Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
Gastric sleeve in Mexico can be a great alternative to the expensive WLS in the US & Canada.You can not only achieve significant weight loss but also save 75% plus!
See how Tammy became physically fit in a few months.
Tammy Smith from Nebraska, US, had a gastric sleeve in Mexico in August 2022. She reduced her weight to 185 lbs from 262 lbs in October.
This is all she wanted - to be a healthy & confident woman!
Cost of Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
Now, if you're wondering how much a gastric sleeve costs in Mexico? Then, continue reading!
An average gastric sleeve in Mexico can cost you around $4,395. While the same costs over $19,000 in the US or $17,500 in Canada.
Hence, you can end up saving ~ 75% or more in Mexico! Below is a table comparing the gastric sleeve prices in different countries:
| Country | Cost |
|---|---|
| US | $19,000 |
| Canada | $17,500 |
| Australia | $20,000 |
| Mexico | $4,395 |
| Procedure | Cost |
|---|---|
| Mini Laparoscopic Sleeve | $6,299 |
| Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty | $7,695 |
| Lapband to Gastric Sleeve^ | $5495 |
| ^Including endoscopy |
*Price may vary as per case needs.
The gastric sleeve price in Mexico is all-inclusive for some providers, meaning it covers your:
- Doctor’s fees
- Hospital & Hotel stay
- Ground transportation to & from the hospital
Keep reading to know why Mexico is a popular location for medical tourists!
Reasons to Visit Mexico for Gastric Sleeve
Did you know?
Sleeve gastrectomy or gastric sleeve has been the most common operation in the US for many years but it is expensive.[1]
Here's why tourists consider it the most coveted location for medical tourism.
- English speaking staff
- Proximity to US & Canada
- Low-cost medical facilities
- Flexible & easy appointments
Why Is WLS Affordable in Mexico?
Why Choose Mexico for Gastric Sleeve?
We’ve compiled a list of the top bariatric surgeons currently practicing in Mexico. Take a look!
Best Bariatric Surgeons for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
Our partner providers are reputed and known for their professionalism & excellent patient outcomes.
Dr. Guillermo Lopez( 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.
Education
- Autonomous National University of Mexico
Memberships
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Mexican Association of General Surgery
- Spanish Surgery Association
Dr. Luis Cazares( 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.
Education
- University of Nuevo Leon, Mexico
Memberships
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
Click here to learn more about Dr. Cazares.
Dr. Hector Perez( Dr. Hector Perez Corzo )
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.
Education
- Mexican Faculty of Medicine, La Salle University
Memberships
- International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders
- Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases
- Mexican Association of General Surgery
You can watch Dr. Perez share valuable insights about his practice.
What Dr. Perez Has to Tell You About WLS in Mexico?
Dr. Galileo Villarreal( Dr. Galileo Villarreal )
Dr. Villarreal has performed over 4,000 weight loss surgeries with a complication rate of < 1%.
He is certified by the CMCG and recognized as a Master Surgeon in Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery by SRC.
Education
Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Mexico
Memberships
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery
- Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Diseases
Here’s a video where Dr. Villareal elaborates on the process of weight loss.
What to Expect Before, During, & After the Surgery?
Dr. Cristobal Garza( Dr. Cristóbal Garza )
Dr. Garza, an expert in minimally invasive bariatric surgery, has performed 10,000+ surgeries.
He employs advanced robotic-assisted surgery technology in his practice.
Education
- Universidad de Monterrey, Mexico
Memberships
- Mexican Council of Metabolic and Obesity Surgery
- Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Diseases AC
Want to know what are the best weight loss options for you? Watch Dr. Garza explaining it all!
A Complete Guide to Weight Loss Surgery
Continue reading to learn more about gastric sleeve surgeons like Dr. Sergio del Hoyo and Dr. Oscar Trevino.
Dr. Sergio del Hoyo( Dr. Sergio del Hoyo )
Certified by the CSG Mexico & CMCG, Dr. Sergio has performed thousands of general, laparoscopic, and bariatric procedures.
His bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English ensures easy communication with international patients.
Education
- Advanced Course on Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases, IRCAD France
- Specialty in General Surgery, Hospital Civil Nuevo de Guadalajara
Memberships
- Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery
- Mexican College of Obesity and Metabolic Disease Surgery
- International Federation of Obesity and Metabolic Disease Surgery
Dr. Oscar Trevino( Dr. Oscar Trevino )
A prominent member of American associations, Dr. Treviño has performed 8,000+ laparoscopic and 4,000 bariatric procedures.
