Before You Go: What You Need
Passport
Valid for 6+ months. U.S. citizens don't need a visa for Mexico, but bring your passport.
Insurance Card
Not required for the procedure, but bring it for U.S. documentation.
Medical Records
If you're seeing a specialist, bring any recent imaging or tests.
Medications
Bring prescriptions plus a 30-day supply of current medications.
Getting to Nogales
Drive (Most Common)
Tucson: 1 hour. Phoenix: 2.5–3 hours. Yuma: 1.5–2 hours. Safe parking is free at the clinic. Gas cost ~$15–25.
Fly
Fly to Tucson International Airport (TUS), rent a car, and it's a 1-hour drive to Nogales.
MySonoraCare Transport
We can arrange a driver from your location (~$80–120), including the return trip if needed.
Where to Stay
In Nogales
Hotel Hacienda (3-star, downtown): ~$60/night. Hotel Las Campanas (2-star): ~$40/night. Most patients stay 1 night.
In Tucson
1 hour away if you want more comfort. Flights next-day available if you're too sore to drive.
Timeline & What to Expect
First 7 Days Post-Op
Days 1–3
Rest at home or hotel. Pain managed with prescribed medication. Limited movement, following doctor's restrictions. Daily WhatsApp check-in with your doctor.
Days 4–7
Gradual return to light activity. Start walking if cleared by doctor. First remote follow-up call on day 5.
Diet — Bariatric
Clear liquids day 1, full liquids days 2–3, soft foods starting day 4. Specific guidelines provided post-op.
Diet — Dental
Soft foods for 3 days. Avoid hot foods and drinks for the first 48 hours. No chewing on the implant side for 2 weeks.
What You Can & Can't Do
After Dental (All-on-4)
No heavy chewing for 2 weeks. No smoking for 48 hours. No extreme temperatures. Light walking okay after day 3. Return to work in most jobs within 3–5 days.
After Bariatric Surgery
No heavy lifting for 6 weeks. No intense exercise for 4 weeks. Walking encouraged starting day 3. Return to desk job in 1–2 weeks, physical job in 4–6 weeks.
Common Questions
Can I drive home the same day after surgery?
No. We recommend staying overnight and driving home the next day — you'll be sedated or sore post-op.
Can I bring a friend or family member?
Absolutely. We recommend it. They can help with post-op care and transportation.
What if I need to stay longer than expected?
Lodging is arranged case-by-case. Usually not needed.
Can I fly home instead of driving?
Possible for dental, not recommended for bariatric surgery due to pressure changes and movement. We'll advise based on your procedure.
What medications do I bring back to the U.S.?
All prescribed medications (antibiotics, pain relief) are legal to bring across. Bring original bottles plus prescriptions.
Is there an airport in Nogales?
No commercial airport. Tucson International (TUS) is 1 hour away.