Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Are you struggling to lose weight?

Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is one of the best options to shed those extra pounds.

Mom & Daughter Lose Over 90LBS: Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana

Check out Janelle’s stunning post-gastric sleeve transformation below.
Janelle Woodburn - before and after her gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana
Janelle Woodburn had gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, in 2021.

After losing over 90 lbs in 17 months, she can proudly look at herself in the mirror!

She is now more determined than ever to treat her body with the care it deserves.


Janelle Woodburn
had gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, in 2021.

After losing over 90 lbs in 17 months, she can proudly look at herself in the mirror!

She is now more determined than ever to treat her body with the care it deserves.

Unlock your healthier self!

Get started today

Gastric Sleeve Surgery Cost in Tijuana Mexico

The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is $4,399.

The exact procedure costs over $14,800 in North America.

Hence, gastric sleeve cost in Tijuana is ~70% less than in your home country.

The following table shows the cost comparison between Tijuana, the US, and Canada:

Cost of gastric sleeve in Tijuana vs US vs Canada (in USD)
Location Cost Savings
Tijuana $4,399
US $14,900 70.5%
Canada $14,800 70.3%
*Prices are subject to change.

Time to reinvent yourself. Contact us now and get the latest prices!

In addition to incredible savings, the quality of care you’ll receive in Tijuana is second to none.

See below for options on how to pay for surgery & what the package price includes.

Accepted Payment Methods

There are 3 convenient ways to pay for Tijuana gastric sleeve:

Debit/Credit Card💳
Cash💵

Consult your surgeon before the bariatric surgery to know which payment methods their clinic accepts.

What if you can’t pay for the entire treatment in one go?

Buy Now, Pay Later

This option will help you get the surgery now and complete the payment over time.

For example, the gastric sleeve cost in Tijuana is $4,399.

You can choose a 6, 12, or 36-month plan to pay it.

The 6-month plan is interest-free.

But the 36-month plan can reduce your monthly deposit to as low as $153 a month.

Want to use this option?

  1. Make the payment here.
  2. Click on ‘Stripe’
  3. Enter the amount of your treatment
  4. Enter your email address.
  5. Click on ‘Affirm’
  6. Enter your payment details.
  7. Click on ‘Pay’… and it’s done!

Gastric Sleeve Surgery Package in Tijuana

Here are the services you’ll get if you choose the gastric sleeve in Tijuana package:

  • Surgeon and team
  • Patient coordinator
  • US-RD diet program
  • 1-week medicines
  • Phone calls & Wi-Fi
  • In-house labs
  • Local ground transfers
  • Hospital & hotel stay
  • Post-op follow-ups
  • Companion stay
  • Online support group
  • Sleeve-friendly meals

As you can see, our comprehensive package includes everything you need for a successful weight loss journey.

Board-Certified Gastric Sleeve Surgeons in Tijuana, Mexico

Tijuana is home to some of the best board-certified weight loss surgeons in Mexico.

They will help you achieve your weight loss goals safely and effectively.

Meet the top three gastric sleeve surgeons in Tijuana and check out their achievements:

Dr Luis Cazares | Bariatric Surgeon in Tijuana

Dr. Luis Cázares

  • 15+ years of experience.
  • Performed 3,000+ bariatric procedures.
  • Works at Oasis of Hope, an accredited hospital.
  • Certified by the Mexican Council of General Surgery
Dr. Guillermo Lopez | Bariatric Surgeon in Tijuana

Dr. Guillermo Lopez

  • 37+ years of professional experience.
  • 5,000+ general and laparoscopic surgeries to his credit.
  • Certified by the ASMBS.
Dr. Hector Perez | Bariatric Surgeon in Tijuana

Dr. Hector Perez

  • 15+ years of experience.
  • Specializes in Bariatric Surgery and General Surgery.
  • Certified by the Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases and the Mexican Council of General Surgery.

Our US-Certified Weight Loss Dietitian

Katelyn J Mock - Online Support Dietitian

Katelyn J: US-registered dietitian
  • Oversees MTC’s online bariatric groups and answers your diet and lifestyle-related queries.
  • BS in Allied Health Professions (Medical Dietetics) from the Ohio State University (2006)
  • Lead bariatric dietitian at the Ohio State University Medical Center
  • Certified by the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Bariatric Surgery Hospitals in Tijuana

MTC works with reputable hospitals to provide quality and affordable gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana.

