Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana – Hidalgo Bariatrics https://hidalgobariatrics.com Loosing weight, gaining life! Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:09:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/cropped-icon-sitio-hb-1-32x32.jpg Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana – Hidalgo Bariatrics https://hidalgobariatrics.com 32 32 Weight Loss Surgery Do’s and Don’ts https://hidalgobariatrics.com/weight-loss-surgery-dos-and-donts/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:09:15 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=2973

What to do and don't do before and after Bariatric Surgery

Weight Loss Surgery Do's and Don'ts

before and after bariatric surgery

Before and after Gastric Sleeve Surgery

If you are planning on having Gastric Sleeve Surgery, you would need to be aware of the importance of following the do’s and don’ts before and after undergoing this bariatric procedure. Bariatric Surgery is not the easy way out to lose weight as many people think; it requires discipline and commitment to succeed.

Gastric Sleeve Surgery can change your life, but the procedure is only the first step in the weight loss journey. In the Gastric Sleeve procedure, the surgeon makes small incisions in the upper abdomen to insert surgical instruments. Then, the surgeon removes about 60 to 80 % of the stomach leaving a new tube-shaped small stomach, commonly known as a “sleeve” that reduces the food intake, assisting in weight loss.

What to do and what to avoid before and after Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

A pre-op and planned diet is designed by specialists during the days leading to the procedure to shrink your fatty liver and improve the outcomes. This is necessary to be well prepared for the surgery as many obese people have an enlarged fatty liver because of their bad eating habits and because of being overweight.

Before and after Bariatric Surgery

There are certain things you should do and things you shouldn’t before the Gastric Sleeve, but no worries, we are here to help you. Here we share all the important details you should be aware of before and after surgery:

What you should do before Gastric Sleeve Surgery

  • Learn as much as you can about Gastric Sleeve Surgery
  • Start with realistic expectations
  • Recognize the true problem that lead to overweight
  • Have a diet rich in proteins and healthy fats with fewer carbs
  • Eat serving fruits or vegetables with every meal
  • Intelligent meal portions
  • Chew your food properly
  • Include clear liquids such as broth, water, non-caffeinated tea, or coffee
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Follow an exercise routine program before and after the procedure, we highly suggest cardio
  • Be mentally and physically prepared for the surgery before and after
  • Be completely aware of the meds you should stop taking before surgery
  • Take supplements after the surgery…NEVER FORGET YOUR VITAMINS and MINERALS
  • Include in your diet homemade protein shakes
  • Sleep well
  • Change your lifestyle habits
  • Meal prep

Follow the consciously and without any excuses the Post Op diet which involves different steps:

  • Liquids
  • Purees and soft food
  • Solid food
  • A special diet that includes: 70% protein 30% fruit and vegetables, fat and sugar

Remember: The process from liquids to solids must be gradual to allow the stomach to heal.

What you should´t do before Gastric Sleeve Surgery

  • Wait until you have the surgery to follow the surgeon’s instructions
  • Drink carbonated beverages
  • Drink your liquids at the same time you take your meals (remember waiting 30 min before or after starting to take your meals)
  • Smoke or drink alcohol before and right after surgery
  • Skip any stage of the post op diet
  • Skip meals or your daily protein intake
  • Keep on eating even if you feel full already
  • Eat fast without pauses
  • Serve yourself big portions of meals
  • Compare your progress to someone else’s

Remember: Do not fight with food. Enjoy the weight loss journey. Be ready for new experiences and never give up!

Undergoing Gastric Sleeve Surgery would be an essential change in your life but the procedure itself is not enough to succeed. You must commit to the whole process before and after to get the best outcomes, we are sure you can achieve it with effort and determination, Hidalgo Bariatrics will be always happy to be your guidance through this amazing process.

gastric sleeve surgery-tijuana mexico
gastric sleeve surgery in tijuana

Find out more about the Gastric and other Surgery procedures that Hidalgo Bariatric Offers.

Bariatric Procedures
]]> Life After Bariatric Surgery https://hidalgobariatrics.com/life-after-bariatric-surgery/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:08:26 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=4257

Life After Bariatric Surgery

Embracing Your New Life: Thriving After Bariatric Surgery!

Embarking on a journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling life through bariatric surgery is a significant step, and it opens up exciting possibilities for your future. Once the surgery is successfully behind you, it’s time to focus on returning to your normal routine while making the most of your newfound health and self-care. In this blog, we’ll explore essential tips on how to get back to your job, incorporate recommended physical activities, maintain a balanced diet, and enjoy easy to-go snacks.

Whether you’ve undergone gastric bypass, gastric sleeve, or any other bariatric procedure at Hidalgo Bariatrics, rest assured that with the proper care after surgery and dedication, you’ll regain control of your life!

Life after bariatric surgery
Work after bariatric surgery

Returning to Work after Bariatric Surgery:

After your bariatric surgery, it’s natural to feel eager to resume your professional life. However, it’s essential to take it slow and prioritize your health during the recovery period. Communicate with your employer about your post-surgery needs and potential adjustments to your work schedule.

Gradually ease back into your job by starting with reduced hours or lighter duties, and remember to listen to your body’s signals. In no time, you’ll find yourself confidently excelling in your work once again.

