Tackle Obesity With Bariatric Surgery in Ecuador
Does excess weight bother you? Fret not! Improve your health by getting bariatric surgery in Ecuador.
Get ready to lose the extra weight and the worries that follow it @ 50% of US prices.
Before & After Weight Loss Surgery in Ecuador
Cost of Bariatric Surgery in Ecuador
Weight loss surgery cost in Ecuador is 50% cheaper than in the US.
The cost of a gastric sleeve in Ecuador is $6,500, and in the US is $14,900.
Furthermore, the cost of gastric balloon in Ecuador is $3,500, and $8,150 in the US.
Have a look at the cost comparison below.
| Procedure | Ecuador | USA | Canada |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastric Sleeve | $6,500 | $14,900 | $18,800 |
| Gastric Balloon | $3,500 | $8,150 | $6,900 |
*Costs are personalized and may vary
The gastric sleeve surgery is inclusive of
- Surgery
- Lab tests
- Endoscopy
- Hospital Stay
- Medications
However, the cost is not inclusive of hotel and travel expenses.
You will receive care from 5 specialists and ongoing follow-up from the nutritionist for up to a year.
For more information on cost related queries, please contact us today.
Have a look at the next section to see your surgeon’s qualifications.
Best Bariatric Surgeon in Ecuador
When it comes to choosing a bariatric surgeon in Ecuador, look no further!
MTC partners with Ecuador’s top bariatric surgeon, Dr. Marcos Molina. He is a highly qualified and licensed professional.
Also, he has authored several publications and delivered oral presentations.
Moreover, with more than a decade’s experience, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands.
| Details | |
|---|---|
Dr. Marcos Molina |
|
| Experience | 10+ years |
| Educational Qualifications | MD with Summa Cum Laude Honors |
| Resident in Surgery |
|
| Research Fellow in Surgery |
|
| Memberships |
|
| Licenses |
|
| Patents | Thoracotomy tube stabilization device |
Bariatric Surgery in Ecuador Reviews
Don’t just take our word for it! Hear from real patients about their weight loss surgery in Ecuador.
Testimonial of Bariatric Surgery in Ecuador
Why Ecuador for Bariatric Surgery?
Going abroad for your medical treatment can be taxing. Hence, we’ve penned down a few reasons to make your decision easier.
Here’s why you should choose weight loss surgery in Ecuador.
Affordable Cost
- The cost of bariatric surgery in Ecuador is typically much lower compared the US and Canada.
- This is due to lower operating costs,[1]Retire in Ecuador
Health Care in Ecuador
“Minor procedures are also inexpensive and the larger operations are dramatically cheaper compared to prices at home (and have the same level of safety and care as in North America, or better).”
View in Article low fees of medical professionals,[2]Travel Awaits
Retiring In Ecuador: 9 Things To Know About Healthcare
“A visit to a general practitioner costs $20 to $40, while a specialist visit usually costs anywhere from $40 to $100.”
View in Article and low cost of living compared to the US.[3]Living Cost
Ecuador vs United States – Cost of Living Comparison
“The average cost of living in Ecuador ($785) is 65% less expensive than in the United States.”
View in Article - As a result, patients can save significant money on their surgery while still receiving high-quality care.[4]YapaTree
Healthcare: US Vs Ecuador
“Healthcare is a bargain in Ecuador. The cost for services is about a third of what one pays in the United States. Sometimes it is even less.”
View in Article
Experienced Surgeons
- Weight loss surgery is a complex procedure that requires a high level of skill and expertise.[5]Springer Link
The Role of the Nutritionist in a Multidisciplinary Bariatric Surgery Team
“Herein, we use clinical experience and evidence-based recommendations to review the role of a nutritionist in a multidisciplinary bariatric team before surgery and in postoperative follow-up.”
View in Article - Our partner surgeon in Ecuador has 10+ years of experience
- Check out his profile here.
Comprehensive Care
- You can expect comprehensive care covering every aspect of your treatment.
- You’ll have access to a team of 5 specialists working together to ensure the best patient outcomes.
Short Wait Time
- Bariatric surgery can have long waiting times in the US and Canada.
- A delay in treatment can take a toll on your well-being.
- Therefore, getting your surgery done from Ecuador ensures shorter waiting lists and quick treatment.[6]Travel Awaits
Retiring In Ecuador: 9 Things To Know About Healthcare
“Most expats opt for care in private clinics and hospitals, where wait times are shorter, the setting is more private, and the surroundings are more comfortable.”
