Guillermo Alvarez Bariatric Surgeon MD

Dr. Alvarez performed my gastric sleeve surgery on January 10, 2011. I am now 5 weeks post-op, have lost 37 pounds and 3 pant sizes. I am at peace with my surgery, knowing that Dr. Alvarez did a fantastic job, my surgery was a success, and that he is only a phone call away if I need him.

First Impressions:
I knew before going to Mexico that Dr. Alvarez was an exceptional surgeon and that if I were to have gastric sleeve surgery, there would be no doubt who I would want to do it. His qualifications, experience, and passion for his work iare unparalleled…these things I knew before I met him and knew I would be in the best hands possible. I was hesitant about traveling to Mexico, mainly because so many of family were scared for me. But I researched the area, talked with Susan and another patient of Dr. Alvarez, and never looked back.

My dad and I flew to San Antonio where Rosy drove us and my "sleeve sister" and husband to Eagle Pass, TX to spend the evening. She then picked us up the next morning and we headed to the hospital in Mexico. Rosy is awesome – she explained what we would experience as we crossed the border. They do random vehicle searches as people enter Mexico. We were through in less than 5 minutes, sitting in the van while two gentlemen looked in our vehicle. Rosy drives this route throughout the week, and it was like going through a toll booth in the states...nothing to be afraid of. We entered Piadras Negras and were at the hospital in less than 10 minutes. A great video of this process is on YouTube – “4 days in 4 minutes” which follows a couples experience with Dr. Alvarez.

Impression over time/ Description of Office Staff/ What future patients should know:
The moment Dr. Alvarez saw us enter his office he came out, shook our hands and introduced himself. He had me at hello…lol. Really, meeting the man from my research face to face could have been intimidating, but he felt like a friend before we even hit the OR. Not only did he welcome us personally, his assistant surgeons and nurse were there to greet us as well. It was like being welcomed to a big family. He was already familiar with who we were and was very welcoming and friendly. My dad and I went into his private office area where we went over my medical history, asked questions, weighed, and got to know one another better. Dr. Alvarez answered all questions, went over what we were going to do, and then his nurse took us to my room to get settled, do pre-op blood work, and chest xray. I always dread stepping on a scale at the doctor’s office, but Dr. Alvarez is passionate about helping people with obesity and never made me feel self conscious, guilty, or embarrassed about myself. His staff/team was also phenomenal!

Emphasis on aftercare/After care program/ Addressing risks of surgery
Dr. Alvarez is very dedicated to the success of his patients; therefore he makes aftercare a huge priority. Patients sign a contract to abide by a detailed outline of what must be done after surgery. A leak test is performed the day after surgery to ensure that all is well. I was able to watch my new tummy work, as he had a monitor for patients to watch and told me everything that was happening – twice! He is adamant about following a 4 week progression to regular foods, allowing the new stomach time to heal. Susan, his coordinator/nurse, emails important information before surgery and then Dr. Alvarez personally goes over all information with patients before releasing them from the hospital. Dr. Alvarez and his assistant surgeon came to my room and discussed what is expected after surgery – what I need to eat/drink, symptoms of possible problems, how to contact him, and prescriptions for the following 2 weeks. He also had a folder with obesityhelp.com info, receipt from surgery, description of surgery and note to employer, other information, both doctor’s business cards, and medication schedule. He gave me post surgery pain medicine, an antibiotic, and heartburn medicine in a bag that could be carried on the plane home. Dr. Alvarez was very thorough, but also took time to set my suitcase up, get my “special pillow” out, sign it, and repack it. How many doctors in the US take that kind of time and care with their patients?



Rating Dr. Alvarez overall:
Dr. Alvarez has given me hope when I just didn’t have any left. Within one week since surgery I returned to everyday life, with no pain or heartburn medicines needed. I have more energy now than in the past 10 years, and thank God everyday that I was able to take this journey.

