Medically Reviewed By: Dr. David Warmflash (MD), Dr. Valentina Milani (MD)
Bariatric Surgery Mexico: Safe & Low Cost
Are you tired of endless diets and workouts that don’t deliver the desired results? Bariatric surgery in Mexico is the solution you’ve been looking for!
Nicole Parker: MTC's Happy Client
Nicole’s transformation after bariatric surgery in Mexico is just one of the many success stories at MTC. Starting at 276lbs, she turned to us for help and underwent bariatric surgery in Mexico on July 7th, 2021.
She successfully reached her goal weight of 140lbs, achieving an incredible transformation! Keep reading to learn how you can achieve the same results without spending big!
How Much is Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico?
The average cost of weight loss surgery in Mexico is about 70% lower than in the US. Bariatric surgery in Mexico starts from $4,000, while in the States it can cost up to a whooping $25,000!
| Country | Cost of Gastric Sleeve | Cost of Gastric Bypass |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico | $4,295* | $5,495* |
| USA | $21,000 | $23,000 |
| Canada | $18,000 | $22,000 |
| Australia | $14,500 | $16,000 |
| UK | $14,400 | $19,700 |
*Prices may vary case-to-case.
Did you know?
Gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico costs the lowest among the States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
Moreover, we offer all inclusive packages for weight loss surgery in Mexico! Need more details? Keep reading!
All-Inclusive Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico
Experience our all-inclusive weight loss surgery in Mexico ranging from $4,000 to $10,000. Let's get right to the details!
| Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass | Revision Surgery | D. Switch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost ( in USD) | |||
| $4,295 - $4,795 | $5,495 - $6,745 | $7,000 - $8,000 | $9,500 - $9, 900 |
| Stay Duration: Hospital + Hotel | |||
| 2+2 nights | 3+2 nights | 2+1 night | 3+2 nights |
| Recovery Period | |||
| 2-3 weeks[1] | 3-6 weeks[2] | 4-6 weeks[3] | 2-4 weeks[4] |
Wondering about the inclusions? The cost of our self-pay weight loss surgery Mexico package includes:
- Pre-op lab tests
- Pick-up and drop-off
- Hospital charges and stay
- Patient meals during the hospital stay
- Bariatric surgeon and Anesthesiologist's fee
- Destination support by a bilingual patient coordinator
- 2-night hotel stay
- X-rays and leak tests
- Take-home medication
- Follow-ups with bariatric surgeons
- Pre and post-op nutrition consultations
- Online support groups for lifestyle and emotional support
Why Medical Tourism Corporation?
Considering bariatric surgery in Mexico but unsure where to begin? Let us help! Join the ever-expanding community of satisfied patients at MTC.
MTC For Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico
*BBB: Better Business Bureau *US-RD: US Registered
Thousands select us for their weight loss surgery in Mexico, also because we offer:
Pick-Up and Drop-Off
- We provide free ground transfers from the following pick-up points:
- Cancun Airport (IATA: CUN)
- Guadalajara Airport (IATA: GDL)
- San Diego airport and hotel near border or airport (for Tijuana).
Free Hotel Stay
- We offer a free stay at The Grand in Tijuana, which features the Grand Care exclusive floor. It's equipped with:
- special food menus,
- medical beds with controls,
- a 24/7 exclusive reception for patients.
- Another option is Hotel Quartz in Tijuana!
Grand Care Room
Hotel Quartz
Top Bariatric Surgeons in Mexico
Looking for board-certified bariatric surgeons in Mexico? Look no further! Find more details about the best bariatric surgeons in Mexico below!
Dr. Guillermo Lopez : Bariatric Surgeon in Tijuana
Dr. Guillermo Lopez
38+ Years of Experience
MD Bariatrics
Expertise
Laparoscopic stomach surgeries
Education
Medical School from Mexico’s Autonomous University
- Medical Assistant Director at the Tijuana General Hospital.
- Laparoscopic surgery course from UABC, 1992
- Certified specialist in Bariatric Surgery by the Mexican Council of General Surgery AC.
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification by the American Heart Association.