View in Article
Beautiful Destination
- Ecuador is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.[7]Remitly
5 Things to Know About Money in Ecuador
“Ecuador is known as one of only 17 “megadiverse” countries in the world.”
View in Article - Patients who travel to Ecuador for bariatric surgery can benefit from combining their treatment with a relaxing vacation.
Ecuador- A Beautiful Destination
Gastric Sleeve in Ecuador
Gastric sleeve is a popular weight loss procedure used to treat obesity.[8]Springer Link
Identification of technical errors and hazard zones in sleeve gastrectomy using OCHRA
“There have been several consensus meetings on the technical aspects of the SG, and the procedure has been accepted as a primary bariatric procedure.”
View in Article
Let’s have a look at what this surgery entails.
Gastric Sleeve Procedure
Procedure
- Sleeve gastrectomy is a minimally invasive procedure.[9]Springer Link
Identification of technical errors and hazard zones in sleeve gastrectomy using OCHRA
“The sleeve gastrectomy is an example of minimally invasive surgery.”
View in Article - It involves reshaping your stomach into a small tube-shaped pouch.
- This will reduce the amount of food intake, which leads to weight loss.
- You’ll be under general anesthesia for this procedure.[10]Springer Link
Identification of technical errors and hazard zones in sleeve gastrectomy using OCHRA
“The SGs are intended laparoscopic procedures under general anesthesia.”
View in Article
Hospital Stay
- Patients are usually discharged from the hospital on the same day.
- In case of any post-op complications, such as nausea or vomiting, you may have to stay a night.[11]DuoUio
Gastric sleeve resection as same-day surgery –what affects the discharge time?
“Sleeve gastrectomy (SG), with its short operating time, is possible to perform as same-day surgery, with the most common reason for requiring overnight hospital stay being post-operative nausea and vomiting.”
View in Article
Success Rate
Research data shows that gastric sleeve surgery results are highly favorable.
Check out the details below for percentage of excess weight loss over the years.[12]NIH
Five-year outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a primary procedure for morbid obesity
“Comparable outcomes in terms of weight loss over a 5-year period were reported at the 3rd International Summit of Sleeve Gastrectomy[3], with a mean percentage of excess weight loss of 62.7%, 64.7%, 64.0%, 57.3%, and 60.0% after 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years, respectively.”
View in Article
- 62.7% after 1 year
- 64.7% after 2 years
- 64% after 3 years
- 57.3% after 4 years
- 60% after 5 years
Gastric Balloon in Ecuador
Intragastric balloon surgery or gastric balloon is a temporary and least invasive way to help obese patients lose weight.[13]NIH
Intragastric Balloon
“Intragastric balloon therapies are a minimally invasive and temporary methodology to induce weight loss in obese patients.”
View in Article
Give this section a read to see how this surgery can transform your life.
Gastric Balloon Procedure
Procedure
- The procedure is done using an endoscope.
- A soft saline solution or an air-filled balloon is inserted into the stomach.
- It takes up around one-third of the space in the stomach.
- The balloon shrinks the stomach’s ability to hold food.
- This leads to a decrease in the amount of calories a person can consume.
Source: NCBI[14]NIH
Intragastric Balloon
“The insertion of an intragastric balloon promotes the feeling of satiation and uses restriction as a mechanism for weight loss. The balloon reduces the stomach’s capacity to accommodate food, resulting in a reduced caloric intake. The intragastric balloon typically occupies up to a third of the stomach cavity.”
View in Article
Allurion Gastric Balloon
The Allurion Gastric Balloon, also known as the Elipse Balloon, is a device made by Allurion Technologies in the US.
The procedure is safe, effective and well-accepted by patients.[15]Springer Link
Safety and Efficacy of a New Swallowable Intragastric Balloon Not Needing Endoscopy
“The results of this study on 38 consecutive patients demonstrate that the Elipse™ Balloon is safe, effective, and very well accepted by patients.”
View in Article
- The device is compressed into a swallowable vegan capsule connected to a thin catheter.
- Once the capsule reaches the stomach, the balloon is filled with 550 mL of liquid via the catheter.
- The placement of the balloon is done in a 20-minute outpatient visit.
- There is no need for endoscopy or sedation.
- After filling and confirming the correct position with an abdominal X-ray, the catheter is removed.
- The balloon stays in the stomach for around 4 months.
- After that, a valve in the balloon opens and the balloon empties.
- The empty balloon is then excreted out naturally.