The first week after surgery you might be feeling low energy which is completely normal. Depending on your job, you can get back as soon as you are back home or sometimes Dr.Hidalgo will suggest you wait a bit more.

Recommended Physical Activities:

Regular physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-bariatric surgery. Begin with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or stationary biking, and gradually increase the intensity as your body adapts.

Consider joining a fitness class or hiring a personal trainer specializing in post-bariatric workouts. These professionals can guide you through tailored exercises, ensuring you stay motivated and avoid injuries. In the very first month after having bariatric surgery it is recommended to just walk.

Life after bariatric surgery

Remember your body is going through a big change in which you are losing a lot of calories and in the first weeks because of the post op diet plan it might be a little but hard for you to balance the energy throughout your day. Walking will be the key point since you get out of surgery until your 1 month mark.

Make sure to consistently walk without pushing yourself too much. Start with walking 30 min 3-4 days a week, then 30 min all week long, and then start to add a couple of more minutes to your routine. Avoid getting into a swimming pool or beach if your incisions haven’t healed! And remember, NO lifting exercises until you get to your desired weight, just cardio.

Balancing Diet for Long-Term Success:

While bariatric surgery helps you kickstart your weight loss journey, maintaining a balanced diet is essential for continued success. Work with a registered dietitian to develop a personalized meal plan that meets your nutritional needs and complements your surgery’s results Dr. Linda Cardona is a specialized Bariatric nutritionist that works with Hidalgo Bariatrics, we guarantee you have the experts on your back.

Emphasize protein-rich foods, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based alternatives, to support muscle preservation and minimize hair loss after surgery. Additionally, stay well-hydrated and aim for small, frequent meals to prevent overeating, and don’t forget to take your vitamins.

Vitamins and minerals after your Bariatric Surgery

Enjoying Easy and Healthy Snacks:

Snacking can be an integral part of your post-surgery routine, helping maintain energy levels and control hunger. Opt for nutrient-dense snacks, like Greek yogurt, mixed nuts, or fresh fruits and vegetables.

Avoid processed and sugary snacks that may lead to discomfort or hinder your weight loss progress. Meal prep your snacks in advance to ensure you always have healthy options readily available, especially during busy days at work.

A banana will be ALWAYS a great easy to-go snack. In the first days after surgery you can scrap a banana with a spoon and that will do the magic to keep you with energy. No sugar jello and iced popsicles are great snacks too. Getting back to your normal life after bariatric surgery is a transformative process that requires dedication and self-care.

By following these tips for returning to your job, engaging in recommended physical activities, maintaining a balanced diet, and enjoying easy and healthy snacks, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.
Remember, your journey is unique, so be patient with yourself and celebrate every milestone along the way. With the support of Hidalgo Bariatrics and a commitment to your well-being, your future is brimming with possibilities!

If you need support or have more questions about any bariatric procedure, make sure to reach an expert, Hidalgo Bariatrics always look forward to help you to improve your health.

Contact Us
]]> What is gastric bypass revision and why is it needed https://hidalgobariatrics.com/what-is-gastric-bypass-revision-and-why-is-it-needed/ Wed, 03 Jun 2026 20:04:51 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=4336

Gastric Bypass Revision

Gastric Bypass Revision: Unlocking a Healthier Future with Hidalgo Bariatrics

Gastric bypass revision

In the journey to achieve a healthier lifestyle and overcome obesity, bariatric surgery has proven to be a life-changing procedure for many. However, for some patients, a revision surgery becomes necessary due to various reasons.

If you find yourself in this situation, fret not, as the expertise of Dr. Hidalgo from Hidalgo Bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico, can guide you towards a successful and transformative gastric bypass revision. With 12 years of expertise as a qualified and certified bariatric surgeon, Dr. Hidalgo has earned a reputation for providing top-notch care and ensuring lasting results.

What is Gastric Bypass Revision and Why is it Needed?

Gastric bypass revision is a surgical procedure performed to modify or correct a previously conducted gastric bypass surgery or gastric sleeve surgery. While the initial surgery can be highly effective, some patients may encounter complications or not achieve the desired outcomes over time.

gastric bypass revision

Common reasons for considering a revision:

  1. inadequate weight loss

  2. weight regain

  3. surgical complications

  4. unresolved coexisting medical conditions.

  5. Old techniques used when 1st surgery was performed

How is Gastric Bypass Revision Performed?

Under the skilled hands of an expert like Dr. Hidalgo, the gastric bypass revision procedure involves a thorough evaluation of your medical history and the initial surgical procedure, such as getting to know all the previous details such as when did you have your last bariatric procedure, where, with whom, how much regain has been noticed and more.

“The process may vary depending on individual needs, but the main goal remains consistent: to improve the results of the initial surgery and enhance overall health and well-being.”

Am I a Candidate for Gastric Bypass Revision?

If you have previously undergone gastric bypass surgery or gastric sleeve surgery and are experiencing complications or inadequate outcomes, you may be a candidate for gastric bypass revision. Dr. Hidalgo’s extensive experience in performing these revisions allows him to assess each patient’s unique circumstances and recommend the most suitable approach for achieving optimal results.

