Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Anne Saidu (MD), Dr. Suresh Koneswaran (MD, FACC)
The In-Depth Guide To Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery in Tijuana
Getting a mini gastric bypass in Tijuana dismisses the life-threatening implications of excessive weight. It can also resolve your monetary concern by letting you save upto 75% of the US cost. Sounds unbelievable? Read on to find out the cost, surgeons, hospitals, and surgical procedures for this weight loss method in Tijuana.
Video Courtesy: Healthier Weight
Surgeons in Tijuana have more advanced medical training, access to cutting-edge technology, and deliver speedier service than those in the United States.[1]
-Mexborder
Why Choose Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery in Tijuana?
Here are some pros to getting a mini-gastric bypass done in Tijuana:
Affordable
Mexico is 66% less expensive than the US.[2]
State-of-the-Art Healthcare
Hospitals have internationally trained surgeons.
Proximity
Tijuana is a short drive from San Diego Airport.
Bonus Sojourn
Tijuana is a buzzword for earthly pleasures.
Now, allow us to prove that mini gastric bypass surgery in Tijuana will not cost you an arm and a leg.
Cost of Mini Gastric Bypass Surgery in Tijuana
If you are planning to get mini gastric bypass surgery but do not have insurance, Tijuana is the right place for you!
Mini bypass in Tijuana costs $5,495. In contrast, the same procedure costs around $22,000 in the US and $15,000 in Canada. Hence, you can save up to 75% on getting a mini gastric bypass in Tijuana.
| Procedure | Tijuana | US | Canada | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini gastric bypass | $5,495 | $22,000 | $15,000 | 75% |
Prices are subject to change. The actual price depends on the clinic of your choice and your specific case.
Low-cost mini-gastric surgery in Tijuana does not mean any compromise on the quality of the procedure. Do not believe us? Check out the below section to read about the state-of-the-art hospitals where your surgery will be performed.
Top Bariatric Hospitals for Mini Gastric Bypass in Tijuana
Before going for any surgery in a new country, it's essential to know where you will be operated. We have curated the list of best hospitals in Tijuana for MGB.
The center is reputed for its high standards and commitment to helping patients achieve their weight loss goals.
Accredited as an International Center of Excellence by Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) three times consecutively, LIMARP, Tijuana, maintains rigorous standards.
The centre also em
- 20+ Years of Experience
- SRC Certified
- MGCH Certified
- The hospital has over 20 years of experience. Further, It specializes in weight loss surgery and uses advanced tools like electrosurgical cables and trocar cannulas.
- Plus, all staff members speak English. LIMARP has some of the best bariatric surgeons, including Dr. Guillermo Lopez.
- It is noteworthy that the hospital has received the International Center of Excellence Award by Surgical Review Corporation 3 times.
The hospital offers various treatment options, including general surgery, orthopedic surgery, bariatric surgery, and alternative cancer treatment services.
Over 100,000 people from 60+ nations have chosen it fo
- 60 Years of Excellence
- 100k Patients
- BBB Accreditated
- Founded in 1963, it’s one of the best hospitals in Mexico and has 50+ years of experience.
- The surgeons have performed 6,000+ bariatric surgeries and have catered to 100,000+ international patients.
- Further, the hospital has English-speaking coordinators who will help you plan your itinerary.
- The hospital provides comfortable rooms with WiFi, cable TV, a computer, and specialized meals.
Let's now overview the best surgeons in Tijuana for MGB.
Best Bariatric Surgeon in Tijuana
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
- No. of surgeries: 5,000+
- Success Rate: 99%
- Accreditations: Mexican Council of General Surgery
Dr. Guillermo Lopez
38+ Years of Experience
MD Bariatrics
Expertise
Laparoscopic stomach surgeries
Education
Medical School from Mexico’s Autonomous University
- No. of surgeries: 5,000+
- Accreditations: American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- Language: Mexican & English
Dr. Luis Cazares
15+ Years of Experience
MD Bariatrics
Expertise
Gastric Sleeve, Gastric Bypass, MGB, Revision WLS
Education
University of Nuevo Leon
- No. of surgeries: 3,000+
- Language: Mexican & English
We know the weight loss journey is not as easy as it seems. Contact us, and we will alleviate your concerns to the best of our abilities.
All About Mini Gastric Bypass in Tijuana
Before you decide to travel to Tijuana for a mini gastric bypass, you might want to get your facts checked about this procedure.
What is a Mini Gastric Bypass?
