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Mommy Makeover right around the corner!
ORIGINAL POST
Hello ladies! I wanted to document my journey in...
AZkikaFebruary 6, 2012
WORTH IT$17,600
Hello ladies! I wanted to document my journey in search of a PS in Mexicali, MX. I'm a mother of 3 kids and the pregnancies & breastfeeding did a number on my body... I gained 60 pounds! I'm young almost 30 and have been stuck in a different body for the past 8 years! I'm happy that I did lose all the pregnancy weight (I'm down to 120 pounds) but I'm left with excess skin on my stomach and my boobies... yeah they need help! LOL... I'm planning to get a TT, BA, BL and possibly some lipo if needed. I live in AZ but the cost of PS is just over the top! So I've decided to explore into PS in Mexico and hopefully find the perfect doctor out there that fits my standards. I've narrowed down my list of surgeons to 2 or 3. I'm writing this to hopefully help someone in my own shoes who is considering going to MX for their PS since there isn't a whole lot of info online. My husband and I have done extensive research on Dr.Gaspar Blanco & Dr. Adrian Manjarrez in Mexicali. I need to do more research on Dr.Juan Luque. But from the first two I found that they both attended one of the best schools in Mexico (La Universidad de Guadalajara). I plan on calling them tomorrow to hopefully get a rough quote, get some questions answered, and schedule an in person consultation next month. I want to get a feel for them, get some questions answered, see more before & after pics of their work and get some testimonials of past patients. Id love to be able to contact some of these patients and find out what their experience was like because there isn't a lot online. If there is anyone who had their surgery with any of these doctors or others in Mexicali and can share their story here I'd love to hear it! I know there are horror stories that come from Mexico but these 2 doctors perform their surgeries in very nice hospitals, especially Dr. Gaspar, so it's not like they are doing it in some ghetto dirty clinic or something. LOL!
I also want to point out that in my personal experience, I have seen a world of difference in the quality of doctors in MX. I've been out there for vacations and every time I've had to go take one of my kids to the doctor (urgent care one time, sickness the other)- they knew exactly what they were doing and fixed it-they gave my son a shot that picked him up within hours and by the next day he was over the illness! Out here the doctors wont give you anything or will just recommend some ineffective over the counter thing, or will refer you to many "specialist". I even have family *with insurance* that will drive all the way out there to see doctors because they were so good! There are excellent doctors out there so in my opinion if you do your research thoroughly, you can find an affordable great surgeon. I will keep you guys posted on my call tomorrow, hopefully I can get a hold of them and get something scheduled!
Replies (13)
February 6, 2012
Thank you! I was not able to reach them over the phone so I sent them all a detailed e-mail & I attached pictures.. :/
I hope I didn't scare them away! LOL... I'll keep you posted when I get a response :)
I hope I didn't scare them away! LOL... I'll keep you posted when I get a response :)
February 7, 2012
I'm so excited I just got a response from Dr. Manjarrez! He agreed that I do need a TT, lipo & BL but said that I have enough volume on my breast to skip the BA if I wanted. He doesnt know that I stopped breastfeeding a month ago so I know they are gonna shrink some more and besides I want the nice round fullness that comes from getting implants. If I'm already getting a lift, might as well! LOL... He quoted me between $8K-$9,500K but during our consultation he will evaluate me & be able to give me the exact quote. I'm so excited, I literally have been checking my e-mail all day long- even though I just sent them the e-mail this morning! LOL... I cant wait to hear back from the other 2.
February 7, 2012
I too decided on surgery in Mexico. I watched a documentary on CNN where American are going to other countries for surgeries, elective and others that there insurance will not cover. I narrowed my search to 3 clinics and decided on Dr. Javier Cisneros in TJ, Mexico. I am scheduled for surgery Feb 17, 2012. I plan to meet with Dr. on the 16th to decide and discuss procedures etc for TT, BA and lipo as needed. I have to say it is very difficult to get alot of information, and I still search via internet. It would be nice if the clinics and Dr.'s made more information easily available. You can check out there website at http:/www.sthetiqs.com BTW, they have basic and premium packages that include hotel, and after care, as well as transportation. I went with the Basic, as I have a travel partner. I booked my own hotel and flight from Sacramento, Ca. The cost for surgery thus far is $6800, big difference than Cali prices. Keep me informed as to any information you have, and I will do the same.