Dr. Luis Cazares: Bariatric Surgeon in Tijuana
Dr. Luis Cazares
15+ Years of Experience
MD Bariatrics
Expertise
Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass, MGB, Revision WLS
Education
University of Nuevo Leon
- Professional License Number: 6249094
- Mini-fellowship Gastrosleeve, Dr. Juan A. Lopez Corvala, 2007
- 3,000 top-rated reviews from happy patients
Dr. Galieleo Villareal: Bariatric Surgeon in Nuevo Laredo
Dr. Galileo Villareal
11+ Years of Experience
MD Bariatrics
Expertise
Obesity surgery & advanced laparoscopy
Education
Medical School Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León in Monterrey, Mexico
- Fellowship in Gastric Banding
- Certified by the Mexican Council of General Surgery
- Certification: Advanced Laparoscopy endorsed by ECFA (Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery)
Dr. Hector Perez: Bariatric Surgeon in Cancun
Dr. Hector Perez
15+ Years of Experience
MD Bariatrics
Expertise
Gastric Sleeve, Bypass, Plication, and Lap Band
Education
Mexican Faculty of Medicine, La Salle University, Mexico City
- Medical Internship: Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami, 2001
- Board certified by Mexican Council of General Surgery, 2012 (recertified)
- Member of the Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases, 2013
Dr. Cristobal Garza: Bariatric Surgeon in Piedras Negras
Dr. Cristobal Garza
10+ years
General Medicine
Expertise
Minimally invasive bariatric surgery
Education
Universidad de Monterrey, Mexico
- Specialisation in minimally invasive bariatric surgery
- Member of Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity & Metabolic Diseases (CMCOEM)
- Performed over 10,000+ surgeries
Dr. Oscar H. Trevino: Bariatric Surgeon in Reynosa
Dr. Oscar Trevino
14+ years
MD Bariatrics
Expertise
Laparoscopic surgeries
Education
Monterrey University (UDEM)
- Diploma in Advanced Laparoscopy
- Member of the Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery
- Member of the Mexican Association of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases
Dr. Sergio del Hoyo
Bariatric Surgeon in Puerto Vallarta.
Experience: 15+ years
Education: Surgeon and Obstetrician Degree, University of Guadalajara. School of Medicine, Mexico
Memberships:
- Mexican Association of General Surgery
- Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery
- International Federation of Obesity and Metabolic Disease Surgery
Top Hospitals for Bariatric Surgery in Mexico
Here's where our provider surgeons practice weight loss surgery in Mexico.
Azura Hospital, Cancun
Surgeon: Dr. Hector Perez
Location: Av Sunyaxchen 59-6, Cancún, Mexico
Highlights:
- Established in 1979
- Formerly known as Victoria Hospital
- Equipped with a pharmacy, ICU and more
Reviews
⭐3.7 stars (111 google reviews)
“Excellent attention and service. Affordable prices, clean and adequate facilities. I highly recommend the doctor and the hospital.”
-Yolanda Pérez Pimentel
Hospital De Especialidades, Nuevo Laredo
Surgeon: Dr. Galileo Villareal
Location: A. Obregón 3256, Col. Jardín, Nvo. Laredo
Highlights:
- Established in 1990
- ICU with patient monitoring by telemetry
- Medical and emergency services 24 hours/365 days
Reviews
⭐4.1 stars (68 google reviews)
“Everyone is so nice and friendly. My son had a gastric sleeve. I'm so happy for him! Highly recommend them!!”
- Maria Fabila
LIMARP, Tijuana
Surgeon: Dr. Guillermo Lopez
Location: Blvd. Agua Caliente 4558-601, Tijuana
Highlights:
- Internationally renowned bariatric surgery center
- Accredited as an International Center of Excellence for Obesity
Review
⭐5.0 (46 google reviews)
“They took amazing care of me during my stay and surgery. I would definitely go back. Very attentive. Recommend it over anything we have in the states.”
- Jenna S
Blue Medical Tower
Surgeon: Dr. Luis Cazares
Location: Vía Ote. 9750, Zona Urbana Rio Tijuana, Tijuana
Highlights:
- Bilingual staff
- 25+ years of experience
- Minutes away from the Tijuana-US Border
Reviews
⭐4.9 (13 google reviews)
"The best experience! Despite being from the US and being unfamiliar with the language, they were incredibly accommodating and helpful, answering any questions I had. Highly recommended!
- Brigette Martinez
Obesity Goodbye Center
Surgeon: Dr. Hector Perez
Location: Francisco I. Madero 2050, Tijuana
Highlights:
- Fully equipped bariatric center
- Advanced sterilization system
- Meets US & Canadian Medical Standard
Reviews
⭐4.8 (38 google reviews)
“I am so grateful I was introduced to Obesity Goodbye Center. From the moment I walked in the door in December 2018, I was treated like I was their only patient. Thank you so much!”
