Antonio Esquerra Bariatric Surgeon MD

It’s been exactly 1 year and 2 days since my Duodenal Switch surgery with Dr. Esquerra and Mexicali Bariatric Center (MBC). My surgery was 5\23\18. I have purposefully put off writing this review until now in order to give a totally objective response about my experience with Dr. Esquerra and MBC. Too many reviews are written just after surgery when emotions are running extremely high or extremely low, which skews the review. Now who wants to trust that kind of review? Not me.

Before choosing MBC I did a lot of research on them, their doctors, and Hospital Almater. To be honest, for MBC, I just read the reviews here and over on Realself. For me, I was more concerned with the ability of the surgeon, and the actual hospital. In doing my research, I enlisted the help of a very close friend of mine, who has an extensive medical background. She was a neuro-thoracic\orthopedic surgical nurse who retired from the US NAVY after commanding an entire US Naval Hospital in Puerto Rico. After her retirement, she went on to work and teach for the CDC in Atlanta. She is now retired from the CDC, but still keeps her certificates and training updated. She also asked to come with me so she could “take care of me”. Lol She’s is such a Mom to me!!! Oh, my sister also came with me.

Anyway, so this is what I learned in my research. Dr. Esquerra works out of 2 private hospitals: Hospital Almater in Mexicali and CIMA Hospital Hermosillo in Sonora, Mexico, a Joint Commissioned International hospital( https://cimahermosillo.com/es/acerca-de.html https://cimahermosillo.com/es/personal-medico/category/cirugia-bariatrica.html ) and He teaches bariatric and laparoscopic at CIMA Hospital (http://www.mexicalibariatric.com/dr-antonio-esquerra/ ) and was a trauma surgeon before becoming a bariatric surgeon (https://www.obesityhelp.com/profiles/bariatric-surgeon/antonio-esquerra/ ). What this told me of his ability is that if he works and teaches bariatric surgery in a JCI accredited hospital (even though Hospital Almater isn’t JCI but still holds to the same standards as JCI per the Mexican government) he must know what he is doing… And the fact that he was a trauma surgeon before becoming a bariatric surgeon told me that he would know what to do if problems arose while on the operating table.

As for Hospital Almater, I learned that it has its own trauma/emergency center, ICU, and its own private blood bank (though when just looking at the website again today it is no longer listed, but I actually saw it while I was there) ( http://www.almaterhospital.com/our-facilities/ ).

Unfortunately, I did not research the credentials of the anesthesiologist. I know that I should have. I forgot and just assumed that he was legit since MBC, Dr. Esquerra, and Hospital Almater all were. Turns out that, yes, he was legit.

Now on to my actual experience... Was it perfect? No. But is anything ever totally perfect? Was it beyond excellent over all? Absolutely YES!

From the moment I contacted MBC by email, Nina, the coordinator, was totally on the ball. Everything I needed or questions I had, she provided and did so promptly. Their system of pre-op preparations were spot on.

Ernesto, the driver, picked us up in San Diego at our hotel and drove us to Mexicali. It took about an hour and a half, and most of the trip was through California. The desert was pretty cool and the rock formations were incredible. Ernesto is also a weight loss patient and he is happy to share it with you. He was also a wealth of random information… Not that he talked our heads off, but he would interject really cool facts about the landscape, the border situation, and just other really cool information. He is an all around nice man and drives very well. He is paid by MBC and we didn’t know if we needed to tip him, but we did. We didn’t know how much was appropriate but we paid him $20 total for both ways. Ernesto, if we tipped you too much…enjoy…if we short changed you….. sorry… we just didn’t know better and it wasn’t a reflection on your service.