He is a Fellow of IFSO and certified by CMCG in general and bariatric surgery.
Education
- Monterrey University
Memberships
- American College of Surgeons
- American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Diseases
Best Hospitals for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
We at MTC hand-pick the best hospitals for you! The bariatric centers listed below are the finest in the country.
Here are the best places to get a gastric sleeve in Mexico:
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 is ~ 4.3 miles (15 min) south of the California border.
- Founded in 2002
- Offer nutrition & physical activity plans
- Accreditations: Mexican General Health Council, ACLS by AHA
- Center of Excellence for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery seal from SRC
- English speaking staff
- Assistance with travel and transportation
- Internationally recognized bariatric surgeons
- A 30-minute drive from San Diego International Airport
A leading healthcare provider in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, Hospital CMQ Premiere has been offering top-notch care since 1982 with 24/7 services.
It is part of CMQ Hospitals, one of the most trusted healthcare networks in Puerto Vallarta. The hospital's highly trained bilingual staff ensures excellence in patient care.
- 100+ Happy Patients
- 2008 Established
- 24/7 Emergency Care
- The hospital is 5 min away from the beach and close to the hotel zone.
- Offers patient-centered care
- Maintains the highest standards in clinical care since 2008
- Certifications: ALS, ATLS, ACLS
Established in 1996 by Dr. Sergio Verboonen, the Obesity Center in Tijuana is a renowned bariatric surgery clinic today.
It is a one-stop bariatric surgery center that provides services for 24+ years practicing with state-of-the-art technology.
The center provides personalized bariatric programs for everyone to ensure a safe and evident transformation. It is one of the most recognized bariatric clinics in Mexico.
- IFSO Membership
- ASMBS Membership
- 1996 Established
- The clinic distance is merely 3.1 miles (14 min) from the border.
- Over 25 years in practice
- Offer safe surgeries with positive results
- Strictly follows hygiene protocols
- Certified by: Mexican Council of General Surgery, Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Diseases
Founded in 1979 by Dr. Ezequiel Gamez Hinojosa, the Azura Hospital in Cancun is a renowned medical centre offering advanced healthcare.
The hospital evolved from Victoria Clinic to Azura Cancun, through a strategic partnership with Hydal. Azura Cancun offers comprehensive medical services with cutting-edge technology.
The hospital prioritizes patient safety and comfort, ensuring top-tier medical standards. Azura Cancun is known for its human-centered approach to healthcare, catering to both patients and their families.
- US Trained Surgeons
- 45+ Years Of Experience
- IFSO Accredited
Located in the heart of Cancun, Hospital Azura is one of Mexico’s best-known medical centers.
Highlights:
- Board-certified surgeons
- Founded in 1979 as Victoria Medical Center
- On-site pharmacy
- English speaking staff
The Blue Tower Hospital (Blue Hospital), located near the US-MX border, is certified by the General Health Council of Mexico.
Known for its board-certified specialists and state-of-the-art operating rooms, it is a preferred destination for medical tourism in Tijuana.
The Blue Hospital, a top choice for weight loss surgery in Mexico, meets and exceeds stringent standards. It offers advanced medical equipment and specialized care across various medical fields.
- 25+ Years of Experience
- COFEPRIS Certified
- AMCPER Certified
Our partner is situated close to the border at a distance of about 2.9 miles (12 min).
Highlights:
- Bilingual staff
- More than 25 years of experience
- Word class operation & 50 recovery rooms
- More than 100 safety protocols
- Highly qualified surgeons
- Performed over 5,000 bariatric surgeries
Here are some of the other best hospitals you should know about:
Hospital de Especialidades
It is where the first laparoscopic surgery was done in Tamaulipas.
Address: Av Álvaro Obregón 3256, Jardín, 88260 Nuevo Laredo, Tamps., Mexico
Business hours: Open 24 hours
Highlights:
- Founded in 1990
- Great international prestige
- First clinic to have an intensive care room
It is a specialist clinic for bariatric surgery, plastic surgery, internal medicine & more.
Address: Av. Emilio Carranza 1017, Burócrata, 26020 Piedras Negras, Coah., Mexico
Business hours: Open 24 hours
Los Lagos is 56.6 miles beyond the border.