At Hidalgo Bariatrics we have had patients who’s gastric bypass surgery was performed back in 1995, 28 years ago! Can you believe that? Of course the techniques have changed, as a clear example of that, surgeries performed back before and early 2000s were open surgeries.

The procedures used to have a higher risk than nowadays, surgeons took longer while in surgery and some techniques weren’t the most appropriate for the patients. Techniques have changed a lot throughout this last couple of years and it has revolutionized the way on how bariatric surgeries are done.

So it’s very common that if you had a bariatric surgery back in those years when the bariatric surgery was “new”, it is very likely that you have gained back the weight and a bypass revision surgery is needed.

Preop and Post op care before surgery:

Prior to undergoing a gastric bypass revision, Dr. Hidalgo and his team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your health status. This may include getting to know your medical history, blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations with specialists

Preoperative preparation is crucial to ensure that you are in the best possible condition for the surgery. Remember that you will also be a part of the preop work, you will be needing to follow a bariatric preparation diet designed by bariatric nutritionists and specialists that will help you out to clean your liver and get you ready for surgery.

dr hidalgo and gastric bypass surgery

The journey towards better health doesn’t end with surgery. After the gastric bypass revision, Dr. Hidalgo and his dedicated team at Hidalgo Bariatrics will provide you with personalized post-operative care and support. This includes dietary guidelines, exercise recommendations, and follow-up consults to monitor your progress and address any concerns.

The main recommendations might be the same ones as your previous surgery, remember that because these surgeries are now done laparoscopically, you are able to get back on track after a couple of days after surgery.

We usually recommend you the following post op cares:

  1. Keep the incisions clean

  2. Avoid bending over too much (2-3 weeks)

  3. No pool or beach until incisions are healed

  4. Avoid heavy lifting, try using your whole body for pushing or pulling

  5. Follow your post op diet carefully

  6. Be a consistent walker

Choose Hidalgo Bariatrics for Expert Gastric Bypass Revision:

When it comes to a life-changing procedure like gastric bypass revisions, entrust your health only to experts like Dr. Hidalgo at Hidalgo Bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico. With his 12 years of expertise as a certified and qualified bariatric surgeon, Dr. Hidalgo is dedicated to providing safe, effective, and lasting results for each patient. Benefit from the exceptional care and support offered by the team at Hidalgo Bariatrics as you embark on a new chapter of health and well-being.

Gastric bypass revision offers a renewed chance at a healthier and happier life for those who have experienced complications or suboptimal outcomes after their initial surgery. Dr. Hidalgo’s expertise, combined with the cutting-edge facilities at Hidalgo Bariatrics, ensures that patients receive the best care possible. Trusting your gastric bypass revision to Dr.

Hidalgo means choosing the path towards long-lasting success and improved quality of life. Take the first step on this transformative journey and embrace a brighter future with Hidalgo Bariatrics.

If you need support or have more questions about any bariatric procedure, make sure to reach an expert, Hidalgo Bariatrics always look forward to help you to improve your health.

Contact Us
]]> Diet or Bariatric Surgery https://hidalgobariatrics.com/diet-or-bariatric-surgery/ Mon, 17 Jul 2023 18:33:01 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=4242

Diet or Bariatric Surgery

There are many ways to lose and manage weigh

Diet or Bariatric Surgery

It is known that there are many ways to lose and manage weight but if you suffer from severe obesity; you obviously would like to know which the best for your long-term health is. The first thing to do is to be well-informed and guided by the specialists.

Statistics show that strict and dangerous dieting programs could cause your body to be in starvation mode, always struggling to regain lost weight by slowing metabolism.

Let’s remember that obesity and overweight are real life diseases and should be treated as such. These diseases are caused by multiple factors such as wrong lifestyle, starving diets, bad eating habits or something as simple as genetics.

Genetics play a very important role when trying to lose weight, if obesity runs in your genetics even though you try multiple exercise routines and diets, you will not be able to lose weight.

If this is your case, the most likely thing to happen is that we will suggest that you look into bariatric procedures that can help you lose all that extra weight, get your metabolism to work again and get control over your life and health.

Should bariatric surgery be my last option?

Following a healthy diet and an exercise routine program can be an easy method to lose weight. However, you have probably tried a strict diet plan along with physical activity and still have not been able to lose enough weight or make progress because of multiple reasons as mentioned before.

Losing excess weight can boost your health in different ways, making the decision of having a weight loss procedure can be a matter of being self-conscious about what you expect your life to be in 1, 10 or 20 years from now and what are your life plans for the future.

Bariatric procedures shouldn’t be considered as a last source if your health is on a line. Specialists have proven that people who lose weight not only experience an improvement to their medical conditions but mostly on their mental health.

Can I lose weight without bariatric surgery?

As it is said before, the first thing to do is to consult a specialist for a medical evaluation, talk about this with your psychologist if needed and set a list of goals that you want to reach.

diet

After consulting the doctor if he/she considers, a list of meals will be given to you that are lower in calories and richer in nutrients for you. You obviously will need quantities of food appropriate for your decreasing stomach to be able to get your weight loss goals.

