Guillermo Alvarez Bariatric Surgeon MD

  This is my story.  I am 41 years old and I have been overweight since I was 23.  During my teen years until age 22, I averaged between 97-105 lbs.  I was a size 2 and ate everything I wanted to eat without having to exercise.  When I say everything, that means pizza, candy, soda, chips.  Whatever I wanted and in large quantities.  While I liked some junk food, I also ate healthy fruits and veggies, home-cooked meals.  When I was 22 I got engaged and went on birth control pills.  I gained 80lbs in a year.  The only thing that changed was the addition of the pill.  
After about a year and a half, I decided to stop taking birth control.  It took me another year and a half to get pregnant.  At the age of 25 I gave birth to my daughter.  While I was pregnant, I lost weight initially until closer to delivery.  Upon delivery, I was back up to around 200 lbs.
 During the next 16 years my weight has bounced around quite a bit.  I would work to loose weight, joining weight watchers or taking exercise classes, trying diet pills, etc...  Anything that I thought might work, I tried it.  I would loose some weight and then it would all come back and then some.  The highest that I have weighed was 242 lbs.  I have never been a  stress eater.  When I'm stressed, my weight goes down.  I have always had good self-esteem.  I always say that I have reverse anorexia, I think I'm skinny.  I am very active as far as getting out and doing things, working, traveling, spending time with friends and family, etc...  I love to cook (and eat).  We always have people over for dinner or to hang out.
 When I was in my early 30's I was diagnosed with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome.  The dr told me that I didn't have this because I was overweight, rather I was overweight because I had this.  That made sense to me as it was by taking the pill that seemed to throw my hormones out of whack.  Later I was also diagnosed with hypothyroidism, another medical issue that makes weight loss extremely hard.  I was tired of the struggle with my weight and watching the scale creep higher every year.
 Over the past several years I have lost a brother-in-law, my nephew, my dad and my sister.  This got me contemplating my own mortality and wanting to plan for my family if something should happen to me.  As I was checking for life insurance, I realized that weight is a definite factor in cost.  I don't have high blood pressure, don't have high cholesterol, I'm not diabetic.  Basically I'm relatively healthy with the exception of being chunky.  Or as the charts put it "Morbidly Obese".  I was mortified by that term.  That is not what I thought of myself as being.  I used terms like voluptuous, being one of Bodecelli's (sp.) women, etc...  I am very comfortable in my body.
In light of all of this, I had been looking into weight loss surgery.  My brother-in-law had gastric bypass.  He had a lot of complications afterwards and actually ended up passing away within a year of having it done.  I wasn't comfortable of the whole rerouting idea either, so that was not a choice I would make.  Then a friend has the lap band done. She lost a lot of weight. But kept having problems with it.  She eventually had to have it removed and gained all of her weight back.  I didn't like the maintenance that goes with that surgery and the success rate isn't as good.
 Then I had a client that had Gastric Sleeve done.  She looks amazing.  Not only has she done it, but at least 10-15 other people she knows had it done as well, with great success.    It was almost a year ago when I found out about this particular procedure.
 I wasn't sure I wanted to do something permanent, but looking into the insurance made up my mind.  I researched the dr that she used and found out he has a great success rate and is extremely reputable.  My own dr researched him and she gave her approval.
 Now to tell my family.  They were surprised that I decided to do the gastric sleeve, but they were supportive.  One of the concerns they had was that it was in Mexico.  After talking with them about the experiences that others had, they were more comfortable with it.
 I made the arrangements.  I was appreciative of the excellent communication with Dr Alvarez's staff.  They answered all my questions and kept in touch with me before and after surgery.  We drove down to the hotel in Eagle Pass, TX (I get air-sick, so I didn't want to fly after surgery).  The accommodations were very clean and comfortable.  Rosie (the driver) picked us (me, my husband and the other lady that was having surgery) up the following morning.  The trip across the border was uneventful and we were at the clinic within a couple of minutes.
 At the clinic we met with Dr Alvarez briefly and then we were led across a breezeway/drive into the hospital.  Everyone was very nice and professional.  We were taken to our rooms, they did the pre-op blood work and chest x-ray.  They started my IV and the anesthesiologist came in.  That was the last thing I remember until waking up after surgery.  I was kept comfortable with pain meds and anti-nausea meds and I didn't have to ask for them to be administered.  The nurses came regularly into my room to check on me.  Dr Alvarez and Dr Rosales came in several times together and several times on their own to check on me.  My room was clean and comfortable.  Nicer than any other hospital room I had ever been in.    Then there was Jessica.  She took my husband to get food and made sure that we had everything we needed.  She was very nice and took great care of us.  At one point, while she was caring for another family, my husband ventured out and got food on his own.  He didn't have any problems.
 Upon release, we were given thorough instructions on after-care.  Then Rosie picked us up and drove us back across the border.  I received follow-up emails from the patient coordinator, as well as emails directly from Dr Alvarez checking on how I was doing.
 I had my surgery on March 15, 2012 and I have lost 25 lbs so far.  I don't have insurance and I would not have been able to afford to have this surgery in the United States because of the cost.  I also don't believe I would have gotten the same quality of care that I did while I was in Mexico.  Dr Alvarez has more experience with this procedure than any of the doctors in my area.  I trust him completely and would do it all over again.  I felt completely safe in Mexico.
 That being said, this surgery isn't for everyone, but if you are ready to make a life change, then I recommend Dr Alvarez and his staff in Mexico.