Source: Springer[16]Springer Link
Safety and Efficacy of a New Swallowable Intragastric Balloon Not Needing Endoscopy
“The Elipse balloon (Allurion Technologies, Natick, MA USA) is a gastric balloon that does not require UE for placement and removal. The balloon is enclosed in a small capsule attached to a thin catheter about 75 cm long and 1.3 mm in diameter…”
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Fill out our weight loss surgery questionnaire here and let’s get started on this journey together!
Success Rate
According to research, it’s common to see a reduction of around 7% to 15% in body weight within 6 months of inserting an intragastric balloon.
The total amount of weight loss relative to the individual’s excess weight is typically between 30% to 47%.[17]Mayo Clinic
Intragastric balloon
“Based on a summary of currently available treatments, loss of about 7% to 15% of body weight is typical during the six months after intragastric balloon placement. Total excess weight loss ranges from 30% to 47%.”
View in Article
In case of Allurion Gastric Balloon, you can expect a TBWL of 14.2% and improvement across all metabolic criteria.[18]Springer Link
The Procedureless Elipse Gastric Balloon Program
“The balloon also exhibited remarkable efficacy with 14.2% TBWL and improvement across all metabolic parameters.”
View in Article
Weight Loss Surgery Aftercare
Taking care of yourself after weight loss surgery is important. Follow these aftercare tips for a smooth recovery.
Weight Loss Surgery Aftercare
- Don’t take big bites of food
- Eat slowly and chew carefully
- Exercise regularly to help with the weight loss
- Follow the diet plan suggested by your nutritionist
- Take vitamin and mineral supplements as advised
- Women should avoid getting pregnant for 12-18 months after surgery
Source: NHS[19]NHS
Afterwards -Weight loss surgery
“You will also be advised to: eat slowly, chew carefully and only eat small amounts at a time – particularly during the early stages of your recovery…”
View in Article
What Are the Risks of Bariatric Surgery?
As in the case of all medical procedures, bariatric surgery comes with its own set of complications.[20]TSACO
Early and late complications of bariatric operation
“Early complications include leaks, stenoses, bleeding, and venous thromboembolic events (VTE). Patients will frequently report symptoms of reflux, nausea, and abdominal discomfort even when the balloon is in proper position.”
View in Article
- VTE
- Leaks
- Reflux
- Nausea
- Stenosis
- Post-op bleeding
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Abdominal discomfort
However, surgeons can securely attend to bariatric patients.
Moreover, any complications that may arise from their weight loss treatment can be looked into.
How Soon Will I Recover After a Bariatric Surgery?
The recovery time of gastric sleeve surgery is usually 1-3 days. However, returning to your regular routine may take 4-6 weeks.[21]NHS
Afterwards -Weight loss surgery
“You can usually leave hospital 1 to 3 days after having weight loss surgery. You’ll be able to start to return to your normal activities 4 to 6 weeks later.”
View in Article
For a more detailed answer, please refer to your surgeon. Recovery time may vary from case to case.
Medical Tourism in Ecuador
Ecuador has a rich cultural heritage. The city boasts of its majestic churches, buildings, and cities.
Moreover, you can savor the local food while touring the charming holiday destination.[22]Ecuador Travel
ECUADOR – A destination you must visit
“This beautiful country is a paradise everywhere you look at it. Let yourself be amazed by its culture expressed majestically in its churches, buildings and heritage cities.”
View in Article
Medical Tourism in Ecuador
Documents Required
- Passport with 6 months validity
- American visitors can visit Ecuador without a visa for a maximum of 90 days per calendar year.[23]US Embassy & Consulate in Ecuador
Frequently Asked Questions
“If you are a U.S. citizen wishing to enter Ecuador, you must present a U.S. passport with at least six months remaining validity…Under Ecuadorian law, U.S. citizens traveling for business or tourism on a tourist passport can enter Ecuador for up to 90 days per calendar year without a visa.”
View in Article
How to Reach Ecuador?
The easiest way to reach is via air. Have a look at the flight durations below.
| Origin | Flight Duration |
|---|---|
| Miami | 4h 12m |
| Atlanta | 5h 15m |
| Houston | 5h 20m |
| New York | 6h 40m |
Tourist Spots in Ecuador
Islands
Galapagos Islands
- The Galapagos Islands are a popular tourist destination due to their unique wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
- Visitors to the islands can explore the underwater world by scuba diving or snorkeling, where they’ll encounter an incredible variety of marine life.
- Hiking trails and nature walks offer opportunities to observe the islands’ distinctive flora and fauna up close.
