctor offices here. As far as sanitary, all I can say is I don't have an infection and I kept my eyes closed alot. LOL.
I did have a minor setback after surgery. I had an allergic reaction to either the antibiotic or pain med they were giving me threw IV so nausea and rash/hives broke out and while there I discontinued pain meds (thank God there wasn't any pain to speak of) as well as antibiotics. They gave me shots for the rash but when I got home I went to my Dr. and he changed my antibiotics to what I KNEW I could take and still didn't need any pain meds. The hotel you stay at is very nice, but you may want to pack ear plugs bc the music from the clubs next to it WILL keep you up!

Would I do it again, Yes!I am 3 weeks post op and down 17 pounds since day of surgery. Would I recommend Dr. Almanza, Yes!

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