After years of dieting to now avail, I had VSG done by Dr. Alvarez on 3/15/12, yes, in Mexico. And, I'm still here to talk abot it! Everything went as planned and promised, despite what people said "you'll get shot by the cartell" that's a dangerous town" "don't go out by yourself". From the moment I was picked p in San Antonio by Rosie (as promised and arranged), things went as I was told they would; spent the night at the Holiday Inn in Eagle Pass, I did walk to Walmart and bought a book (and some sugar free jello), flopped in the hot tub there and enjoyed the quiet. In the morning, was again picked up (with my sleeve sista and her hubby) by Rosie, and ventured the 10-15 minute ride to the hospital. In the hospital, we met Dr. Alvarez (and Dr. Rosales), a real person, very pleasant and knowledgable. Then, off to lab and radiology (oh, Cindy and I flipped a coin to decide who went first) and then to our rooms. Our rooms were set up in little "pods" I would call them, a small hall with 4 rooms, one of them being a lounge with TV, fridge, etc for guests to hang in while patients nap. A computer was in my room, we had trouble with it, but I had brought my own which was easier anyway. Yes, I watched the needles be taken out of new sterile pakaging, although their IV system is not needleless as they are in USA, everything was new in regard to invasive items (IV's how we used to do them here). Surgery I don't remember (shocking, I know). Oh, and Jessica was there (as promised much of the time) to interpret. Pain was kept under good control, as was nausea (I did request and get a hit of pain meds and Nausea meds before my IV was removed). Dr. A or Dr. R. (and occasionally both) checked on me several times daily (more than the one required MD visit in US hospital). Clear instructions were given for aftercare, as well as emails checking on progress and asking about issues. 4 weeks out, I am down 17 pounds (not as shocking as some people's huge weight loss, but for me, I always lose so slowly (if at all), that I am thrilled with that! I never felt unsafe or in danger during any part, am losing weight, and it was money well spent! I do miss my stress eating ability at times tho' (lol!) Good luck!

I am 1 month out from having the sleeve with Dr. Alvarez (March 12, 2012). I wanted to write a review to let everyone that may be looking for a surgeon in our out of the United States how amazing Dr. Alvarez, and his staff are. I never for 1 minute felt uneasy or unsafe during my entire experience in Mexico. Dr. Alvarez and his partner Dr. Gabe both have the most amazing bedside manner you have ever seen. I was also blessed to have one of his nurses, Jessica, take care of my husband and I. Jessica actually went with my husband to eat in the afternoons, and let me tell you, she is pure joy. I speak zero spanish and never once had any trouble communicating to Dr. Alvarez's staff. I was also never is any real pain, just tenderness that was very bearable. I have actually recommended Dr. Alvarez to several of my friends. I would give Dr. Alvarez, his staff, and the entire experience from start to finish a 10!