The hospitals are well-equipped and located only 26-28 miles from the San Diego International Airport.

1. Oasis of Hope Hospital

With a track record of over five decades, Oasis of Hope is a state-of-the-art hospital.

Oasis of Hope Hospital in Tijuana, Mexico

Oasis of Hope Hospital

Some features include:

  • Bilingual doctors and nurses
  • In-house lab, imaging, and ICU
  • Personal rooms with a bed for accompanying guest, private bath, and Netflix connection
  • Chapel and dining area

Address: Paseo Playas de Tijuana 19 Fracc. Playas de Tijuana

2. Twin Towers Hospital

It is an International Center of Excellence for bariatric surgery.

Twin Towers Hospital in Tijuana, Mexico

Twin Towers Hospital

It is located in the beautiful Twin Towers complex and offers a pleasant environment for recovery.

Some of its highlights are:

  • US standards of safety and effective bariatric procedures
  • Accredited by the SRC
  • Certified by the General Health Council

Address: Paseo del Parque 18025, Zona Río Tercera Etapa, 22654 Tijuana, B.C.

A 5-Day Journey Towards Health

Wondering what the whole process will look like? Check out this table.

Patient’s journey – from arrival to departure
Day Gastric Sleeve Tijuana Schedule
Day 1 Arrival in San Diego. Free airport pick-up is anytime between 8 am to 8 pm.
Day 2 Have your surgery. Stay at the hospital the night after surgery.
Day 3 Stay at the hospital.
Day 4 Stay at the hotel.
Day 5 Depart (border medical line doesn’t open until 9 am).

 Want to know the experience other patients had? Here you go!

Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana Mexico Reviews

Check out the stunning transformation of one of our clients after gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico!

Keri shares the best perks of surgery in Tijuana

Tijuana is a popular destination with medical tourists from Australia and New Zealand.

Keri traveled from Hawke’s Bay to TJ for her sleeve surgery.

She found the prices to be a lot lower than in New Zealand.

See why Malia suggests Tijuana for VSG

A friend recommended MTC to Malia for vertical sleeve gastrectomy.

She decided to travel south of the border because her American insurance did not cover the procedure.

Why Choose Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana, Mexico?

If you’re considering gastric sleeve in Tijuana, here are the top reasons to help you decide:

Big Savings

Get ready to save ~70% on your gastric sleeve in Tijuana compared to the US and Canada.

Easy Access

TJ is only 22 miles from San Diego airport, which means less travel time for US and Canadian patients.

San Diego has an international airport, so it’s easy to get to from anywhere in North America.

Familiar Culture

The border town is quite Americanized, so you’ll feel right at home.

You won’t have to worry about language barriers since many people speak English.

7 Reasons to Choose Tijuana for Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Tijuana: A hub for weight loss surgeries

Minimal Waiting Times

Because of negligible waiting times, you won’t face any scheduling problems.

That means you’ll start your journey toward a healthier life as soon as possible.

Certified Bariatric Surgeons

Experienced surgeons will treat you with state-of-the-art technology like laparoscopes for the best results.

Personalized Care

You’ll have access to personalized care and support throughout your journey.

Tijuana doctors provide pre-op and post-op consultations.

Vacation in Tijuana

Tijuana is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage.

During your stay, you can explore its many museums, art galleries, and restaurants.

What Is a Gastric Sleeve?

Procedure of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery

Also known as VSG, gastric sleeve is a minimally invasive procedure.[1]ASMBS
Bariatric Surgery Procedures
“They are performed with small incisions using minimally invasive surgical techniques (laparoscopic and robotic surgery)”
View in Article

The surgeon removes 80% of your stomach during this procedure, leaving 20% behind.[2]ASMBS
https://asmbs.org/patients/bariatric-surgery-procedures
“The Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, often called the “sleeve”, is performed by removing approximately 80% of the stomach.”
View in Article

The remaining stomach takes the shape of a “sleeve”. Hence the name.

