Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Carlos Cuenca (MD), Dr. Julia Osei (MBChB, MHS)
Gastric Sleeve in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Are you seeking a safe and cost-effective surgical option for weight loss? Get affordable gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The city's top hospitals offer excellent bariatric services by experienced, board-certified surgeons. Want to reach your ideal weight by saving up to 70%? Read on.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery Puerto Vallarta Mexico - Review
Did you know?
The prevalence of adult obesity is 13% globally[1] and 42% in the US.[2]
Gastric sleeve surgery can be effective when diet & exercise alone do not produce desired WL results. Furthermore, losing that extra weight can often lead to improved health outcomes.
Curious about how gastric sleeve WLS can give you a new lease on life? To begin with, let's delve into some important facts about this type of surgery.
Key Facts About Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- Most popular weight loss surgery in the US and worldwide.
- Safe & successful surgery; 60-70% excess weight reduction in the first year.
- A safe bariatric treatment option for patients over 60 years of age.
- The top recommended surgery for adolescents with severe obesity.
- Better weight loss and comorbidity resolution in younger patients.
Source: VerywellHealth,[3], [4] Springer Link,[5] NCBI[6]
Want more information on the cost, procedure, recovery, and much more? Keep reading!
Cost of Gastric Sleeve in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
The average cost of gastric sleeve weight loss surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, is $4,950. This includes surgery, hospital and surgeon fees, meds, post-op support, a 2-night hotel stay, and ground transfers.
The same procedure in the US/Canada can cost between $15,000 and $17,000 or even more in some cases. Hence, you can save 70% on sleeve gastrectomy packages in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
| Location | Cost | Savings |
| Puerto Vallarta, Mexico | $4,950* | - |
| United States | $17,000 | 70% |
| Canada | $15,000 | 67% |
| *BMI < 50 | ||
# Prices are case-dependent. Contact us for a free quote.
Note: If the BMI is between 51-79, an extra charge of $1,250 to $2,500 will be applicable.
Wondering how to pay for gastric sleeve surgery in Puerto Vallarta? Here is the answer!
Puerto Vallarta Weight Loss Surgery Payment Options
- Cash, cards
- Paypal
- Wire/bank transfers
- SuperMoney (Medical loan)
Now you know how much gastric sleeve costs in Puerto Vallarta. Let's explore why this Mexican city is an excellent location for weight loss surgery.
Five Good Reasons to Get Sleeve in Puerto Vallarta (PV)
- Gastric sleeve Puerto Vallarta packages offer 70% cost savings
- The bariatric center in PV is state-of-the-art & internationally accredited
- You can get the surgery and aftercare from a certified WL surgeon
- Short flights from the US & Canada to Puerto Vallarta make travel hassle-free.
- A safe and friendly city for international tourists.[7]
Puerto Vallarta
Mermaid statue
After deciding on WLS in Puerto Vallarta, the next step is finding the best bariatric hospital and surgeon. Here we present to you the renowned WLS hospital and the top bariatric surgeon in Puerto Vallarta.
Best Hospital for Weight Loss Surgery in Puerto Vallarta
CMQ Premiere is a reputed hospital for medical tourism in Puerto Vallarta. Discover more about them below.
It is part of CMQ Hospitals, one of the most trusted healthcare networks in Puerto Vallarta. The hospital's highly trained bilingual staff ensures excellence in patient care.
Hospital CMQ is the only hospital in Puerto Vallarta, Mexi
- 100+ Happy Patients
- 2008 Established
- 24/7 Emergency Care
- Founded in 2008, it is one of the first hospitals in Puerto Vallarta to offer bariatric surgery. They have received accreditations from JCI, ACI, and CNQS.
- The hospital is just a 5-minute drive from the PV beach & hotel zone and 15 mins from the airport (PVR). For the convenience of their patients, they also provide airport pick-up services.
Best Bariatric Surgeon in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Your surgery will be performed by Dr. Sergio Del Hoyo, a board-certified bariatric surgeon in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Let’s learn more about him.
Dr. Sergio del Hoyo
15+ years
Surgeon and Obstetrician Degree
Expertise
Gastric Sleeve. Gastric Bypass RNY, SILS
Education
University of Guadalajara
- Certified as an Obesity and Metabolic Disease Surgeon
- Board Certifications: General Health Council, Mexican Board of General Surgery (C-120002)
- Performed over 3000 surgeries
- Member of Mexican Association of General Surgery (AMCG)
- Member of Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Diseases AC (CMCOEM)
- Member of Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery (AMCE)
- Member of International Federation Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO)
Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Reviews
Before & After Gastric Sleeve Bariatric Surgery in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Bariatric Surgery Center in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Reviews
Sherry Sigurdson, USGastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta
I am very happy!