A little bit more than two months ago I had my gastric sleeve procedure done by Dr. Guillermo Alvarez. I am so, so, so happy with the results. I have lost 20 kgs in 2 months. It has change my life in some many possitive ways. A friend of mine and I arranged over the phone our appointment for surgery, that same morning prior to the surgery we met in person Dr. Alvarez. He explained to me the procedure, since this moment I knew I was in good hands. The care and attentions of Doctor´s personnel and hospital staff were awesome. I would not hesitate in recommending Dr. Alvarez to family and friends of mine. Doctor gave me a book he wrote explaining everything about the gastric sleeve. I had the chance to read it over for the two nights I spend at the clinic right after the procedure. The morning I was discharge I was given instructions and medicine to take home with me. Both nights I spend at the clinic I was look after by personnel from the hospital and Doctors clinic. I was never in pain, instructions were easy to follow. The whole experience, from the moment they pick us up at the hotel and were taken back to catch our flight back home; everything was excellent. I just wish I had done my procedure many years ago with Dr. Alvarez. I am glad I had it done by him. It has changed my life in so many ways. Everybody in my family will like to thank Dr. Alvarez and all of his staff for all of his knowledge, attentions and care.

I had my surgery March 1st. I chose him as I was self pay and he had done more of the surgeries than any of the doctors in the US. I work in Central America extensively so I am used to travelling and I have to say Pedras Negra was cleaner than Eagle Pass and I never had a bad experience at all. In fact I never had anyone ask me for money or felt unsafe until I was already home and got off the plane in Atlanta and was on the train home from the airport terminal.

I was drinking water when he told me to drink ice chips, I was eating cottage cheese when I was supposed to be on shakes (just to see if I could do it) and never ever had a problem. It's so sad to see all the people on this website that had bad inexperienced surgeons that cannot even drink water for weeks at a time!!

I lost 10lbs the first week and I've lost 25lbs total but I have been on a very stict cardio 5 days a week and no more than 600 calories with 30 carbs a day. Something not all patients have to do nor should be recommended. At 37 days out I am starting to eat dense protein (London Broil and Chicken) with no complications or pain whatsoever although trying to keep it very slow just to be safe.

**Edit.5/9 9 weeks out I am now down 45 lbs! :)

Had my surgery 2 months ago and have lost 42 lbs!!! My story is probably just like most everyone else that has weight issues. I have been overweight most of my life, and always am able to loose weight but eventually it comes back plus some. My decision to have gastric sleeve was sudden, and I have no regrets... I decided in January I had to do this, and was going to do the lapband surgery. My insurance does not cover any weight loss surgery but that was just as well because they make you wait so long to actually have the surgery. Since I was a self pay patient I knew I would be traveling to Mexico for my surgery. I have been going to the same dentist for 30 years, in Matamoros, Mexico, so I started looking for dr's in or around that area. I came across Dr Alvarez, and so happy I did because since I was traveling from Florida by myself, I was somewhat familiar with the border area of Tx. I literally decided to have the surgery, and set the date all within a matter of 3 days. Also, after speaking with Susan, the coordinator, I chose to go with the sleeve instead of lapband.

Everything was set up prior to my arrival in San Antonio. I was picked up at the airport, and Rosie, the driver picked us up at the hotel. She drove us to Eagle Pass, and checked us into our room. I have to say I was not nervous at all. I knew I had a problem, and needed help, and was at the point that I needed to do whatever I could to get the help. So, I went shopping!!! There is a mall there, and I took a cab to the mall and shopped. The next morning Rosie picked us up, and we were on our way!!! My life was about to change, and I was so excited. We got to the hospital, met Dr Alvarez. He is great, and the girl that was with me was a little nervous but he immediately eased her mind. She decided to go first, and I would go second, since I was not at all scared or nervous. Dr Alvarez will go over your personal risks, if any, and then I met Jessica, and she speaks perfect English. She was our personal nursing assistant. She will help you with anything, and took great care of us throughout our stay. Everyone was great!!! The nurses are all so nice., There is a slight language barrier with some but they are so experienced with anything that could happen, you just have to say a word, and they know exactly what to do.