I was so privileged to have Dr. Alvarez perform my surgery, to have met him and his team/staff, and begin this journey with such a supportive, caring and compassionate group of people. I was amazed at the personal care he and his assistant surgeons took to check on me and how often I saw them. One of the doctors even walked me back from my leak test. I was also impressed that 80% of my stomach was removed and there was no pain! His surgical competence, experience with gastric sleeve surgery, and bedside manner are out of this world. I cannot say enough about my experience and hope others are inspired to choose Dr. Alvarez as their surgeon.

Anything negative to say:
Although the website asked this question, I have no negative comments about Dr. Alvarez, his team, or traveling and staying in Mexico. I would do it all over again. I have no regrets!

I had my VSG with Dr. Alvarez on 04/03/09 so I am 9 months out. So far, I have lost 84lbs and have gone from a size 24 to a size 16/18. I am thrilled with my decision to have this surgery, and even happier with my choice of surgeon. He has an amazing staff that took care of me from the moment I arrived in San Antonio to the time I left to fly home. Everything was well coordinated. Dr. Alvarez and Dr. Gable (his assistant) explained everything thoroughly before the surgery and checked on me constantly after the surgery. They took the time to answer questions and never rushed me. They made me feel very comfortable. His office was up to date and had the latest technology. I was a bit unsure of the hospital when I first saw it because it was definitely dated. I ended up feeling very good about the facilities because the nurses were great, especially Jessica.
Susan, his patient coordinator, was phenomenal. She was professional, efficient, and very friendly. She answered endless questions and gave me names of former patients to call and talk to to ease my mind. She also sent me loads of information that covered pre-op, the actual surgery, and post-op procedures. I referred to this information daily throughout the process and never had to go looking for answers. I would rate my experience with Dr. Alvarez and his staff a 10/10!

Dr. Alvarez was very professional and friendly and answered all our questions and gave us confidence in proceeding withe the VSG surgery. When it was all over and we were leaving we still felt that we had made the right choice and still felt the same confidence in the Dr. Alvarez we had initially. His staff was very polite and spoke english very well which was a HUGE relief and helped alot since the hospital staff did not speak any english. While in the hospital they checked on us during the day and a member of his staff was on the floor during the day - it would have been nice to have had a member of his staff on during the night as well since the nurses did not speak english. My only complaint regarding the Doctor and his staff is that I have had a problem with them receiving my emails. You an call and chat online however. I would recommend Dr. Alvarez to anyone and it was definately the right decision for me. They got me in an dgot it done in a timely manner and I had no complications. I wish that there was a follow up call by a member of their staff once a month to anwer any questions that we might have at the time. All in all I am very pleased with the results of the surgery and feel that I chose the right path with Dr. Alvarez.

Today is 5 days short of 5 months since I began this journey on the liquid pre-op diet. I am 41 years old, and weighed in at 415 pounds. I had trouble walking, breathing, sleeping, and working. I was on blood pressure medication, asthma medication, and was frequently being evaluated for high blood sugar and diabetes.

I chose Dr. Guillermo Alvarez as my surgeon because I was impressed by the available online videos I saw from other patients. I was also impressed at the number of Gastric Sleeves he had performed, his technique, and the fact that he lectures on gastric sleeve surgical procedures. I was a little apprehensive about traveling to Mexico- particularly since I am from Arizona, and my surgery took place only one week after the passage of SB 1070- our anti-illegal law.

I can honestly say there was nothing to fear. The hospital was older, but the facilities, materials, and staff were far superior to the quality in the United States. The private room was brand new and twice the size of American hospital rooms. My surgeon and surgical assistant saw me several times each after the surgery- when does that happen in the United States? The nursing staff was pleasant and professional. (I speak Spanish though they did not know this. They did not mock me or say anything negative at anytime- even though they had no idea I understood them)

I could go on, but I will end by saying that today less than 5 months later I have lost 101 pounds. I am 4 pants size, one shirt size, and a 1/2 shoe size smaller. I no longer stop and rest after walking across a room. I sleep better and no longer fall asleep at work. I breathe better. I am told I look younger. I am always satisfied when I eat, and I eat whatever I want (even fast food)with no dieting whatsoever. I can't recommend this surgery or Dr. Alvarez highly enough. I know this sounds like a rave or paid testimonial, but I honestly have nothing negative to say.