Non-surgical methods are successful if they are created by a specialist according to your needs, please don’t rely on website miracle diets, pills who promess the unreachable and magic solutions such as massages, creams or such. It’s all about your mind and lifestyle changes.

Can I lose 100 pounds without bariatric surgery?

Thinking of losing 100 pounds without bariatric surgery could seem like an intimidating goal but not impossible if you follow your doctor’s suggestions by making the proper diet designed for you and lifestyle adjustments.

Bariatric surgery

You will need to do a strategic plan that helps you to lose weight by increasing protein, eating fiber and vegetables, reducing sugar and carbs, and doing physical activity. Be patient and take your time, it won’t happen from one day to another, it will take almost a year depending on your commitment and personal conditions.

Let’s take into consideration again that for some people these goals are unreachable, as said above, genetics plays a huge part on your physique. Following a diet might be a more easy, cheaper, imprecise and long-term plan. If you are looking for guaranteed results in a short period of time, surgery might be a good option.

Why bariatric surgery is more effective than diet?

Bariatric Surgery promotes weight loss by shrinking the size of your stomach and at the same time, changing the anatomy of your digestive tract, decreasing hunger, and limiting food intake. This procedure obviously will lead to rapid and significant weight loss giving you benefits in all areas of your health.

Since the very first month you will see a big change that could only be achieved after months and months of diet and exercise. Patients have been able to achieve their goal weight from the 4th month post up until 15 months post op, depending on your goals.

Are people happier after bariatric surgery?

Most recent research shows that bariatric surgery is a tool that leads you to an increase in your quality of life, however, the long-term life change will depend on your commitment and perseverance towards this new you. Don’t guide yourself by someone else’s opinion, you are the only one who has the power to make a big change in your life.

The best Place to have Weight loss Surgery in Tijuana Mexico with Dr. Juan F. Hidalgo, Our Bariatric center has become a common destination for patients mainly from Canada and United States who are looking for great quality services and above all the safety you can have in any bariatric procedure.

If you need support or have more questions about any bariatric procedure, make sure to reach an expert, Hidalgo Bariatrics always look forward to help you to improve your health.

Contact Us
]]> an excellent option for obesity https://hidalgobariatrics.com/an-excellent-option-for-obesity/ Wed, 29 Mar 2023 18:37:01 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=3343

Bariatric Surgery is an excellent option for obesity

Obesity, US enemy

Obesity is a lifelong disease, a chronic medical condition that unfortunately does not have a permanent cure and raises the risk for many other serious health conditions, including all causes of death. A person will be considered obese according to their BMI (Body Mass Index) which is a tool o estimate and screen for overweight and obesity in adults and children. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.

Many aspects may contribute to excess overweight in adults such as genetics, sedentary behaviors, the type and amount of food they consume, the level of physical activity they do, etc. People in this situation must take their overweight and obesity as a matter of importance due to the risk for many other health problems such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, liver disease gallstones, breathing problems, many types of cancer and 200 other health conditions related to obesity. Severe obesity can shorten a person’s life by 10 years.

Bariatric Surgery is an excellent option for obesity

The overweight and obesity is a disease, and should be treated as such

During the 60s and 70s, the prevalence of obesity changed relatively little; however, it has been increasing sharply over the ensuing decades. 

In the US, according to 2017 – 2018, from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, nearly one in three adults are obese, this means more than 30.7 % of men and 41 % of women are considered obese in the United States.

bariatric surgery excellent option for obesity

Lately, the United States ranks 12th in the world for obesity. US citizens do not understand the size of their obesity epidemic, even when the CDC classifies more than one-third of Americans as obese. These causes of driving Americans’ chronic obese disease, there are no clear answers as there are many aspects of people’s habits and lifestyles that might be considered such as fast food, lots of sugar consumption, added fat consumption, and no physical activity among many others. It is well known as well that nowadays the meals and foods we consume are over processed, containing more sugars, carbohydrates and fats.

countries with obesity

The reality shows that over the past years, obesity has become the US enemy and many Americans have taken this matter seriously and have looked for options to end this situation and learn how they can change their life and do better towards food. As mentioned above, obesity is one of the most common diseases worldwide as the percentage of child and teen obesity is gradually getting higher and higher.

As mentioned before, the overweight and obesity can affect in numerous ways. It’s very common that here at Hidalgo Bariatrics, receive lots of patients who are suffering from this disease and even though they have tried several diets and exercise they haven’t seen the results as they are expecting to.

From all this above, Bariatric Surgery offers American and all worldwide obese people an opportunity to open their eyes and change their life as well as their perception of themselves, helping to gain more self-stem, energy, a healthier lifestyle and improve their love life relationship. Bariatric surgery can be the key to success if patients have good aftercare and moderate their after-surgery lifestyle. This will bring them wonderful long-term results not only losing weight but providing them with a healthy life and amazing results in the short term.

According to Dr. Juan Francisco Hidalgo and his great team at Hidalgo’s Bariatrics in Tijuana Mexico, if you decide to undergo a bariatric procedure, you will improve your social life and relationships after the surgery.

Not only will your body change, but your social life as well as your mental and emotional health after surgery.

At Hidalgo Bariatric Clinic, we offer a range of bariatric surgery procedures tailored to the unique needs of each patient. Our experienced team of surgeons and medical professionals use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to perform these procedures with precision and care.

