Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Anne Saidu (MD), Dr. David Warmflash (MD)
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico
Are you struggling to lose weight? Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is one of the best options to shed those extra pounds.
Mom & Daughter Lose Over 90LBS: Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana
Check out Janelle’s stunning post-gastric sleeve transformation below.
Janelle Woodburn had gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, in 2021. After losing over 90 lbs in 17 months, she can proudly look at herself in the mirror!
She is now more determined than ever to treat her body with the care it deserves.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost in Tijuana, Mexico
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is $4,399. The exact procedure costs over $14,800 in North America.
Hence, gastric sleeve cost in Tijuana is ~70% less than in your home country. The following table shows the cost comparison between Tijuana, the US, and Canada:
| Location | Cost | Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Tijuana | $4,399 | – |
| US | $14,900 | 70.5% |
| Canada | $14,800 | 70.3% |
*Prices are subject to change.
In addition to incredible savings, the quality of care you'll receive in Tijuana is second to none.
See below for options on how to pay for surgery & what the package price includes.
Accepted Payment Methods
There are 3 convenient ways to pay for Tijuana gastric sleeve:
- Debit/Credit Card
- Cash
- Buy Now, Pay Later
Consult your surgeon before the bariatric surgery to know which payment methods their clinic accepts.
What if you can't pay for the entire treatment in one go?
Buy Now, Pay Later
This option will help you get the surgery now and complete the payment over time. For example, the gastric sleeve cost in Tijuana is $4,399.
You can choose a 6, 12, or 36-month plan to pay it. The 6-month plan is interest-free.
However, the 36-month plan can reduce your monthly deposit to as low as $153 a month.
Want to use this option?
- Make the payment here.
- Click on ‘Stripe’
- Enter the amount of your treatment
- Enter your email address.
- Click on ‘Affirm’
- Enter your payment details.
- Click on ‘Pay'... and it’s done!
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Package in Tijuana
Here are the services you’ll get if you choose the gastric sleeve in Tijuana package:
- Surgeon and team
- Patient Coordinator
- US-RD diet program
- 1-week medicines
- Phone calls & Wi-Fi
- In-house labs
- Local ground transfers
- Hospital & hotel stay
- Post-op follow-ups
- Companion stay
- Online support group
- Sleeve-friendly meals
As you can see, our comprehensive package includes everything you need for a successful weight loss journey.
Board-Certified Gastric Sleeve Surgeons in Tijuana, Mexico
Tijuana is home to some of the best board-certified weight loss surgeons in Mexico. They will help you achieve your weight loss goals safely and effectively.
Meet the top three gastric sleeve surgeons in Tijuana and check out their achievements:
Dr. Luis Cazares
Certified by the Mexican Council of General Surgery, Dr. Cazares has performed 3000+ bariatric surgeries.
With IFCO certification, he specializes in advanced laparoscopic surgery techniques.
Educación
- University of Nuevo Leon, Mexico
Membresías
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
Dr. Guillermo Lopez
Trained from IFSO, Dr. Lopez has performed 5,000+ bariatric surgeries.
He's mentored various Mexican bariatric surgeons. Moreover, he is ACLS-certified by the American Heart Association.
Educación
- Autonomous National University of Mexico
Membresías
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Mexican Association of General Surgery
- Spanish Surgery Association
Dr. Hector Perez
Certified by the CMCOEM and the Mexican Council of General Surgery, Dr. Perez has performed 10,000+ surgeries.
He currently leads the Scientific Committee and CMCOEM programs.
Educación
- Mexican Faculty of Medicine, La Salle University
Membresías
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
- Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases
- Mexican Association of General Surgery
Our US-Certified Weight Loss Dietitian
Katelyn J. Mock: US-Registered Dietitian
- Oversees MTC's online bariatric groups and answers your diet and lifestyle-related queries.
- BS in Allied Health Professions (Medical Dietetics) from the Ohio State University (2006)
- Lead bariatric dietitian at the Ohio State University Medical Center
- Certified by the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Bariatric Surgery Hospitals in Tijuana
MTC works with reputable hospitals to provide quality and affordable gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana. The hospitals are well-equipped and located only 26-28 miles from the San Diego International Airport.