When we arrived at Hospital Almater I was quickly whisked away to the potty for a urine sample (which was great as I really had to go) and then for blood work and an EKG. The nurse who drew my blood was incredible and it actually didn’t hurt much, if any. All the while my friend is watching and taking mental notes. She said the EKG machine was a little outdated from what is used in the States by about 10-20 years, BUT that it didn’t matter in its purpose and was just as reliable. After the pre-op stuff, I met with Dr. Campos and he answered a lot of my questions. He was very kind and easy going and such a cutie-pa-tootie (though not nearly as handsome as my own hubby… sorry Doc. C). The pic on the MBC website is outdated and really doesn’t do him justice… just sayin’… Oh, and he, too, is a weight loss patient.
After the pre-op stuff, we were taken back to the hotel. It was a really nice place. That afternoon we ate at one of its 3 restaurants. The food was a little pricey, but I will say, the ribeye steak I shared with my sister was the best I’ve ever had anywhere. I don’t know if it was because it was the first solid thing I’d had in several days or that is was just that good. All I know is that for my ‘last meal’ it was the bomb. So, I bet you are reading and thinking, ‘huh’? Yes, Dr. C let me have a small, reasonable, last meal…. It was a total surprise to me, too.
The morning of surgery, Ernesto came and picked us up... like really early (6 or 7ish). When I arrived at the hospital they did the typical check in stuff and I met the anesthesiologist. And then I waited… and waited… and waited… and then waited even more. I was the only patient Dr. Esquerra had so I didn’t understand why the delay. First, I was told it would be around 9am, and then it was noon. Okay, I can handle that. Maybe he had an emergency of some kind? Then when I asked what the delay was they told me it would be after 3pm as Dr. Esquerra was flying in. I was a little frustrated with this lack of communication. (OK, I was really frustrated.) I would have been fine if they had just told me all this early that morning. The unknown-to-me delays caused me a ton of anxiety of when I’d finally be going back. My sister and friend also were hungry and wanted to go get something to eat but didn’t feel comfortable in leaving me in case they came to get me while they were gone. So, between 3-4pm, I met with DR. Esquerra, who by the way was also very nice and kind and then they wheeled me back. I was parked just outside the OR and could hear the doctors and nurses all talking and scrubbing in. I could also smell the bleach they used for cleaning whatever they cleaned. The next thing I know, I was getting on the table and the nurse was wrapping my legs in ace bandages. Then, I remember waking up in my hospital bed and it was all over. I’m sure I woke up in recovery, I just don’t remember it. Lol
My care in the hospital was excellent in every way. Every worker from the cleaning ladies to the doctors all seemed to love their job and they did it with pride. I will also say that Hospital Almater is the cleanest hospital I have EVER been in…ever!!! The nurses didn’t come in and probe me every hour or so like they do in the States, which made recovering so much better. Yet, when I needed them, they always came right away. Most of them spoke English and for the ones who didn’t, I used my Spanish (I speak it as a 2nd language). Even if you don’t speak Spanish, though, they tend to understand what you need. They were wonderful! Dr. Campos also came in once or twice a day to check in on me and so did Dr. Esquerra and even some of the other surgeons and staff from MBC. All of them were so wonderful. Remember my friend who came with me? With all her expertise and experience, she was very impressed with MBC, the hospital, and the doctors.

Upon returning to the States, I’ve had no complications and when I’ve had questions, I’ve emailed Nina and she has answered them. I’ve had blood work drawn a couple of times to check my vitamin levels and Dr. Campos has worked with me on getting them back on track. Nothing major.

Here are some random thoughts:

The pillows at the hospital are lumpy. Bring your own. There is a mall and a Wal-mart-ish kind of store nearby and your support person can use Uber to take them there to get one or just shop. And the mattress isn’t that comfortable, just deal with it. Lol. Prepare your support person that you will have a Smurf blue mouth when you get out of surgery (from the leak test while on the OR table) and you will look like death warmed over…. Freaked my sister out, but my friend totally expected it and really comforted my sister. Lol. Also, you will pee Smurf blue the first few times. That was pretty cool. Oh, and when you have your first dye leak test while conscience, you will never want to drink apple juice again (not telling you why, lol, be knowingly surprised). The last leak test with the Barium, is nothing compared to the dye test… much easier. Lol. The food in the hospital café is incredible from what my sister and friend told me. Walk walk walk after surgery, breathe breathe breathe, and sip sip sip like they tell you. You will be glad you did. And one of the biggest things, be amazed at the differences in the way things are done there (the healthcare philosophy) and how cost effective the hospital is. I found it wonderful that ‘old school’ was still popular…ie, when cleaning the iv port or skin before giving a pain shot, they used a simple cotton ball and alcohol (in the States, I find the prepackaged alcohol wipes such a waste of money.) or the IV pole… it was a simple pole that didn’t have that annoying ‘beeping’ machine on it (my friend noticed that as she also liked it better). Enjoy your relaxing recovery time in the hospital as you won’t get as great of care or length of care in the States. And know that you are in great hands!!!!

Over all, my experience was amazing and I now have my life back. My highest weight was on April 22, 2018 at 247.5LBS. On May 23, 2018, the date of my surgery I weighed 228.0 LBS. At 5ft 2in, my personal goal weight was 125LBS and I made my goal on 4/3/2019. Today, I’m holding steady at around 122.5LBS to about 124.0LBS. I pray that this review helps anyone on their journey. May God bless each of you. XOXOXOXOXO!