The result is a mean EWL of about 82% within the 1st year.[3]NCBI
Five-year outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a primary procedure for morbid obesity: A prospective study
“mean percent of excess of weight loss (%EWL) was 82.0 ± 18.8 at 1 year”
View in Article

The removed portion of the stomach is responsible for producing the hunger-causing hormone – Ghrelin.[4]NCBI
Five-year outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a primary procedure for morbid obesity: A prospective study
“LSG is not merely a restrictive procedure. LSG provokes a rapid gastric emptying of solid food, accelerates intestinal transit and induces a favourable change in the gut hormones, thereby facilitating weight loss through restriction and appetite suppression, given the reduction in the ghrelin levels after resection of the gastric fundus”
View in Article

Without it, you feel less hungry, which makes it easier to follow the recommended diet after surgery.

Success Rate of Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Here is the table that shows remarkable success rates of gastric sleeve surgery:[5]NCBI
Five-year outcomes of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy as a primary procedure for morbid obesity: A prospective study
“The overall success rate, defined when %EWL is > 50%, was 96.1% of the patients after 1 year, 95.1% after 2 years, 89.5% after 3 years, 82.1% after 4 years and 73.0% after 5 years.”
View in Article

Success rate of gastric sleeve (1 to 5 years)
Yrs Post Op Patients With >50% EWL
1 year 96.1%
2 years 95.1%
3 years 89.5%
4 years 82.1%
5 years 73.0%

Who Is a Good Candidate for Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana?

To be eligible for the sleeve gastrectomy in Tijuana, Mexico, you should have:[6]NHS UK
Weight loss surgery (Bariatric surgery)
“Weight loss surgery is available on the NHS if: you have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or a BMI between 35 and 40 and an obesity-related condition that might improve if you lost weight (such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure) ”
View in Article

  • BMI higher than 30,
  • Family medical history of obesity-related co-morbidities (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea),
  • Previous failed attempts at weight loss through dieting and exercising.

Pre-Op Diet

Losing 5-10% of weight before surgery makes the procedure easier.[7]NCBI
Diet approach before and after bariatric surgery
“…a modest weight loss of 5–10% in the immediate preoperative period has been suggested as a mean to facilitate surgery… reported to reduce liver size and intra-abdominal fat mass, blood loss, short-term complications as well as operation time”
View in Article

It shrinks the liver and reduces intra-abdominal fat mass, which helps the surgeon navigate your abdomen better.

Not only does this reduce the operation time, but it also lowers the risk of complications.

There are different ways to lose weight before surgery, like:[8]NCBI
Diet approach before and after bariatric surgery
“Preoperative weight loss can be obtained with several regimens, such as low-calorie diets (LCD) (800–1200 kcal/day), very low-calorie diets (VLCD) (600 kcal/day), or a hypocaloric diet combined with IGB placement, and the question of which method provides the best results in terms of weight loss and patients’ compliance, tolerance, and acceptance is still under debate. ”
View in Article

  • Low-calorie diets (800-1200 calories per day)
  • Very low-calorie diets (600 calories per day)

In addition to making it easier for the surgeon to operate, following the pre-op diet will help establish a routine.

The 2 to 4 week routine will make your post-op efforts to lose weight much more effective.

After Care

After your surgery, you’ll receive a unique diet plan tailored to your needs.

Here’s an example of what it might look like:[9]NHS
Afterwards
“You’ll be given a diet plan to follow after surgery.”
View in Article

  • In the first few days, you’ll only be able to have liquids, like thin soup.
  • For the next 4 weeks, you’ll need to eat runny foods, such as yogurt or puréed food.
  • From weeks 4 to 6, you can move on to soft foods like mashed potatoes.
  • After week 6, you can gradually return to a healthy, balanced diet.

During your recovery, you’ll also have to:[10]NHS
Afterwards
“eat slowly, chew carefully and only eat small amounts at a time – particularly during the early stages of your recovery avoid, or be careful when eating, foods that could block your stomach, such as soft white bread take vitamin and mineral supplements”
View in Article

  • Eat slowly, chew carefully, and only eat small amounts at a time.
  • Be careful when eating foods that could block your stomach, like soft white bread.
  • Take vitamin and mineral supplements to get all the nutrients your body needs.

Gastric Sleeve vs. Gastric Bypass in Tijuana, Mexico

Both gastric sleeve and gastric bypass are effective weight loss procedures.

The following table compares the two surgeries.