Arizona Attorney in the shadow of SB1070

My first impression of Dr. Alvarez seemed like a very kind man and was someone who really wanted to help and that was from reading his website and looking at his picture.
My impression of him just grew better and better the more i learned about what he was doing.
Dr. Alvarez there was nothing I could really complain about him, the hospital was clean, even a little blan and the whole language barrier made it a little hard.
Dr. Alvarez is a very kind and caring man and he takes time from his busy day to just visit you in your room and make sure you are alright and comfortable.
He goes into very great detail and planning about the after surgery care.
No there was no aftercare program because the surgery I had done there was no aftercare needed.
I would give Dr. Alvarez a 10 out of 10
Both are great!

What was your first impression of him/her? My first impression of Dr. A was that he looked extremely professional and had an amazing office and he is also a very snazzy dresser! :D Due to the fact that the hospital is older, I assumed that it would all be outdated.

How did your impression change over time? My impression of Dr. A never changed. In fact he exceeded my expectations. I never felt that I would be going in for my VSG making lifelong friends. Dr. A was more than just a surgeon, he was truly a friend. I must also point out his partner, Dr. Gabe, was also very professional and friendly. They both offered me something that most surgeons won’t, a really personable and likeability presence. Most surgeons have appeared to want to get straight to business and never really get to want to know who YOU are as a person. Both Dr. Alvarez and Dr. Gabe did this!

How would you describe his/her office staff? His office was AWESOME!! It had the latest technology, beautiful furniture, and many pictures, which really impressed me. His staff was also the BEST EVER! I love them all especially a young lady by the name of Jessica. She is citizen of the Piedras Negras community and is a real sweetheart! She stood by my side throughout the entirety of my stay in Dr. Alvarez’s facility!

What did you like least about him/her? I have absolutely nothing negative to say about Dr. Alvarez. I owe him my life and happiness and for that, I will forever be grateful.

What should future patients know about him/her? One thing I would tell the future patients of Dr. A is to not be nervous. There seems to be a rising stigma about the violence in Mexico. This is not the case in Piedras Negras. People are friendly and very welcoming there! Also have no worries if you are not a Spanish speaker; although I do speak basic Spanish, there is still a translator around at all times. And honestly, the only time you might need a translator is when one of the local nurses has to come in for something. Dr. Alvarez speaks 100% fluent English, and his partner, Dr. Gabe, has perfect English also!

How much does he/she emphasize aftercare? Dr. A and Dr. Gabe are very adamant about the aftercare of surgery. A folder of information is given upon discharge. He also gives his personal office phone number and his e-mail and insists on keeping contact. What I really liked about Dr. A was the fact that he called me a couple times throughout my trip home and told me to make sure I called when I made it home safe and sound. What doctors will actually do this?!?!!!!

How did he/she address the risks of surgery? He goes over that information before surgery and after as well, along with the information given in the discharge folder!

How would you rate him/her overall? Definitely 10/10! He is the greatest!

Which is better, surgical competence, bedside manner, or are both great? Both are on point and top of the line! He is the best of the best!!!!!!!!