I had a duodenal switch with Dr. Esquerra on 6/1/17. On the date of surgery, I weighed 294 pounds - my top weight being 307 pounds a month prior. During my preparation, the staff was professional and very helpful as this my first time traveling for a procedure. The instructions they provided for the pre-op diet were easy to follow.The pre-op work the day before was straightforward and there was someone available to help with translations if needed.

The day of surgery was pleasant; the staff works to keep you comfortable, and they communicate clearly with you on what is going to happen. I woke up a bit after surgery and the staff was attentive with educating me on expectations, and they were prompt with making sure that I got up and walked around regularly (as there is a strong correlation between moving around post-op and NOT developing certain complications).

I stayed in the hospital for a few days, and I have no complaints; there were no language issues and people checked on you frequently - especially to make sure you were taking in adequate fluids and walking around. Discharge planning and instructions were clear as well.

Post-op, they were very helpful in communicating back on any questions I have. I would recommend them to anyone, and having had surgeries in the US before, I can say that the "customer service" aspect of care with both Dr. Esquerra's practice and the hospital staff exceeded most care received in the US and at US hospitals. I have had a great experience - I am down to 185 pounds, and I have absolutely no regrets about making the decision to travel for this procedure.

I received a BilioPancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch from Dr. Antonio Esquerra on March 9, 2017. I specifically chose Dr. Esquerra and Mexicali Bariatric after extensive research. I actually have insurance here in the U.S. that would have covered weight loss surgery for me, but I read long ago that one of the greatest indicators of a surgery's success is how many times the surgeon has performed that particular surgery.

I did hours and hours of research and realized that my covered surgeons here didn't have as much experience with the BPD-DS as I would like, so I began to research self-pay options. I narrowed down my choices to Dr. Esquerra, a surgeon in California, and a surgeon in Washington. I did hours more research and discovered that while most people really liked the surgeons in California and Washington, they weren't always happy with the support staff communication. That wasn't at all the case with Dr. Esquerra. Not only did his patients rave about him, they also raved about the entire staff at Mexicali Bariatric. I couldn't find a single negative review, which is unheard of in these days of anonymous internet reviews!

Once I got to Mexicali and experienced the customer service and patient care, I was so happy with my decision. Meeting Dr. Esquerra, Dr. Gutierrez, and Dr. Campos only further comforted me. They were all personable, professional, and very reassuring.

Just yesterday I had a follow-up Upper GI fluoroscopy to make sure I was healing properly, and the radiologist took one look at the screen and said, "Whoever did your research surgery should be commended, it looks perfect, an A+ job." That was music to my ears, and is exactly what every surgery patient wants to hear.

Dr. Antonio Esquerra and his staff at the Mexicali Bariatric Center were truly amazing.
I researched for a long time before contacting MBC. It is a little daunting to leave the United State for surgery in Mexico. I wanted to know the staff, the doctors, the anesthesiologist, previous reviews, hospital ratings, where the surgeons were trained, if they were credentialed and certified in bariatric procedures, if the hospital was credentialed and certified and many other facets of practicing medicine in Mexico.
I enlisted the assistance of a friend who is responsible for doctor and hospital credentialing at a major medical facility throughout the United States. I narrowed down my search to 3 different facilities and asked her to please review and make a recommendation. Hands down she recommended Dr. Esquerra and the Mexicali Bariatric Center.
My first point of contact was Nina Eguia, Patient Coordinator. She was helpful and responsive and answered all my questions regarding travel arrangements, hotel and hospital stay, the procedure itself (I opted for the Gastric Sleeve), what I would need to bring with me and what I would need to have available at home once I returned. She answered all my questions and made me feel comfortable with my choice of surgeons.
My second contact was Ernesto, the driver who picked me up at my hotel. He was a delightful man with a friendly and reassuring demeanor. We talked about many things and I was surprised to learn he had the sleeve surgery 8 or 10 years ago and has maintained his weight successfully. We talked about his experience and it was nice knowing someone first hand who had the same procedure I was having. We picked up a few more patients at the airport and began our 2-hour journey to Mexicali.
Upon arriving at the Almator Hospital I was greeted by the most amazing woman, Yolanda. She was the Patient Coordinator and handled my admission and paperwork. She was so warm and engaging that I felt like I’d known her for a lifetime. She guided me through the admitting process and got me settled nicely in a very nice, comfortable private room. She held my hand and explained the processes involving the lab work and prep for surgery.
I met Dr. Esquerra shortly after arrival. He introduced himself and we talked about the surgery. He was friendly and reassuring, explaining the process in terms I could understand. He was genuine and warm during our conversation and eliminated all of my concerns and answered all my questions. He is credentialed, highly educated and very well respected in the medical field both in Mexico and in the United States. He is a specialist in bariatric surgery. After meeting with him in person there was no doubt I had made the right decision.
I was visited by their cardiologist who reviewed my EKG with me directly. I was also visited by Dr. Edgar Campos, Bariatric Nutritionist, who was amazing and accommodating and highly professional. He, too, was warm, friendly and supportive. My anesthesiologist was Dr. Andres Gutierrez who was also delightful. He was professional, friendly and reassuring. I felt safe and secure in his care.
The entire bariatric team at Mexicali Bariatric Center was kind, caring, amiable and approachable. There were two other patients having bariatric surgery while I was there and we all received exceptional care. My research was thorough and complete and paid off in terms of the care I received while at Mexicali Bariatric Center.
I highly recommend Dr. Antonio Esquerra and his staff. I have recommended him to family and friends since returning home. The success of the surgery is apparent - 5 weeks post-op and I’ve lost over 31 pounds, feel terrific and I’m already wearing some of the clothes I couldn’t fit into prior to my surgery.
Thank you to Dr. Antonio Esquerra and the entire staff at the Mexicali Bariatric Center.
Feel free to contact me directly if you have any questions regarding my experience:
[email protected]