Bariatric surgery has been shown to be highly effective in achieving significant and sustained weight loss, as well as improving or resolving related health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

However, bariatric surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Our team will work with you to determine if bariatric surgery is the right option for you based on your medical history, weight loss goals, and lifestyle. We’ll also provide comprehensive pre- and post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcome.

If you’re considering bariatric surgery as an option for obesity, contact us today to schedule a consultation with our team. We’re here to help you achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health and well-being.

If you're struggling with obesity and related health issues, bariatric surgery may be an excellent option for you. This type of surgery aims to reduce the size of the stomach, limit food intake, and promote weight loss.

Please contacr Hidalgo Bariatrics Team

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Find what bariatric procedures are available with Hidalgo Bariatrics

Bariatric procedures
]]> BMI Explained https://hidalgobariatrics.com/bmi-explained/ Mon, 20 Mar 2023 16:00:39 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=3312

BMI Explained

If you are thinking about having weight loss surgery, you must have read something related to a “BMI”, which basically is the turning point to determine whether you are a candidate for weight loss surgery or not.

The BMI, which stands for “Body Mass Index”, is a medical screening tool that healthcare specialists use to measure the amount of body fat, which measures the ratio of your height to your weight, estimating your total body fat. This helps to assess the risk factors for health conditions or diseases such as obesity and diabetes.

Healthcare specialists calculate BMI by using your weight in kilograms or divided by the square of your height, using metric units of kilograms and meters because using pounds and inches, they need to add another element to the formula to have the correct measure. The BMI formula takes into consideration that taller people might weigh more and vice versa. So, the taller you are, the lower your BMI would be. Then, the more you weigh, the higher your BMI.

Your BMI by itself does not diagnose health and it is not always an accurate measurement of body fatness but it definitely helps the specialist to have an idea of your weight vs height status. Nowadays, there are several websites and apps that will help you calculate your body mass index in any units.

BMI Explained

The BMI scale between 16 to 18.5 means you have a lower height than you should, which we usually recommend to also look for a specialist because this could be because of bad eating habits or suffer from anorexia or bulimia that can lead to diseases such as anemia.

The scale between 18.6 to 25 means you are at an average rate which is considered as normal, is not always the most healthy to be standing at the very limit (low or high) but this represents a good relation between height and body, meaning the weight you have is proportional to you height and no risk of suffering mayor diseases.

The scale between 25.1 to 40 or more, means you do have a certain amount of overweight or obesity that needs to be taken into consideration. The patients whose BMI is around 30 (depends on other factors as well) is one of the main reasons why you can be a candidate for any weight loss procedure.

It is important to know that if you have a high body mass index, this means a BMI of 30 or higher and you might have a risk of having:

  1. Heart disease
  2. Hypertension
  3. Type 2 diabetes
  4. Sleep Apnea
  5. Certain cancers
  6. Depression
  7. Among others

On the other hand, if your BMI is 18.5 or less, you might be at risk of having:

  1. Malnutrition
  2. Weak immune system
  3. Anemia
  4. Infertility
  5. Among others
BMI

So as everything, it's not good to stand at the low or high limits

It is also true that you might not have any of the above health conditions even when you have a high or low BMI. There are other factors or genetics that play a role in the medical results as well as lifestyle aspects.

To calculate your BMI, you will only require height and weight and the formula is based on either kilograms and meters or pounds and inches:

  1. Kilograms and meter: Formula: weight (Kg)/ height (m) ]2
  2. Pounds and Inches : Formula: weight (lb)// [height (in)]2 x 703

Below we show you on how the scale is usually rated:

body mass index explained

<16 – 16.9 Extreme underweight

17 – 18.4 Underweight

18.5 – 24.9 Normal

25.0 – 29.9 Overweight

30.0 – 34.9 Obesity first degree

25.0 – 39.9 Obesity second degree

40> Obesity third degree

If you are willing to undergo Bariatric Surgery and you want to know if you are a candidate, you must have a BMI over 30 or more than 60 pounds overweight with co-morbidities or 100 pounds overweight without. If your BMI is lower than 30, you should consult a specialist to consider your medical history and conditions.

Please contacr Hidalgo Bariatrics Team

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Find more about bariatric procedures with Hidalgo Bariatrics

Bariatric procedures
]]> Should I reconsider having a Lap band surgery? https://hidalgobariatrics.com/should-i-reconsider-having-a-lap-band-surgery/ Mon, 06 Mar 2023 18:11:11 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=3206

Should I reconsider having a Lap band Surgery?

Bariatric Surgery procedures are a very powerful tool to help obese people lose weight along with a proper diet, physical activity, and lifestyle changes. According to the latest annual estimates from the American Society for Bariatric Surgery, 196,000 bariatric procedures were performed in 2015.

Lap Band (Adjustable gastric band surgery) was a very popular procedure and commonly performed less than 10 years ago in the United States. Since then, other surgeries such as Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass have emerged as stronger bariatric options, with far fewer complications and better results.

lap band surgery

Therefore, Gastric Lap Band is now in a sharp, steady decline. Gastric Lap band dropped from 35% of the procedures done in 2011 to less than 6% in 2015, making this procedure nowadays considered as an old technique performed by a few surgeons only, Dr. Hidalgo from Hidalgo Bariatrics, doesn’t recommend this procedure, instead, the gastric sleeve or the gastric balloon could be a better option depending on the patient’s needs.