Comparison of gastric sleeve vs gastric bypass
Feature Sleeve Bypass
Recovery[11]NHS
Weight loss surgery (Bariatric surgery)
“Most people are well enough to leave hospital one to four days after surgery and resume normal activities within four to six weeks.”
View in Article
4 to 6 weeks 4 to 6 weeks
EWL (10 Years)[12]JAMA Network
Weight Loss Is Still Substantial a Decade After Bariatric Surgery
“A decade after the procedures, median percentage of excess weight losss was 43.5% for LSG and 50.7% for LRYGB among 193 patients who completed the follow-up.”
View in Article
43.5% 50.7%
Dumping Syndrome[13]Research Square
Incidence of Dumping Syndrome after Sleeve Gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and OneAnastomosis Gastric Bypass
“DS occurred in 15.6% after SG, in 56.4% after RYGB”
View in Article
Low risk High risk
Reversal[14]NHS
Weight loss surgery (Bariatric surgery)
“A gastric bypass or a sleeve gastrectomy, on the other hand, can’t be reversed.”
View in Article
Not possible Not possible
Revision Options Gastric bypass[15]NIH
Revision surgery after sleeve gastrectomy: a nationwide study with 10 years of follow-up
“The most common revision procedure was gastric bypass (75.2%), followed by resleeve (18.7%). ”
View in Article
StomaphyX, TORe[16]MDPI
Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe) for the Treatment of Weight Regain and Dumping Syndrome after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
“Transoral Outlet Reduction (TORe) for the Treatment of Weight Regain and Dumping Syndrome after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass”
View in Article
Changes to Intestines No change Small intestine is re-arranged

It’s time to get ready for your trip to Tijuana!

Medical Tourism in Tijuana, Mexico

Medical tourism in Tijuana, Mexico, differs from your average healthcare experience![17]The Yucatan Times
High healthcare costs in the US are triggering a Medical Tourism boom in Mexico
“Medical Tourism in Mexico has consistently grown over the last several years, with more than a million visitors from the US, Canada, and the other countries traveling every year to Mexico for healthcare.”
View in Article

It’s a complete package that makes getting medical treatment a breeze.

But the best part? Tijuana is an incredible city with a vibrant culture and a stunning landscape.

You’ll have plenty to do and see during your stay, such as

  • Exploring museums and art galleries
  • Trying new foods
  • Taking at the sights

But let’s find out more in the following sections.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Tijuana, Mexico

Take advantage of your trip to Tijuana for weight loss surgery in Mexico.

These are some of the must-see places to add to your itinerary:

  • Tijuana Cultural Center: Discover the fascinating history of Baja California at this incredible museum.
  • Avenida Revolucion: Hit the main street of Tijuana and explore this vibrant avenue.
  • El Trompo: Get interactive at this fantastic science museum with fun, hands-on exhibits.
  • Pasaje Rodriguez: Stroll down this lively alley filled with street art, delicious food, and incredible energy.
  • El Popo Market: Shop local and discover unique products at this bustling market.
  • Playas de Tijuana: Walk along the four-mile pedestrian bridge stretching from Aztec Park to the US border.
  • Plaza Santa Cecilia: Immerse yourself in the oldest part of the city.

Travel Time

The hospitals we recommend in Tijuana are only 26-28 miles from the San Diego International Airport (IATA: SAN).

You can drive to Tijuana from the southwest border US cities or take a short flight.

See our table below to find your most convenient travel option:

Avg. time from cities in US & Canada to Tijuana
City Distance Flight Drive
San Diego 20.1 miles 32 min 28 min
Los Angeles 137.4 miles 45 min 2 hr 10 min
Las Vegas 347.8 miles 1 hr 3 min 5 hr 15 min
Phoenix 365.6 miles 1 hr 5 min 5 hr 42 min
New York 2,770 miles 5 hr 22 min 42 hr
Vancouver 2,276.2 km 2 hr 54 min 22 hr 20 min
Toronto 4,177.5 km 4 hr 50 min 38 hr

Required Documents to Tijuana

You don’t need a visa when coming to Tijuana from the US or Canada.[18]General Consulate of Mexico in Toronto
Visitors who do not require a visa, with a stay up to 180 days
“All foreign visitors, regardless of their nationality, traveling to Mexico for tourism, business or in transit to another destination, are exempt from presenting a Mexican visa as long as they have a valid visa issued by any the following countries: Canada, Japan, the United States of America, the United Kingdom or any of the countries comprising the Schengen Area. ”
View in Article

However, the documents you need include:[19]Travel.State.Gov
Crossing the U.S. – Mexico Border by Land
“U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM). ”
View in Article

  • A valid passport.
  • Forma Migratoria Multiple issued by Instituto Nacional de Migración.
  • Valid proof of automobile registration when coming by land.