I would give you all the details but if you are considering surgery with Dr Alvarez, I will give you my email, and phone number so we can talk.

The surgery went great, and I was up within a few hours. Dr Alvarez called my mom, and my sister to let them know I was out of surgery, and doing great. He answered all of their questions over the phone since they could not be there. There is a phone that is in each area, and you can use it as often as you like, so I was able to call them as soon as I was up and around. Dr Alvarez was there most of the day and checked on me several times.

I had a copy of the book that Dr Alvarez wrote, and not only is all the follow up info in there, they also went over it again, and made sure I understood everything. Also, he made it clear to email or call with any concerns I had after surgery. Since everything has been great Dr Alvarez has only had to email me to check on my progress. He truly is here to help, and I am so happy I chose him to help me through this journey to loose weight. Dr Alvarez gave me the tool to be successful in my weight loss journey, and now it's my job to use it!!!

My experience was fantastic. Don't get me wrong, I did not feel great after the surgery but overall my care was great. I felt bad, had gas, and was throwing up. However, they were able to comfort me, and reassure me that it was normal, and it would not last that long. Here is my email [email protected]
If you are serious, and need any info or just want to talk to someone, feel free to contact me, and I will give you my number so we can talk.

I would recommend Dr Alvarez to anyone thinking about having weight loss surgery.

I had VSG with Dr. Alvarez March 2 2012. I decided on Dr. Alvarez after spending months researching on the internet. His experience and reviews as well as the hospital he uses all played into my decision to go to him. From beginning to end it was a terrific experience. His coordinator Susan was incredibly helpful and responsive as was his whole team.

My niece went with me to Piedras Negras and both of us were really impressed. Piedras Negras is a lovely little town just south of San Antonio. We both felt totally safe and were out walking around the town the day after surgery. My niece and another surgery "companion" went out daily for meals and to shop and both had a great time. Dr. Alvarez' nurse went with them sometimes to show them good restaurants and help them order - amazing comprehensive care.

The day of surgery was incredible well organized and really minimized the stress of it all. I have worked in several U.S. and Australian hospitals and you would not get the same level of care and attention in any of them. Only if you went to a private hospital. Dr. Alvarez' nurses were very attentive and I never had any difficulties after surgery - no nausea/vomiting and no pain. I was up walking within a couple hours of surgery. Because he is so experienced, he can do the surgery quickly minimizing time under anesthesia.

The hospital was really clean and the staff very friendly. Discharge and transitioning back to San Antonio went like clockwork. Dr. Alvarez and his team continued to follow my recovery the days and weeks after my surgery - I felt very cared for and secure.

I'm now 4 weeks post op and my life is pretty well back to normal - except I eat about 1/8 of what I used to ;). No hunger and I'm down 30lbs :)

My entire experience with Dr. Guillermo Alvarez was a pleasure, start to finish. I'm a big believer in "Pay it forward!" :-) So here's my honest, objective appraisal.


I know there is violence in Mexico, it's all over the news! But truly, it would be like saying don't go to the U.S. because people get killed there. Some people just cannot wrap their brain around that, unfortunately. My husband was SO against it til he talked to other patients of Dr. Alvarez. Then he understood the reality which is that you should have NO concerns re this part of Mexico... its so uneventful that you could literally be in Georgia, Canada or Hawaii. The Mexico part's just a formality.


You can blink & miss the border crossing. The hospital is just about a minute inside the border & is safer than my own neighborhood, which is VERY safe. I saw absolutely NO people around the hospital. You literally walk from the van about 10 feet into the hospital. It's totally private & absolutely like being in a hospital at home. If/when you go, you'll be telling others the exact same thing afterwards.


