Bariatric Revision in Tijuana: Is It Worth Your Time and Money?
You follow your doctor’s advice after surgery, yet you regain or plateau on weight loss. Why does this happen? Know that you are not the only one who experiences this kind of problem. Even after a bariatric procedure, not losing sufficient weight is normal.
A safe and successful bariatric revision can be done to put you back on your weight loss journey. This article will help you find the next steps to attain your weight loss goal.
Revision Bariatric Surgery for Weight Loss
Usually, bariatric procedures yield successful outcomes. But not everyone is fortunate to keep the results. These could be attributed to the following reasons:
- Side-effects of previous surgery.
- Not taking appropriate post-operative precautions.
- Had your weight loss surgery from a less experienced surgeon.[1]BioMed Central Are there really any predictive factors for a successful weight loss after bariatric surgery? “Early detection of the patients that are more likely to fail is imperative to establish additional therapeutic strategies, without denying them the opportunity of surgery or waiting for weight re-gain to occur.” View in Article
- Pre-existing nutritional deficiency or no nutritional compliance.
- Lack of adequate physical activity.
- Metabolic imbalance
Getting Bariatric surgery in Mexico (Near Texas Border)
Why Should I Have Bariatric Revision Surgery?
The ultimate goal of weight loss surgery is to help you attain a better quality of life. But 15 to 35% patients do not get desired outcomes from their initial weight loss procedures.[2]BioMed Central Are there really any predictive factors for a successful weight loss after bariatric surgery? ” it has also been reported that 15–35% of the patients that undergo bariatric surgery do not reach their goal for weight loss” View in Article
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However, when a bariatric procedure fails at that, revision is your second chance.
Is Bariatric Revision Necessary?
Bariatric Revision is necessary if you are facing either of the problems:
- Inadequate weight loss
- Complications from the previous surgery
A failed weight-loss procedure can be discouraging and put you under a lot of stress. You need not worry any longer. A revision surgery offers you a second chance at achieving your goal.[3]NCBI Revisional Bariatric Surgery: Focus on Quality of Life “The attainment and maintenance of good quality of life should be considered as one of the goals of bariatric surgery, and patients who fail to do so or perform persistently low on quality of life surveys post-operatively can be singled out as candidates that may benefit from revisional surgery.” View in Article
Revision Bariatric Surgery Is Ideal For Effective Weight Loss
It is the ideal treatment for individuals after their first bariatric procedure falls. The risk factors are less, and the procedure is cost-effective. So, if you have also hit the wall post-bariatric surgery, bariatric revision is what you need.[4]PubMed Should bariatric revisional surgery be avoided secondary to increased morbidity and mortality? “Revisional bariatric surgery may be necessary due to inadequate weight loss or postoperative complications of the primary operation. We sought to identify the reasons for revision, characteristics of the surgery, and outcomes. We hypothesize that revisional surgery, although technically challenging, can produce desirable outcomes.” View in Article
How much is gastric bypass revision surgery in Mexico?
The primary bariatric weight loss procedure may usually sit around in the range of $20,000 to $30,000 in the U.S.[5]Dr. Arif Ahmad MDWhat is the Average Cost of Weight Loss Surgery? “Weight loss surgery is an expensive surgical procedure. As recorded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, this surgical procedure can cost from $20,000 to $30,000” View in Article In Tijuana, the price ranges from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on the surgery type.[6]Medical Tourism Corporation How Much is Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico? “All-inclusive self-pay bariatric surgery costs in Mexico range between 4,000 to 10,000 US Dollars..” View in Article
Gastric bypass revision surgery in Mexico cost starts at just $4,900.[7]Oasis of Hope Bariatrics The Cost of Bariatric Revision “Revision procedures start at just $4,900. During your visit to Oasis of Hope, we can provide a full price breakdown.” View in Article
Cost Comparison of Bariatric Revision in Mexico
TABLE
| Procedure | Cost in Mexico | Cost in the US |
|---|---|---|
| Gastric Bypass | $6,245 | $20,000-$30,000[8]Jet Medical Tourism Gastric bypass revision cost “While in America the cost of gastric bypass revision surgery may range from $20,000 to $30,000,” View in Article |
| Mini Gastric Bypass | $6,245 | $16,000-$22,000[9]Doc Shop Cost “patients will save a few thousand dollars if they qualify for the mini gastric bypass procedure, as it typically costs between $16,000 and $22,000.” View in Article |
| Gastric Sleeve | $5,045 | $23,750-$28,500[10]Bariatric Surgery Source Cost of Revision Surgery “Which revision surgery you have – if you don’t have insurance, total gastric sleeve revision procedure costs will be 25% to 50% higher than the original procedure. For example, the average cost of gastric sleeve in the U.S. is $19,000. So the average cost of a re-sleeve ranges from $23,750 to $28,500.” View in Article |
| Lap-Band | $4,649 | $20,000-$29,000[11]Bariatric Surgery Source Lap Band Revision Surgery: Your 4 Options “it will probably cost between $20,000 and $29,000 before discounts and tax savings are applied.” View in Article |
*Note: Prices are in US Dollars.