Also known as a single anastomosis gastric bypass (SAGB), a mini gastric bypass is similar to a traditional bypass.[3]
Mini Gastric Bypass Illustration
Surgeons developed the mini bypass to reduce operating time by 50% while ensuring the same weight loss results. Mini gastric bypass is also more successful than its counterparts.[4]
Duration
45-60 Minutes
Hospital
2 Days
Hotel
1 Day
Recovery
4-6 Weeks
Surgeons divide your stomach using a laparoscopic stapler so most of your stomach isn't attached to the esophagus.
Your new stomach is now shaped like a small tube, and you get full quicker. After the food flows through your stomach and small intestine, expected digestion proceeds.
A mini gastric bypass works by reducing the size of your stomach, so you're less hungry and feel fuller for longer.
And because you're eating significantly less food over a long period, your body starts using the fat stores to fuel itself, so you lose weight.
Science Direct [5]
A mini gastric bypass has a high success rate. Most patients expect to lose 60 to 88 percent of excess weight within the first two years of the procedure.
After this, you'll continue a steady weight loss rate until you're at 77 percent excess weight loss after 6 years and 70% at 12 years.
Pubmed[6]
Excess Weight loss after MGB in Tijuana
- Reversible
- Higher success rate
- Requires fewer incisions
- Lowers the risk of hernias
- 50 minutes shorter than a regular bypass
- Acid reflux
- Chance of infection
- Dumping syndrome
- Higher risk of malabsorption of nutrients
Care After Mini Gastric Bypass in Tijuana
Once the surgery is done, you will be subject to many do's and don't's to expedite your healing process. The below section will help you sail smoothly through the recovery road.
After surgery, note that you'll be on a liquid or puréed meal for 2 to 3 weeks. To avoid a blood clot, you may need to give yourself shots of a blood-thinning medicine below your skin for two or more weeks.
Further, your doctor will give you medication for gallstones. Additionally, calcium and other vitamin supplements may be required.
Do's
- Short walk
- Use the stairs
- Light exercise
- Gardening or housework
Don't's
- Lift anything more than 10 to 15 pounds
- Do any activity that involves pushing or pulling
- Use any heavy machinery or a car
If your provider instructs you to, you may change the dressing daily. While your incisions are healing, avoid wearing tight clothes that rub against them.
Keep your wound's dressing (bandage) clean and dry. When you need to cough or sneeze, place a pillow over your incisions.
You will visit your surgeon and several other professionals to assist you in recovering from surgery. You will likely have a follow-up visit with your surgeon planned within a few weeks.
Other appointments include:
1. A nutritionist
2. An expert in psychology
3. Testing facilities
Source: MedlinePlus.Gov[7]
Quick side note: You'll never be able to return to your previous diet because a bypass limits your ability to absorb nutrients.
So stick to nutrient-dense foods like vegetables, fish, eggs, and meats. Avoid processed foods since they'll be filled with sugar and offer little nutritional value.
What Is the Difference Between Gastric Bypass and Mini Gastric Bypass?
A mini gastric bypass and traditional gastric bypass (also known as Roux-En-Y) are similar because they both create a small pouch using the stomach and connect it to the small intestine.
The main difference is that the mini version is quicker, simpler, cheaper, and gives better results than its 'big brother.'
Source: Sciencedirect[8]
Gastric Bypass in Tijuana
Before & After Images of Mini Gastric Bypass in Tijuana
Your mind might ask you to find visual evidence before getting convinced about the surgery.
Patient Review of Mini Gastric Bypass in Tijuana
Hearing a patient testimonial is a sure-shot way to alleviate your concerns about getting a mini gastric bypass in Tijuana.
Watch Paul from the US talk about his experience getting a mini gastric bypass in Tijuana
Is Tijuana Safe for Mini Gastric Bypass?
Mini Gastric Bypass in Tijuana is absolutely safe! You should note that World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has given a "Safe Travel" stamp to Mexico's national destinations.[9]
Further, Miguel Torruco, secretary of tourism in Mexico, said, "In 2018, Tijuana received 1.7 million patients and companions, mostly from the US, Canada, and other states."
To top it off, many Mexican doctors complete at least part of their training in the United States. It implies they speak English, making communication with medical personnel easier for off-shore patients.