Regards.
Regards.
February 7, 2012
I have not seen that documentary, what is it called? Is it a fear mongering type of flick? Wow, your surgery is right around the corner! How exciting!I have to agree with you that it definitely is difficult getting a lot of information online. I did find more stuff searching in spanish (I'm fluent which makes it easy). But still not enough. That's why I want to meet him before and get more info from these doctors. They need to get with it and update their websites, hey maybe they can hire my hubby and give us a discount! LOL... You got a REALLY GOOD deal on that! Holy cow! My husband and I plan on driving there and back ourselves so wont need the transportation. With the great savings we plan on also staying there in a very nice hotel for 10-14 days after surgery so that I can recover a little before making the long drive home. We want to check out the doctors in Mexicali because we also have family there that can help us babysit our kids after the surgery. The dr. that quoted me $8-$9.9K is the most experianced doctor from our list, I'm sure the other 2 will most likely quote me a lot less. But we will see, we will go with who we think is the best for the job, not necessarily the cheapest. I cant wait to hear more about your journey, I'm so excited for you! Maybe I should of started this blog in a few months since I plan on having surgery in May or June when my son is out of school. Oh well! This is a really fun site, I cant stop reading through everyones stories and learning a lot!
February 24, 2012
Azerika,
Have you decided on a Dr. for your surgery yet? Just want to say, stay as long as you need to, but no longer. You will recuperate much quicker in your own home. We were at Hotel Lucerna, a very nice hotel $78 a night, with lots of great places to eat nearby, but can say I was happy to go home. Like Dorothy said, "there's no place like home." Plus, save your money for all the new clothes, and bikinis you will want for the Summer!
Have you decided on a Dr. for your surgery yet? Just want to say, stay as long as you need to, but no longer. You will recuperate much quicker in your own home. We were at Hotel Lucerna, a very nice hotel $78 a night, with lots of great places to eat nearby, but can say I was happy to go home. Like Dorothy said, "there's no place like home." Plus, save your money for all the new clothes, and bikinis you will want for the Summer!
February 24, 2012
Azerika- Yes, I'm going with doctor Gasper. Carlo says he's the best for what I wanna do. I am staying at Lucerna. For $75 a night. I have to arrive a day early. So that's one night. Then two night in hospital then 5 more nights at hotel. Seems as if may be uncomfortable that way.
How is the environment there? Meaning do we have to worry about crime?. Photos online don't show. I'm not that concerned, but the BF is.
I don't imagine doing much in my condition.
Also how do you get meds there? Do they accept American insurance. Asking you cause I feel I'm harassing Carlo. Lmao.
Also I would like to post photos before n after to help others decide.
Not sure if the photos I seen here were you or Victoria. Can you show me yours please?!
Salina
How is the environment there? Meaning do we have to worry about crime?. Photos online don't show. I'm not that concerned, but the BF is.
I don't imagine doing much in my condition.
Also how do you get meds there? Do they accept American insurance. Asking you cause I feel I'm harassing Carlo. Lmao.
Also I would like to post photos before n after to help others decide.
Not sure if the photos I seen here were you or Victoria. Can you show me yours please?!
Salina
February 24, 2012
MsRosa,
Hotel Lucerna is nice. It is in the medical/financial district. Far away from Revolution Street (shopping area). Lots of good eats nearby, and pharmacies and convenience type store across the street. Your Dr, will give you a list of meds that you need. Save some money, and ASK for generic. My BF did not know, and they gave him the expensive stuff $150! You will have to buy some supplies, gauze, tape, pads for the bed, etc as well. Hotel Lucerna has 2 restaurants on site as well as in room service if you don't feel like venturing out. If you do, take yourself to the movies. Taxi is $4-5, andare in the front of the hotel waiting to take you somewhere. They have a wheelchair at the hotel that you can borrow if you want to eat downstairs. Walking will be hard for your stay, but try and get out, and sit when you feel tired. We stayed from the 16-21, one night in the hospital, and I can tell you, I am glad to be home recuperating. Shoot any questions you might have my way, as I have been back a week now. BTW, are you driving in, flying in?