Options for Bariatric Revision
Your practitioner will approach revision surgery depending on the type of initial procedure you have had. The suggestive method would differ as per the individual patient’s needs.
The revision procedure may vary from the initial treatment you received. The parameters that your provider will weigh in before suggesting you an option for revision include:
- Comorbidities related to health
- Your weight loss goals
- Lifestyle
Note: Although ‘Revision’ and ‘Conversion’ are two different procedures in medical terminologies, they are often interchangeably used these days. We will also use both the terms interchangeably to comply with universal language in this article.
1. Gastric Bypass Revision
Patients with GERD or other health concerns usually find Gastric Bypass an effective and safe method for losing weight. It is also known as the Roux-en-Y bypass.
The procedure divides the stomach into two parts. As a result of the divisions of the stomach into smaller and larger pouches, the body absorbs less food. This results in a dramatic weight loss within one year of the surgery.
The procedure aims to restrict calorie absorption in the body by restricting the stomach size.
A failed gastric bypass may yield limited weight loss or health complications. In either of the conditions, your practitioner will suggest a revision gastric bypass.
Find out more about your revision gastric bypass options here.
What happens in revision gastric bypass?
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There are many ways to revise a gastric bypass. Commonly the practitioners reduce the stomach pouch further to pace-up weight loss.
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2. Mini Gastric Bypass Revision
Mini gastric bypass is the modern method of gastric bypass. Similar to traditional bypass, it reduces the stomach size. Thus, less absorption of calories takes place in the body.
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During the revision of Mini Gastric Bypass, your practitioner may choose to perform either of the two functions:
- Convert the procedure into full gastric bypass as in the Roux-en-Y process.
- Convert the MGB into duodenal switch
Depending upon your case history and weight loss goal, your surgeon will decide the course of action.
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3. Gastric Sleeve Revision
In certain gastric sleeve surgeries, patients battle the enlargement of the sleeve after one year of the surgery. In such cases, your practitioner may suggest a Gastric Sleeve Revision.
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Moreover, revision gastric sleeve further reduces the stomach size to promote restrictive weight loss. The good news about gastric sleeve revision is that there is almost no post-operative complication involved and is an effective way to lose the regained weight after sleeve.
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4. Lap-Band Revision
During a Lap-Band, an adjustable silicone band is placed around the gastroesophageal junction of the stomach. This procedure results in decreased stomach capacity that restricts calorie intake.
Usually, Lap-Band patients require frequent band adjustments to gain effective weight-loss results.
However, Gastric Bands are reversible. So, it becomes easier for the practitioner to adjust a failed Lap-Band. The patients also get the flexibility to convert Lap-Bands into gastric sleeve or bypass.
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Lap-Band surgery restricts the food intake dramatically by making the person feel fuller with less food consumption. But in some cases, complications arise when the band slips or starts to erode.
In such scenarios, it becomes necessary to convert the Lap-Band to either of the procedures shown above or remove it. Revision not only corrects the complications from the Lap-Band but puts you back on your weight loss journey.[12]PubMed Should bariatric revisional surgery be avoided secondary to increased morbidity and mortality? “Revisional bariatric surgery may be necessary due to inadequate weight loss or postoperative complications of the primary operation. We sought to identify the reasons for revision, characteristics of the surgery, and outcomes. We hypothesize that revisional surgery, although technically challenging, can produce desirable outcomes.” View in Article
Who Qualifies for Bariatric Revision?
