The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is warning travelers against having plastic surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, after reporting that 11 Americans who have had surgeries in the border town recently have returned home with antibiotic-resistant infections.
According to the CDC's Wednesday warning,those patients were diagnosed with potentially fatal Pseudomonas bacteria, also known as CRPA, after undergoing invasive medical procedures.
Most of those procedures were weight-loss surgeries, according to the CDC.
Americans go to Tijuana for medical services in search of less expensive options, but these low-cost aesthetic surgeries are too risky, says a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon.
"When people go to Tijuana, they usually come looking for cheap places, and cheap places do not follow the rules," said Dr. Benjamin Talei.
Dr. Talei points out that lack of hygiene is often the cause of the reported infections.
"[Surgical teams] do not clean the body perfectly or the instruments, and with liposculptures they are passing a piece of metal inside the body," said Dr. Talei.
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According to Dr. Talei, this can then quickly spread the bacteria with potentially deadly consequences.
"With this bacteria you can lose a hand, you can have a lung infection, it can be very serious," Talai said.
According to the CDC, almost half of the infected patients underwent one of these surgeries at Grand View Hospital in Tijuana, and the rest at clinics in the area.
Experts recommend that ahead of any planned procedure, patients investigate the history of the clinic or hospital where it will take place and pay attention to past complaints.
Although the Mexican government has closed the hospital where the outbreak occurred, health authorities recommend avoiding such places.
FAQs
In short, avoid getting plastic surgery in Tijuana and don't let suspiciously low costs fool you. The benefits of choosing a qualified plastic surgeon cannot be overstated, as it can mean the difference between a safe, successful procedure and a risky surgery that leaves you with infections and other issues.
What is the infection in plastic surgery in Mexico? ›
They came to clinics in Mexico for cosmetic surgery and got a deadly fungal meningitis. In early 2023, a rare but deadly form of meningitis began appearing across the United States, especially among patients who had undergone cosmetic surgery at two clinics in Matamoros, Mexico, a city across the border from Texas.
Is it safe to get a nose job in Mexico? ›
A Rhinoplasty in Mexico is a safe surgery with a high satisfaction rate if it is performed by a qualified certified plastic surgeon. However, there is always the possibility of complications, which, although rare and slight, may appear.
Is it worth going to Mexico for plastic surgery? ›
People are skeptical of what they don't know
However, the fact is that these types of clinics are found all over the world – not just in Mexico. The truth is that plastic surgery in Mexico is safe and effective when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon at an accredited facility.
What is the average cost of a tummy tuck in Tijuana? ›
Tummy Tuck FAQ
A: Tummy Tuck cost in Tijuana will typically run between $2,500 and $4,500 depending on the scope of the procedure. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Fuentes to receive a customized price quote.
What is the most common plastic surgery in Mexico? ›
Breast Augmentation: Breast augmentation is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in Mexico. This surgery helps lift add volume back to the breast and tighten the skin of the chest. Tummy Tuck: As we age, it is natural to lose elasticity in the skin and muscles of our abdominal area.
How risky is infection after plastic surgery? ›
Infection
Though postoperative care includes steps to reduce the risk of infection, it remains one of the more common complications of plastic surgery. For instance, infections occur in 1.1 to 2.5 percent of people who undergo breast augmentation. The skin infection cellulitis may occur after surgery.
How safe are surgeries in Mexico? ›
Mexico has an excellent safety record as well as the highest success rates for weight loss surgery and cosmetics procedures. Here we will address what you need to watch out for when crossing the border to Mexico for your assurance.
What is the most painful plastic surgery procedure? ›
Many patients suggest that the Brazilian butt lift is the most painful surgery. This is followed by the tummy tuck, breast implants, liposuction, breast lifts and reductions, and jaw surgery. Dental implants can also cause much pain, as you still need to eat in the healing process.
How much is a nose job in TJ? ›
The average total cost of cosmetic rhinoplasty is around $8,000 to $10,000, and the average cost of a revision rhinoplasty is around $10,000 to $12,000. This average total cost includes the surgeon's fee, facility fees, and general or local anesthesia fees.
Woodman estimates U.S. residents getting medical care in Mexico can save 40% to 60% off the cost of similar procedures or operations at U.S. hospitals or clinics. "People in the United States need access to cost-effective medical care," Woodman said. '"The U.S. has priced itself out of the market."
Which country is best for nose plastic surgery? ›
South Korea, Turkey, Thailand, Brazil, Germany, and the United States stand out as top destinations for rhinoplasty, each offering unique advantages. As the field of cosmetic surgery continues to evolve, patients have more options than ever to achieve their desired nose reshaping goals.
Are surgeries in Mexico safe? ›
Mexico has an excellent safety record as well as the highest success rates for weight loss surgery and cosmetics procedures.
Is medical tourism safe in Tijuana? ›
Tijuana not only offers excellent medical care, but also a great tourist and cultural experience. Patients can enjoy the gastronomy, art, history, and nature of the city, as well as its mild climate and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Is it safe to have weight loss surgery in Tijuana? ›
Tijuana Bariatrics has arranged thousands of bariatric procedures and has had absolutely no problems with regard to the patients' safety. We invite you to reach out and learn more about the services offered through our bariatric surgery office in Tijuana, Mexico, including gastric bypass and sleeve surgeries.