Hotel Lucerna is nice. It is in the medical/financial district. Far away from Revolution Street (shopping area). Lots of good eats nearby, and pharmacies and convenience type store across the street. Your Dr, will give you a list of meds that you need. Save some money, and ASK for generic. My BF did not know, and they gave him the expensive stuff $150! You will have to buy some supplies, gauze, tape, pads for the bed, etc as well. Hotel Lucerna has 2 restaurants on site as well as in room service if you don't feel like venturing out. If you do, take yourself to the movies. Taxi is $4-5, andare in the front of the hotel waiting to take you somewhere. They have a wheelchair at the hotel that you can borrow if you want to eat downstairs. Walking will be hard for your stay, but try and get out, and sit when you feel tired. We stayed from the 16-21, one night in the hospital, and I can tell you, I am glad to be home recuperating. Shoot any questions you might have my way, as I have been back a week now. BTW, are you driving in, flying in?
February 24, 2012
We are flying in via delta. I'm so happy that I am conversing with you and others regarding this. Its nice to talk to my friends and family, but better to talk with someone who understands wanting a "better" body and have actually gone through the process. THANK YOU!!!
I would have never thought of buying medical supplies. Wondering if they maybe cheaper there, than to buy them and bring them along? We all know a penny saved is a penny earned.
As far as activities, I'm a busy bee type of person. Hate sitting still. That may be a burden. I've never left the states and I didnt imagine leaving to have an op. but I'm going to make the most of it, pain and all. Ha ha.
How big did you go? I am current 360 cc in both breast. That's big to most. People already say that I have big ones, but now I want bigger. I'm lost there. HELP!!!
I would have never thought of buying medical supplies. Wondering if they maybe cheaper there, than to buy them and bring them along? We all know a penny saved is a penny earned.
As far as activities, I'm a busy bee type of person. Hate sitting still. That may be a burden. I've never left the states and I didnt imagine leaving to have an op. but I'm going to make the most of it, pain and all. Ha ha.
How big did you go? I am current 360 cc in both breast. That's big to most. People already say that I have big ones, but now I want bigger. I'm lost there. HELP!!!
February 24, 2012
Does Delta fly into TJ? We flew into SD via Southwest, and paid an additional $150 for transportation to and from airport (slight rip off I thought). The headache of crossing the border was not worth it. That's why I say, fly in and out of TJ. Well worth it. And yes MsRosa, 4 kids later, at age 45, I wanted serious change...so the Phoenix (a tattoo I've been contemplating) flew, lol!
I was glad to find this website, and noticed no other stories of surgery in other countries. As if it is a taboo or dirty thing. The Dr's, staff, facilities are not quite as posh as out American Dr's, but their surgeries and skills are.
As far as buying supplies, I have gone through a box a gauze, 2 medical tapes, a bag a bed pads. Bring whatever you have already...stool softner, sleep aid, whatever..Not sure if supplies are cheaper, as I said, my BF went to pharmacy and spent $150. Remember GENERIC drugs, just like we have in the states. My meds should have been 1/2 the price:(
I am also a busy body and very independent. If you are both of those, plan to be humble for a bit. My BF has been great. I was a 38 B, and went up to D's. Per the package the Dr. gave me, they say 525g? Heck is I know, I just said give me D's. A GF also went at the same time, and she had saline, as that was her only option die to cancer in the family. They gave her small c's. She is disappointed. I have heard, go bigger!
I was glad to find this website, and noticed no other stories of surgery in other countries. As if it is a taboo or dirty thing. The Dr's, staff, facilities are not quite as posh as out American Dr's, but their surgeries and skills are.
As far as buying supplies, I have gone through a box a gauze, 2 medical tapes, a bag a bed pads. Bring whatever you have already...stool softner, sleep aid, whatever..Not sure if supplies are cheaper, as I said, my BF went to pharmacy and spent $150. Remember GENERIC drugs, just like we have in the states. My meds should have been 1/2 the price:(
I am also a busy body and very independent. If you are both of those, plan to be humble for a bit. My BF has been great. I was a 38 B, and went up to D's. Per the package the Dr. gave me, they say 525g? Heck is I know, I just said give me D's. A GF also went at the same time, and she had saline, as that was her only option die to cancer in the family. They gave her small c's. She is disappointed. I have heard, go bigger!