Accredited three times by the SRC as an International Center of Excellence, LIMARP is a top facility for bariatric surgery.
It is known for its rigorous standards and dedication to helping patients achieve their weight loss goals.
The center employs a multidisciplinary approach, involving nutritionists, psychologists, and physical therapists to support patients throughout their journey.
The hospital also arranges seamless bariatric and travel experiences, making it a top destination for bariatric surgery in Mexico.
- 20+ Years of Experience
- SRC Certified
- MGCH Certified
LIMARP has achieved accreditation as an International Center of Excellence for Obesity, showcasing several prominent attributes:
- Utilization of advanced surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic surgery and 3D laparoscopy. A proficient team of surgeons and specialists leads the procedures.
- Specific recovery areas are designated for post-surgery care, complemented by the inclusion of an Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
- Customized surgical facilities host highly skilled teams comprising surgeons, medical professionals, and nurses.
For over 60 years, the Hospital in Tijuana has been a global leader in healthcare.
The BBB-accredited hospital offers various services, including general and orthopedic surgery, bariatric procedures, and alternative cancer treatments.
With over 100,000 patients from more than 60 countries, it’s a trusted name in cancer care.
- 60+ Years of Excellence
- 100K+ Happy Patients
- BBB Accreditated
With a track record of over five decades, Oasis of Hope is a state-of-the-art hospital.
Some features include:
- Bilingual doctors and nurses
- In-house lab, imaging, and ICU
- Personal rooms with a bed for accompanying guests, private bath, and Netflix connection
- Chapel and dining area
A 5-Day Journey Towards Health
Wondering what the whole process will look like? Check out this table.
| Day | Gastric Sleeve Tijuana Schedule |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in San Diego. Free airport pick-up is anytime between 8 am to 8 pm. |
| Day 2 | Have your surgery. Stay at the hospital the night after surgery. |
| Day 3 | Stay at the hospital. |
| Day 4 | Stay at the hotel. |
| Day 5 | Depart (border medical line doesn’t open until 9 am). |
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana Mexico Reviews
Check out the stunning transformation of one of our clients after gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico!
Keri Shares the Best Perks of Surgery in Tijuana
Tijuana is a popular destination with medical tourists from Australia and New Zealand.
Keri traveled from Hawke’s Bay to TJ for her sleeve surgery. She found the prices to be a lot lower than in New Zealand.
A friend recommended MTC to Malia for vertical sleeve gastrectomy. She decided to travel south of the border because her American insurance did not cover the procedure.
Why Choose Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana, Mexico?
If you're considering gastric sleeve in Tijuana, here are the top reasons to help you decide:
Get ready to save ~70% on your gastric sleeve in Tijuana compared to the US and Canada.
TJ is only 22 miles from San Diego airport, which means less travel time for US and Canadian patients. San Diego has an international airport, so it's easy to get to from anywhere in North America.
The border town is quite Americanized, so you'll feel right at home. You won't have to worry about language barriers since many people speak English.
Because of negligible waiting times, you won’t face any scheduling problems. That means you’ll start your journey toward a healthier life as soon as possible.
Experienced surgeons will treat you with state-of-the-art technology like laparoscopes for the best results.
You'll have access to personalized care and support throughout your journey. Tijuana doctors provide pre-op and post-op consultations.
Tijuana is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage. During your stay, you can explore its many museums, art galleries, and restaurants.
Tijuana: A Hub for Weight Loss Surgeries
What Is a Gastric Sleeve?
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Also known as VSG, gastric sleeve is a minimally invasive procedure.[1]
The surgeon removes 80% of your stomach during this procedure, thus leaving 20% behind.[2]
The remaining stomach takes the shape of a "sleeve". Hence the name.