- So make sure to bring a camera to capture the unforgettable sights![24]Ecuador.com
ECUADOR TOURISM, TOURS, TRAVEL
“The Galapagos Islands are, in themselves, a massive tourist attraction. Scuba diving spots and nature walks are available throughout the islands so remember to bring your cameras!”
View in Article
Wildlife
Machalilla National Park
- The wildlife park is located along the western coastline of Ecuador.
- It covers an area of approx 290 sq. miles.
- The park has a diversity of both dry and foggy forest.
- Moreover, it covers the beaches and shoreline, and a few islands.
- Birdwatching is a common activity here, with over 270 species migrating here.
- You can also see fauna such as iguanas, monkeys, and armadillos.[25]National Parks
Machalilla National Park
“Machalilla National Park is located along the coast in the far western side of Ecuador. The park covers an area of 289.8 square miles (750.59 sq km). The national park is comprised of forest diversity that includes both dry forest and fog forest…”
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Historical
Inca Ruins
- Ecuador’s tourism is booming because of these sites.
- The Ingapirca Inca Ruins is a magnificent sight.
- Other noteworthy Inca ruins include Rumicucho, La Tolita, and Tomebamba.
- In addition to the Incas, the Valdivia culture has left a significant historical legacy in the region.
- Similarly, there are numerous ruins scattered throughout the outskirts of Guayaquil.[26]Ecuador.com
Ecuador Tourism, Tours, Travel
“Another reason why Ecuador’s tourism is booming is because of the strong prevalence of Incan ruins in the area. The Ingapirca Inca Ruins are quite large and impressive to see. Also notable are the Inca ruins of Rumicucho, La Tolita and Tomebamba…”
View in Article
Market
Otavalo Market
- The Otavalo market in Otavalo is a popular destination for tourists.
- Here, you’ll find a wealth of beautifully crafted handmade goods that can make it difficult to decide what to purchase.
- However, no matter your choice, you can be assured of its high quality.[27]Ecuador.com
Ecuador Tourism, Tours, Travel
“Also popular amongst tourists is the Otavalo market in Otavalo. The abundance of well-made hand-crafted goods can make it quite challenging to choose what to buy, but you can be sure that you are getting top quality regardless of what you choose.”
View in Article
Local Food To Try
Treat yourself to the local cuisine alongside touring the city. Check out the various delicacies you can sample.
Quinoa
Fried Plantain
Bolon de Verde
Other delicacies that you can try are Fanesca, Chugchucaras and Guaguas de Pan.
SIM Cards
Prepaid SIM cards in Ecuador are available at the airport, convenience stores or online.
Some providers that you can choose from are[28]A Broken Backpack
Ecuador SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know
“If you’re traveling in Ecuador, we recommend using a SIM card from Claro, CNT, Movistar, or Airalo…You can either buy an Ecuador prepaid SIM card in person in some international airports, mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or online.”
View in Article
- Claro
- CNT
- Airalo
- Movistar
Language
Spanish is the official language of Ecuador. However, English is also spoken in various tourist areas.[29]Privacy Shield
Ecuador – Language
“Ecuador’s official language is Spanish, but Quichua, the lingua franca of the Inca Empire, is spoken by many of the indigenous people…English is spoken in major visitor centers.”
View in Article
Best Time To Visit
The greatest season to travel to Ecuador is from December to April/May.
Although this time period falls within the rainy season, the weather is surprisingly pleasant.[30]Travellers Worldwide
The Best Time to Visit Ecuador in 2023
“Overall, December to April/May is the best time to visit Ecuador for great weather, manageable crowds, and good prices. This period takes place during the wet season, but it’s surprisingly nice weather with brief rain showers…”
View in Article
Pleasant Weather in Ecuador
How Do I Travel Within Ecuador?
Time to hit the road! Ecuador has affordable transportation options for you.
Choose what suits your needs best from the options below.