Not all the patients who gain weight post-bariatric surgery qualify for a revision. It is because marginal weight gain is expected after one year of surgery.
However, it may be an option if you are experiencing:
- Higher weight gain
- Limited weight loss
- Other health complications
Such individuals qualify for revision surgery. In any case, the bariatric surgeon will evaluate your health aspects before suggesting a revision.[13]PubMed Bariatric surgery guidelines in need of revision, experts argue The unisex, uni-racial BMI system doesn’t account for body frame or type, concurs Dr. Yoni Freedhoff, founder of the Ottawa Bariatric Medical Institute in Ontario. “Over half of the NFL have body mass indexes beyond 30, which means half would then qualify for Lap-Band surgery. We’ve got to deal with the patient in front of us, not just a simple number.” View in Article
Do Bariatric Revision Surgeries Yield Successful Outcomes?
Revision surgeries give enhanced results at weight loss. But the higher risk of complications is also associated with revision compared to initial surgery.[14]Science Daily Outcomes after bariatric surgery revisions “Revisional bariatric surgery appears to be associated with a higher risk of complications than the initial procedure, according to a report in the February issue of Archives of Surgery.” View in Article Moreover, the success of the surgery depends on the skills of your bariatric surgeon.[15]NCBI Surgical Skill in Bariatric Surgery: Does Skill in One Procedure Predict Outcomes for Another? “evidence has emerged demonstrating that peer-ratings of surgical skill from operative videos are highly correlated with better outcomes for laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery” View in Article
Therefore, you should only have a Bariatric Revision Surgery from a skilled and experienced surgeon for effective results. Medical Tourism Corporation can help you find experienced surgeons in Tijuana.
Call us today to find out more about your medical tourism to Tijuana for a revision bariatric surgery.
What to Expect Post-Bariatric Revision?
Your health care provider will monitor you closely for post-op complications. During your stay in Tijuana, your practitioner will thoroughly explain the healing process to you.
Overall, you can expect the following things after your surgery:
- The healthcare staff will closely monitor your health.
- Doctors will keep taking your vitals at continuous intervals.
- The nurses will encourage you to ambulate after 24 hours of surgery to reduce complications and decrease the length of stay.
Post-Operative Care and Effective Weight-Loss After the Surgery
Bariatric Surgery Diet and Lifestyle by Katelyn Mock, a registered dietician
Transitional Diet
This will include starting with a complete liquid diet after the surgery and moving to solid foods eventually. A transitional diet plan speeds up the healing process along with helping you lose some excess weight.
Routine Activities
You should avoid strenuous activities for 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery. You are expected not to lift heavy weights and not to work out in strict routines.
On the other hand, the doctor will suggest staying active by doing light physical activities like walking for a few minutes or washing the dishes.
After you are fully healed, you can resume your routine activities and exercise regimes.
Revision Bariatric Surgery Clinics in Tijuana
Many patients choose Tijuana for a good surgery and weight loss experience since it’s an accessible city from the US and Canada.
Our partner clinics housing a team of expert bariatric professionals who offer world-class care in Tijuana are namely:
The clinics are well equipped with modern technology equipment. Due to a major influx of patients traveling to Tijuana, the medical team is experienced at handling foreign patients.
Best Bariatric Surgeons in Mexico
We recommend a few certified professionals and trust their expertise in the field:
Dr. Hector Perez
Board-certified Bariatric Surgeon Dr. Hector Perez has handled more than 5000 Bariatric Surgeries so far. He is trained at the University of Miami and Mexico Hospitals and has over ten years of experience.
Certifications
- Mexican Council of General Surgery, July 15th, 2006, Recertified. 2012
- Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases. 2015
- Member of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders. 2008
- Member of the Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery, A.C. 2006
- Member of the Mexican Association of General Surgery. 2009
- Member of the Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases. 2013
Dr. Luis Cazares
Being one of the dedicated and passionate Bariatric Surgeons in Tijuana, Dr. Luis Cazares has handled more than 3000 bariatric surgeries so far. He envisions offering new opportunities for a healthy life to everyone.
Education
- Dr. Luis Cazares has had his Graduate Degree from Nuevo Leon.
- Did his Residency from 1st Grade General Hospital Nuevo Leon, (2005-2008) 2nd,3rd & 4th GRADE Specialist Hospital Nuevo Leon.
