Gastric Sleeve in Mexico: Guide on Cost, Locations & Packages
Lose unwanted inches with a gastric sleeve in Mexico and save up to 60% on US/Canada prices. Check out our guide to learn about the cost, all-inclusive package, top surgeons, hospitals, and much more!
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico Reviews
Check out some real stories from our real patients! You can read their experiences for an inspiring journey.
Meet Sharon Parker, one of our former patients from Charlotte, North Carolina, US, who underwent a sleeve gastrectomy with us.
Before and After Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
Take a look at before and after pictures of individuals who underwent gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico.
Check out the stunning transformation of Alexandra Mascho from Alaska, US.
Here is another inspiring transformation of Stephanie Meyers Donn from Florida.
She lost excess weight from 325 lbs with gastric sleeve surgery and gained a healthier life.
Now, let’s explore the cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico.
Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico
In Mexico, the cost of gastric sleeve surgery starts from $4,395. This price includes hotel stays, hospital nights, airport transfers, and medical expenses, depending on the location.
You can save more than 60% compared to the $11,000 price in the US/Canada.
There are extra charges, like a $750 fee for BMI over 50 and gall bladder removal in Tijuana. In Cancun, if your BMI is 45 or higher, there’s also a $750 additional fee.
Gastric Sleeve Cost in Mexico vs US/Canada
| Procedure | Mexico | US/Canada |
|---|---|---|
| Gastric Sleeve Surgery (LSG) | $4,395 | $11,000 |
| Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) | $7,695 | $12,000 |
| Lap Band to Gastric Sleeve | $5,145 | $16,000 |
*Prices are case-dependent
Note that US and Canada prices are for self-funded or cash-pay patients.
All-Inclusive Mexico Gastric Sleeve Package
The price of an “all-inclusive” gastric sleeve package in Mexico ranges from $4,395 to $5,553, depending on the city. Your package includes hospital and hotel stays, medical expenses, shuttle services, and more.
Check out the table below for more information:
| Sleeve Package Inclusion | Details |
|---|---|
| Surgeon fee | Includes anesthesia and surgery costs |
| Hospital stay | 2 nights |
| Hotel stay | 1 night |
| Pre-op and Post-op tests | Blood tests, leak tests, and imaging |
| Airport Transport | Pick up and drop off |
| Ground transport | Between the hospital and hotel |
| Medications | All medicines required during the hospital stay |
| Take home medications | All surgery-related medicines (excludes omeprazole) |
| Nutritionist consultation | Pre-op and post-op dietary consultation |
*Inclusions may differ based on location
You can pay through different payment methods, like:
Moreover, if you are short of cash, financing options are also available for your surgery!
Financing Options
When it comes to financing your surgery in Mexico, we understand the importance of having flexible and accessible options.
Therefore, there are multiple financing solutions available for a hassle-free journey.
You can also check out our article to finance bariatric surgery in Mexico for more information!
Ready to take the first step?
Gastric Sleeve in Mexico vs Other Countries
Gastric sleeve is more affordable in Mexico than other medical tourism destinations.[1]Vox
A lack of insurance is leading more Americans to have weight loss surgery in Mexico
“An estimated 1.4 million Americans are crossing the border into Mexico or visiting other countries for medical treatment such as bariatric surgery”
View in Article
The detailed gastric sleeve cost comparison between different countries is below.
Gastric Sleeve Cost in Mexico vs. Other Countries
| Country | Cost |
|---|---|
| US | $11,000 |
| Australia | $20,000 |
| Canada | $19,000 |
| Costa Rica | $12,650 |
| UK | $13,800 |
| Turkey | $6,500 |
| Mexico | $4,395 |
*Prices may vary slightly
Further, with MBS, you can select from different Mexican cities based on your convenience.
Let’s discover the transparent pricing in various Mexican cities below!
Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexican Cities
You can get the cheapest gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, which is $4,395.
The gastric sleeve prices vary with the city, and therefore, gastric sleeve surgery in Reynosa costs $4,799. On the other hand, the gastric sleeve in Cancun costs $4,995.
The surgery price includes general anesthesia costs, pre and post-op tests, take-home medications, ground transportation, and lodging, depending on the city.
For more details, check out the table below!