Tips for Tourist Safety in Tijuana

Here are handy tips on how to have a safe trip to Tijuana:[20]Travellers Worldwide
Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2023? | Safety Concerns
“Yes, visitors from Tijuana are typically safe as long as they stick to well-patrolled touristy areas and avoid trouble. ”
View in Article

  • Don’t walk alone at night.
  • Stick to crowded tourist areas.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  • Dress casually.
  • Carry your belongings with you.
  • Eat foods that are cooked all the way through.
  • Avoid food sitting out in the open.
  • Avoid unwashed fruits and vegetables.

FAQs


How much is gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico?

Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico costs $4,399. In the US, the same costs over $14,800!

This means you can save ~70% on the same quality of surgery in Mexico!

Mexico offers excellent medical services and top-notch facilities at a lower price.

In fact, gastric sleeve patients have been amazed at the quality of care and meager costs.

Why is gastric sleeve surgery cheaper in Mexico?

Gastric sleeve in Mexico is cheaper due to a variety of factors,[21]Living Cost
Mexico vs United States – Cost of Living Comparison
“The average cost of living in Mexico ($786) is 64% less expensive than in the United States ($2213). ”
View in Article
including:

  • lower overhead costs
  • lower physicians’ salary[22]Becker’s ASC Review
    How physician pay in the US compares to other countries: 11 findings
    “On average, physicians in the U.S. earned the most ($316,000) per year, followed by Germany ($183,000) and the U.K. ($138,000). Physicians in Mexico earned the least at $12,000”
    View in Article
  • cheaper medical supplies
  • more affordable healthcare options in Mexico

The close proximity of Mexico to the US and Canada allows patients to take a medical vacation.

They receive high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost back home.

Why do people go to Tijuana for gastric sleeve?

The prime reason why people choose gastric sleeve Tijuana is its low price.

Additionally, the skilled surgeons in Tijuana are experts in their field. And the state-of-the-art facilities rival those in the US.

Plus, recovering in the beautiful city of Tijuana is worth enjoying as you heal and transform your body.

Who qualifies for gastric sleeve in Mexico?

If you have a BMI over 30, you’re eligible for gastric sleeve in Mexico.

However, you should consult your doctor so he can advise on what’s best for you.

Is it safe to get gastric sleeve in Mexico?

Many people ask if gastric sleeve surgery is safe in Mexico, and the answer is a resounding yes!

It’s not only safe but also highly effective.

MTC’s panel of bariatric surgeons in Mexico have experience with thousands of procedures.

Plus, the dedicated medical staff provides excellent support every step of the way!


Conclusion

Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, is a game-changer for obesity and co-related health issues.

Thanks to this surgery, you could lose ~66% of your excess weight![23]NHS
Weight loss surgery (Bariatric surgery)
“people with a gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy lose around two-thirds of their excess body weight.”
View in Article

Fill out this medical questionnaire to start your unforgettable weight loss journey today!

References

  1. ASMBS: Bariatric Surgery Procedures
  2. NCBI: Diet approach before and after bariatric surgery
  3. NHS: Afterwards
  4. JAMA Network: Weight Loss Is Still Substantial a Decade After Bariatric Surgery
  5. Research Square: Incidence of Dumping Syndrome after Sleeve Gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and OneAnastomosis Gastric Bypass
  6. NIH: Revision Surgery After Sleeve Gastrectomy
  7. NIH: Revision of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass for Inadequate Weight Loss or Weight Regain
  8. MDPI: TORe for the Treatment of Weight Regain and Dumping Syndrome after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
  9. The Yucatan Times: High healthcare costs in the US are triggering a Medical Tourism boom in Mexico
  10. General Consulate of Mexico: Visitors who do not require a visa, with a stay up to 180 days
  11. Travel.State.Gov: Crossing the U.S. – Mexico Border by Land
  12. Travellers Worldwide: Is Tijuana Safe to Visit in 2023? | Safety Concerns
  13. Living Cost: Mexico vs United States – Cost of Living Comparison
  14. Becker’s ASC Review: How physician pay in the US compares to other countries