- Holds a Diploma in Metabolic Bariatric Surgery with Laparoscopic Approach and Multidisciplinary Management of Obesity from the Autonomous University of Baja, California.
Find out more about Dr. Luis Cazares here.
Dr. Guillermo Lopez
Dr. Guillermo Lopez has about 37 years of expertise in this field. He is an International Member of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. With his experience in the field, he has been helping Bariatric patients reach their weight loss goals for decades.
Dr. Lopez has served as the Head of General Surgery and is a former Director of Tijuana General Hospital.
Click here to find out more about Dr. Guillermo Lopez.
Testimonials
Several happy clients of Medical Tourism Corporation have found relief and reached their weight loss goals with us.
Bonnie Bond is among one of them, and here is her review.
“I have had an excellent experience with the Medical Tourism Corporation, Florence Hospital, Dr. Reyna and Dr. Carmelo. From the very start, all my questions were answered and I felt safe and comfortable. All of the staff members were excellent at their jobs and friendly.
I did not have any trouble communicating and the response to all my requests were immediate. In many ways the service was superior to that in the US; plenty of contact with the doctors, immediate response to the call button, pain medication given in a timely manner, constant checking by staff to make sure you were okay.
During the whole experience, I was never in pain, Veronica is an absolute dream to work with, always there to help, always upbeat and positive. This experience will definitely cause me to recommend others to use MTC and Florence hospital. There is no quality sacrificial due to the lower fee than what is charged in the US. I wish you much success and God Bless All of you.
Bonnie Bond.”
How to Travel to Tijuana?
Being a border town sharing a border with the US, Tijuana makes travel for American tourists easy and convenient. As an American national, you can enter Tijuana by the Cross Border Xpress pedestrian bridge.[16]San Diego.Org Enjoy a Two Nation Vacation – San Diego and Baja Mexico “An easy and convenient way to travel to the region is the Cross Border Xpress pedestrian bridge connecting the Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) to San Diego. The airport offers access to over 30 destinations within Mexico and direct flights from China.” View in Article People find it convenient to walk through the border to save the hassles of driving and parking.
Travel Options
- Take a 15 to 20 Minutes walk through the bridge to enter Tijuana.
- Hire a cab/taxi
- Travel by air
Tips for Crossing the Border
- Carry a valid passport
- Pass through the customs check on green light
- If driving, leave your car in paid parking on the US side
You need to fill the FMM form at the airport terminal and keep it safe for travel back to the US.
Benefits of Having a Bariatric Revision in Tijuana
Tijuana offers safe and cost-effective medical tourism destinations to thousands of patients worldwide. Being the border town between the US and Mexico, the culture of Tijuana is mostly Americanized.
People speak the local language but are also acquainted with English due to an influx of visitors from America and Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is it safe to go to Tijuana for surgery?A. Yes, having a revision bariatric procedure is safe in Tijuana as you find expert care coupled with excellent medical facilities. The medical staff is well-trained and encourages you to stick to your weight-loss goals by giving you the right insights on post-op care. Q. Who is the best bariatric surgeon in Tijuana, Mexico?A. Medical Tourism Corporation recommends Dr. Hector Perez, Dr. Luis Cazares, and Dr. Guillermo Lopez for their exemplary work and experience in the field. The doctors have immense experience and happy patients vouching for their care. The doctors give you the best surgery and fill you in with the post-operative measures to follow. Q. How can I pay for the Bariatric Surgery in Tijuana?A. The clinics in Tijuana accept cash or cards as modes of payment. Card payments may be subject to surcharges. Q. Do I need to travel to Tijuana for pre-op recommendations or Post-op consultations?A. No, you need not travel to Tijuana for pre-op recommendations. After you qualify for the surgery, your surgeon and the dietician will keep you updated through e-mail for the pre-op recommendations to follow. For post-op care, your doctor will share post-op care instructions for you to follow. You can alternatively access the post-surgery online support group, moderated by the specialized and registered dietician. |
Conclusion
Overall, Tijuana offers a multitude of benefits for bariatric patients from Foreign land. Being an American or Canadian national, you can also save a lot of money compared to your homeland. The quality of care is excellent with well-trained and caring medical staff.
So, if you worry about spending huge on a revision bariatric procedure, Tijuana is the answer.
