Hair Transplant in Mexico

US citizens do not need a visa for short-term medical visits to Mexico. A valid US passport is required. Travelers will need to fill out a Multiple Migratory Form (FMM), which is available online or at the port of entry. The FMM allows for a stay of up to 180 days. There is no special medical visa for Mexico. An electronic visa system is mentioned to be available from February 5, 2026.

Mexico City:

• Main International Airport: Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX)
• Best Airlines: Aeroméxico, Delta, American Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Volaris, Viva Aerobus
• Direct Flights: Available from major US cities like NYC, LA, Miami, and Chicago.

Tijuana:

• Main International Airport: Tijuana International Airport (TIJ)
• Best Airlines: Volaris, Viva Aerobus, American Airlines, Delta
• Direct Flights: Available from many US cities, especially on the West Coast.

Guadalajara:

• Main International Airport: Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)
• Best Airlines: Aeroméxico, Volaris, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, United
• Direct Flights: Available from many US cities, including LA, Chicago, and Dallas.

Flight Costs from Major US Cities to Mexico (Round-trip)

Mexico City:

• Polanco: An upscale and safe neighborhood with many high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is also home to several reputable hair transplant clinics.
• Condesa & Roma: Trendy and vibrant neighborhoods known for their beautiful parks, art deco architecture, and a wide range of cafes and restaurants. They offer a more bohemian and relaxed atmosphere for recovery.

Tijuana:

• Zona Río: The city's modern commercial and financial district. It is considered one of the safest areas in Tijuana and has a good selection of hotels and restaurants. Many clinics are located in or near this neighborhood.

Guadalajara:

• Providencia: A modern and affluent neighborhood with many new high-rise buildings, upscale restaurants, and shopping centers. It is a safe and convenient area for medical tourists.
• Chapalita: A charming and peaceful residential neighborhood with tree-lined streets, beautiful parks, and a more traditional Mexican feel. It offers a tranquil environment for recovery.

Mexico City (Polanco):

• JW Marriott Hotel Mexico City Polanco: Approximate Price: $400-$600/night. Located in the heart of Polanco, close to many clinics.
• Hyatt Regency Mexico City: Approximate Price: $300-$500/night. Located in Polanco, within walking distance of many attractions and clinics.
• W Mexico City: Approximate Price: $350-$550/night. A trendy hotel in Polanco, offering a vibrant atmosphere for recovery.

Tijuana (Zona Río):

• Hotel Lucerna Tijuana: Approximate Price: $150-$250/night. A popular choice for medical tourists, located in the Zona Río and often recommended by clinics.
• Real Inn Tijuana: Approximate Price: $120-$200/night. A modern hotel in the Zona Río, offering convenient access to clinics and the border.
• Quartz Hotel & Spa: Approximate Price: $180-$280/night. A newer hotel with a focus on wellness, located in the Zona Río.

Guadalajara (Providencia):

• Grand Fiesta Americana Guadalajara Country Club: Approximate Price: $200-$350/night. A luxury hotel in the Providencia neighborhood, offering a comfortable and upscale recovery experience.
• NH Collection Guadalajara Providencia: Approximate Price: $150-$250/night. A modern hotel in a prime location in Providencia, with easy access to clinics and restaurants.
• Hyatt Regency Andares Guadalajara: Approximate Price: $250-$400/night. Located in the upscale Andares shopping district, a short drive from Providencia.

Uber/Lyft: Uber is widely available and generally safe to use in Mexico City, Tijuana, and Guadalajara. It is often the preferred mode of transportation for tourists.

Taxis: Taxis are also readily available, but it is important to use official taxi services (sitios) or have your hotel call one for you. From Tijuana Airport to Zona Río, a taxi costs approximately $10-$15.

Metro/Subway: Mexico City has an extensive metro system, which is a very affordable way to get around the city. Guadalajara also has a light rail system with three lines.

Airport Transfers: Many hair transplant clinics in Mexico offer airport transfer services for their international patients. It is best to inquire with your chosen clinic about this option.

Local Currency: The local currency is the Mexican Peso (MXN).

Exchange Rate: The approximate exchange rate is 1 USD = 17-18 MXN (as of early 2026). It is always best to check the current rate before your trip.

Exchanging Money: The best way to exchange money is to withdraw pesos from an ATM at a major bank in Mexico. You can also exchange money at a casa de cambio (exchange house), but the rates may be less favorable.

ATM Availability: ATMs are widely available in all three cities.

Credit Card Acceptance: Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and tips.

Restaurants: It is customary to tip 10-15% of the bill in restaurants. If you receive exceptional service, a 20% tip is appreciated.

Hotel Staff:

• Bellhops: $1-2 USD per bag.
• Housekeeping: $2-5 USD per day.
• Concierge: $5-10 USD for helpful service.

