Medically Reviewed By: Dr. David Warmflash (MD), Dr. Valentina Milani (MD)
BariClip Weight Loss Surgery Mexico Guide
Weight loss procedures cost quite a buck if you don’t have insurance. In such a case, it’s helpful to look for options abroad, like, the BariClip Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico. It is a less invasive and reversible procedure that can help fight stubborn obesity. This post explores BariClip (aka GastriClip) surgery, its pros and cons, and if it is a good option for you.
Happy Patients Post Their Bariatric Surgery in Mexico
Why Choose BariClip Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico?
Here are some reasons to choose BariClip WLS in Mexico -
1. Easy to Qualify
- In the US, the candidate is disqualified from weight loss surgery (WLS) if there’s a family history of lung disease or previous drug addiction.
- Mexico has less-restrictive qualifications.
2. Affordable All-inclusive Packages
- In the US, you have to pay for all doctor consultations prior to the surgery.
- On the other hand, with medical tourism in Mexico, you can get an all-inclusive package for surgery, recovery, and consultations.
- What’s more, the all-inclusive package costs $6,900! In the US, you can expect to pay $15,000 for the surgery alone.
3. High Standard of Care
- Many hospitals (in Mexico) that receive medical tourists are accredited by international or local medical boards.
- These help to set the same standard of care, so you get treatment on par with the US hospital experience.
4. An Added Vacation
- Since BariClip surgery is minimally invasive, you may not be required to stay at the hospital.
- You can use this time to explore the new city!
What is the BariClip?
The BariClip (also known as gastric clip) is a silicone-coated titanium device inserted laparoscopically.
The titanium layer is rigid, while the silicone layer is smooth and provides comfort.
Once placed, the clip creates a narrow vertical section of the stomach, thereby reducing food capacity.
This allows the person to feel ‘fuller’ faster.
There is no stapling, cutting, or removal of the stomach.
The digestive anatomy stays intact, and hence, BariClip WLS is reversible. The procedure of the surgery is as follows:
BariClip WLS Procedure
Step 1: Initial preparations like injecting local anesthesia are made.
Step 2: The surgeon makes small incisions near the belly button.
Step 3: Hollow surgical instruments called trocars are inserted through these incisions.
Trocars allow the surgeon access to the abdominal cavity.
Step 4: The bariatric surgeon calibrates the size of the new stomach and places the BariClip.
Step 5: Any required adjustments are made and the BariClip is closed.
Step 6: Sutures are applied at the point where the clip and stomach wall meet to prevent slippage.
The pressure from the clip segments the stomach into two: the inner section with reduced stomach volume and the unused section. This is called gastroplasty.
Step 7: Follow-up with the doctor to monitor recovery.
Video Courtesy: Dr. Patrick Noel
Pros & Cons of BariClip WLS in Mexico
You can look at the following benefits of BariClip surgery:
- Reversible procedure
- Long-lasting weight loss[1]
- Anatomy of the stomach and intestines do not change
- Reduced post-surgical GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)[2]
BariClip, like any other procedure, has its own set of downsides, major ones are:
- A relatively new procedure - long term effectiveness and risks under research
- A foreign device inserted into the body
If you are on the fence about the BariClip, don’t worry; your surgeon will look at your case in detail and let you know if it’s a good option for you. If not, they will suggest alternatives.
Comparison of BariClip with Alternative Weight Loss Procedures
| Weight Loss Efficiency (first 2 yrs) |
Reversibility | Recovery |
| BariClip | ||
| 50% | Yes | Day surgery; 2-3 days soft diet |
| Lap Band | ||
| 40-50% | Yes | Day surgery; 2-3 days soft diet |
| Gastric Bypass | ||
| 60-70% | Difficult | 2 days hospital stay; 3 weeks soft diet |
| Sleeve Gastrectomy | ||
| 60-70% | No | 2 days hospital stay; 3 weeks soft diet |
For a cost comparison, please scroll down to the next section.