The team at CMQ hospital were amazing. The care & attention paid to you is amazing. I am very happy I chose Dr Sergio & his team
Rosie Romero, CanadaBariatric surgery in Puerto Vallarta
Truly caring and professional!
I’m so grateful for everything they have done during and after my procedure! Dr. Del Hoyo is truly caring and professional.
Brandi Miller, USWeight loss surgery in Puerto Vallarta
Seamless process!
The entire process was seamless and the care I received was top notch. I traveled from Texas and would do it again!
If you think gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta is the right choice, don’t hesitate to call us.
Sleeve Gastrectomy Explained
The procedure surgically decreases the size of your stomach.
After surgery, your stomach will be about one-quarter of its original. It works by making you feel full faster so that you eat less.
The surgery is irreversible as most of the stomach is permanently removed.[8]
Gastric Sleeve
Sleeve gastrectomy is a bariatric surgical procedure using a laparoscope to cut about 80% of the stomach from the outer curvature, leaving about 20% stapled in.
Dr. Julia Osei
Gastric sleeve surgery is also called Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG) or Sleeve Gastrectomy (SG)
Am I Candidate for Gastric Sleeve Bariatric Surgery in Puerto Vallarta?
You may qualify for the surgery if you have a:[9]
- BMI of 40 kg/m2 or above with no comorbidities.
- BMI of 35 to 39.9 kg/m2 with one comorbidity such as obesity -related problems like Diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea, and severe osteoarthritis.
The surgery is a last resort after other weight loss methods have been attempted and proven unsuccessful.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Puerto Vallarta – What to Expect?
Here is what you can expect before, during, and after VSG in Puerto Vallarta.
How to Prepare for Gastric Sleeve in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
After deciding on gastric sleeve surgery, you'll need to take several preparatory steps over a few months. Here are some specific things you’ll need to do, but your Puerto Vallarta WLS surgeon may require others:[10]
- Talk to your insurance provider about your coverage.
- Join a WLS support group to educate yourself.
- Meet with a nutritionist to plan preop and post-op diet.
- Get a psychological evaluation from your doctor
- Request 1-3 weeks off from work for the recovery period.[11]
- Secure help at home from friends & family members.
Nutritionist consultation
Pre-operative Evaluation
The Puerto Vallarta weight loss team will perform a final evaluation in the pre-operative room. It involves the following: [12]
- Oxygen levels and vital signs like BP and heart rate will be checked
- Your weight will also be measured
- An IV drip, which will include prophylactic antibiotics to deliver necessary medicines & anesthesia, is attached
- Blood-thinning drugs are administered
- You will get general anesthesia to put you to sleep during the surgery
Measure weight
Check BP
IV drip
Note: Before surgery, you must fill out a questionnaire for pre-surgical evaluation in preparation for bariatric surgery.
Gastric Sleeve Procedure in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Under general sedation, your surgeon will make small incisions in your stomach and insert surgical tools and scopes. Then the surgeon will isolate the stomach using these tools and removes up to 80% of it using surgical staples.
This leaves a narrow vertical “sleeve.” The entire procedure takes between 40 and 70 minutes.[13] Watch this video to see how it is performed.
Video Courtesy: Ethicon
Bariatric surgery is part of a multidisciplinary approach to helping patients achieve weight loss goals
Dr Carlos Cuenca
What Happens After Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
After you wake from the sedation, your Puerto Vallarta weight loss team will monitor you for any complications. Your hospital stay will last for one to two nights.
During this time, you will be given pain medication to manage any soreness you feel.
You'll also need compression stockings to improve blood circulation and prevent blood clots.
If healing is progressing well and there are no complications, you'll be allowed to go home.
Source: VerywellHealth[14]
Bariatric compression socks
Puerto Vallarta Gastric Sleeve Surgery - Treatment Itinerary
- 1st day: Arrival
- 2nd day: Gastric sleeve surgery; stay in the hospital
- 3rd day: Leave the hospital
- 4th day: Rest in the hotel
- 5th day: Return home after post-op consultation.
Puerto Vallarta bariatric surgery package includes VIP transportation service.
Note: Itineraries vary according to individual circumstances.
Where Can I Stay for My Weight Loss Surgery in Puerto Vallarta?
Are you ready for a bariatric surgery trip to Puerto Vallarta? Then, consider this list of top hotels recommended by our partner hospital.
Crown Paradise Golden Resort Puerto Vallarta
Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta All Inclusive & Spa
Holiday & Inn Suites PV Marina & Golf
The preparation and procedure of your gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta are complete. Now it's time to walk through the recovery process.
