I used to see alot of posts from patients of Dr. Fernando Garcia, but haven't seen anything in a while. I just scheduled for March and would love to hear updates from his former patients.

Also, still have this nagging curiosity about Dr. Illan, so want to hear more from his patients as well. Updates, experiences etc. I have read through the board and have seen a few. Before I put my deposit down just want to make sure I am making the best decision for myself! They both seem like well qualified surgeons and either way I would be making a good choice. Just wondering if anything in particular sets them apart.

Thanks!

Edited January 3, 201412 yr by Tiff

I would be interested in hearing more as well on these two surgeons.

Hey guys, just saw your post and wanted to share with you a little bit about my experience with Dr Illan and Baja Bariatrics. First let me just tell you that I did a tremendous amount of research looking for just the right surgeon and am so happy with my decision to choose Dr Illan. Tiff, you asked if there were any particulars that set them apart and the answer is YES! I had some special concerns about internal scar tissue from a previous surgery and Dr Illans coordinator Omar Acosta set it up for Dr Illan and I to do a Skype call. No other surgeons or coordinators offered that to me so that was something that really impressed me about him. After speaking with him face to face, and talking with him about my concerns he made me feel so at ease and assured me that although the scar tissue was probably there, it was something he had dealt with in the past and that it would more than likely just mean a slightly longer operation. It turned out that he was right and my surgery went well, it just took slightly longer in the OR. In addition, Dr Illan is a kind, gentle, and soft spoken person who really cares about his patients. Dr Illan's coordinator is also the best there is. Omar goes above and beyond to make sure you are well taken care of and that you have everything you need during your stay there in Mexico. I never saw any other dr.'s coordinators there at the hospital checking on and taking care of their patients like Omar Acosta does. After you are discharged from the hospital, he will take you sightseeing and shopping, and all the while making sure you are getting broth and staying hydrated. My surgery was on 11/20/13 and as of today 1/3/14 I am down 31 lbs. I feel fabulous. I am so happy about my decision, not only to have the surgery but in choosing Dr Illan as my surgeon. He has changed my life and for that I am eternally grateful! Feel free to send me a PM and I will do my best to answer anybody's questions.

Hm, it looks like my post about my experience with Dr. Illan was deleted, but I can honestly say it was the best medical experience of my entire life. I have the experience recorded on my blog if you want to check it out:

http://gainingme.livejournal.com/5015.html

And pictures! http://imgur.com/a/ldVZI

This before/after isn't entirely accurate because I started the surgery process at 300lbs, not 340, but today I'm down to 240 (I've lost 60 pounds since August 1st)! Love my sleeve so much, highly recommend Dr. Illan, would go back in a heartbeat.

Edited January 3, 201412 yr by supbanana

2btrim, thanks so much, I enjoyed reading your entire experience! Really glad to know that Dr. Illan was okay with scar tissue, as I have plenty.

Supbanan, I read your blog, fantastic descriptions as well and I love the pictures! You look fantastic!

Thank you both for sharing your experiences in such detail.

Great after pic!!!! congratulation

Hm, it looks like my post about my experience with Dr. Illan was deleted, but I can honestly say it was the best medical experience of my entire life. I have the experience recorded on my blog if you want to check it out:

http://gainingme.livejournal.com/5015.html

And pictures! http://imgur.com/a/ldVZI

This before/after isn't entirely accurate because I started the surgery process at 300lbs, not 340, but today I'm down to 240 (I've lost 60 pounds since August 1st)! Love my sleeve so much, highly recommend Dr. Illan, would go back in a heartbeat.

I just wanted to reiterate what both posters above mentioned as my review of Dr. Illan has also been removed.

I also did many, many hours of research over a four month time period. The bottom line was the reviews of Dr. Illan, speaking with him and most of all the professionalism of his Patient Coordinator, Omar.

Everybody I talk to has had the same team of doctors and series of events during their surgery and trip. As well they should as it is a successful system. They have it down to a science.

Please contact me if ANYONE has any questions. I would be happy to talk to you!

I will also be curious to see if this post remains visible.

Supbanana, Ty for posting your blog. I have been trying to find more info about Dr. Illan as I am seriously considering him once I get the funds. I'm impressed that he staples, sutures, and glues to prevent leaks. I haven't heard of any of the surgeons doing all 3 so that was very impressive to me.

My experience with Dr illan mirrors all of the above. As a matter of fact I will b returning jan 13th with a loved one to have her surgery with Dr.Illan. Another sister sleever is taking her daughter a week after. You will not b disappointed if u choose Dr. Illan n his team.

I don't think the posts being deleted is something that was done purposely. I haven't been here long but I know they pulled a few websites together to make this one not too long ago and I think some posts didn't get transferred. I think they are still working the bugs out.

Hello. I had sleeve surgery with Dr Garcia 12-3-13. With ready for a change ... They took great care of me !!!!! Yesterday was 1 month out down 30lbs . Could not be happier !!! Love my sleeve

Thanks wendim. Congrats on your success!! Glad your experience with Dr. Garcia was positive!

I had a revision surgery on Sept 10, 2012 with Dr Garcia. All I can say is that he is an amazingly skilled surgeon and I was well looked after while I was there no complications at all! He is also reasonably priced and I of course would highly recommend him.

I am currently 24 pounds below my original goal weight and at 16 months out still have lots of restriction and little to no hunger; yah Dr Garcia, thank you!!!

I was sleeved by Dr. Garcia on 8/06/13. I love Dr. Garcia and his team, they are awesome. I went by myself and the surgery went well with no complications. I was a type II diabetic with asthma. They took great care of me. In fact, I received better care with them then when I had my hysterectomy in the States.

So far I have lost 81lbs. I have no regrets and look forward to reaching my goal weight.

Good luck to you on your journey.

I used Dr. Garcia and I was very happy that I had him as my surgeon.

For my Dr. Illan patients...bougie size?