As many of you know, my health and wellness journey has always been an integral and sometimes messy part of my life. Over the years, I’ve shared my ups and downs, from losing 125 pounds on the ketogenic diet, to gaining it all back (plus some) when I became pregnant with Romulus, and learning about how PCOS, Autism, and ADHD diagnosis all have a co-morbitity with binge eating disorder. It’s been a wild ride, let me tell you!
Today, I want to open up about a life-changing decision I made recently: traveling from America to Tijuana for gastric sleeve surgery. In this blog post, I’ll share my experience, address some common questions, and hopefully, inspire others who may be considering this path. To see the full behind-the-scenes consider watching the two-part YouTube vlog series. You will find them below.
How much do you have to weigh to get gastric sleeve surgery?
Before deciding on gastric sleeve surgery, I had concerns about whether I qualified for the procedure. As a 34-year-old mother, I was committed to making a change in my life, and after thorough consultations with my healthcare team, I learned that having a BMI of 40 or higher qualified me as a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery.
The weight requirements for the surgery may vary from one healthcare provider to another, so I advise consulting with a qualified bariatric surgeon to assess your unique health situation. If you have struggled with obesity-related health issues, reaching out to a medical professional can be a crucial step towards understanding your options and choosing the best path for your health journey.
I was very thankful that even at my highest weight of 472 pounds the only health issues I had dealt with were joint pain, increased PCOS complications, and mobility issues. I also suffered from occasional high blood pressure if I was experiencing increased levels of anxiety. Still, I knew that my inability to loose weight meant that sooner or later I would be dealing with a whole host of problems and I decided not to delay this weight loss surgery any further.
How long does it take to recover from gastric sleeve surgery?
The recovery process after gastric sleeve surgery is a vital phase that requires patience and self-care. When I underwent the procedure in Tijuana, I spent two nights in the hospital, followed by one night in a recovery home which was fully staffed with nurses. The medical staff took excellent care of me. Although the initial days can be challenging, the support and guidance from the medical team made a significant difference in my recovery.
Once I was back home in America, I took it easy for the first two weeks, focusing on rest and nourishing my body with nutritious, easily digestible foods. Light walks around the house helped me regain my strength gradually. By the end of the second week, I felt much better, and my surgeon approved the slow reintroduction of regular physical activities.
It is imperative to follow your post-operative diet. It is so tempting to stray from this diet as I have been on liquids for almost four weeks but I would rather allow my stomach the appropriate time to heal to prevent complications in the future.
Every individual’s recovery timeline can vary, so it’s essential to listen to your body and follow your doctor’s instructions diligently. Remember, the recovery phase is a crucial time to nurture your body and mind, and it’s okay to lean on your support system for help and encouragement.
Is it safe to get bariatric surgery in Mexico?
The decision to undergo bariatric surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, was not an easy one, but after extensive research, I was reassured about the safety and quality of care available in certain medical facilities. I chose a reputable hospital with accreditations and positive patient reviews, ensuring that my health would be in capable hands. I went with the J. L. Prado Surgery Center, through their A Slimmer Me program.
While there are fantastic medical facilities in Mexico that adhere to international standards, it is essential to do your due diligence. Consider factors such as the surgeon’s experience, hospital certifications, and patient testimonials before making a decision. The surgery center I went through has completed over 20,000 surgeries and I have friends who went to that exact surgical center. I was able to request my doctor based on my friends experience and the reviews of those in the large private Facebook Group. You get access to this group once your application has been approved.
I also sought guidance from my primary healthcare provider, who provided valuable insights, recommendations, and who made sure I was healthy enough to have the surgery before I left the country. Being well-informed and supported throughout the process made me feel confident in my decision to embark on this transformative journey.
My experience traveling from America to Tijuana for gastric sleeve surgery has been life-changing, and I am incredibly grateful for the support I received along the way. As a mother and a Content Creator, I believe in sharing my journey to inspire others who may be considering similar paths to prioritize their health and well-being.
Remember, every step towards a healthier life is worth celebrating, and seeking professional advice is crucial when making significant decisions about your health. Whether you’re considering gastric sleeve surgery or exploring other weight loss options, remember that your well-being is a priority, and you deserve to live your best life.
As always, I’m here to support and encourage each one of you. Let’s continue to uplift and inspire each other on our journeys toward better health and happiness. Together, we can achieve greatness!