Address: Saltillo 155, Rodríguez, 88630 Reynosa, Tamps., Mexico
Business Hours: Open 24 hours
Regional del Rio Hospital
Address: Luis Echeverría SN, Col del Prado, 88560 Reynosa, Tamps., Mexico
Open 24 hours
- 23 years of experience
- 7 operating rooms with the highest technology + a laparoscopy room
Gastric Sleeve in Mexico Reviews
Catch a glimpse at these patients sharing their happiness of achieving a healthy & charismatic body.
Watch the intriguing video testimonials here!
Incredible Loss in a Few Months - Blayne
MTC's Service is Above Expectations - Kendell
Want to see some stunning transformations? See the gallery images here:
Here are some of the many positive gastric sleeve reviews in Mexico from our happy patients:
Roberta Fagan, USBariatric Surgery in Nuevo Laredo
I had gastric sleeve surgery done by Dr. Villarreal. I am down 35 lbs. I had great experience with him, his staff, and the hospital.
Akima, USGastric Sleeve Surgery, Mexico
My visit to Oasis was a good one. Everyone was polite and nice. All of the staff there ensured to check in with me for post-op issues.
Mathew, USGastric Sleeve Surgery, Mexico
The experience was smooth and worry-free. Dr. Galileo & his staff were friendly & fluent in English.
Vernay, USGastric Sleeve Surgery, Mexico
From the phone call to the visit to the surgery, everything was superb! They are very professional and really care about you.
All You Need to Know About Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
What Studies Have Shown?
Clinical trials have proven that gastric sleeve can resolve many obesity-related health problems like:
Type 2 diabetes, HTN, fatty liver disease, high cholesterol, migraine, joint pain, low testosterone & more.[2]
Before getting this bariatric surgery in Mexico, you will need to gather a lot of information. But you can sit back and continue reading, as we have already done that for you!
Let's first begin by checking if you are a candidate for gastric sleeve in Mexico or not.
Who Should Have a Gastric Sleeve?
In general, the surgery is recommended for individuals whose BMI is over 40.
Your doctor may also recommend the procedure if your BMI is 35-40 and you have weight-related health issues like:[3]
- Sleep apnea
- Heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
Our doctors also perform the surgery in patients with a minimum BMI of 30 who suffer from obesity-related comorbidites.
Procedure for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
You will arrive at the clinic 1-2 days prior to your scheduled surgery.
Gastric sleeve surgery is considered minimally invasive. It is because the surgeon accesses your stomach through small incisions.
Here's what you can anticipate during the procedure:
Consultation:
- This may be done in person or remotely by your doctor.
- Your surgeon will ask about your medical history & let you know basic procedure details. To make it easy, you can fill a medical questionnaire.
- A nutrionist & a psycologist is appointed for you to discuss your lifestyle changes.
Anesthesia:
- You will be first administered general anesthesia at the beginning of the surgery.
Surgery:
- A large portion of your stomach (nearly 75%) will be removed in the next step.
- This has a limiting effect on your food consumption.
- Over time, as you consume less food, you gradually lose weight.
Source: uclahealth.org[4]
Usually, very fine incisions are made using minimally invasive tools. The procedure is then called laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).
Procedure Length: Most sleeve surgeries are completed within 1.5 hours.
Most gastric sleeve patients end up losing 50-90 pounds.[5]
Post-Surgery Aftercare Tips
- After being discharged from the hospital, you will be restricted to a liquid diet for 1-2 weeks.
- You may then begin eating pureed foods before switching to soft foods and then regular foods.
- Your doctor will also provide you with specific instructions regarding what you can and cannot eat.
- They will also provide you with guidelines like eating slowly and keeping your meals small.
- Regular blood tests can help you determine whether you’re getting enough of these vital nutrients.
- You should understand that the long-term success of gastric sleeve surgery depends largely on lifestyle choices.
- To keep the weight off, you’ll have to stick to a healthy diet and regular exercise routine.
You may be advised to supplement certain vitamins and minerals like:'
- Iron
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B-12
Source: Medical News Today[6]
Let's now give you a brief idea about other related gastric sleeve procedures.
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty or ESG
ESG is a newer technique done using an endoscope. It is potentially reversible & has minimal risks as compared to open or laparoscopic surgery.[7]
Watch the video here for more information:
Dr. Perez Explains Everything About ESG
Gastric Sleeve Revision
In case a gastric sleeve fails (rarely), surgeons may suggest revision.[8] The purpose of the secondary surgery is to reduce stomach size further & ensure restrictive weight loss.