Gastric Sleeve Cost in Different Mexican Cities
| City | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tijuana | $4,395 |
| Nuevo Laredo | $4,799 |
| Reynosa | $4,799 |
| Puerto Vallarta | $4,950 |
| Cancun | $4,995 |
| Piedras Negras | $5,350 |
| Guadalajara | $5,553 |
*The prices are case-dependent.
However, you will be charged an additional fee for a BMI higher than 45.
Why Go to Mexico for a Gastric Sleeve?
As per the study, Mexico is a top choice for people seeking medical treatment abroad, especially for weight loss surgeries. The good news is the most favored WLS procedure is laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.[2]SpringerLink
Current Practice of Global Bariatric Tourism—Survey-Based Study
“Mexico dominated the number of bariatric surgeries for tourists with 2557 procedures performed in 2017. The most frequent procedures provided were laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) provided by 89.1% of the respondents.”
View in Article
Many people choose Mexico for gastric sleeve surgery due to its cost-effectiveness.
Read below to explore why choosing Mexico Bariatric Services is right for you!
Gastric Sleeve Procedure in Mexico
Gastric sleeve surgery, a transformative bariatric procedure, involves reducing the stomach size to promote weight loss.
The surgical procedure involves removing a portion of the stomach using a bougie. The new stomach left behind is known as the sleeve.
Anesthesia Administration
Creating the Incisions
Stomach Reduction
Closing the Incisions
Gastric sleeve surgery may lead to changes in gastric emptying, potentially causing food to pass into the small intestine more slowly than before.[5]NIH
Gastric emptying after sleeve gastrectomy: statistical evidence of a controlled prospective study with gastric scintigraphy
“suggests that LSG reduces gastric emptying time..”
View in Article
This altered gastric emptying rate can contribute to feelings of fullness and satisfaction with smaller meals.
Other Names for Gastric Sleeve
Gastric sleeve is also called:
Gastric Sleeve in Mexican Cities
Wondering if you are a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery? Continue reading to find out!
Do You Qualify for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico?
To qualify for gastric sleeve surgery, you should have a minimum BMI of 30, and your age should be above 18 years.
You can check your BMI here!
BMI Calculator
[BMI]Here are the eligibility details for gastric sleeve surgery.
Suitable if you:
- Have good psychological and physical health
- Obesity-related sleep apnea, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia
- Have realistic expectations
Not Suitable if you:
- Suffered severe heart failure
- Are undergoing active cancer treatment
- Have end-stage lung disease
- Are severely alcohol or drug-dependent
Source:NCBI[6]NIH
Obesity Surgery Indications and Contraindications
“Patients with BMI OF 30 to 34.9 kg/m2 with diabetes or metabolic syndrome also may undergo weight loss surgery…”
View in Article
However, your weight loss surgeon in Mexico will assess your eligibility for the surgery. Fill out the medical questionnaire to know if you qualify!
Trip Schedule for Sleeve Surgery in Mexico
In Mexico, your sleeve surgery trip takes 4-5 days. Check out the day-wise plan below for more clarity.
Trip Schedule
Day 1
- Arrive at the destination
- Hotel Stay
Day 2
- Shuttle to hospital
- Fill out the consent forms and pre-op tests.
- Pre-op consultations & surgery
Day 3
- Receive discharge instructions and medications.
- Overnight stay at the hotel
Day 4
- Pick up from the hotel
- Return home.
| Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Arrive at the destination 2. Hotel Stay | 1. Shuttle to hospital 2. Pre-op consultations & surgery | 1. Recieve medications 2. Overnight stay at the hotel | 1. Pick up from the hospital 2. Return home |
Continue reading to explore the detailed timeline of your gastric sleeve transformation in Mexico!
Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Timeline
Significant weight loss results appear 4-6 months post-gastric sleeve surgery.
Explore the table for a clear timeline of expected weight loss.
Expected Weight Loss Timeline of Gastric Sleeve
| Timeline | 3 months | 6 months | 12 months | 18 months |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight loss | 33% | 50% | 65% | 70% |
The actual weight loss varies from patient to patient as it depends upon the individual’s overall health before the surgery.
For the best results, it’s important to keep making small changes in your daily life that suit your body.
The long-term effects can vary, depending on how effectively you make lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery.
Here, we share Dr. Hector’s realistic weight loss after gastric sleeve in Mexico. As a US-trained, board-certified bariatric surgeon in Mexico, he has undergone the procedure himself.
