What Should I Bring to My Surgery in Mexico?
When traveling for surgery in Mexico, it’s best to pack light but smart. Here are the essentials:
- Personal Identification & Documents
- Valid passport
- Clinic/hospital paperwork and confirmation
- Medical records, lab results, imaging, and medication list
- Insurance or payment details (if applicable)
- Clothing & Comfort Items
- Loose, comfortable clothes that are easy to put on and take off
- Slip-on shoes or sandals
- Light sweater or shawl for the hospital (rooms can be cool)
- Small toiletry kit (toothbrush, deodorant, etc.)
- Medications
- Any prescription medications you currently take, in their original containers
- A written list of doses and schedules
- Electronics & Communication
- Phone + charger (consider an extra-long cable for hospital beds)
- Headphones or tablet for entertainment
- Support & Recovery
- A companion if your surgery requires one (many clinics encourage or require this)
- Travel pillow, eye mask, or small blanket for extra comfort
💡 Pro Tip: Leave valuables, excess cash, and jewelry at home. Most clinics provide everything you need during your stay, so focus on comfort and essentials.
Bring your documents, medications, and comfy clothes. Your clinic will provide the rest so you can focus on recovery.
Do Doctors, Nurses, and Staff Speak English in Tijuana?
Yes—most doctors and medical staff who work with international patients in Tijuana speak fluent English. Many physicians are trained in the United States or are members of American medical associations, so they are very familiar with both the language and the expectations of U.S. patients.
- Doctors: Board-certified specialists who work in medical tourism usually speak excellent English, often with U.S. clinical experience or fellowships.
- Nurses & Support Staff: In reputable clinics and hospitals, nurses and patient coordinators are bilingual, making communication smooth during consultations, treatments, and recovery.
- Patient Services: Many facilities also have dedicated bilingual coordinators or case managers whose job is to guide international patients step by step, ensuring nothing gets “lost in translation.”
While general day-to-day English is common in the medical district and tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and appreciated. Still, patients can expect their entire medical journey—from consultation to recovery—to be handled in English if needed.
In Tijuana’s top medical centers, language is not a barrier. Patients can feel confident that doctors and staff will communicate clearly in English throughout their care.
Is It Safe to Travel to Tijuana?
Yes—Tijuana is considered safe for medical tourists, especially when visiting accredited clinics and traveling through established medical districts. Every year, thousands of patients from the United States cross the border for healthcare, dental care, and surgeries without issues.
- Location Advantage: Tijuana is only minutes from San Diego, with one of the busiest international crossings in the world. Most patients are picked up directly at the border or airport and taken to their clinic or hotel, limiting unnecessary travel.
- Medical Tourism Infrastructure: Hospitals and clinics that serve international patients are located in secure, high-traffic medical zones. Many provide private drivers, bilingual staff, and concierge-style services for added peace of mind.
- Safety Standards: Accredited hospitals and board-certified surgeons in Tijuana follow the same international standards as in the U.S., ensuring both medical and patient safety.
Of course, as in any major city, it’s wise to take normal precautions: use authorized transportation, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and stay within recommended areas.
For medical travelers, Tijuana is a safe, professional, and welcoming destination when choosing reputable providers like ours.
How Much Can You Save in Tijuana?
General Savings Estimates
- Expect to pay 40%–70% less for most treatments compared to U.S. prices l
- Some sources even indicate savings as high as 80%–90% for specific procedures like dental work or cosmetic surgery
Real-World Examples
| Procedure | U.S. Price Approx. | Tijuana Price Approx. | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Implant (per tooth) | $3,000–$5,000 | $1,000–$1,500 | Up to 70% off |
| Root Canal | $1,200–$2,000 | $300–$600 | Up to 75% off |
| Knee Replacement | $30,000–$50,000 | $10,000–$15,000 | 50%–70% off |
| Hip Replacement | $40,000+ | $12,000–$15,000 | 60%–70% off |
| Hemorroidectomy + colonoscopy | $7500+ | $ 3500- $4500 | 50%–70% off |
| Gastric Sleeve Surgery | $15,000–$25,000 | $4,000–$7,000 | Around 60% off |
Summary
- Typical savings range from 40% to 70% across various medical fields.
- Extreme cases—such as dental implants, root canals, or joint replacements—can exceed 75% savings.
- Some procedures are reported to be up to 90% cheaper in Tijuana, especially in dental and cosmetic treatments Medical Tourism Co.PlacidWay.
Real Patient Perspective (Reddit)
An anecdotal experience reflects the reality:
“I got a full routine checkup, blood work and prescription drugs for $110 in Tijuana… The same cost in California would’ve been at least $2,000.”
— u/… on r/Anarcho_Capitalism Reddit
Tijuana offers exceptional cost savings for medical travellers. Depending on the procedure, you can save between 40% and 70%, and in many cases even more—particularly for dental, orthopedic, or bariatric treatments.
The Medical Concierge Hub 