I start this review/testimonial by saying that I am 100% happy with my choice of procedure, surgeon and location.
When I made the decision to have VSG surgery I took to the internet and began researching and looking for a surgeon that fit my needs. I found a few that sounded good but when I found Dr. Alvarez's website I felt that I'd found the right person. My insurance had already denied me so I was looking for an affordable option and while I don't know the reason, I know that the surgery in Mexico was more affordable and finally it was within my reach. I hadn't known anyone personally that had gone to Mexico for surgery and only knew that it made me a bit nervous and anyone I mentioned it to gave me a look of judgment and questioned me. I contacted Susan, the patient coordinator, and I asked her a million questions. She was patient with me and so kind and informative. I went in knowing the answers to all of my questions and that made my process so easy. Soon I was sharing my research with my family and hoping to put everyone at ease about both the surgery itself and the location I had chosen. My parents trusted my judgment and we made it into a family road trip because my sister was also going be having the surgery the same day that I was. From the moment we arrived at the hotel to our stay in the hospital to our departure we were taken care of by Dr. A's staff. It made the process so easy and comfortable and I'd do it again and again! I think I pretty much woke up from surgery with a smile; I was happy from the moment I knew it had gone well and my life was taking a turn for the better. I don't remember any pain; I was sleepy and slept through a lot of the first day. The second day we were up and walking the halls with Jessica, she was there all the time for us and helped translate to the nurses if needed. Dr. A was great and checked on us each day. I would recommend him to anyone I loved and trust that we made the best decision.
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When my sister first told me that she wanted to go to Mexico for this surgery, honestly, I was hesitant. But then she told me all the great things she'd learned about Dr. Alvarez. She then told me all the details and outcomes that she'd researched about the surgery! That's when I knew I wanted to do it as well.

I wasn't nervous at all while we were on our road trip to Mexico, and it wasn't until I was lying in the bed getting ready to be taken away that it truly hit me as to what I was doing. That's when I got nervous and a little scared.

When I met Dr. Alvarez I knew I was in good hands. He we so nice and polite. And he was genuinely concerned about how we were emotionally as well as physically. The whole experience was amazing and I'll never forget anything about it!

Like I said, I did get nervous and scared. But the "happy juice", as they call it, kicked in so fast after that and the next thing I knew, I was waking up after surgery! The surgery itself only took 22 minutes! I was impressed by that. I was also impressed that the pain was not nearly as bad as I was expecting it to be.

Dr. Alvarez's team was amazing as well! The whole staff was great. Jessica, our daily nurse, was very caring and efficient.

My surgery took place on September 16, 2010. Today (November 25, 2010) I am 42 pounds lighter! I feel great! I've never felt healthier and I've never felt happier! If could do it all over again I would!

My only problem with everything today is I can't gulp my drinks, which I loved doing! And, of course, I can't pig out ... which I also loved doing! But that's kind of the purpose of the surgery! I am so happy and proud of myself and my sister for doing this surgery! I have no regrets!

if you read all of the other reviews, I can confirm that they are all true I had vsg with Dr Alvarez on the 12th of November 2010!! keeping in mind that I've never had to stay in a hospital before this was one of the best experiences I've had! All the dr's and staff are great dr Alvarez himself visited me in my room at least 5 times to check on me, and he even had me moved to another room because I was not receiving good wireless Internet in the room that I was in. the care I received was top notched. I would like to thank everyone from Susan,rosy,Cristina,Jessica and all the staff that Dr Alvarez employs to insure that our experience with him is a good one. I would not hesitate in recommending him for vsg surgery for anyone !! simply put Dr Alvarez and his surgical team are the best of the best!!

What can I say about Dr. A, that others have not already said. everything was so very professional, from my first time in talking to Susan, to the very end. It was a very pleasant experience, I only wish I had known about Dr. A, and had it done sooner. In my book, he is the man !!!! I say this without reservation and nor the least bit of hesitation. DO NOT, let your worries about going to Mexico change your mind of having this done by Dr. A. I assure you 1000% everything was great, not one single problem or even the hint of a problem or trouble. If you have any questions or need further info about Dr. A, please do not hesitate to contact me.
I can not express enough how thankful I am to Dr. Alvarez, his entire staff, and my decision in having him preform this procedure.
Thank you Dr. Alvarez ( and your Staff) you are all "A" #1 in my book.

www.endobariartric.com or Google Dr. Alvarez

Regards,
Eddie Hernandez
San Antonio, Texas