I had a revision from lap - band to Duodenal switch. Dr. Esquerra and his staff at Mexicali Bariatric Center were a pleasure to work with. From the beginning, all of my questions were answered. When I arrived, the staff was so respectful and helpful. Dr Esquerra is such a genuine lovely man. The hospital was clean, the nursing staff was attentive, and patient coordinator was almost like having your own mom there to comfort you.
I am so thankful to the patients who told me about Dr. Esquerra and mexicali Bariatrics.
I would absolutely recommend to any friend or family member to go to MBC and Dr. Esquerra.

I just got back from getting a switch from Dr. Esquerra. Dr. Esquerra and the whole team took care of me. I had 4 doctors stop by 2 a day for two days after surgery. Plus the rest of the support team is great. I would highly recommend him. I think it's a leap to go to Mexico, but it the end, it was a great decision.

Over a decade ago, I had the good fortune to discover MBC and the great Dr. Aceves to have my lap band surgery. I learned a long time ago what a special man this was, and what a special place he created.

When I decided to revise my band to DS surgery, there was no doubt in my mind where I would go.

With the tragic loss of Dr. Aceves, I knew the surgeon who would perform my surgery would have some big shoes to fill. No problem.

Dr. Esquerra was warm and welcoming, and I felt complete confidence in his hands. The care I received was bar none, and I couldn't recommend Dr. Esquerra and his team more highly.

I had my surgery on 08/04/16. I am 2 weeks past my surgery, and I am feeling well. I start back to work the day after tomorrow, and I know success is in my future.

Thank you to Dr. Esquerra ,
MBC, Almater Hospital, and all of the kind people who made this as easy as possible for me.

Meryll Dawson
08/16/16

Dr Esquerra and his team was very great, when i choose to do the barbaric surgery , i decided to do the duodenal switch. I did my research and I was very please with what I read and heard about Mexicali barbaric center. The team was able to give me all the information I needed . On the day of my surgery Dr Esquerra and his team of Doctors came in to see me , they made me feel comfortable they answer all my questions. After my surgery they was always checking on me to make show i was well. Since I came back home I am still well no complication, I have lost fare amount of weight. I am healthy and strong.

Dr. Esquerra and his surgical team were all informative and compassionate professionals, put me at ease, and inspired great confidence upon my arrival into their expert care. I had been turned down for bypass surgery on several occasions in the past and had nearly lost hope for what remained of my future. Despite a surgery that took twice as long as planned, Dr. Esquerra has given me a second chance to own my future success. I'm two weeks out now, learning how to eat all over again, and Dr. Esquerra and the Mexicali Bariatric Center team is still right behind me, supporting my recovery all the way. I am so grateful for this opportunity, and very thankful for Antonio Esquerra and all my new friends at Mexicali Bariatric Center. It's never too late to start, and your journey begins here with Dr. Antonio Esquerra, and the Mexicali Bariatric Center.

I can not say enough positive things about Dr. Esquerra and the rest of the Mexicali team. I had a sleeve revision to the DS done by Dr. Esquerra on January 7, 2016. He was extremely compassionate and professional. He made me feel at ease and not only did my DS go flawlessly but it I felt like Dr. Esquerra spent time answering my questions and putting me at ease. I would recommend MBC very highly. I feel Dr. Esquerra is the best at performing the Duodenal Switch surgery! I would have no qualms about sending my family to receive Bariatric Surgery with Dr. Esquerra, as a matter of fact I will be accompanying my sister to Mexicali in May for her surgery. MBC is like a Medical Spa!