- Debra Learn
CMQ Premier Hospital
Surgeon: Dr. Sergio del Hoyo
Location: Av. Francisco Villa, Col. Villas Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta
Highlights:
- Established in 2008
- Highly-trained and bilingual staff
- Included in the Canadian Consulate’s website
Reviews
⭐3.7 stars (86 google reviews)
“Came here from the U.S. for a surgery and I found this hospital to be amazing- perfectly clean, well run, very comfortable. The staff was excellent too!
- Emily V.
Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico Results
Prepare to be inspired and moved by the incredible journeys of our patients! Our expert surgeons have helped numerous individuals achieve remarkable weight loss.
Don't just take our word for it. Check out the jaw-dropping transformations that our patients have undergone!
Connie’s Testimonial
Came to have gastric sleeve in Tijuana four months ago. Lost 53 pounds! My husband saw my results and he wanted to do it too! Had great service from everybody through MTC.
- Connie, San Antonio, TX
Annie’s Testimonial
My third time to work with Medical Tourism Co. and I think it’s a wonderful company. The reason why I’m here the third time? My sister – she became very jealous of my wonderful results.
- Annie Brooks, Colorado
Everything About Dealing With Obesity
Struggling with obesity can bring about some serious health issues.
It can be type-2 diabetes, infertility, cancer, hypertension, stroke, heart attack and osteoarthritis.
But that’s not where it stops!
Obesity can also mess with your head, leading to depression and damaging the overall quality of life.[5]
In such situations, people often seek quick solutions rather than disrupting their lives for years.
Obesity Can Cause Depression
Prescription Weight Loss Drugs
In today's market, there are plenty of prescription weight loss drugs.
You've got choices like semaglutide, liraglutide, terzepatide, naltrexone-bupropion, phentermine-topiramate, orlistat, and setmelanotide.[6]
And there's a newbie on the block, Tirzepatide, which just finished its trials and is set to hit the market soon.[7]
These weight loss meds have fancy-sounding names and different active ingredients.
Tirzepatide (commercial name Mounjaro) was approved by the FDA in November 2023 and is already available in the market.
- Dr Valentina Milani
They help you lose weight, and each has its own way of working. Some of them like orlistat reduce fat absorption in your gut.[8]
A few medications like phentermine-topiramate, make you feel less hungry and more satisfied. The GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide and semaglutide act on your brain areas that control feeding, and also act on the gastrointestinal tract.[9] [10]
In general, weight loss pills come with the disclaimers about possible side effects, like
- Little nausea
- Loss of appetite
But in reality, they pose more severe concerns.
For instance, consider the GLP-1-receptor agonist drugs. They might trigger, even if on rare occasions, pancreatitis, bowel blockages, and a stomach condition called gastroparesis.[11]
And guess what? The newcomer will work on both GLP-1 and GIP, which pose an increased risk.[12]
The risk of side effects increases with the increase in the dosage of the medication itself.
-Dr Valentina Milani
Now, you might be curious about the safety record of previous weight loss drugs. The FDA took action by recalling a weight loss drug called locaserin.[13] It was marketed under a different brand name.
The regulatory agency considered it necessary to remove this drug from the market due to its cancer-causing ability.
Worried after hearing about those scary risks? Fret not. We're offering you safer alternatives! Keep scrolling down to learn about them.
Multiple Options: Types of Bariatric Surgery in Mexico
Explore weight loss surgeries in Mexico with our guide on the various options available south of the border. Let's dive right in!
Dr. Galileo Villareal on Types of Weight Loss Surgery
Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- Does not involve cutting or reconnecting the small intestine[14]
- Removal of a large part of the stomach- about 80% of it[15]
- A much simpler procedure than gastric bypass[16]
Also known as sleeve gastrectomy, vertical sleeve gastrectomy, gastric reduction, and vertical gastroplasty.
Gastric Bypass Surgery
- Roux-en-Y is French for in the form of a Y.
- It involves reducing the stomach to an egg-sized pouch.
- The pouch is reattached to the small intestine directly bypassing the stomach.
- This limits the absorption of fat and calories from the food you eat.
Source: ASMBS[17]
Also known as the roux-en-y gastric bypass.
Looking to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the gastric sleeve and gastric bypass procedures? Look no further than Dr. Villareal's detailed explanation!
Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass: Which One’s for You?
