Carlos A. Barba, MD, PLLC

Carlos A. Barba, MD, PLLC Dr. Barba is the founder of Premier General Surgeons (PGS Clinic), serving Brownsville and Cameron County.

He specializes in general and weight loss surgery, offering expert, compassionate care to help patients achieve long-term health and wellness. As the Brownsville and Cameron County’s premier general surgeon, Dr. Carlos Barba is dedicated to treating each of his patients like family. The moment you walk into our office you should rest assured knowing that Dr. Barba will do everything possible to ma

ke certain that you receive the best care available. Specialized in a variety of surgeries and procedures, Dr. Barba is an experienced surgeon are at the forefront of the latest and most advanced techniques.

03/31/2026

Today, on National Doctor’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on what medicine truly means to me.

Being a doctor has never just been about the work I do inside the clinic. It’s about the people, the communities, and the responsibility that comes with being in a position to serve.

I was born and raised in Panama, and that will always be a part of who I am. My wife and I share a deep conviction to give back to the community that shaped us. Because of medicine, we’ve been given opportunities to do just that. Whether it’s through mission trips with HIMM, performing surgeries for those who otherwise wouldn’t have access, or supporting initiatives that improve everyday life.

That last clip is especially close to our hearts. It’s from a moment where we were able to give back in a different way, by helping provide AC units for an elementary school. It may seem simple, but to us, it represents something bigger. Giving back doesn’t only happen in the hospital. It happens in communities, in classrooms, in small moments that can make a lasting difference.

Medicine has completely changed my life, not just professionally, but personally. It has given me a purpose far beyond myself. It’s also allowed me to help create opportunities for others, like supporting exchange programs for medical students from Panama so they can continue to grow and expand their knowledge.

I’m grateful for this calling, and I only hope to continue serving and reaching as many people as I can.

Happy National Doctor’s Day!!

03/25/2026

Weight loss surgery isn’t the easy way out, it’s the effective way through.

03/02/2026

Ask anyone who as had weight loss surgery… it is the furthest thing from the “easy way out.”

02/19/2026

Three things I wish my bariatric patients knew before making a decision 👇

1. Bariatric surgery in the Rio Grande Valley is WAY more affordable than people think. So many patients assume Mexico is dramatically cheaper. In reality, it’s often only a couple thousand dollars difference. And that small “savings” has cost some people everything. We see patients every year who had complications or botched surgeries done out of the country and now need expensive revisions that could have been avoided. Do your homework. Cheap is not the same as safe.

2. Surgery is a tool, not magic. I can change your stomach size. I cannot change your habits for you. Long term success depends heavily on follow up, nutrition, protein intake, movement, and mindset. The patients who treat this like a lifelong partnership with their team are the ones who thrive.

3. Follow up care matters more than you think. Bariatric surgery is not a one and done procedure. You need labs. You need vitamin monitoring. You need support. When you stay local and build a relationship with your surgical team, you have access to us if something feels off. That access is priceless.

I love what bariatric surgery can do for someone’s health and confidence. Just make sure you’re making a decision based on facts, not assumptions.

02/15/2026

The honest truth is that bariatric surgery has saved many lives and helped people take their health back. It’s not the easy way out. It’s not cosmetic. It’s a powerful medical tool for treating obesity and the diseases that come with it. When used the right way, it can truly change lives.

02/14/2026

Nobody wants to hear this, but I’m here to be honest. Weight regain after surgery is possible. The good news? It is almost completely dependent on how you use this tool and whether you avoid slipping back into old habits. We are here to help every step of the way!

02/03/2026

Yes, you can still have coffee after bariatric surgery. It’s not banned, but timing and moderation matter.

Most surgeons recommend waiting at least 30 days post-op before reintroducing caffeine. That’s because early on, your stomach is healing and caffeine can irritate it or increase acid production.

Once you’re cleared, black coffee or low-acid options in small amounts are typically fine. What you do want to avoid is loading it up with sugar, cream, or syrups that add unnecessary calories and can trigger dumping syndrome.

Also, caffeine is a mild diuretic, so make sure you’re still getting enough water throughout the day.

Bottom line: you don’t have to give up coffee, just be smart about how and when you bring it back in.

02/03/2026

Everyone wants to know how fast the weight comes off after bariatric surgery.

The short answer? It’s quicker at the beginning, then it naturally slows down. Most patients see the biggest changes in the first few months, and then things even out as the body adjusts. That slowdown is normal and actually a good sign. Bariatric surgery isn’t about rushing the process, it’s about steady progress you can keep long term.

02/01/2026

Any more questions for me? :)

01/31/2026

Everyone focuses on the weight loss, but the emotional side of this journey matters just as much. Learning new habits, changing your relationship with food, and adjusting to a new body takes time and grace.

01/25/2026

Surgery is a powerful tool, but it’s not magic. If lifestyle changes, follow-up care, and long-term habits aren’t in place, weight regain can happen. Success comes from using the surgery as a tool and committing to the process for the long run. You got this!!

Address

4970 N Expressway Ste A
Brownsville, TX
78526

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Website

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