Other revision surgery alternatives include switching sleeve gastrectomy to a gastric bypass or a duodenal switch.
Travel Guide to Mexico From the US
Mexico has become one of the top destinations for foreign patients. Many of the top Mexican bariatric centers are situated near the border.
Moreover, reaching Mexico and accessing those facilities is easy, convenient, and affordable.
Let’s check out the top bariatric locations in Mexico for gastric sleeve - Cancun, Tijuana, Nuevo Laredo, Piedras Negras, Puerto Vallarta, and Reynosa.
Cancun is famous for its
- Vibrant nightlife
- Beautiful beaches
- Clear turquoise waters, etc.
The most convenient way to reach Cancun is via flight from the US or Canada!
With few hours of flight, you can get quality dental care at affordable rates.
Let’s have a look at the flight durations below:
| US Cities | Duration |
|---|---|
| Miami (MIA) | 2 hours |
| Chicago (ORD) | 4 hours |
| New York (JFK) | 4.2 hours |
| San Francisco (SFO) | 5.5 hours |
| Canada Cities | Duration |
| Toronto (YYZ) | 4.5 hours |
| Quebec (YQB) | 5 hours |
| Montreal (YUL) | 5.2 hours |
| Calgary (YYC) | 5.5 hours |
Tijuana is known for its
- Playas de Tijuana
- Tijuana Cultural Center
- Abraham Lincoln Monument
If coming from a distant city, you can opt for a flight to San Diego International Airport. From there, Tijuana is only 20 mins drive.
Thus, driving to Tijuana is easy and convenient!
| City | Duration |
|---|---|
| San Diego | ~ 20 mins |
| Los Angeles | ~ 2 hr 50 min |
| Las Vegas | ~ 5h 20m |
Thinking about flying to Tijuana, here are some flight details:
| City | Duration |
| Denver (DEN) | 2 hours |
| Dallas (DFW) | 3 hours |
| New York (JFK) | 6.2 hours |
Nuevo Laredo is a Mexican border city known for:
- Lake - El Laguito
- Natural history museum
- Parque Viveros forest park
The most convenient way to reach Nuevo Laredo is by road.
As it is only 5 miles from the bordering city of Laredo, TX, USA.
'
Let’s have a look at the drive durations below:
| City | Duration |
|---|---|
| Laredo, TX | 15 mins |
| San Antonio | 2.5 hours |
| Austin | 4 hours |
Piedras Negras is a Mexican border city known for:
- Macro plaza
- Culture house
- Hunting and fishing club
The most convenient way to reach Piedras Negras is by road.
As it is only 3.6 miles from the bordering city Laredo, TX, USA.
Let’s have a look at the drive durations below:
| City | Duration |
|---|---|
| San Antonio | 2.5 hours |
| Austin | 3.7 hours |
| Houston | 5.2 hours |
Reynosa is another Mexican border city famous for its
- Church bell tower
- Reynosa cultural center
- Temple of our lady of Guadalupe
The most convenient way to reach Reynosa is by road.
As it is only 8 miles from the bordering city Hidalgo, TX, USA.
Let’s have a look at the flight durations below:
| City | Duration |
|---|---|
| Hidalgo | 20 mins |
| McAllen | 35 mins |
| San Juan | 40 mins |
It is a world-class beach destination & has a modern international airport.
Some of the classic attractions & things to do here are:
- Beaches: Twin Beaches, Playa de los Muertos
- Historical monuments: Temple of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Shopping malls: Plaza Marina, Plaza Peninsula, Plaza Pitillal
If you are all set to travel to Mexico, then don't forget to get your important documents.
Essential Documents
The following are the must-carry documents when traveling to Mexico:[9]
- Passport: You would require a valid passport to enter the country.
- Visa: US citizens are allowed to stay in Mexico for 180 days without a visa.
- IDs & FMM Card
- You will need valid proof of your automobile registration (if traveling by road).
- The FMM, issued by INM, is a must for US citizens traveling > 20 km and staying over 72 hours in Mexico.
Note: Mexican authorities may confiscate your vehicle if you enter Mexico with an expired U.S. registration.
Traveling to Mexico for the first time? We will share some practical information you need to know before your trip.