 

In Lap Band surgery, the surgeon places a band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a pouch to restrict the food the stomach can hold, making you feel full sooner. It is said that this kind of procedure does not have the same effective and successful results as compared to other Bariatric procedures, as it is a restrictive procedure and it is putting too much control in your hand as a patient and has a very high failure rate. Lap Band was perceived to be a safe and even a simple bariatric procedure. Despite that, patients’ complications became more apparent over time, causing a high rate of patients to have another procedure done such as the gastric sleeve.

Lap band

The main objective of Lap Band surgery is to restrict the amount of food patients can eat but making a simulation of what does the gastric sleeve does, but this purpose was found of to be failed because of the food funnels in the remaining stomach let the patient to not have control over their eating habits and they would eat what they like as soon as they figure out how to trick the Lap band, compared to the actual bariatric surgeries, such as the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass, you have several restrictions on the food you are able to eat which is more easy to have success on because of the removal off the gastric fungus or malabsorption techniques. Besides, some patients have experienced and suffered lots of complications with the Lap band or the medical device growing into the stomach causing erosion inside the body.

Knowing all the information above, we can understand why surgeons need to remove the Gastric Lap Band due to inadequate weight loss or complications after 7 to 10 years as the studies have shown. They say that only 2 out of 10 Lap band patients still have their bands in place and the rest of the patients have their bands removed because they could not tolerate it anymore or they had very bad side effects such as severe nausea, vomiting, erosion, heartburn, esophageal dysmotility, among other issues. The Lap Band surgery has since been supplanted by more effective techniques as mentioned above…

It is important that if you are looking for bariatric surgery, you should learn that there are 3 main types of weight loss:

  1. Restrictive: The amount of food you can eat will be now restricted by the “new” size your stomach will have.
  2. Malabsorptive: The amount of sugars, fats and nutrients will not have the same absorption as before because of the digestive stages they skip.
  3. Both: A combination of restriction and malabsorption.
lap band tijuana

You might be a patient who may do very well with a restrictive bariatric procedure, so the Gastric Sleeve would be the most recommended instead of the Lap Band. If you might need not only a restrictive bariatric procedure but one that includes a malabsorption component to be effective to lose weight; in that case, your best options instead of a Lap Band would be a Gastric Bypass or Mini Bypass.

Nowadays, there are other Bariatric Surgeries widely recommended by surgeons and specialists instead of Lap Bands. However, the success of any option you decide to take is not only the bariatric procedure itself; it is your reluctance for lifestyle changes such as restricting diet, exercise routine, good sleep, etc.

In case you have had a lap band and are experiencing any kind of discomfort or want to remove it please feel free to reach us as experts, we will help you to make the best decision depending on your goals, needs and the most important, your health.

If you any have questions about the Lap Band Surgery

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Know Dr Juan F. Hidalgo, one of the best bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico, he has improved many Canadians and american patients to improve their health.

Dr. Juan F. Hidalgo
]]> Bariatric Surgery Post-op Diet https://hidalgobariatrics.com/bariatric-surgery-post-op-diet/ Mon, 27 Feb 2023 17:29:09 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=3167

Your Post-Op Diet Explained

If you are considering a change of life such as having a Bariatric Surgery, it is very important to follow the recommended post-op dietary guidelines carefully created by your surgeon and bariatric dietitian with the main purpose of reducing the number of calories you consume and balancing the meals accordingly to what your new stomach and your whole body need to receive from now on, helping and preventing lack of nutrients and at the same time, preserving the muscle tissue.

Bariatric Surgery not only will help you to lose weight but to improve your health problems related to obesity giving you the opportunity for a better quality of life, and let you do many activities you were not able to do because of being overweight. Bariatric surgery requires commitment and discipline, the results of the whole process are not magic, they will be related directly to the effort you put into the strict post-diet, physical activity and life habit changes before and after the procedure as follows all the steps (before and after).  

Dos and Donts after Bariatric Surgery

Why is it important to follow the post op diet?

Remember that you just had a bariatric procedure done, a surgery. As all surgeries, post op recommendations will be provided to assure a successful recovery. Pre and post op diets are carefully designed by experts. Your body is going to change and so as your lifestyle, your body will lose more weight than it was used to and of course, the food will not be processed the same way as it used before so the importance of following the post op diet is to basically help your body to find a balance between what you are losing and what you are gaining.

Your stomach needs to get used to the procedure you just had so we usually recommend you to take it easy and don’t stress, this might be the hardest part of your journey and you need to make sure you are getting exactly what your body deserves in this stage.

What if I ate something that I shouldn’t in my post op diet?

