I will be having surgery April 14th with Dr. Ortiz in Tijuana. Anything you can tell me about what to do, where to eat, money to take.....etc.....would be greatly appreciated. I decided to make it a small holiday for my family so hubby and kids are going also. I am too excited.

Are you close enough to Tijuana to drive (or fly) back and forth if an urgency arises? If not, do you have your aftercare doctor lined up? If you are too far to travel, I'd make an appointment with your aftercare doctor and meet him or her BEFORE going to Mexico, just to make sure firsthand that they'll accept you as a patient (many American band surgeons refuse Mexican-banded patients.)

Once you have your aftercare plan in order, the number one rule is to TRAVEL LIGHT! You don't need anything except the basics. I carried one lightweight tote bag, while other patients dragged around a couple suitcases of clothes, their laptops, books, etc. You'll meet other patients and will bond with your new banded family, and you'll live in the IV and hospital gown. Bring a toothbrush, one book or magazine, make sure your cell phone works in Mexico (call in advance or purchase a phone card at any drug store once you arrive in Tijuana.) Bring a travel size hand lotion & chapstick, and bring some pink fuzzy booties because they make you feel cute (and everyone sees you and wishes they thought of it.)

Good luck!

I had my surgery with Dr. Ortiz on April 6th 2004

You will be in good hands with Dr. Ortiz and his entire staff..

Delarla gives good info..ditto to what she said

Best of luck to you :confused:

How much does the surgery cost in Mexico?