New, and planning with Dr. Ariel Ortiz in March 2017

**texascowgirl2007** · 07-29-2016 05:05 PM

Just wanted to say hello. I am looking for information, tips, do's, don'ts and anything that might make this surgery easier. I will be traveling down to Dr. Ariel Ortiz from Texas. Thanks for any information(good, bad and in-between)!!

**Robin1977** · 07-29-2016 05:43 PM

First of all, Dr. Ortiz and the staff at OCC are amazing. I was sleeved July 22nd with my sister. We both had a wonderful experience. The people at the Marriott are extremely helpful, too, and you will receive stellar service. The chicken broth at the hotel is so yummy! Feel free to private message me. I would recommend Gas X strips, a small pillow to help comfort your tummy after surgery, a carry-on with wheels, and comfy clothes. When you are in Tijuana, remember to sip, sip, sip, and walk, walk, walk to help relieve the gas pain. There is a Walmart store about 1/2 a mile from the Marriott. My sister and I walked there twice a day during our stay last week. I wish you all the best. You are in good hands.

**Kindle** · 07-30-2016 07:53 AM

I had my surgery at OCC in December 2013 and ditto to everything Robin said. Great service from everyone including the driver, office manager, nurses, surgeons, aftercare doctors, hotel staff and even the Walmart employees! The anesthesiologist did a great job as I woke up with no pain and no nausea....I had been nauseous every other time I've been under anesthesia up until then. They were also great with postop communication. Without a third party medical tourism company involved, you will be able to contact any of the staff directly with any questions you have afterwards.

All I brought to the surgery center was my phone, iPad, and Chargers. Wore the same clothes to and from on day of surgery. Make sure they are loose, comfy clothes as your belly will be too swollen and bloated to fit into things like jeans. Wore a hat so I didn't have to deal with my hair. There's a Starbucks next to Walmart so I, too walked there twice/day with my sis do she could get her "fix". Walmart was nice in case you forget anything. I bought pedialyte and herbal tea bags cause the isopure I picked up at GNC was incredibly gross and made me gag.

Like robin said, walk walk walk and sip sip sip all you can. The hotel has chicken broth, bottled water and popscicles available. Good luck and feel free to ask any questions!

**WANAGL** · 07-30-2016 08:23 AM

Welcome!

I highly recommend watching Dr Matthew Weiner videos on YouTube. They're full of useful information.

You've come to by far the best site for support, no-nonsense suggestions, knowledge, wisdom and experience.

Best of luck as you embark on your journey!