Travel guide
Educational travel guide for cross-border care
How international patients typically travel to and from Tijuana for hospital-based plastic surgery.
Before you travel
- Valid passport (or passport card by land) for return travel.
- Documented pre-op labs, EKG, and imaging as requested.
- Stop smoking/nicotine at least 4 weeks pre-op.
- Confirm a companion caregiver for the first 24-72 hours.
Arrival
Most patients fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN). Coordinated transportation to the affiliated facility is available. The drive is typically about 15 minutes from SAN to the facility area.
Recovery accommodations
Recovery lodging is typically arranged near the facility for the first 3-7 nights after surgery. This is not the time to sightsee — plan for rest and hydration.
Return travel
Return travel timing depends on the procedure. Your surgeon will provide a written clearance and specific instructions for flight or long car travel to reduce clot risk.
Reviewed by Dr. Juan Cuellar, MD — Plastic Surgery
Content reviewed: Travel logistics guidance for international plastic surgery patients.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-09
Selected sources