What to expect — a day-by-day timeline

Before you go

Phone/video consult, medical history, and a pre-op diet (often 1–2 weeks) to shrink the liver. Arrange a passport and ideally a companion.

Day 1 — arrival & crossing

Most fly into San Diego (SAN); a clinic driver crosses into Tijuana — hospitals are minutes from the border in Zona Río. Final labs, EKG, surgeon consult same day.

Day 2 — surgery

Laparoscopic surgery ~1–2 hours; one night in hospital with nursing care.

Day 3–4 — early recovery

Discharge to recovery house/hotel. Clear liquids, short walks, rest.

Day 5 — fly home

Most fly home around day 4–5 once cleared, on a staged liquid-to-solid plan.