February 25, 2012
I am waiting to interview them both in a few weeks to make my final decision. I plan on staying at the Araiza Hotel (it's really nice!), long enough for my first few check ups. I just don't want to come back home right away and then have to drive all the way there again for a check up. So I'm guessing anywhere from 7-10 days should be enough. But yes, I definitely have to save some $$$ for new clothes!!!!
February 25, 2012
Salina, about the hotel- did you check out the Araiza Hotel? It's really nice! About the crime, I wouldn't trust my car parked in the streets out of my sight for long periods of time. But I'm sure at the hospital it would be secure, & I like that the hotel Araiza has a secured parking area with security & a guard. But if you're flying you don't have to worry about that stuff. Stay in the main streets and you will be fine. The nice thing about Mexico is most of the time you don't even need a prescription to buy the meds, I doubt that they accept American Insurance. But medicine out there is dirt cheap. When is your surgery??? I have not posted pictures yet, so it must of been someone else's pics you saw. I do plan to post before & after pics eventually... LOL...
March 11, 2012
Surgery on Wednesday March 14th. Just a few more days. Excited I am. Although my body must be getting a little scared, as I've been feeling ill since Friday. :-( Hope this doesn't ruin my plans.
How is everything going for you ladies thus far?!
How is everything going for you ladies thus far?!
UPDATED FROM AZkika
I've scheduled my consultations, now these 5 weeks...
AZkikaFebruary 8, 2012
I've scheduled my consultations, now these 5 weeks are going to drag! I cant wait to go!
Replies (13)
February 15, 2012
Sounds like
it is in the works for you. I met a lady at work the other day, a friend of a friend that will be having surgery this Thursday in Mexico. She will be there about a week. BTW, what is the name of your Dr. I chose Dr. Cisneros.
it is in the works for you. I met a lady at work the other day, a friend of a friend that will be having surgery this Thursday in Mexico. She will be there about a week. BTW, what is the name of your Dr. I chose Dr. Cisneros.
February 15, 2012
I will be interviewing Dr. Gaspar & Dr. Manjarrez next month, after that I will make my decision on who to go with. Let me know who your friends Dr is and how her surgery turns out! :)
February 16, 2012
She is going with Dr, Castaneda, She has friends and family that has used this Dr. with great results. Her cost will be about $10,000, as she chose to stay in the hospital Thursday-Tuesday, then into the same hotel that I will be at, recuperating.
February 16, 2012
Oh ok, this was another doctor in TJ then? How exciting for her, she's having her mommy makeover today!
February 24, 2012
I'm schedule to have a breast replacement, tt, lipo 3/14/12 with Dr. Gasper! I was quoted $6,000 thinking of adding the BBL, but now super afraid being my butt is flat already and I don't have much fat to add from the abdominal. Thinking it maybe wasted money. Plus added pain. That's my thought there.
Second, has anyone heard any super negative things on Gasper?
Second, has anyone heard any super negative things on Gasper?
February 24, 2012
MsRosa,
Are you are paying $6000 for BA, that seems like American prices? I paid $6800 for BA, TT and lipo with Dr. Javier Lopez Cisneros. I was anemic and could not have BBL.
Are you are paying $6000 for BA, that seems like American prices? I paid $6800 for BA, TT and lipo with Dr. Javier Lopez Cisneros. I was anemic and could not have BBL.
February 24, 2012
Yes, you are right that would be american prices, but I am having a tummy tuck, breast aug, and lipo for $6000. I was contemplating the bbl, but I don't have much fat to add so probably not doing that. Total with airfare and hotel stay for 8 days is about $7400. Not bad. Never been out of USA! Scared, but Carlo has been great.
February 24, 2012
MsRosa,
That is more reasonable. That is about what I paid. Much more reasonable than American Dr.'s. Make sure your package includes compression garments. My GF used a different Dr. and had to pay for her garments, $200! My bra and full body girdle was included. No reason to be scared. You will be treated well. Nurses, and Dr's were great. Lots of food to eat, so make sure you venture out when you are up to it.
