Ariel Ortiz Lagardere Bariatric Surgeon M.D., F.A.C.S.

DR. Ortiz and his entire staff was very energetic and positive. Dr. Ortiz made me feel very comfortable when I met him and I just felt wonderful vibes. His staff was outstanding. I love the entire staff and their isn't anything bad that I have to say. Overall I would rate him a billion. Bedside manner, surgical competence and the whole nine yards was great. You don't have to believe a word that I say, and no I don't work for him. I am a real person and I am giving you my opinion.

I felt well prepared for what to expect and everything went as expected. I appreciated the consult with the cardiologist as my chief concerns about the surgery were cardiac related. He explained everything they were going to do before, during and after surgery to protect my heart and was very thorough. I think the surgeons in Mexico must get very tired of feeling as though they have to defend themselves to their US patients and the almighty US health care system, but it probably pays off in terms of the actual care provided, which, in my opinion was far superior. rnAll this said, I will say that there were a few technical problems with the arrangements. I got a call the Friday before I was to leave on Sunday saying that my surgery had disappeared off their list and wanting to know if I had rescheduled or cancelled. I called back immediately to say I had NOT cancelled. As a result, the Hotel had my arrival date wrong, but were very polite in accommodating me and there was not a pre-prepared folder waiting for me on Monday am when I arrived fro surgery. Very minor stuff that was handled very well by all concerned.

I have not as yet met with my Dr., but I have been in contact with his staff and am very impressed with their quickness to respond to all my questions and concerns. More to come after surgery.

When I first considered Lap Band surgery, going to Mexico wasn't even a thought. Now, I feel that there is no place on Earth that was better for me. Dr. Ortiz is the best on the planet. My surgery was a breeze!!! Now, eight months later, I feel like a different person... a happier, healthier, more energetic person. I would like to thank Dr. Ortiz for his incomparable expertise and his caring support (especially when I was a less than perfect patient). Thank you Dr. Ortiz!!!!!!!

After researching to the point of exhaustion, I determined that Dr. Ortiz was the lead Surgeon that I wanted to do the surgery. There is a second surgeon also, Arturo Martinez. There is also an anaesthesiologist, Dr. Estrada. All of the doctors are the BEST.rnrnMy first impression of Dr. Ortiz was very good. He is confident--but not cocky. And friendly--but not too friendly.rnrnI'm a difficult patient. I'm picky and I want/expect excellent care: I got it!rnrnHis office staff is amazing. They are hand-picked and very sweet. They took such good care of me that you would have thought that I was a relative.rnrnEverything is very organized--but not rushed. Everything has a process. The staff knows exactly what they are supposed to do and it runs cheerfully and smoothly.rnrnI would recommend them for surgery on my mother or any of my kids if necessary.

Dr Ortiz and Dr Martinez are wonderful surgeons. Their bedside mannor is better than any Dr I have known and unsurpassed by any surgeon. They explained everything they were going to do and in detail and answered every question I had. My surgery went off without a hitch, in and out in 25 minutes total! rnrnThe nursing staff were very attentative and available for any and all questions and requests. If asked to do this all over again I would. I would also recommend Dr. Ortiz to anyone. It is always scary to people to hear of going to Mexico for surgery but the Obesity Control Center is in a class of itsown.

8/2006 I am scheduled to have my band over RNY done by Dr. Ortiz. He was great on the phone and asked me a number of questions that were indicative of his knowledge. I felt very comfortable with him during and after the call. He is highly recommended and has done a number of revision surgeries. rn11/8/2006 I am 3 months out of surgery and I am very happy with my banding and fills by Dr. Ortiz. His staff is always professional and I have had no problems getting in and out for fills. The aftercare has mainly been up to me, but I do feel that I could fly to TJ at any time and see Dr. Ortiz for a follow up if needed. I give Dr. Ortiz a hardy thumbs up...rnrn

Dr. Ortiz and his staff are THE BEST!

I have researched well and am confident with my decision. Looking forward to my 11-10-06 date.

My stay at the Obesity Control Center has been great. I arrived at the San Diego Airport this morning and was picked up by Francisco and driven to the hospital in Tijuana. Once I arrived at the hospital it was a whirlwind of meeting doctors and having my pre-op tests. I passed all of my tests and had surgery around 4pm. It has been great. I feel very good. This facility is by far the cleanest hospital I have ever stayed in. The staff are unbelievably attentive and kind. Dr. Ortiz came in to my room several times before the surgery and talked to me. The difference is that he did not talk at me. I feel sometimes doctors talk at patients. Dr. Ortiz seems to really care about the patient. It is also impressive that he has performed over 4000 of the lap band procedures! The other doctors that I have come in to contact during my stay here have also been terrific. I am so pleased that I made the decision to have the Obesity Control Center take care of my surgery!