The result is a mean EWL of about 82% within the 1st year.[3]
The removed portion of the stomach is involved for producing the hunger-stimulating hormone - Ghrelin.[4]
Although the intestine, pancreas, and even the brain produce some amount of ghrelin, the stomach is the most substantial source of this hormone.
-Dr David Warmflash
Consequently, after the gastric procedure, you feel less hungry, which makes it easier to follow the recommended diet after surgery.
Success Rate of Gastric Sleeve Surgery
Here is the table that shows remarkable success rates of gastric sleeve surgery:[5]
| Yrs Post Op | Patients With >50% EWL |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 96.1% |
| 2 years | 95.1% |
| 3 years | 89.5% |
| 4 years | 82.1% |
| 5 years | 73.0% |
Who Is a Good Candidate for Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana?
To be eligible for the sleeve gastrectomy in Tijuana, Mexico, you should have:[6]
- BMI higher than 30,
- Family medical history of obesity-related co-morbidities (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea),
- Previous failed attempts at weight loss through dieting and exercising.
Pre-Op Diet
Losing 5-10% of weight before surgery makes the procedure easier.[7] It shrinks the liver and reduces intra-abdominal fat mass, which helps the surgeon navigate your abdomen better.
Not only does this reduce the operation time, but it also lowers the risk of complications. There are different ways to lose weight before surgery, like:[8]
- Low-calorie diets (800-1200 calories per day)
- Very low-calorie diets (600 calories per day)
In addition to making it easier for the surgeon to operate, following the pre-op diet will help establish a routine.
The 2 to 4 week routine will make your post-op efforts to lose weight much more effective.
After Care
After your surgery, you’ll receive a unique diet plan tailored to your needs.
Here's an example of what it might look like:[9]
- In the first few days, you'll only be able to have liquids, like thin soup.
- For the next 4 weeks, you'll need to eat runny foods, such as yogurt or puréed food.
- From weeks 4 to 6, you can move on to soft foods like mashed potatoes.
- After week 6, you can gradually return to a healthy, balanced diet.
During your recovery, it is recommended that you do the following:[10]
- Eat slowly, chew carefully, and only eat small amounts at a time.
- Be careful when eating foods that could block your stomach, like soft white bread.
- Take multivitamins and mineral supplement formulations to ensure you get all your body's micronutrients.
Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass in Tijuana, Mexico
Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass are effective weight loss procedures. The following table compares the two surgeries.
| Feature | Sleeve | Bypass |
|---|---|---|
| Recovery[11] | 4 to 6 weeks | 4 to 6 weeks |
| EWL (10 Years)[12] | 43.5% | 50.7% |
| Dumping Syndrome[13] | Low risk | High risk |
| Reversal[14] | Not possible | Not possible |
| Revision Options | Gastric bypass[15] | StomaphyX, TORe[16] |
| Changes to Intestines | No change | Small intestine is re-arranged |
It's time to get ready for your trip to Tijuana!
Medical Tourism in Tijuana, Mexico
Medical tourism in Tijuana, Mexico, differs from your average healthcare experience![17] It's a complete package that makes getting medical treatment a breeze.
But the best part? Tijuana is an incredible city with a vibrant culture and a stunning landscape. You'll have plenty to do and see during your stay, such as
- Exploring museums and art galleries
- Trying new foods
- Taking at the sights
But let’s find out more in the following sections.
Popular Tourist Attractions in Tijuana, Mexico
Take advantage of your trip to Tijuana for weight loss surgery in Mexico. These are some of the must-see places to add to your itinerary:
- Tijuana Cultural Center: Discover the fascinating history of Baja California at this incredible museum.
- Avenida Revolucion: Hit the main street of Tijuana and explore this vibrant avenue.
- El Trompo: Get interactive at this fantastic science museum with fun, hands-on exhibits.
- Pasaje Rodriguez: Stroll down this lively alley filled with street art, delicious food, and incredible energy.
- El Popo Market: Shop local and discover unique products at this bustling market.
- Playas de Tijuana: Walk along the four-mile pedestrian bridge stretching from Aztec Park to the US border.