That is more reasonable. That is about what I paid. Much more reasonable than American Dr.'s. Make sure your package includes compression garments. My GF used a different Dr. and had to pay for her garments, $200! My bra and full body girdle was included. No reason to be scared. You will be treated well. Nurses, and Dr's were great. Lots of food to eat, so make sure you venture out when you are up to it.
February 24, 2012
Make to time to take taxi to (4-5$) to the movie theater...reserved, leather reclining seats, waiters...nothing like we ever went to here in Cali. Very comfortable, especially the seats. Subtitled, so still in English. We watched the Vow:)
February 24, 2012
Garments included. But even if it wasn't they told me it would be 100$. Why did your GF have to pay so much? Even when I had my first aug, it was only $50 for the bra. Which sucked cause its no Vicky. Lmao. Good for jogging tho.
February 26, 2012
The garment is a full body piece, that extends almost down to the ankles. The bra, I guess could be used for the gym, lol. Maybe she said $150? The meds and supplies were about $170? Remember ask for GENERIC.
February 25, 2012
I was $7,500 by Dr. Gaspar for a TT, BA, BL & Lipo and was told that the garments were not included and they were about $120 I believe. Also not included were the meds.
UPDATED FROM AZkika
1 more week to meet the surgeons! Cant wait, I'm...
AZkikaMarch 10, 2012
1 more week to meet the surgeons! Cant wait, I'm really hoping that one of them is it!
Replies (7)
March 13, 2012
Azerika... I just read Ur post very HELPFUL... I'm looking my self to go to MX.. I want to go with Dr.gaspar But Very nervous to make my final decision..
March 13, 2012
I am here now. Surgery tomorrow. Luis pick us up. He's awesome. I see doctor tomorrow. Was suppose to see this evening, but he had two emergency today. Although I haven't yet met the doctor, his staff is awesome. Not really
Liking the environment outside of the hospital, but then again didn't come to vacation. lucerna hotel is alright. Not a 5 star, but decent.
I shall keep you all posted on my journey!
Liking the environment outside of the hospital, but then again didn't come to vacation. lucerna hotel is alright. Not a 5 star, but decent.
I shall keep you all posted on my journey!
March 14, 2012
MsRosa,
You are correct, Lucerna not 5Star, but still decent, clean and safe. Glad to hear you arrived, and sure you are excited. We will be thinking of you. Write down all your questions, or you will forget..i did. Remember to go to the cine if you have time... Mia
You are correct, Lucerna not 5Star, but still decent, clean and safe. Glad to hear you arrived, and sure you are excited. We will be thinking of you. Write down all your questions, or you will forget..i did. Remember to go to the cine if you have time... Mia
March 14, 2012
Hi Victoria, I completely understand I'm nervous about it too! But I'm hoping after spending time meeting the surgeons, getting all my questions answered and being able to see more pictures of patients I will feel more comfortable going forward with it. Its normal to fear the "unknown!" lol... I will keep you updated though on how the meetings go ;o)
March 14, 2012
MsRosa how EXCITING!!!! You will be in my thoughts all day tomorrow! I will actually be there in Mexicali while you are healing at the hotel! ;o) Please please please keep us posted on your journey! There's not a lot out there on these doctors online & it would be so helpful for me and others! I would LOVE to see before and after pictures!!!
March 14, 2012
Sounds great plz..keep Mee updated I just hope my long journey there its worth it i'm coming all the way from Denver Co. so I hope and pray that everything will be good.well thanks and GOOD LUCK;-)
March 15, 2012
Victoriasecret123 - Wow, I guess I can't complain I'm only 3 hours away! Have you scheduled your surgery yet with Gaspar? Or are you still undecided? What are you getting done? Have you contacted Carlo for a quote? I'm so excited to find more people interested in this same doctor, we can support & help each other out!
Oooh, let us know how your call goes! I'm totally unfamiliar with Mexican doctors, so it will be fascinating to get your take on this journey. Thank you for starting your story on RealSelf. We're here to give you support and information, so don't hesitate to send me a personal message if you need guidance getting around the site!