SAN DIEGO (Border Report) — Women from the U.S. and Canada account for almost all the cosmetic procedures done in Tijuana, according to Atzimba Villegas, president of Baja California’s Health Tourism Association.
“Most of the patients are from the U.S. and Canada as well as some European women,” said Villegas. “Primarily it’s bariatric procedures, plastic surgery and dental work.”
Villegas believes in five years there will be more cardiology, fertility and regenerative procedures done.
“We are expecting three times as many foreign patients in the next five years and many more will continue to seek cosmetic work,” she said.
According to Villegas, there are 8,000 suppliers in Baja California offering medical services to foreigners, including 525 hospitals and specialized clinics that perform surgeries.
Villegas warns people not to be influenced by low costs or someone’s recommendation.
“Don’t come here looking for a bargain or because someone recommended a doctor. Look for credentials and certifications for the clinics and doctors involved that can guarantee your safety, because there are lives at stake here,” Villegas said.
According to the Medical College of Tijuana, a private agency that certifies physicians in Baja California, there are only 60 plastic surgeons who are board certified and qualified to perform cosmetic procedures in the state, but there are 600 who don’t have the credentials to be doing this type of medical work.
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