- Plaza Santa Cecilia: Immerse yourself in the oldest part of the city.
Travel Time
The hospitals we recommend in Tijuana are only 26-28 miles from the San Diego International Airport (IATA: SAN). You can drive to Tijuana from the southwest border US cities or take a short flight.
See our table below to find your most convenient travel option:
| City | Distance | Flight | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego | 20.1 miles | 32 min | 28 min |
| Los Angeles | 137.4 miles | 45 min | 2 hr 10 min |
| Las Vegas | 347.8 miles | 1 hr 3 min | 5 hr 15 min |
| Phoenix | 365.6 miles | 1 hr 5 min | 5 hr 42 min |
| New York | 2,770 miles | 5 hr 22 min | 42 hr |
| Vancouver | 2,276.2 km | 2 hr 54 min | 22 hr 20 min |
| Toronto | 4,177.5 km | 4 hr 50 min | 38 hr |
Required Documents to Tijuana
You don’t need a visa when coming to Tijuana from the US or Canada.[18] However, the documents you need include:[19]
- A valid passport.
- Forma Migratoria Multiple issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración.
- Valid proof of automobile registration when coming by land.
Tips for Tourist Safety in Tijuana
Here are handy tips on how to have a safe trip to Tijuana:[20]
- Don’t walk alone at night.
- Stick to crowded tourist areas.
- Keep your valuables in a safe place.
- Dress casually.
- Carry your belongings with you.
- Eat foods that are cooked all the way through.
- Avoid food sitting out in the open.
- Avoid unwashed fruits and vegetables.
FAQs
Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico costs $4,399. In the US, the same costs over $14,800! This means you can save ~70% on the same quality of surgery in Mexico!
Mexico offers excellent medical services and top-notch facilities at a lower price. In fact, gastric sleeve patients have been amazed at the quality of care and meager costs.
Gastric sleeve in Mexico is cheaper due to a variety of factors,[21] including:
- lower overhead costs
- lower physicians' salary[22]
- cheaper medical supplies
- more affordable healthcare options in Mexico
The close proximity of Mexico to the US and Canada allows patients to take a medical vacation. They receive high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost back home.
The prime reason why people choose gastric sleeve Tijuana is its low price.
Additionally, the skilled surgeons in Tijuana are experts in their field. And the state-of-the-art facilities rival those in the US.
Plus, recovering in the beautiful city of Tijuana is worth enjoying as you heal and transform your body.
If you have a BMI over 30, you’re eligible for gastric sleeve in Mexico. However, you should consult your doctor so he can advise on what’s best for you.
Many people ask if gastric sleeve surgery is safe in Mexico, and the answer is a resounding yes! It’s not only safe but also highly effective.
MTC’s panel of bariatric surgeons in Mexico have experience with thousands of procedures. Plus, the dedicated medical staff provides excellent support every step of the way!
Conclusion
Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is a game-changer for obesity and co-related health issues. Thanks to this surgery, you could lose ~66% of your excess weight![23]
References
- ASMBS: Bariatric Surgery Procedures
- NCBI: Diet approach before and after bariatric surgery
- NHS: Afterwards
- JAMA Network: Weight Loss Is Still Substantial a Decade After Bariatric Surgery
- Research Square: Incidence of Dumping Syndrome after Sleeve Gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and OneAnastomosis Gastric Bypass
- NIH: Revision Surgery After Sleeve Gastrectomy
- NIH: Revision of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Inadequate Weight Loss or Weight Regain
- MDPI: TORe for the Treatment of Weight Regain and Dumping Syndrome after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
- The Yucatan Times: High healthcare costs in the US are triggering a Medical Tourism boom in Mexico
- General Consulate of Mexico: Visitors who do not require a visa, with a stay up to 180 days
- Travel.State.Gov: Crossing the U.S. - Mexico Border by Land
- Travellers Worldwide: Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2023? | Safety Concerns
- Living Cost: Mexico vs United States - Cost of Living Comparison
- Becker's ASC Review: How physician pay in the US compares to other countries