I live in Dallas, TX. I flew to San Antonio, where Rosy met me immediately. We proceeded in the Clinic bus. I had my surgery March 1, 2012. In 4 weeks I've lost 20 lbs. I weighed 190ish and I'm 5'2". This surgery is the ONLY real solution to weight loss. Believe me, I had tried EVERYTHING & always gained it back. Now I it's like a switch was turned off in my brain & food is no big deal. I just eat healthy.


Dr. Alvarez speaks English as well as you or me! Plus all of the instructions are laid out in easy-to-understand directions. Dr. Alvarez's book explains it all, & it's free take-home reading for after surgery. You also get the take-home meds free, which makes it very simple.The Dr. and Susan, his main assistant, are both just a phone call away... but I haven't needed anything.


Dr. Alvarez is MUCH less expensive than doctors in the U.S. but that really was immaterial. Money was not a factor for us; I wanted the best doctor. No one is better than Dr. Alvarez at this. He is highly-skilled and has the surgery down to a science. It takes approx. 35 minutes for him to do the sleeve surgery and change your life. I cannot recommend him enough! He has a compassionate and respectful bedside manner.


I am forever grateful to him for his outstanding medical care (as well as that of the entire staff). I endorse him and the hospital with complete confidence. Patients are treated like family. I never enjoyed surgery before, that's for sure... but I blossomed from Day One after this surgery.


I have no vested interest in wherever you go. This is just free info, worth whatever you can gain from it. Best wishes!

I had my VSG on 2/14/2012 and Dr. Alvarez was amazing. The journey to get my sleeve was a journey I will never forget. I flew from upstate N.Y into Texas. Dr.A driver(Rosey) picked me up and brought me to the Eagle Pass hotel. The next morning Rosy picked us up at hotel and took us over the border to Dr. A office. Many people worry about going over the border but it was completely safe. After I had blood work and an x-ray before you knew it, it was surgery time. Six hours after surgery I was up walking the halls. I did end up with a hematoma in the largest incision due to having such a big stomach and Dr.A taking out the old part of my stomach. (This was due to my weight I was 364 at the time of surgery.) Dr. A and his assistant were in and out to check on me at least 6 times a day. I had to e-mail Dr. Alvarez a couple times with question since I have returned home and he answers me with in 2 minutes. He is an excellent Doctor and will recommend him to everyone. By the way I'm 6 weeks post op and down 60 pounds!!! I thankful everyday that I did my research and choose Dr.Alvarez.

I like many have thought of weight loss surgery for many years, struggled with my weight, I dieted, excercised and have spent lots of money on many different programs.

I finally decided to research surgery and decided on VSG, talked to many people who had the surgery and found several that had used Dr. Alverez.

Contacted the office and received a return call, where all the questions I had were answered, additional information was sent via e-mail, I read the doctors book viewed the web site and read the testiomonials.

I called the office set up a date and off I went with a friend who also was going to have the surgery. Upon arrival our hotel was clean, the staff made sure that we had everything we needed, let us know what time we would be picked up to go to Mexico and we had a phone number for Dr. Alverez if we needed anything.

In the morning the van arrived and what a wonderful lady she was, assured us we were in good hands, that we would be safe in Mexico and that anything we needed we would be taken care of.

We met a former patient of the doctors while there and she explained to us that her care and treatment had been better than she ever expected! Once we arrived we met Dr. Alverez and his staff, we were told what was going to happen, taken to our room which was wonderful, simple and comfortable.

I was taken to surgery, once I was done the doctor came out and spoke to my friends, I was taken back to my room and made comfortable.

The staff was fabulous I could not have asked for more, the doctor came in many times to check on myself and my friend, the nurses were there within moments if we called. The one on one care and attention was so wonderful, like nothing you would expect!

I am 4 weeks out and have progressed as expected, I feel so much better and know I made the best choice in having the procedure done and in choosing a doctor who really cares, who makes sure your his number 1 priority and the follow up care continues with e-mails, a phone number that gets you right to Dr. Alverez, I know this was one of my best decisions ever, it starts with a phone call, one with no pressure, make the call it could be the most important one you'll ever make, I know for me it was.