Duodenal Switch
The surgery involves altering the normal digestion process by:
- Removing part of the stomach to make it smaller
- Changing the small intestine so that bile and pancreatic juices mingle with digested food towards the middle or end of it.
Also known as biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, BPD-DS, gastric reduction duodenal switch, and GRDS.
Source: John Hopkins Medicine[18]
Gastric Balloon
- Inflatable apparatus is placed in the stomach endoscopically.
- It reduces the gastric space and makes the person feel full sooner.
- It is usually removed after nine months endoscopically.
Source: HealthDirect[19]
Also known as the Intragastric Balloon.
Is Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico Safe?
Wondering if bariatric surgery in Mexico is safe? Lets' find out!
To ensure safe and successful weight loss in Mexico, it's important to know if you're a good candidate. Bariatric surgery requires a high level of commitment and should only be considered if conventional means like:
- diet control and
- exercising have not helped.
Additionally, your BMI should be more than or equal to 30. It's the perfect option for you if you have obesity-related comorbidities, like:
- Coronary heart disease
- Sleep apnea
- Bone & joint problems
- Brain stroke risk
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Gallstones
- High blood pressure
- Infertility
- Menstrual disorders
- Hormonal problems
- Fatty liver disease
- Depression
- Asthma
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hernia
Source: ASMBS[20]
Fill out our medical questionnaire to get a better understanding of your eligibility for weight loss in Mexico.
Check out the video below to learn more about how weight loss surgery can work wonders in improving obesity-related health issues.
Bariatric Surgery Offers More Than Just Weight Loss
Bariatric surgery in Mexico is a safe procedure. With MTC, you get access to our weight loss surgeons who have:
- board-certification,
- an excellent track record,
- more than 80% of the practice in WLS,
- prior experience with US and Canadian patients.
They also offer post-surgery follow-ups and support. Still have some concerns? Hear directly from thousands of MTC's happy patients!
These general tips in mind can help offer you a safer experience:
- Choose a hospital in a safe locality.
- Consider bringing someone with you.
- Look up the credentials of the hospital and surgeons.
- Do not choose a location that involves prolonged traveling.
- For an added layer of protection arrange for aftercare back home.
- Ask for references – talk to previous patients and ask them about their experiences.
- Ask for medical reports and records- to update your local doctor and facilitate necessary follow-up in your home country.
We can help you plan your medical trip to Mexico. Contact us today!
Advantages of Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico
Top 5 Reasons to Choose Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico
Ozempic vs Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana
Top Bariatric Surgery Destinations in Mexico
Love the advantages weight loss surgery in Mexico provides over America & Canada? Let's dive deeper and take a look at the top bariatric surgery locations in Mexico!
Want to check white sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs off your bucket list? Then, Cancun is the medical tourism destination for you!
Along with diving and snorkelling, one can also visit many archaeological sites here. Wondering how to reach Cancun? Here's how:
| City | Time |
|---|---|
| Miami (MIA) | 1h 45min |
| Fort Lauderdale (FLL) | 1h 55min |
| Orlando (MCO) | 2h |
| Atlanta (ATL) | 2h 30 min |
| Charlotte (CLT) | 3h 10 min |
| Baltimore (BWI) | 3h 55 min |
| Washington (IAD) | 3h 50 min |
| Philadelphia (PHL) | 4h |
| New York (JFK) | 4h 10 min |
| San Francisco (SFO) | 5h 10 min |
| City | Time |
|---|---|
| Toronto (YYZ) | 4h 25 mins |
| Montreal (YUL) | 5h 10 mins |
| Quebec (YQB) | 4h 55mins |
| Calgary (YYC) | 5h 30 mins |
Looking for a close and affordable location in Mexico for your weight loss surgery? Then, Tijuana is just the place for you!
Located only about 20 miles from San Diego, CA, here's how you can reach Tijuana to avail:
- high-quality and
- affordable weight loss surgery.
Are you located near the Tijuana-US border? Wonderful! You can simply drive to Tijuana.
| From | Duration |
|---|---|
| San Diego | 30 mins |
| Los Angeles | 2h 48mins |
| Las Vegas | 5h 20mins |
| Phoneix | 5h 50mins |
Don't live near the border? No worries, we've got your back! You can take a flight to the San Diego International Airport, followed by a quick 30-minute road trip to reach Tijuana.
| From | Duration |
| Denver | 2h 30 min |
| Seattle | 2h 45mins |
| Dallas | 3h 10mins |
| New York | 6h 20mins |
Plan your medical trip with us today! Get in touch with us here.