Gastric Sleeve Recovery Process
Rest and recovery time is crucial to any surgery, and the gastric sleeve is no exception. So what does the recovery and rehabilitation look like? Let’s explore.
Post-gastric Sleeve Bariatric Surgery Guidelines
Typically, it takes between 4 and 6 weeks to resume regular activities following WLS. However, even after healing from the surgery, you will need to follow certain recovery practices. Here are some things you need to do to maintain healthy weight loss.
Diet
- Drink plenty of water
- Follow solid food resumption guidelines
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Take nutrient-rich foods such as lean protein, vegetables & fruits
- Avoid starchy and sugary foods
Medicines
- Follow your surgeon’s prescription
- Take prescribed pain medications for first 2 weeks
- Vitamin supplements for a lifetime
- Take probiotics to aid digestion & promote gut health
Exercise
- 30 minutes of moderate daily exercise is advised
- Full exercise can begin at four weeks
Smoking & Alcohol
- Continue to avoid smoking after surgery
- Avoid alcohol to prevent severe complications
Source: Medical News Today[15]
Surgery Follow-up Appointments & Timeline
Follow-up Schedule
- First follow-up: 2-3 weeks
- 2nd follow-up: 2-3 months
- Semi-annual check-ups: At 6 months & 1 year
- Long-term tracking: Yearly
Follow-up appointments involve:
- A physical health checkup
- Blood tests
- Advice/support about exercise & diet
- Psychological support
Source: VerywellHealth[16]
Follow-up schedules & appointments vary by case. Ensure to talk to your PV bariatric surgeon & dietician for post-surgery guidance.
Remember that recovery after VSG is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and trust the process.
Feel free to reach out to your PV weight loss team if you have any concerns. To learn more about VSG in Puerto Vallarta and the recovery process, schedule a consultation with us.
Gastric sleeve WLS is a game-changer for obesity but not a one-step solution. Thus, if you are interested in WLS, you are committing to a new and healthier lifestyle. To get a clearer picture of your commitments, ask these important questions.
Top 10 Must-Ask Questions for Your Gastric Sleeve Surgeon in Puerto Vallarta
- Is the gastric sleeve a viable option for me?
- What is the cost of the surgery?
- What are the risks and benefits involved with the procedure?
- How much weight can I lose after the surgery?
- What type of follow-up care do I need?
- What is the surgeon’s experience with gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta?
- Does the surgeon belong to any bariatric surgery organizations?
- Where will my surgery take place?
- Is the facility associated with any reputable medical board in Mexico?
- What are my options if I am unsatisfied with the gastric sleeve results?
These are just a few of the questions you should ask your WLS surgeon before deciding. Always ensure to do thorough research & ask all the questions that are important to you.
Are you ready for the trip? Here are some travel essentials to help you along.
Puerto Vallarta Medical Tourism: Travel Information
Puerto Vallarta is a stunning coastal town in Jalisco, Mexico. It is also one of the most unique and sophisticated oceanfronts in Mexico.[17] This city's beautiful beaches make it an ideal place for post-VSG recovery.
How to Reach?
With efficient land, air, and water connections, Puerto Vallarta is easily reachable from any part of the world.[17]
However, the most common way to reach the beach town from the US/Canada is by air. Many international airlines offer direct flights to Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR).
Flight times from the US range from 2.30 to 5.30 hours, depending on your departure city.
Non-Stop Flight Duration From Major American & Canadian Cities to Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR)
| City | Duration |
| Houston (IAH) | 2 hr 30 mins |
| Los Angeles (LAX) | 2 hr 50 mins |
| Denver (DEN) | 3 hr 20 mins |
| Atlanta (ATL) | 4 hr 15 mins |
| Seattle (SEA) | 4 hr 35 mins |
| New York (JFK) | 5 hr 37 mins |
| Vancouver (YVR) | 4 hr 50 mins |
| Toronto (YYZ) | 5 hr 05 mins |
Entry & Exit Requirements
US citizens need a passport & Mexican tourist permit. Visas are not required if staying for under 180 days.[18] For more information, visit the U.S. State Department's website
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit PV is from April to June. You can enjoy pleasant weather and affordable room rates during this time.
Culture & Customs
Spanish is the primary language spoken in PV. But many people working in the tourist zone are fluent in English. The country’s official currency is Mexican Peso. However, American dollars are widely accepted in Puerto Vallarta.