We know that the anxiety for food might be hard on you, you used to eat anything you liked and now, you just jumped to a whole new diet in which the first stage will be only liquids allowed. Please, focus on yourself and your health, don’t be shy to let your doctor know you ate something that maybe you shouldn’t, at Hidalgo Bariatrics we always make sure to stay in constant touch with our patients in any stage (mostly on this one) to make them feel comfortable of letting us know how is it that you are feeling and some support is never enough, every patient experiences the process in a different way…

If you ate something that you should have, reach your surgeon or your surgery team. It might depend on how bad it can be depending on which stage you are going through, whether you are a male or female, amount, food that you took or even the timing. The stage in which you should be the most careful about is the liquid one, you can do this!

Post Op Diet can sometimes feel overwhelming at the beginning but over time, you will find a way to learn how to eat and enjoy the process.

This post-operative diet includes 4 important stages:

Stage 1 – Clear Liquid Diet
Day 1 to 3

  • Water
  • Sugar-free jello, ice chips, and zero sugar juice
  • Sugar-free ice popsicles
  • Non-fat broth such as chicken broth

Stage 2 – Full Liquid Diet

  • Day 3 to 17 
  • Liquids from stage 1
  • Vegetables soups
  • Vegetable juices
  • Beef, chicken, or vegetable broths
  • Skim Milk
  • Protein shakes
  • Yoghurt
  • Minimum of 5 meals per day

Stage 3 – Pureed Diet

  • Day 17 – Day 30
  • Protein Shakes
  • Pureed and soft food
  • Soft Eggs
  • Low-fat cottage cheese
  • Soft fish
  • Continue drinking liquids slowly

Stage 4 – SOFT DIET

  • 4 weeks post-operative
  • Rich Protein Food – Priority in each meal
  • Low fat, low fiber, high protein (Fish, eggs, chicken, thigh ground turkey)
  • Canned fruit sugar-free
  • Soft-cooked fruit without skin
  • Soft cooked vegetables
  • The small number of carbohydrates
Post Op Diet

Bariatric procedures will make your stomach smaller and you will eat less so, here we give you some tips:

  • Eat 90grams of proteins, 30 grams or less of carbs, and 10 grams or less of sugar

  • Keep a record of your food portions, calories, and protein intake

  • Eat small portions, slowly and chew small bites

  • Avoid sugary foods and beverages

  • Avoid bread, rice, raw vegetables, and high in sugar fruits

  • Avoid not easily chewed meats such as pork and steak

  • Your daily calorie intake should not exceed 1000 calories

  • Drink extra water (2 liters of fluids per day)

  • Take multivitamins and supplements after 1 month post op

  • Be positive

Be strong, over time, you will be able to increase the creativity and consistency of foods in your daily new post-op diet

Still have questions about the Post-Op Diet?

Let our Bariatric center helps you

Book online consultation

Know Dr Juan F. Hidalgo, one of the best bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico, he has improved many Canadians and american patients to improve their health.

Dr. Juan F. Hidalgo
]]> Bariatric Surgery Preop Diet https://hidalgobariatrics.com/bariatric-surgery-preop-diet/ Mon, 20 Feb 2023 17:47:24 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=3134

Your Preop Diet Explained

Bariatric surgery Pre-op diet

Let’s get ready for your Bariatric surgery

Before any bariatric procedure, it is recommended to take some advice that the Hidalgo Bariatrics team has for you.

What is a bariatric pre-op diet?

If you are about to undergo Bariatric Surgery, your surgeon will give you a Preop diet already designed for you. This is very important to be followed as well as being committed to it, so you can achieve a successful weight loss journey. Make sure to reach an expert and make sure to follow a diet designed by a bariatric dietitian.

The bariatric PRE-OP diet is exclusively designed to reduce the size of the liver, if you suffer from obesity or are overweight, you might have a fatty liver. This is actually very common among bariatric patients. At Hidalgo Bariatrics we provide a high protein-based diet, very easy to follow! You have to consider that this diet, besides helping you with your fatty liver, will also make you lose weight (not precisely the goal) and this is because it simulates the “job” that surgery will do after going through any procedure. Please reach to your surgeon or bariatric team to make sure how many weeks or days is necessary for you to follow the diet.

So, we can say that the Preop diet is the very first step you will work on before surgery and this is where your Weight loss journey begins…

Undergoing Bariatric surgery is not an easy decision after going through the big struggle of losing weight by failing different diets and exercise programs that made you disappointed so many times. So, with bariatric surgery, you are giving yourself a new opportunity.

What does the liver has to do with my #WLS?

The main reason to design a Preop diet is to shrink your fatty liver, as mentioned above. It is necessary to make your liver small as it is fatty because of common bad eating habits and being overweight. While in surgery, the liver can be found on top of the stomach (main part where the Doctors need to work during the procedure), so by reducing the size of the liver it will be easier for the experts to work on your surgery.  A fatty liver might cover up to the whole stomach so if that’s the case, the surgeon would need to make an extra incision to lift the liver and have better access to the stomach, this fifth incision might lead to additional surgery time.

Liver befor bariatric surgery

Benefits of a good Pre-Operative Diet

Besides the importance of following the preoperative diet, it will help you mentally and physically as well as it prepares you for the bariatric procedure and the post-operative stages you are about to face. You should think of it as a training period that will help your body adjust to smaller portions of food and show you a new way of eating. This will also prepare you for the post-op stage avoiding the withdrawal effect that happens when the consumption of nutrients is less than it was used to causing general weakness, headaches, etc.