Is Gastric Sleeve in Mexico Safe?
Gastric sleeve in Mexico is safe as long as you choose a reputed clinic. Additionally, the complication rate for this procedure is < 1% as per the reports from ASMBS.[10]
Our partner hospitals in Mexico are:
- Well-established
- Nationally accredited
- Equipped with the latest technology
In addition, our partner surgeons:
- Are board-certified
- Have 20+ years of experience
- Have performed 5000+ surgeries
What Do You Need To Know About Mexico As a Tourist?
Here are a few important things you must know about Mexico:
The Mexican peso (MX$) is the official currency. However, US Dollar is widely accepted in most parts of the country.[11] Also, buying pesos from your US bank is economical.
The climate is tropical & it ranges from 50°F - 90°F. However, the dry season from December to April has no rain, so it is the best time to visit Mexico.[12]
Spanish is the official language, although English is also spoken widely.[13] You can learn basic Spanish phrases: hola: hello, por favor: please, gracias: thank you.
Mexico is a safe country, but there are areas that can be dangerous due to drug-related crime.[14] Moreover, our surgeons practice at safe locations.
Buses (long-distance buses aka camiones) are the most efficient form of public transport.[15] However, Uber, taxi, or metro (~ $0.25) are other best options as they are clean, quick & fairly cheap. [16]
Well, tap water might not be safe for drinking in Mexico, so drink filtered or bottled water.[17]
You can grab a bite of these mouth-watering Mexican dishes: chilaquiles, enchiladas, tacos, burritos, ceviche & more.
The next thought that arises is, where can I find an affordable and cozy lodging option?
To make it easy for you, we have curated a list of hotels situated close to the hospitals.
Recommended Hotels in Mexico
Check out these hotels in Mexico before you make a check-in.
City Express by Marriott
Grand Hotel
Autel Rio Inn
Hotel Astromundo
Hotel Maria de Lourdes
Marival Emotions Resort & Suites
Duration of Stay:
Usually, you have 2 days/nights in a hospital and 1 in a hotel. But, it may vary depending on the case & facility you choose.
How Does MTC Ease Your Medical Tourism Trip?
We are happy to help you prepare for a safe, affordable, and successful gastric sleeve abroad.
Below are some reasons why so many patients around the world choose us:
- Patient safety is our first priority
- Our partners offer free pick up/drop off for a relaxing commute
- Little to no wait time for consultations
- Package deals that bundle all major expenses
- Convenient locations and travel assistance
- Partnerships with world-class clinics and certified physicians
Note: All transportation and accommodation details will be organized in advance.
MTC: Making Lives of Medical Tourists Easy
FAQs
The gastric sleeve surgery cost in Mexico is around $4,395. While in the US, the same costs you about $20,000.
Hence, you can end up saving over 70% on a gastric sleeve in Mexico.
Gastric sleeve surgery is cheaper in Mexico because Mexico has a much lower cost of living than the US.[18]
It costs less for Mexican doctors to open and maintain a private clinical practice.
Moreover, Mexico’s president has declared the remake of a more inclusive & cheaper healthcare system.[19]
Conclusion
A growing number of US patients are going to Mexico for their gastric sleeve surgeries. This is primarily motivated by financial considerations, as gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico is 70% cheaper than in the US.
So, don't wait for another second to get transformed with us now! MTC is there to assist you with all of your medical tourism needs.
References
1. UC Health: Success After a Second Gastric Sleeve Surgery
2. uclahealth.org: Bariatric Surgery Gastric Sleeve
3. Johns Hopkins: Gastric Sleeve Surgery
4. Medical News Today: What to know about gastric sleeve surgery
5. Hopkins Medicine: Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
6. UC Health: Success After a Second Gastric Sleeve Surgery
7. travel.state.gov: Mexico
8. gov.uk: Foreign travel advice Mexico
9. Live and Invest Overseas: Climate In Mexico
10. World Travel Guide: Mexico History…
11. World Nomads: Drug Violence in Mexico
12. Rough Guides: Getting around Mexico…
13. travel.usnews: Mexico City Travel Guide
14. Travel Mexico Solo: Can You Drink the Water in Mexico? (2023 Updates)
15. asmbs.org: Studies Weigh in on Safety and Effectiveness...
16. Expatistan: Cost of living in United States compared to Mexico
17. International Living: Healthcare in Mexico