Getting Around Puerto Vallarta
By Car
- Easy access to all main attractions in Puerto Vallarta
- Expensive
By Taxi
- Inexpensive
- Minimum fare - $2.10 to $3.70; Airport to hotels - $20
- Uber app operates in PV
By Bus
- The cheapest option for getting around
- Take the blue, green or orange buses
- One-way bus fare starts at 50 cents
Car
Taxi
Bus
Source: US Travel News[19], [20]
Important Phone Numbers in Puerto Vallarta
| Services | Phone number |
| Emergency/Police/Ambulance | 911 |
| Puerto Vallarta International Airport | (322) 221-1298 |
| USA Consulate | (322) 222-0069 |
| Canadian Consulate | (322) 293-0098 |
| Immigration Office | 221-1380 |
| Tourist Protection | 223-2500 |
| Wake-Up Service | 031 |
| Motor Vehicle Dept | 224-8484 |
You know all about gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta but is the location safe? Continue reading to find out.
Is Puerto Vallarta Safe for Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Choosing to have WLS is a wise decision. But some patients may hesitate to undergo the procedure outside the U.S. However, with MTC, there is no need to worry.
We have partnered with the top hospital & surgeon in Puerto Vallarta for bariatric surgery.
- The state-of-the-art CMQ Premier hospital has 15 years of experience providing top-notch bariatric services in Mexico.
- The weight loss team led by the board-certified surgeon Dr. Sergio Del Hoyo has performed thousands of bariatric surgeries.
- The weight loss team in Puerto Vallarta is highly trained in the most advanced treatment options. They hold international patient experience.
So, you can expect excellent results with high safety and quality standards.
How Safe is Puerto Vallarta for Travel?
Regarding general safety, PV is one of the safest cities in Mexico.
It receives millions of visitors every year. Although minor thefts may happen, instances of violent crime are extremely rare.
The Mexican National Guard provides round-the-clock protection for the streets. However, as a medical tourist, you should be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
Puerto Vallarta downtown
Below is the list of safe and unsafe places in Puerto Vallarta to help ensure your safety during your trip.
Safest Places
- Downtown
- Marina Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta
- The Hotel Zone, The Romantic Zone
Places to Avoid at Night
- Colonias East of the Libramento
- Never walk along the highway
Source: Travel Safe Abroad[21]
Thus, Puerto Vallarta is the best option in Mexico for your safe gastric sleeve surgery.
Conclusion
Affordable gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, can fulfill your weight loss goals without breaking the bank. Plus, you receive safe and successful surgery from leading gastric sleeve surgeons in Puerto Vallarta. Contact us for more information.
FAQs
Dr. Sergio Del Hoyo is the best gastric sleeve surgeon in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. He's a board-certified weight loss surgeon in Mexico, known for offering excellent healthcare with compassion.
His team includes nutritionists, endoscopists, and anesthesiologists. With 15+ years of experience, they have performed 3000+ weight loss surgeries in Mexico.
He operates in the world-class hospital CMQ Premiere in Puerto Vallarta.
CMQ Premiere offers some of the best WLS treatments in Mexico. With state-of-the-art infrastructure, they perform high-volume bariatric surgeries in Puerto Vallarta.
They are also accredited by JCI, ACI, and CNCQS. In addition to exceptional medical care, it offers low-cost gastric sleeve packages as well.
Insurance coverage for gastric sleeve surgery in Puerto Vallarta depends on your policy's terms. It typically covers the procedure if the following requirements are met [22]
- A BMI of atleast 35
- Have an obesity-linked health issue (e.g., Type 2 diabetes, hypertension)
- Failed obesity treatments.
Moreover, you may need to show evidence about the procedure's necessity. So, carefully review your insurance policy. And consult your Puerto Vallarta gastric sleeve surgeon & insurer to check coverage options.
References
- WHO: Obesity and overweight
- Trust for America’s Health: State of Obesity 2022
- VeryWellHealth: Gastric Sleeve Surgery
- VeryWellHealth: Gastric Sleeve Surgery: Recovery
- SpringerLink: The Safety and Benefits of LSG in Elderly Patients
- NCBI: Use of SG in Adolescents and Young Adults
- TravelersWorldwide: Is Puerto Vallarta Safe to Visit in 2023?
- NIDDK: Types of Weight-loss Surgery
- Medical News Today: What to know about gastric sleeve surgery
- Bariatric Surgery Source: Gastric Sleeve Surgery – 14 Ways It Will Affect
- US Travel News: Puerto Vallarta Guide
- Visit Puerto Vallarta: How to get to Puerto Vallarta
- Travel.State.Gov: Mexico
- Travel Safe Abroad: How Safe Is Puerto Vallarta for Travel?
- Forbes: Gastric Sleeve - What To Know About The Surgical WL Procedure