Gary M., an American resident, had been battling with a chronic shoulder injury, while in Tijuana with his mother who came for oncological medical treatment, he decided to seek treatment as he knew the cost of surgery in the United States was astronomical, Gary began searching for options and that led him to AngelesHealth who help him coordinate surgery with renowned orthopedic surgeon Ernesto Millan at New City Hospital in Tijuana, Mexico, at an affordable price.
Discovering a Solution Abroad
Gary’s shoulder issue had developed over years of physically work and a few too many sports-related injuries that never fully healed. Eventually, his pain became too severe to ignore, impacting his quality of life and his ability to workout. Gary knew he needed surgery but was shocked by the high costs in the United States, where even basic orthopedic procedures could cost tens of thousands of dollars, sometimes more. That is when he decided to look into medical care in Tijuana, which is known for providing affordable, high-quality healthcare to international patients. After researching options online, Gary came across AngelesHealth, a medical tourism service that helps U.S. patients access medical treatment in Mexico.
Consultation with Dr. Millán
Gary reached out to AngelesHealth, and they organized a consultation with Dr. Ernesto Millán, one of the most reputable orthopedic surgeon in Tijuana, highly specialized in shoulder surgery, at the consultation Dr. Millán reviewed Gary’s medical history, MRI scans, and physical condition. The doctor explained the exact nature of Gary’s shoulder condition and the recommended surgical approach in a way that was both reassuring and professional.
Dr. Millán outlined a treatment plan that involved advanced surgical techniques aimed at minimizing recovery time and ensuring optimal outcomes. Gary felt immediately at ease with Dr. Millán’s expertise and straightforward explanations, which allowed him to make an informed decision about his care. The consultation gave Gary peace of mind, as he could ask questions and address concerns before committing to surgery in a different country.
Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico
After finalizing arrangements, AngelesHealth coordinated every aspect of Gary’s surgery to make the process seamless. He was already staying in Tijuana so local transportation was arrange to New City Medical Center in Tijuana for his pre-op testing and medical evaluation. Gary appreciated the hospitality and professionalism of the AngelesHealth team, who were with him every step of the way.
New City Medical Center, where Dr. Millán practices, is a state-of-the-art facility that provides specialized care to both local and international patients. Gary was impressed by the hospital’s modern design, cleanliness, and the warm welcome he received from the staff. Language barriers were not an issue, as the staff was bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish fluently, which was another comfort for Gary as he prepared for his surgery.
The Surgery with Dr. Millán
Dr. Millán greeted Gary on the day of his surgery, taking the time to go over the procedure once more, answer any final questions, and reassure him about the process. Dr. Millán’s approach to patient care is integrative, focusing not just on the procedure but on the patient’s overall experience and long-term recovery. Gary was struck by how personalized the care was—something he felt would have been lacking back home.
The surgery itself was a success. Dr. Millán used advanced orthopedic techniques to repair Gary’s shoulder, ensuring that the damage was minimized and that the surrounding healthy tissue remained intact. The procedure was efficient and precise, a testament to Dr. Millán’s skill and years of experience. The surgery was conducted with the utmost care, and Gary was relieved to wake up feeling confident about his recovery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Gary was moved to a comfortable recovery room and received from Dr. Millan a full list of exercises that he needed to start doing in his recovery process. Dr. Millan worked closely with him to create a personalized rehabilitation program tailored to his condition and recovery goals. Each exercise focused on gentle movements to rebuild strength, improve mobility, and prevent stiffness, all while minimizing discomfort.
Gary was amazed at the level of individualized attention he received. He knew rehab would need to continue back home, but he had all the exercises needed to fully heal.
In addition to physical therapy, Gary’s recovery plan included nutritional guidance and supportive care to aid his body in the healing process. Dr. Millán and his team remained attentive, checking in regularly to ensure that Gary was comfortable and progressing as expected.
Returning Home
Gary was ready to return home to the United States. AngelesHealth arranged for his transport back to the San Diego airport, ensuring a stress-free journey. Gary returned home feeling healthy, mobile, and incredibly grateful for the care he received.
The best part? His entire experience—from surgery to recovery —cost a fraction of what he would have paid in the United States. The affordability, coupled with high-quality care, left a lasting impression on Gary, who became a strong advocate for considering medical treatment in Mexico.
Reflections on the Experience
Gary’s experience in Mexico went beyond his expectations, from the professionalism of Dr. Millán and the advanced care at New City Medical Center to the seamless surgery arrangements by AngelesHealth. Reflecting on his journey, Gary realized that choosing to receive care in Mexico wasn’t just a financial decision—it was a decision to prioritize his health and well-being.
Dr. Millán’s patient-centered approach, combined with the expertise of his medical team, allowed Gary to receive the treatment he needed without sacrificing quality. He returned home healthier, happier, and fully recovered, with a renewed sense of optimism for the future.
Why Choose Mexico for Orthopedic Care?
Gary’s story highlights the growing trend of Americans seeking medical care in Mexico, particularly for high-cost procedures like orthopedic surgeries. Patients like Gary find comfort in knowing they can access high-quality, affordable healthcare without compromising their recovery or long-term outcomes. The combination of advanced medical technology, skilled practitioners like Dr. Millán, and integrated support services makes Mexico an ideal destination for those looking for alternatives to prohibitively expensive care in the United States.
If you’re facing similar challenges with the cost of healthcare, Gary’s story serves as a reminder that excellent, affordable care is available beyond U.S. borders. His journey with AngelesHealth, New City Hospital and Dr. Millán exemplifies the possibilities that await patients willing to explore new options in healthcare.