• Name: Deb
• Age: 58
• Surgery: Gastric Sleeve
• Surgery date: October 16th, 2013
• Testimonial date: October 23rd, 2013
• Surgeon: Dr. Almanza

I was really apprehensive about having the surgery in Tijuana - I guess we all get so jaded in our U.S. bubble! But the overall experience was great. I felt well taken care of from beginning to end. All the staff was very friendly and helpful. The facility although small was immaculate and well-run. They took very good care of us and were always available for any of our needs. The first night was the roughest as one of my co-patients had a very adverse reaction to the anesthesia and ended up very sick, which kept the rest of us awake all night. After our move to the beautiful hotel Tecuan it was like heaven - the complimentary massage was an unexpected treat and really helped with the residual gas pains. I didn't suffer very much from that, I was just very sore and tired. But the nurses came and changed the dressings regularly, took our blood pressure, provided appropriate medications, and made it very easy to relax and get rest. The following day they took us back to the clinic to replenish our fluids which took about 15 minutes and then back to the hotel. I felt so good that I took a walk around and spent way too much money on fun finds in the area. The following day we had to drink that awful stuff and have our X-ray, which also only took about 15 minutes, and all was good. The drive back to the airport was a breeze and then I was on my way home feeling very hopeful. So far I am still on a liquid diet, and quite bruised and swollen, but am doing great. I can't wait to start to see the weight drop away. I also met some fabulous people who had had a variety of other procedures including facelifts, tummy tucks, etc. and they all were very pleased and looked great already.

Dr. Almanza is a character - very happy to show off his abs :) ... Dr. Benacourt was very thorough in explaining everything prior to surgery and helping to assuage my fears. The only thing I wish I could have had was a brief discussion with Dr, Almanza after the surgery to ask how everything went, how things looked "in there" since I had previously had a lap band and was concerned with any scar tissue or other issues that may need to be addressed.

All in all it was a very surprisingly pleasant experience and at this point, one week out I am feeling great! Thank you to all of the awesome Jerusalem Hospital staff and your professionalism and attention to the highest level of care.!

Warmest Regards,

Deborah Bardwell