Need more details about border-crossing? Watch this video for all the details!
Best Time to Cross The US-Tijuana Border
Nuevo Laredo as a top bariatric destination in Mexico is as close as it can get!
Only 10 miles from the bordering city Laredo in Texas, USA, people often drive there.
| From | Duration |
| San Diego | 1hr 45mins |
| San Antonio | 2h 36mins |
| Austin | 3hr 50mins |
Another bordering bariatric surgery destination in Mexico is Piedras Negras! Bordering the city of Eagle Pass in Texas, it's only 3.4 miles away!
Here's how long it'll take you to drive to Piedras Negras.
| City | Duration |
|---|---|
| San Antonio | 2 hr 31 minutes |
| Austin | 3 hr 40 minutes |
| Houston | 5 hr 21 minutes |
Reynosa offers plenty of tourist attractions and even easy accessibility! Bordering many US cities in Texas, it's only a short drive away.
| From | Duration |
|---|---|
| Hidalgo | 19 mins |
| San Juan | 35 mins |
| McAllen | 36 mins |
Bariatric Surgery in Reynosa, Mexico: Required Documents, Safety & More!
Need a warm, beachy and sunny bariatric destination? Puerto Vallarta is the place for you! Located in Jalisco state, it's a short flight away from the states.
| From | Duration |
|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 2h 55min |
| Denver | 3h 18 min |
| San Francisco | 3h 35 min |
| Chicago | 4h 35 min |
FAQs
Yes, with Medical Tourism Corporation you pay for your bariatric surgery in Mexico with the help of Supermoney!
Supermoney makes understanding medical loans easy for you. All you have to do is fill a form!
Within minutes, you will receive the best medical loan offers personalised for you. Compare rates, terms & features and choose the best option for yourself.
Weight loss surgery in Mexico is cheaper:
- Due to the lower cost of living as compared to US[21] & Canada.[22]
- Moreover, the cost of setting up a practice in Mexico is cheap too.
Learn more about why weight loss surgery in Mexico is cheaper than in the States from Dr. Perez in the video below.
Why is Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico Affordable?
Like any other surgery, bariatric surgery in Mexico has its own sets of risk. These are:
- Dumping Syndrome
- Developing Kidney Stones, and
- Weight Regain among others.
However, the risk of undergoing weight loss surgery in Mexico are minimal when compared to the health risks related to obesity like:
- sleep apnoea,
- diabetes,
- hypertension, and
- in some cases even premature death.
Source: Penn Medicine[23]
Wondering what your diet should look like before you undergo weight loss surgery in Mexico? We've got your back!
Check out Katelyn Mock, our US-registered bariatric dietitian, break it down for you!
Bariatric Surgery Diet and Lifestyle
Conclusion
Ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you? Look no further than bariatric surgery in Mexico! Achieve your weight loss goals and embrace a whole new lease on life with our top-notch procedures.
We know that planning a medical trip can be daunting, but don't worry, we've got you covered.
References
- The Gastric Guru: Gastric Sleeve
- VeryWellHealth: Gastric Bypass Surgery: Recovery
- The Gastric Guru: Revisional Surgery
- HealthLine: Everything You Need to Know About Duodenal..
- John Hopkins Medicine: Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- News Medical Net: Bariatric Surgery Research
- HealthLine: How Do Gastric Sleeve and Gastric Bypass..
- ASMBS: Bariatric Surgery Procedures
- John Hopkins Medicine: BPD/DS Weight-Loss Surgery
- HealthDirect: Inserting a Gastric Balloon
- ASMBS: Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- LivingCost.org: Mexico vs United States..
- LivingCost.org: Canada vs Mexico – Cost..
- PennMedicine: Is Bariatric Surgery Safe?
- CDC: Health Effects of Overweight and Obesity
- NIH: Prescription Medications to Treat Overweight & Obesity
- Fierce Pharma: Eli Lilly's weight loss drug passes 2nd trial with flying colours, setting up likel;y approval
- NCBI: Liraglutide: a review of the first once-daily GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Journal of Endocrinology: Effects of glucagon-like peptide 1 on appetite and body weight: focus on the CNS
- JAMA Network: Risk of Gastrointestinal Adverse Events Associated With Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists for Weight Loss
- NCBI: Tirzepatide
- US. FDA: FDA requests the withdrawal of the weight-loss drug Belviq, Belviq XR (lorcaserin) from the market