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. 

-Mexborder[1]Mexborder
Is Tijuana the New Medical Travel Destination for Americans?
“Healthcare providers in Tijuana have great medical training, access to state of the art equipment, and provide faster service than much of the healthcare providers in the United States.”
View in Article

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]Living Cost
Mexico vs. the United States – Cost of Living Comparison
“The average cost of living in Mexico ($697) is 66% less expensive than in the United States.”
View in Article

? State-of-the-Art Healthcare

Prime hospitals come decked with internationally trained surgeons.

? Proximity

Tijuana is just a short drive away 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.

Cost of MGB 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.

Contact us and get rid of that extra flab and restart your life.

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.

LIMARP Weight Loss Center

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.

Limarp for MGB in Tijuana

LIMARP Weight Loss Center

Oasis of Hope

Oasis of Hope for MGB in Tijuana

Oasis of Hope

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 for MBG in Tijuana

Dr. Hector Perez

Dr. Hector Perez

Experience: 15+ years
No. of surgeries: 5,000+
Education: University of Miami
Accreditations: MCGS
Success Rate: 99%
Language: Mexican & English

Dr. Guillermo Lopez Tijuana

Dr. Guillermo Lopez

Dr. Guillermo Lopez

Experience: 37+ years
No. of surgeries: 5,000+
Education: Autonomous University, Mexico
Accreditations: ASMBS
Language: Mexican & English

Dr. Luis Cazares for MGB in Tijuana

Dr. Luis Cazares

Dr. Luis Cazares

Experience: 11+ years
No. of surgeries: 3,000+
Education: University of Nuevo Leon
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]NCBI
Mini Gastric Bypass
“In recent years, a surgical technique known as a single-anastomosis gastric bypass (SAGB) or mini-gastric bypass (MGB) has been developed.”
View in Article

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]Journals
Comparison of safety and effectiveness between laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
“Patients receiving mini-gastric bypass had a lot of advantageous indexes than patients receiving sleeve gastrectomies, such as higher 1-year EWL% (excess weight loss), higher 5-year EWL%, higher T2DM remission rate, higher hypertension remission rate, higher obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remission rate, lower osteoarthritis remission rate, lower leakage rate, lower overall late complications rate, higher ulcer rate, lower gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) rate, shorter hospital stay, and lower revision rate.”
View in Article

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.

? Mechanism

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]ScienceDirect
The Mini-Gastric Bypass original technique
“The goal of the gastric pouch in MGB is to remove the reservoir function of the stomach and convert the stomach into a non-obstructed extension of the esophagus, where food does not stay in a reservoir but is dumped into the lumen of the jejunum.”
View in Article

? Success Rate

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]Pubmed
Laparoscopic One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass:
“The highest mean percent excess weight loss was 88 % (at 2 years), then 77 and 70 %, 6 and 12 years postoperatively”
View in Article

Excess Weight loss after MGB in Tijuana


Pros

  • Reversible
  • Higher success rate
  • Requires fewer incisions
  • Lowers the risk of hernias
  • 50 minutes shorter than a regular bypass



Cons

  • 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’ts to expedite your healing process.

The below section will help you sail smoothly through the recovery road.

? Diet & Drugs

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.

?? Activity

Do’s

  • Short walk
  • Use the stairs
  • Light exercise
  • Gardening or housework

Don’ts

  • Lift anything more than 10 to 15 pounds
  • Do any activity that involves pushing or pulling
  • Use any heavy machinery or a car

? Wound Care

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.

? Follow Up

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]Medline Plus
Gastric bypass surgery – discharge
“Diet… Activity… Wound Care… Drugs… Follow Up…”
View in Article

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]Science Direct
Outcomes of Mini vs. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
“Mini gastric bypass seems to be a simpler procedure with a better weight reduction effect.”
View in Article

Gastric Bypass Surgery in Tijuana

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.

Mini gastric bypass in Tijuana, Mexico - Before & After
Mini gastric bypass in Tijuana, Mexico - Before & After

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]The Mazatlan Post
The WTTC grants safe travel seals to destinations in Mexico
“The WTTC grants safe travel seals to destinations in Mexico.”
View in Article

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

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]Travel.State.Gov
Crossing the US – Mexico Border by Land
“US citizens must present a valid US passport book or card, in addition to an entry permit.”
View in Article

Entry Via San Ysidro Port

San Ysidro Port in Tijuana

Image Courtesy: gsa.gov

Pedestrians crossing into Tijuana at the San Ysidro crossing must fill out a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FREE if crossing by land for 7 days or less) 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]Sandiego.org
Crossing the Border
“Pedestrians crossing into Tijuana at the San Ysidro crossing need to complete a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FMM ‒ FREE if the trip is 7 days or less and you cross by land) and present a passport.”
View in Article

Entry Via CBX

Cross Border Xpress in Tijuana

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]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.
“The private bridge connects Tijuana airport with what is essentially an airport terminal in the US.”
View in Article

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

Tijuana Cultural Cente: You get an immersive experience at this museum

Visit Coronado Central Beach after getting MGB in Tijuana

Coronado Central Beach

Visit Tijuana Cultural Centre after getting MGB in Tijuana

Tijuana Cultural Cente

Nightlife: Go pub-hopping and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Viejas Casino & Resort: Try your lady luck at Tijuana’s casinos.

Savor Tijuana's Nightlife After Getting MGB Done There

Tijuana Offers a Happening Nightlife

Visit Viejas Casino & Resort After Getting MGB in Tijuana

Viejas Casino & Resort 

FAQs


How much is a mini gastric bypass in Tijuana, Mexico?

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.

How much do you have to weigh to get a mini gastric bypass in Tijuana?

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.

How long does a mini gastric bypass last In Tijuana?

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.


 

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% lesser 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.

References

1. Mexborder: Is Tijuana the New Medical Travel Destination for Americans?
2. Living Cost: Mexico vs. the United States – Cost of Living Comparison
3. NCBI: Mini Gastric Bypass
4. Journals: Comparison of safety and effectiveness between laparoscopic mini-gastric bypass and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy
5. Science Direct: The Mini-Gastric Bypass original technique
6. Pubmed: Laparoscopic One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass
7. Medline Plus: Mini Gastric bypass surgery – discharge
8. Science Direct: Outcomes of Mini vs. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass:
9. The Mazatlan Pos: The WTTC grants safe travel seals to destinations in Mexico
10. Travel State Gov: Crossing the US – Mexico Border by Land
11. Sandiego.org: Crossing the Border
12. 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

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