He achieved an impressive 30 to 40% reduction in excess weight within just 2 months.
Explore his monthly weight loss figures below, serving as inspiration for gastric sleeve patients in Mexico.
Expected Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Per Month
| Post-surgery | Excess weight loss per month |
|---|---|
| First 2 months | 25 to 40 lbs |
| 3 to 6 months | 4 to 8 lbs |
| 6 to 12 months | 4 lbs |
| 12 to 24 months | 0 to 4 lbs |
*Weight loss outcomes may differ. Specific results are not guaranteed.
Benefits and Risks of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico
Gastric sleeve surgery is notably costly in the US. Opting for cost-effectiveness abroad doesn’t ensure its effectiveness.
Understanding the potential risks and benefits is crucial to make an informed decision.
Benefits of Gastric Sleeve
Risks of Gastric Sleeve
Source: NCBI[7]NIH
The advantages and disadvantages of sleeve gastrectomy; clinical laboratory to bedside review☆
” Also, dumping usually occurs around an hour after eating and presents with symptoms of bloating, flushing, diarrhea, and light-headedness..”
View in Article
Interested in knowing more about getting sleeve gastrectomy in Mexico? Let’s dive into the location details.
Best Place in Mexico To Have Gastric Sleeve Surgery
The best place for your surgery in Mexico depends on your residential location and priorities.
Here is a brief location-specific outline:
Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana
It is on the US-Mexican San Ysidro border, a 20-minute drive from the San Diego International Airport via Interstate 5 (IATA: SAN).
Crossing the border and reaching Tijuana is convenient for Americans living in the southwestern region.
We have some of the best bariatric surgeons in Tijuana.
Dr. Guillermo Lopez and Dr. Luis Cazares have performed thousands of successful surgeries in their decades of experience.
Hospitals in Tijuana, are accredited as International Center of Excellence for Obesity by the Surgical Review Corporation.
Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana is one of the cheapest bariatric surgeries in Mexico.
Gastric Sleeve in Cancun
Cancun (State: Quintana Roo) is developed as a resort city. You can fly to its international airport (IATA: CUN).
Dr. Hector Perez Corzo is one of the best bariatric surgeons in Cancun, Mexico.
He has a 0% complication rate in his career of more than 3000 surgeries and is an IFSO member too.
Our all-inclusive value-for-money packages for gastric sleeve in Cancun start at $4,995. It includes a 2-night hospital stay with a 1-night hotel stay, travel assistance, private ground transportation, pre- and post-ops, and the surgeon’s fee.
You can relax well in this resort city as you heal.
Gastric Sleeve in Nuevo Laredo
This destination is easily accessible, especially for those residing near the Texas border, requiring only a short drive. You can also fly to the Laredo International Airport (Laredo, Texas)
Dr Galileo Villarreal is your weight loss surgeon for gastric sleeve in Nuevo Laredo. He holds a track record of 0% mortality rate and less than 1% complication rate.
Besides, he is a prestigious ASMBS, AMCE, and CMCOEM member and has performed over 300 bariatric procedures.
During your recovery, you can go on a local sightseeing trip here in Nuevo Laredo.
Gastric Sleeve in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is in the west-central part of Mexico, facing the Pacific Coast.
Your gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta will be at CMQ Premier Hospital. It is a 5-minute drive from PV Beach and the hotel zone and just 15 minutes from the airport (PVR).
Proximity to the airport makes it convenient for bariatric patients to reach here.
CMQ Premier Hospital is one of the first hospitals in Puerto Vallarta to provide bariatric surgery.
It is a JCI, ACI, and National Health Council of Mexico accredited hospital.
The weight loss surgeons in Puerto Vallarta have a proven track record, having performed over 3000 bariatric procedures.
Let’s now explore some lesser-known destinations in Mexico.
Gastric Sleeve in Reynosa
Reynosa is a city in the northeastern part of Mexico, in Tamaulipas. It is situated on the US border. Americans living near the southeastern US, in and around Texas, can reach here with ease.
Dr. Oscar Trevino will perform your gastric sleeve in Reynosa.
He is certified by the Mexcian Board of Surgery and is an expert in laparoscopic bariatric surgeries. With 14+ years of experience, he is a renowned bariatric surgeon in Reynosa.
