Plastic surgery in Tijuana: what US patients should know before traveling

Every year many patients from the United States consider having surgery in Tijuana. This guide helps you decide with good information, whether with my practice or with another surgeon.

1. Verify that your surgeon is certified

In Mexico, a plastic surgeon must hold a professional license and a specialty license, and preferably certification from the Mexican Council of Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery (CMCPER). You can check it yourself in the council’s directory. More on this in How to choose the right plastic surgeon

2. Start with a remote consultation

You can write to us by WhatsApp or text and have a first conversation before you travel. There we answer your questions and organize your assessment, in person or virtual. The medical assessment takes place after that first contact. Share your photos only through the channels our team tells you to use.

3. Plan your trip ahead of time

• Tijuana is minutes from the San Ysidro crossing: 15 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by car.
• Travel with a companion. After surgery you will need help during the first days, unless you stay at a recovery house.
• Plan to stay in Tijuana for the first days of recovery before heading home. It will depend on how far you live and whether you travel by car or plane; we will give you the safest recommendation for your case.
• Ask about traveling by plane or car after surgery. By plane, waiting at least 10 days is recommended to lower risks; by car, stop every hour and a half to walk for 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Get your documents ready

Bring your medical history, a list of your medications and, if applicable, recent tests. Also bring the medications prescribed by your doctors in the United States. If you have a doctor at home, let them know about your surgery.

5. Questions to ask any surgeon

• Are you certified, and can I verify it?
• Where will the surgery take place, and does the facility have COFEPRIS permits?
• Who administers the anesthesia? In my practice it is administered by a certified anesthesiologist, in both Guadalajara and Tijuana. Always ask.
• What happens if there is a complication after I return home?
• How will remote follow-up work?

6. Follow-up after you return

Ask how follow-up will work once you are back home. In my practice, follow-ups are scheduled with photos and by video call to keep appropriate track of your recovery. Good planning includes how your questions will be answered after you cross the border.

Frequently asked questions

If you would like to review your case, write to us on WhatsApp and we will guide you from the first contact. You can also read the guide for international patients.