Bus
Bus
- Buses are the most popular mode of getting around
- Local buses are frequently ornate rattletraps
- Long-distance routes are served by contemporary coaches with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and onboard movies
- Ecuador Hop and Wanderbus Ecuador provide gringo-friendly, hop-on, hop-off bus services with a variety of itineraries
Rentals
Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a fantastic alternative if you appreciate the freedom of open roads
- For most car rentals, a home driver’s licence and passport are sufficient
- Although an international licence is advised to prevent problems with the authorities
- The majority of the major highways are in good condition, certain local routes could need a 4WD
- In large cities, you may find international rental companies downtown and at airports
- Petrol is cheap. On the other hand, tolls can increase costs on some roadways
Taxi
Taxi
- Cabs can be beneficial for quick trips outside of town and for touring towns and cities
- Taxis in larger cities are normally yellow and metered, but they may not be in smaller towns
- Although the majority of drivers are trustworthy, it is advised to settle on a price before leaving to prevent any confusion
Source: Lonely Planet[31]Lonely Planet
The best ways to get around in Ecuador
“If there’s a road, whether it’s paved or gravel, it’s likely that some lavishly decorated rattletrap bus will be waiting to take you down it…Ecuador’s taxis are usually yellow, but only taxis in major cities tend to be metered. While drivers tend to be honest, it’s worth agreeing on a price before setting off.”
View in Article
Is It Safe To Get Bariatric Surgery in Ecuador?
It is safe to get bariatric surgery in Ecuador. However, as a medical tourist, you must know certain pointers.
- Know your surgeon’s qualifications
- Ask questions if you have any doubts
- Research the medical center you’ll be visiting
- Review past patient experiences
- Join a community of past patients to help prepare yourself
Furthermore, Ecuador is a relatively safe destination for travelers.[32]Travel Safe Abroad
How Safe Is Ecuador for Travel?
“Ecuador is somewhat safe to visit, though it has many dangers.”
View in Article However, you still need to stay on your guard.
Here are some safety tips you can follow.
- Stay alert in public areas
- Don’t wear flashy valuables
- Don’t carry more cash than required
- Stay alert when withdrawing money from ATMs
- Avoid walking alone in quiet areas after sunset
- Book a taxi via a registered service or your hotel
- Be wary of strangers, even if they seem friendly
- Keep your belongings carefully with you at all times
Source: UK Gov[33]GOV.UK
Foreign travel advice Ecuador
“Stay alert in public places and avoid walking alone in quiet areas or at night. Look after your belongings…Do not wear expensive jewellery when walking around, carry only the money you need for the day and take care of your credit cards…”
View in Article
FAQs
How much does a gastric sleeve cost in Ecuador?
The cost of a gastric sleeve in Ecuador is $6,500. The cost includes surgery, lab tests, endoscopy, hospital stay, and medications.
The surgery is 50% cheaper than in the US, costing a whopping $14,900.
What is the currency of Ecuador?
The US Dollar is the sole official currency accepted in Ecuador.
In addition to that, Ecuadorian-minted coins valued at 5c, 10c, 25c, and 50c are used alongside US coins.[34]GOV.UK
Foreign travel advice Ecuador
“Apart from Ecuadorean-minted 5c, 10c, 25c and 50c coins, which are used in parallel with the US equivalents, the US Dollar is the only legal currency in Ecuador. ”
View in Article
Conclusion
To sum it up, Ecuador offers safe and affordable weight loss procedures.
With experienced surgeons and modern facilities, it is a compelling alternative to your home country.
Fill out the questionnaire here and we’ll be in touch!
So, why the delay now? Get your passports ready and visit Ecuador to improve your overall health.
MTC offers quality medical services at affordable costs. Get a free quote now!
References
- Retire in Ecuador: Healthcare in Ecuador
- Travel Awaits: Retiring In Ecuador: 9 Things To Know About…
- Living Cost: Ecuador vs United States
- YapaTree: Healthcare US vs Ecuador
- Springer Link: The Role of the Nutritionist in a Multidisciplinary…
- Remitly: 5 Things to Know About Money in Ecuador
- Springer Link: Identification of technical errors and hazard…
- DuoUio: Gastric sleeve resection as same-day surgery
- NIH: Five-year outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
- NIH: Intragastric Balloon
- Springer Link: Safety and Efficacy of a New Swallowable…
- Mayo Clinic: Intragastric Balloon
- Springer Link: The Procedureless Elipse Gastric Balloon…
- NHS: Afterwards -Weight loss surgery
- TSACO: Early and late complications of bariatric operation
- Ecuador Travel: ECUADOR – A destination you must visit
- US Embassy & Consulate in Ecuador: Frequently Asked Questions
- Ecuador.com: Ecuador Tourism, Tours, Travel
- National Parks: Machalilla National Park
- A Broken Backpack: Ecuador SIM Cards…
- Privacy Shield: Ecuador – Language
- Travellers Worldwide: The Best Time to Visit Ecuador
- Travel Safe Abroad: How Safe Is Ecuador for Travel?
- GOV.UK: Foreign travel advice Ecuador
- Lonely Planet: The Best Ways To Get Around in Ecuador
