Accommodations
MTF GRS requires a 3 night stay in the hospital. Your surgical fees cover an additional 3 nights in either a Guest House, or a Residence Inn Marriott. You will need a hotel room the two-three nights before your surgery, and we recommend you stay in the area for another 4-6 nights after your release from the Recovery House to regain strength before traveling, and to be nearby in case of problems. You will be in San Mateo a total of 12-14 days, including before and after surgery.
Depending on the type of surgery you are having, FTM GRS requires a 5-10 night stay in San Mateo. Patients having outpatient procedures will need to find accommodations for all nights. If you have having a hysterectomy, you will have a two night stay in the hospital.
Outpatient surgeries such as labiaplasty and tracheal shave require a 5-6 night stay in the area.
Travel To / From San Mateo
Which major airport should I use?
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Less than 15 minutes to clinic and hospital.
- Oakland International Airport (OAK): 30-45 minutes from San Mateo.
- San Jose International Airport (SJC): 30-45 minutes from San Mateo.
How does one get from the airport or hotel to the clinic and hospital?
Most hotels in the area offer free shuttles to/from the airport. For any other transportation, you will need to use a taxi or car service. The City of San Mateo has licensed four taxicab companies to conduct business in our City. The companies licensed in San Mateo are Luxor, Merit, Peninsula and Yellow. Licensing requirements include compliance with safety, insurance, and driver qualifications as imposed by the City.
Licensed Taxicab Companies
- Luxor Cab (650) 344-1414
- Merit Taxi (650) 571-0606
- Peninsula Cab (650) 787-3778
- Yellow Cab (650) 342-1234
Current San Mateo Rates
- $3.10 for the flag drop (the initial charge for the taxi to reach the location to pick up a passenger(s).
- $3.00 for each additional mile until destination.
- $30.00 per hour wait time rate
Post-operatively, will I need to get myself back to the Recovery House? What if I have someone accompanying me?
For MTF patients, if you choose to stay in the Guest House, someone will pick you up from the hospital on the day of your discharge. You will also be taken back to the clinic for your post-surgical appointment (6 days after your surgery), and then back to your hotel. If you have someone with you, they are welcome to visit at the Guest House, but unfortunately there is not enough room for friends and family to stay. If you are staying at a hotel, you will need to take a taxi.
For our FTM patients, and all those having outpatient surgeries, it is best if you can have someone accompany you to San Mateo to help with transportation and other needs. If you have to come alone, please be sure to let Robin know in advance.
Will I need wheelchair service in the airports?
If you did not require a wheelchair en route to surgery, you most likely will not require one afterwards
Anything special I should plan on vis a vis flights?
Aisle seating is a good idea, pack light, and don't order the tomato juice (with its 1100 mg of sodium)
3 Perfect Days in San Francisco - some ideas for friends and family while in the Bay Area
Who can I contact with last-minute questions and issues?
Dr. Bowers office manager/coordinator in Trinidad is Robin, she can be reached at (719) 846-6300 (office) or via email: robin@marcibowers.com.
 Next: Preparing for Your Surgery
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