Regarding demographical safety, we recommend you do thorough research before traveling to a new place in Tijuana. Additionally, adhere to the following pointers:
- Keep a low profile
- Do not travel to unknown places at night
- Prefer public transport wherever possible
- Don't travel without researching the area beforehand
Medical Tourism in Tijuana
Besides prime healthcare for medical tourists seeking affordable treatment, Tijuana is a mecca for adventure enthusiasts. The city is bustling with bullfighting grounds and racetracks. With exotic culinary diversity, Tijuana also boasts splendid beach resorts.
Skull art in Tijuana represents death and rebirth
Documents Required
A valid US passport book or card and an entry permit (Forma Migratoria Multiple or FMM) issued by the Instituto Nacional de Migración are required.
Even if staying in the border zone, travelers should enter Mexico with appropriate proof of vehicle registration.
Mexican officials may seize your vehicle if you enter Mexico with an expired US automobile registration. The government agency that issues automobile permits is known as Banjercito.
The procedure can be completed online, at the Mexican border, or through specific Mexican consulates throughout the United States. The procedure entails leaving a monetary deposit, which will be refunded after the car permit is canceled when departing Mexico.
Source: Travel.State.Gov [10]
Entry Via San Ysidro Port
Image Courtesy: gsa.gov
Pedestrians crossing into Tijuana at the San Ysidro crossing must fill out a Mexico Visitor's Permit (FREE for land crossings under 7 days) and exhibit a passport.
The airline or the port of entry will issue you with this paperwork. This form is also available to fill out online.
After crossing a land border into Mexico, you must pay a tax of roughly $22 if you travel beyond the 22 mile/35 km "free zone."
You only need a US tourist visa to return to the United States after visiting Mexico.
Source: Sandiego.org [11]
Entry Via CBX
Image Courtesy: Business Insider
The Cross Border Xpress, or CBX, is a covered pedestrian sky bridge that connects the Tijuana International Airport and the city of Tijuana.
It lets travelers cross the border between Mexico and the United States without queueing at the congested ports of entry in San Ysidro and Otay.
Another advantage of flying CBX is that you can save up to 50% on Mexican destinations compared to flying from Southern California airports.
CBX tickets can be bought online.
Source: Business Insider[12]
Tourist Attractions
Tijuana has a plethora of places to enchant you. Be it its serenading nightlife or rich historical past. The city has something for everyone in its kitty.
Coronado Central Beach
Cool your senses at this breathtaking beach
Coronado Central Beach
Tijuana Cultural Cente
You get an immersive experience at this museum
Tijuana Cultural Cente
Nightlife
Go pub-hopping and enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.
Tijuana Offers a Happening Nightlife
Viejas Casino & Resort
Try your lady luck at Tijuana's casinos.
Viejas Casino & Resort
Final Thoughts
A mini gastric bypass allows you to lose 88 percent of excess weight within 2 years. This makes it a popular option for many patients. However, surgery in the US and Canada is expensive.
Mini Gastric bypass in Tijuana will also cost 75% less than in the US. If you're looking to do a mini gastric bypass in Tijuana, feel free to contact us, and we'll walk you through everything you need to know.
FAQs
The mini-gastric bypass surgery cost in Tijuana is $5,495 without insurance. You're doing surgery with some of the best surgeons and hospitals in Tijuana, Mexico, for this price.
The all-inclusive package takes care of all your medical needs. In the US, expect to pay $16,000, while surgery in Canada costs $15,000.
You should have a BMI of 40. But you can also qualify if your BMI is above 35 and you suffer from an obesity-related condition.
If your BMI is below 35, a mini gastric bypass might not suit you. Your surgeon will suggest something less intensive like a gastric balloon.
A mini gastric bypass takes around 45 to 60 minutes. You'll need to stay in the hospital for 2 days and 1 day at a hotel. After this, you'll be discharged and free to go home.
References
- Mexborder: Is Tijuana the New Medical Travel Destination for Americans?
- Living Cost: Mexico vs. the United States – Cost of Living Comparison
- NCBI: Mini Gastric Bypass
- Journals: Comparison of safety and effectiveness between laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
- Science Direct: The Mini-Gastric Bypass original technique
- Pubmed: Laparoscopic One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass
- Medline Plus: Mini Gastric bypass surgery – discharge
- Science Direct: Outcomes of Mini vs. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
- The Mazatlan Post: The WTTC grants safe travel seals to destinations in Mexico
- Travel State Gov: Crossing the US – Mexico Border by Land
- Sandiego.org: Crossing the Border
- Business Insider: I used CBX, the private border crossing bridge that connects Tijuana airport with the US, and found it's one of the best-kept secrets for travelers