Jump to content
×
Are you looking for the BariatricPal Store? Go now!

Updates from former Dr. Garcia & Dr. Illan patients?



Recommended Posts

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 by Tiff

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

ZesSiTT.png

Edited by supbanana

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

ZesSiTT.png

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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!!!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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. :)

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

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

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now

  • Trending Products

  • Trending Topics

  • Recent Status Updates

    • Prdgrdma

      So I guess after gastric bypass surgery, I cant eat flock chips because they are fried???  They sell them on here so I thought I could have them. So high in protein and no carbs.  They don't bother me at all.  Help. 
      · 1 reply
      1. NickelChip

        It's possible for a very high fat meal to cause dumping in some (30% or so) gastric bypass patients, although it's more likely to be triggered by high sugar, or by the high fat/high sugar combo (think ice cream, donuts). Dietitians will tell you to never do anything that isn't 100% healthy ever again. Realistically, you should aim for a good balance of protein, carbs, and fat each day. Should you eat fried foods every day? No. Is it possible they will make you sick? Maybe. Is it okay to eat some to see what happens and have them for a treat every now and again? Yes.

    • NovelTee

      I'm not at all hungry on this liquid pre-op diet, but I miss the sensation of chewing. It's been about two weeks––surgery is in two days––and I can't imagine how I'll feel a couple of weeks post-op. Tonight, I randomly stumbled upon a mukbang channel on YouTube, and it was strangely soothing... is it just me, or is this a thing? 
      · 1 reply
      1. NickelChip

        I actually watched cooking shows during my pre-op, like Great British Baking Show. It was a little bizarre, but didn't make me hungry. I think it was also soothing in a way.

    • Clueless_girl

      How do you figure out what your ideal weight should be? I've had a figure in my head for years, but after 3 mths of recovery I'm already almost there. So maybe my goal should be lower?
      · 3 replies
      1. NickelChip

        Well, there is actually a formula for "Ideal Body Weight" and you can use a calculator to figure it out for you. This one also does an adjusted weight for a person who starts out overweight or obese. https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/68/ideal-body-weight-adjusted-body-weight

        I would use that as a starting point, and then just see how you feel as you lose. How you look and feel is more important than a number.

      2. Clueless_girl

        I did find different calculators but I couldn't find any that accounted for body frame. But you're right, it is just a number. It was just disheartening to see that although I lost 60% of my excess weight, it's still not in the "normal/healthy" range..

      3. NickelChip

        I think it's important to remember that the weight charts and BMI ranges were developed a very long time ago and only intended to be applied to people who have never been overweight or obese. Those numbers aren't for us. When you are larger, especially for a long time, your body develops extra bone to support the weight. Your organs get a little bigger to handle the extra mass. Your entire infrastructure increases so you can support and function with the extra weight. That doesn't all go away just because you burn off the excess fat. If you still had a pair of jeans from your skinniest point in life and then lost weight to get to the exact number on the scale you were when those jeans fit you, chances are they would be a little baggy now because you would actually be thinner than you were, even though the scale and the BMI chart disagree. When in doubt, listen to the jeans, not the scale!

    • Aunty Mamo

      Tomorrow marks two weeks since surgery day and while I'm feeling remarkably well and going about just about every normal activity, I did wind up with a surface abscess on on of my incision sights and was put on an antibiotic that made me so impacted that it took me more than two hours to eliminate yesterday and scared the hell out of me. Now there's Miralax in all my beverages that aren't Smooth Move tea. I cannot experience that again. I shouldn't have to take Ativan to go to the lady's. I really looking forward to my body getting with the program again. 
      I'm in day three of the "puree" stage of eating and despite the strange textures, all of the savory flavors seem decadent. 
      I timed this surgery so that I'd be recovering during my spring break. That was a good plan. Today is a state holiday and the final day of break. I feel really strong to return to school tomorrow. 
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • BeanitoDiego

      Now that I'm in maintenance mode, I'm getting a into a routine for my meals. Every day, I start out with 8-16 ounces of water, and then a proffee, which I have come to look forward to even the night before. My proffees are simply a black coffee with a protein powder added. There are three products that I cycle through: Premier Vanilla, Orgain Vanilla, and Dymatize Vanilla.
      For second breakfast on workdays, I will have a low-fat yogurt with two tablespoons of PBFit and two teaspoons of no sugar added dried cherries. I will have ingested 35-45 grams of protein at this point between the two breakfasts, with 250-285 calories, and about 20 carbs.
      For second breakfast on non-workdays, I will prepare two servings of plain, instant oatmeal with a tablespoon of an olive oil-based spread. This means I will have had 34 grams of protein, 365 calories, and 38 carbs. Non-workdays are when I am being very active with training sessions, so I allow myself more carbohydrate fuel.
      Snacks on any day are always mixed nuts, even when I am travelling. I will have 0.2 cups of a blend that I make myself. It consists of dry roasted peanuts, cashews, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, pistachios, and Brazil nuts. This is 5 grams of protein, 163 calories, and 7 carbs.
      Breakfast and snacks have been the easiest to nail down. Lunch and dinner have more variables, and I prepare enough for leftovers. I concentrate on protein first, and then add vegetables. Typically tempeh, tofu, or Field Roast products with roasted or sautéed vegetables. Today, I will be eating leftovers from last night. Two ounces of tempeh with four ounces of roasted vegetables that consist of red and yellow sweet peppers, sweet potatoes, small purple potatoes, zucchini, and carrots. I will add a tablespoon of olive oil-based spread, break up 3 walnuts to sprinkle of top, and garnish with two tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. This particular meal will be 19 grams of protein, 377 calories, and 28 grams of carbs. Bear in mind that I do eat more carbs when I am not working, and I focus on ingesting healthy carbs instead of breads/crackers/chips/crisps.
      It's a helluva journey and I'm thankful to be on it!
       
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
  • Recent Topics

  • Hot Products

  • Sign Up For
    Our Newsletter

    Follow us for the latest news
    and special product offers!
  • Together, we have lost...
      lbs

    PatchAid Vitamin Patches

    ×