Cost of BariClip Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico
The average cost of BariClip weight loss surgery in Mexico is $6,900. This cost covers the following:
✔️ Initial consultation
✔️ Pre-operative tests
✔️ The BariClip device
✔️ Surgeon’s fee
✔️ Surgery and recovery related consumables
✔️ Follow-up consultation
Remember to consider travel and accommodation expenses when calculating the total cost of your trip.
| Cost Comparison of Weight Loss Procedures (in USD) | ||
| USA | Canada | Mexico |
| BariClip | ||
| $15,000 | $12,000 | $6,900 |
| Lap Band | ||
| $15,000 | $12,000 | $6,900 |
| Gastric Bypass | ||
| $23,000 | $17,000 | $5,995 |
| Sleeve Gastrectomy | ||
| $20,000 | $14,200 | $4,795 |
The above costs are indicative and the actual cost may vary from case to case.
Traveling to Mexico for BariClip Surgery
Cancun and Tijuana are two of the popular cities for BariClip WLS in Mexico. Here’s how you can travel to either of these places.
- Cancun is famous for its beaches and shopping centers.
- You can go on the Catamaran cruise to explore the waterways.
- Make sure to carry an empty bag for tons of shopping since you’ll find that prices are quite lower than in the US!
How to Reach Cancun?
Many cities from the US and Canada have direct flights to Cancun International Airport (CUN).
| Origin City | Flight Time |
| USA - Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 15 min |
| USA - Dallas (DFW) | 2 hr 40 min |
| USA - Los Angeles (LAX) | 4 h 36 min |
| Canada - Toronto (YYZ) | 4h 15 min |
| Canada - Montreal (YUL) | 4h 50 min |
- Tijuana is a well-guarded border and hence very safe to travel to.
- It is well known for its wrestling matches, locales and food joints.
- If you are a foodie, don’t forget to try the lobster!
How to Reach Tijuana?
Many cities from the US and Canada have direct flights to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ).
| Origin City (from USA) | Flight Time |
| San Diego (SAN) | 30 min |
| Phoenix (PHX) | 5 hr 50 min |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 2 h 14 min |
Frequently Asked Questions
Qualifications for the BariClip weight loss surgery in Mexico are:
◾ A body mass index >= 29
◾ A body mass index >= 25 and obesity-related comorbidities
◾ Inability to achieve sustained weight loss after significant efforts over a long period of time
Please consult a doctor for a detailed analysis of your case.
We recommend Dr. Hector Joaquin Perez.
◾ Bariatric surgeon certified by the Mexican Council of General Surgery
◾ 20+ years of experience, 3000+ successful surgeries
◾ Available at Victoria Hospital (Cancun) and Obesity Goodbye Center (Tijuana)
In some cases yes, and in others, no. It is easier to qualify for the BariClip surgery in Mexico than in many cities of the US. However, a doctor will ideally look at your case (weight, BMI, medical history, lifestyle habits, etc.) before recommending a surgical option, one of which can be the BariClip WLS.
- Yes, BariClip surgery in Mexico is safe.
- MTC recommended surgeons are highly-trained, experienced, and have a complication rate of < 1%.
- Many of them practice at locally or internationally accredited hospitals that follow all security protocols.
- These hospitals are also located in safe and civilized neighborhoods.
- So, you needn’t worry. Simply be your ‘travel-vigilant’ self - not going out alone at night, keeping your belongings safe, being respectful of locals, you get the idea!
- The person who undergoes BariClip WLS can return to a normal routine after the body heals.
- Food supplements are usually prescribed and regular health check-ups are recommended.[3]
- It is advisable to stay hydrated, exercise moderately and sleep 7-8 hours every day.
- Smoking and consumption of alcohol are to be avoided.
References
1. NIH: Gastric Clipping for Morbid Obesity
2. Springer Link: Laproscopic Clip Gastroplasty with BariClip
3. American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery: Life After Bariatric Surgery