You can indulge in cultural excursions and leisure activities in Reynosa, making your recovery holistic.
Gastric Sleeve in Piedras Negras
Piedras Negras is a border town in close proximity to Texas.
Having been closer to the US border, it is easily reachable from cities like San Antonio, Austin, and Houston.
Dr. Cristobal Garza will perform your gastric sleeve surgery in Piedras Negras. He is a distinguished surgeon with a CMCOEM membership.
With over six years of experience, Dr. Garza has performed over 10,000 surgeries.
Gastric Sleeve in Guadalajara
Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, Mexico.
Direct flights from Guadalajara seamlessly connect the city to prominent US cities like New York, Chicago, Washington, and San Antonio.
Dr. Gilberto Gonzalez, an esteemed member of IFSO and the Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases, will conduct your gastric sleeve in Guadalajara.
With over 3,000 surgeries under his belt, he is one of the best surgeons in Guadalajara.
During your recovery, you can also explore attractions like the Guadalajara Cathedral and Bosque Los Colomos.
Top Hospitals for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
You can experience top-tier care, state-of-the-art facilities, and in-house labs during your gastric sleeve procedure in Mexico.
Here is a list of leading bariatric hospitals across various Mexican cities.
Top Bariatric Hospitals for Gastric Sleeve
| City | Hospital and Surgeon |
|---|---|
| Tijuana | LIMARP, Dr. Guillermo Lopez Blue Medical, Dr. Luis Cazares Dr. Hector Perez |
| Cancun | Hospital Joya, Dr. Hector Perez |
| Puerto Vallarta | CMQ Premier Hospital, Dr. Sergio Del Hoyo |
| Nuevo Laredo | Hospital de Especialidades, Dr. Galileo Villarreal |
| Reynosa | Los Lagos Hospital, Dr. Oscar Trevino |
| Guadalajara | Hospital Lomas Providencia, Dr. Gilberto Gonzalez |
| Piedras Neigras | Clinica de Especialistas, Dr. Cristobal Garza |
Schedule your consultation today!
Different Types of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico
We have provided a brief overview of different gastric sleeve procedures you can expect in Mexico.
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty
Mini Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
Moreover, if you’ve undergone lap band surgery previously, you may consider gastric sleeve as a revisional procedure.
Lap Band to Gastric Sleeve Revision in Mexico
Lapband to gastric sleeve is a surgery where the surgeon will remove the adjustable gastric band and reshape your stomach into a sleeve to achieve your weight loss goals.
Source: PubMed[13]PubMed
Band removal and conversion to sleeve or bypass: are they equally safe?
“Patients who require laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) removal are often converted to sleeve gastrectomy (SG)”
View in Article
Now, let’s understand about preparing for a gastric sleeve surgery.
Pre Gastric Sleeve Care
The entire weight loss procedure can be stressful and emotionally draining. It would help to make yourself emotionally strong to make the most of your surgery.
Successful surgery is one where you reach your goal weight with no (or fewer) complications.
Start easing yourself into the post-bariatric routine at least 3 weeks before the surgery so it’s not a sudden shock.
This also makes the entire surgery more successful, and you lose more weight.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes Pre-Op
The first step for preparing for the gastric sleeve is the pre-op diet. You would need to go on a liver shrink diet at least 2-8 weeks before your surgery date.
The exact time depends on your BMI, and the nutritionist will guide you through this.
The liver shrink diet is a liquid diet, where you get all your nutrients from liquids.
Some liquid diet foods include:
The main reason for doing the liver shrink diet is to shrink your liver so it’s easy for your surgeon to operate on your stomach.[14]NIH
Effectiveness of a Low-Calorie Diet for Liver Volume Reduction Prior to Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review
“The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the literature on the effect of an LCD on liver volume reduction in patients awaiting bariatric surgery”
View in Article
This diet also helps you lose weight. Some side effects of this diet could be nervousness, anxiety, and dizziness.
Decrease your caffeine intake and drink more water. Plus, check your blood sugar if you’re diabetic.
Post Gastric Sleeve Care
Strict post-op care is crucial for the success of gastric sleeve, especially considering the hormonal changes that occur.
Our US-registered bariatric nutritionist, Katelyn Mock, summarised some important dietary considerations you will have to make after gastric sleeve surgery.
You can go home 1-2 days after your laparoscopic surgery. However, be careful with your diet and stay on only clear liquids.