Taxis: Tipping is not generally expected for taxi drivers, but it is common to round up the fare to the nearest convenient amount. If the driver provides extra service, a small tip is appreciated.

Tour Guides: For a full-day tour, a tip of $10-20 USD per person is a good guideline.

English Proficiency: While Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants in Mexico City, Tijuana, and Guadalajara. In more residential or rural areas, English proficiency is lower.

Clinic Staff: Most reputable hair transplant clinics that cater to international patients have English-speaking doctors, nurses, and staff.

Translators: If needed, translator services are available for hire in all three cities.

Useful Phrases:

• Hello: Hola
• Thank you: Gracias
• Please: Por favor
• Excuse me: Disculpe
• I don't speak Spanish: No hablo español
• Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?

Post-Transplant Diet: It is recommended to eat a healthy and balanced diet rich in vitamins and proteins to promote healing and hair growth. Foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, eggs, and nuts are beneficial.

Foods to Avoid: It is advisable to avoid alcohol, smoking, and excessively salty or spicy foods for at least a week after the procedure, as they can dehydrate the body and slow down the healing process.

Western Food: Western food options are widely available in all three cities, especially in tourist areas and shopping malls.

Food Safety: It is generally safe to eat at restaurants and hotels in Mexico. However, it is always a good idea to drink bottled water and be cautious with street food. Look for clean and busy food stalls.

Dietary Restrictions: Most restaurants are accommodating to dietary restrictions, but it is always best to inform them in advance.

Be aware of your surroundings: Especially in crowded areas.

Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or flashing large amounts of cash.

Use ride-sharing apps or official taxis.

Drink bottled water.

Be cautious with street food.

Keep your passport and valuables in a safe place.

Emergency Numbers: The national emergency number in Mexico is 911.

Mexico City (Polanco):

• Hospital Español: A well-regarded private hospital with a long history in the city.
• Hospital Ángeles Lomas: Part of a reputable chain of private hospitals in Mexico.

Tijuana (Zona Río):

• Hospital Ángeles Tijuana: A modern, full-service hospital.
• SIMNSA Hospital: A hospital that specifically caters to medical tourists from the US.

Guadalajara (Providencia):

• Hospital San Javier: A highly-rated private hospital with modern facilities.
• Hospital Puerta de Hierro Andares: A state-of-the-art hospital in a convenient location.

Most of these private hospitals have English-speaking staff and are accustomed to treating international patients.

Recommended: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that specifically covers medical tourism.

Coverage: The insurance should cover:

• Complications from the medical procedure.
• Emergency medical expenses.
• Medical evacuation.
• Trip cancellation or interruption.
• Lost or delayed baggage.

Cost: The cost of travel insurance for a medical trip to Mexico can range from $50 to $200 USD, depending on the level of coverage and the length of the trip.

Providers: Some providers that offer medical tourism insurance include:

• Global Protective Solutions
• Trawick International
• Seven Corners

Mexico City: The best time to visit is during the spring (March-May) or fall (October-November) when the weather is pleasant and there is less rain. The summer months (June-September) are the rainy season.

Tijuana: Tijuana has a mild, Mediterranean climate year-round. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds.

Guadalajara: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from October to May. The weather is pleasant, and there are many cultural events during this time.

• Button-down or zip-up shirts: To avoid pulling clothing over your head after the procedure.
• Comfortable, loose-fitting pants.
• A wide-brimmed hat or scarf: To protect your scalp from the sun.
• A neck pillow: For comfort during travel and sleep.
• Any prescribed medications: As well as a basic first-aid kit.
• Sunscreen: For your face and any other exposed skin.
• Sunglasses.
• Your passport and any other necessary travel documents.
• A credit card and some cash in Mexican pesos.
• A portable charger/power bank for your electronic devices.

Day 1: Arrival and Consultation

• Arrive at the airport and transfer to your hotel.
• Have your initial consultation with the hair transplant surgeon.

Day 2: Procedure Day

• Undergo the hair transplant procedure.
• Rest and recover at your hotel.

Day 3: Recovery

• Follow the post-operative care instructions provided by the clinic.
• Relax and take it easy.

Day 4: Follow-up and Exploration

• Have a follow-up appointment with the clinic.
• If you feel up to it, you can do some light sightseeing.

Day 5: Departure

• Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

SIM Cards: You can purchase a prepaid SIM card from providers like Telcel or AT&T at the airport or at convenience stores (like OXXO). An eSIM is also a convenient option.

WiFi: WiFi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes in all three cities.

Recommended Apps:

• Uber or Didi: For ride-sharing.
• Google Maps: For navigation.
• Google Translate: For language assistance.
• WhatsApp: For communication with friends, family, and your clinic.