The Preop diet will give you benefits such as losing weight, reducing the amount of abdominal fat, and making your surgery easier for the experts. This would also eliminate sugar from your body, helping the transition phase to be easier, and controlling the difficult hormone systems that cause obesity.

Bariatric Pre-op stages

The Preoperative diet phase consists of several stages which you need to follow for a minimum of 2 weeks on average, you might need to follow it a couple of more days or less because it depends on your starting weight and procedure to be performed. In all these stages of the preop diet is very important to control your portions of food. This would be a great habit that will teach you to eat how to eat after the surgery and even more if you follow your preop diet properly, you will have faster recovery due to the high amount of protein in your body.

What does it look like?

Hidalgo Bariatrics worked together with a bariatric dietitian to create the perfect preop diet for you, we will share you below what it kind of looks like…

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Stage 1

The Preop Diet mainly consists of:

  • 1. Healthy eating – protein solids: Lean protein (Chicken, Turkey, fish, soft boiled. eggs)
  • 2. Cooked non-starchy vegetables (no potato, corn, or peas).
  • 3. Healthy fat: salad dressing, olive oil, nuts, avocado, olives
Meal plan before bariatric surgery

Protein will help to lose weight, protect and bolster the muscle tissue and at the same time, burn fat improving wound healing, strengthening your body and hair, and speeding up recovery.

Stage 2

  • 1. Full Liquids Protein shakes.
  • 2. Liquids (soups, broth, non-sugar beverages, vegetable juices, etc,) Water, Non-carbonated beverages.
  • 3. Zero sugar jello, chicken broth, protein shakes (0 sugar and 0 carbs).
  • 4. The liquid phase is not always required for all Bariatric patients
Pre-op Diet phase 2

Consult your surgeon and learn more about your Pre-operative diet and all about your bariatric surgery process.

Remember that all this may vary depending on your current BMI and your surgeons or medical team advise. Please also make sure to reach experts and follow the preop diet as much as possible.

After your Bariatric surgery in Tijuana, Mexico you will have the chance to be near your surgeon and their team of specialists who can go with you through your entire weight loss journey.

Having bariatric surgery is an important decision that will change your life as soon as you are fully committed. So, be well informed and do your research on Tijuana’s facilities and you will find excellent choices as Hidalgo’s Bariatrics. 

Know Dr Juan F. Hidalgo, one of the best bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico, he has improved many Canadians and american patients to improve their health.

Dr. Juan F. Hidalgo
]]> About Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery https://hidalgobariatrics.com/about-mini-gastric-bypass-surgery/ Sat, 21 Jan 2023 22:14:41 +0000 https://hidalgobariatrics.com/?p=2965

What do you know about Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery?

There are many great Bariatric Surgical Options. However, you must have frequent questions about all the surgical procedures. Mini Gastric Bypass is one of those alternatives that you have and you should consider and learn everything about it to be certain which bariatric surgery will be the best for you.

Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery is a surgical bariatric technique also known as single anastomosis gastric bypass and its performance has increased considerably in recent years.

What is the difference between Mini Gastric Bypass and RNY?

Mini Gastric Bypass is also a laparoscopic bariatric surgery but this procedure is technically less invasive and less challenging that the full Gastric Bypass Surgery. Mini Gastric Bypass carries a lower percentage of complication risks and you will be fully recovered in two or three weeks after the surgery.

What is the main benefit of choosing Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Mini Gastric Bypass procedure has the benefit of being done 50 minutes faster, being the surgery that can be performed in less time than the traditional Gastric Bypass, It is also a less complicated surgery and results obviously in fewer complications. Several studies have demonstrated that the benefits provided by this bariatric surgery are even higher than those observed in RNY, including excess weight loss and resolution of comorbidities.

How is Mini Gastric Bypass performed?

In the Gastric Mini Bypass procedure, the surgeon makes several small incisions on your abdomen creating only one connection to the small intestine that restricts and impairs the absorption of food and nutrients through the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the stomach size. This will be making you feel full sooner while eating.

Mini-Gastric-Bypass-Surgery Tijuana

This procedure is done under general anesthesia using a laparoscope inserted through one of the incisions. This thin instrument has a light and a camera that allows the surgeon to have a clear view of your internal organs on a monitor.

How much weight should a patient lose after The Mini Bypass procedure?

If you undergo Mini Bypass Surgery will generally lose weight very fast. If you are committed to the Post-op surgeon’s suggestions and indications, you will be able to lose up to 75 – 85 percent of your excess weight within a year.

This means the weight loss average is one-third of your excess weight after three months. 

What Should I expect after undergoing Mini Gastric Bypass surgery?

Bariatric Surgery performance has generally increased over the last decades, giving extremely great and sustained weight loss long-term results and resolutions of comorbidities having an impact of 40% of reduction in morbidity and mortality for obesity causes.

Mini Gastric Bypass will bring you a significant improvement in medical matters related to obesity diseases such as diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, asthma, and sleep apnea, among other comorbidities

Find out more about the Bariatric Surgery procedures that Hidalgo Bariatric Offers.

Bariatric Procedures
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