It may still be difficult for you to move around at this point, but it’s completely normal. Focus on getting enough fluids and caloric intake.
If you feel dizzy while sitting and standing up, it’s a sign of dehydration. Keep yourself hydrated with at least 64 oz of fluids a day.
You can move to the pureed diet after the first week.
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass
Mexico offers various bariatric procedures, among which gastric sleeve and roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgeries stand out.
Learn the differences between the two procedures for a clear understanding!
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass
| Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass |
|---|---|
| Food leaves the stomach sleeve to intestine | A large portion of the stomach is removed |
| Leaves banana-shaped narrow pouch | Leaves small stomach pouch connected with small intestine |
| Food leaves the stomach sleeve to the intestine | Food bypass stomach and upper intestine |
| Irreversible | Reversible |
| Relatively less frequency in nutrient deficiency | Greater frequency of nutrient deficiency |
| Relatively lower rate of success | Higher rate of success |
| Associated with fewer complications | Associated with more risks and complications |
Check out the video below for a brief comparison!
Let’s understand the safety aspects of sleeve surgery in Mexico.
Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico Safe?
Our partnered surgeons in Mexico are experienced and board-certified. They’re active members of prestigious organizations like IFSO and ASMBS.
Some of them have done over 5000 bariatric procedures! So you’re in good hands here in Mexico for your gastric sleeve surgery.
Further gastric sleeve is a relatively safe bariatric procedure.[8]JAMA Surgery
Comparative Safety of Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass Up to 5 Years After Surgery in Patients With Severe Obesity
“Sleeve gastrectomy is also recognized as a safe surgical option for high-risk patient groups..”
View in Article It has a lower risk of complications and death rate.
If safety in Mexico is your concern, around 11.7 million Americans and 1.5 million Canadians travel to Mexico in a year.[9]Relaciones Exteriores
Mexico Tourism Data and Statistics
“The arrival by air of residents of the United States stands out with 11.7 million, followed by Canada with 1.5 million,”
View in Article
Furthermore, not every place in Mexico is dangerous. Following the basic safety precautions can ensure your safety. [10]Travel Lemming
Is Mexico Safe for Travel?
“Mexico is generally safe for travelers if you take proper precautions, do your research, and use your head. The safety situation in Mexico does vary considerably by region, however.”
View in Article
For more details, check out our page: Is Mexico safe for bariatric surgery?
Traveling to Mexico
Check out the essential information on passport and visa requirements to ensure a seamless and enriching healthcare experience.
Passport Requirements
Visa Requirements
Conclusion
Choosing gastric sleeve in Mexico not only offers a cost-effective solution but also a chance for transformative health.
With all-inclusive packages and experienced surgeons, your weight loss journey becomes a rewarding experience.
FAQs
Start your weight loss journey today!
References
- Vox: A lack of insurance is leading more Americans to have weight loss surgery in Mexico
- SpringerLink: Current Practice of Global Bariatric Tourism—Survey-Based Study
- MedicalNewsToday: What to know about gastric sleeve surgery
- ASMBS: Sleeve Gastrectomy
- NCBI: Obesity Surgery Indications and Contraindications
- NCBI: The advantages and disadvantages of sleeve gastrectomy; clinical laboratory to bedside review
- JAMA: Comparative Safety of Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass Up to 5 Years After Surgery in Patients With Severe Obesity
- Relaciones Exteriores: Mexico Tourism Data and Statistics
- Travel Lemming: Is Mexico Safe for Travel?
- NIH: Gastric emptying after sleeve gastrectomy: statistical evidence of a controlled prospective study with gastric scintigraphy
- NCBI: The Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty as an Alternative to Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
- JAMA: Sleeve Gastrectomy
- NCBI: Effectiveness of a Low-Calorie Diet for Liver Volume Reduction Prior to Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review
- Science Direct: Bariatric surgery, gastrointestinal hormones, and the microbiome: An Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) 2022
- ASMBS: FAQs after Bariatric Surgery
- NHS: When Can I Fly After Surgery?
- Government of Canada: Mexico travel advice
- PubMed: Band removal and conversion to sleeve or bypass: are they equally safe?
- Travel.State.Gov: Crossing the U.S.
- Gob.mx: Visitors who do not require a visa, with a stay up to 180 days
