Gastric Sleeve in Mexico: Guide on Cost, Locations & Packages

Lose unwanted inches with a gastric sleeve in Mexico and save up to 60% on US/Canada prices. Check out our guide to learn about the cost, all-inclusive package, top surgeons, hospitals, and much more!

Gastric Sleeve in Mexico

Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico Reviews

Check out some real stories from our real patients! You can read their experiences for an inspiring journey.

Meet Sharon Parker, one of our former patients from Charlotte, North Carolina, US, who underwent a sleeve gastrectomy with us.

Patient Testimonial

Before and After Gastric Sleeve in Mexico

Take a look at before and after pictures of individuals who underwent gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico.

Check out the stunning transformation of Alexandra Mascho from Alaska, US.

Before and After Gastric Sleeve in Mexico
Before and After

Here is another inspiring transformation of Stephanie Meyers Donn from Florida.

She lost excess weight from 325 lbs with gastric sleeve surgery and gained a healthier life.

Before and After

Now, let’s explore the cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico.

Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico

In Mexico, the cost of gastric sleeve surgery starts from $4,395. This price includes hotel stays, hospital nights, airport transfers, and medical expenses, depending on the location.

You can save more than 60% compared to the $11,000 price in the US/Canada.

There are extra charges, like a $750 fee for BMI over 50 and gall bladder removal in Tijuana. In Cancun, if your BMI is 45 or higher, there’s also a $750 additional fee.

Gastric Sleeve Cost in Mexico vs US/Canada
ProcedureMexicoUS/Canada
Gastric Sleeve Surgery (LSG)$4,395$11,000
Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG)$7,695$12,000
Lap Band to Gastric Sleeve$5,145$16,000
*Prices are case-dependent

Note that US and Canada prices are for self-funded or cash-pay patients.

All-Inclusive Mexico Gastric Sleeve Package

The price of an “all-inclusive” gastric sleeve package in Mexico ranges from $4,395 to $5,553, depending on the city. Your package includes hospital and hotel stays, medical expenses, shuttle services, and more.

Check out the table below for more information:

Sleeve Package InclusionDetails 
Surgeon feeIncludes anesthesia and surgery costs
Hospital stay2 nights
Hotel stay1 night
Pre-op and Post-op testsBlood tests, leak tests, and imaging
Airport TransportPick up and drop off
Ground transportBetween the hospital and hotel
Medications All medicines required during the hospital stay
Take home medicationsAll surgery-related medicines (excludes omeprazole)
Nutritionist consultationPre-op and post-op dietary consultation
*Inclusions may differ based on location

You can pay through different payment methods, like:

  • Cash
  • PayPal
  • Debit Card
  • Check
  • Zelle
  • Credit Card

 Moreover, if you are short of cash, financing options are also available for your surgery!

Financing Options

When it comes to financing your surgery in Mexico, we understand the importance of having flexible and accessible options.

Therefore, there are multiple financing solutions available for a hassle-free journey.

  • SuperMoney
  • eMedical Financing
  • Medicard/ iFinance (For Canadians)
Financing Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico
Financing Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico

You can also check out our article to finance bariatric surgery in Mexico for more information!

Ready to take the first step?

Gastric Sleeve in Mexico vs Other Countries

Gastric sleeve is more affordable in Mexico than other medical tourism destinations.[1]Vox
A lack of insurance is leading more Americans to have weight loss surgery in Mexico
“An estimated 1.4 million Americans are crossing the border into Mexico or visiting other countries for medical treatment such as bariatric surgery”
View in Article

The detailed gastric sleeve cost comparison between different countries is below.

Gastric Sleeve Cost in Mexico vs. Other Countries
CountryCost
US$11,000
Australia$20,000
Canada$19,000
Costa Rica$12,650
UK$13,800
Turkey$6,500
Mexico$4,395
*Prices may vary slightly

Further, with MBS, you can select from different Mexican cities based on your convenience. 

Let’s discover the transparent pricing in various Mexican cities below!

Cost of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexican Cities

You can get the cheapest gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, which is $4,395.

The gastric sleeve prices vary with the city, and therefore, gastric sleeve surgery in Reynosa costs $4,799. On the other hand, the gastric sleeve in Cancun costs $4,995.

The surgery price includes general anesthesia costs, pre and post-op tests, take-home medications, ground transportation, and lodging, depending on the city.

For more details, check out the table below!

Gastric Sleeve Cost in Different Mexican Cities
City Cost
Tijuana$4,395
Nuevo Laredo $4,799
Reynosa$4,799
Puerto Vallarta$4,950
Cancun$4,995
Piedras Negras$5,350
Guadalajara$5,553
*The prices are case-dependent.

However, you will be charged an additional fee for a BMI higher than 45.

Why Go to Mexico for a Gastric Sleeve? 

As per the study, Mexico is a top choice for people seeking medical treatment abroad, especially for weight loss surgeries. The good news is the most favored WLS procedure is laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy.[2]SpringerLink
Current Practice of Global Bariatric Tourism—Survey-Based Study
“Mexico dominated the number of bariatric surgeries for tourists with 2557 procedures performed in 2017. The most frequent procedures provided were laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) provided by 89.1% of the respondents.”
View in Article

Many people choose Mexico for gastric sleeve surgery due to its cost-effectiveness. 

  • The surgical treatment costs in Mexico are lower than in the US and other countries like Costa Rica.
  • Additionally, travel expenses are low compared to the cost of flights to medical tourism destinations like India or Turkey.
  • Further, Mexico is closer to the US. Since Mexico shares a cultural similarity, getting surgery here feels less foreign.

Read below to explore why choosing Mexico Bariatric Services is right for you!

  • Board-certified surgeons: Get treated by experienced surgeons who have performed thousands of bariatric procedures with a track record of 0% mortality.
  • 24/7 availability: Get help anytime on your weight loss journey with dedicated case managers available 24/7.
  • Hassle-free communication: Our bilingual staff and language translators ensure seamless communication, eliminating any language barriers.
  • Pre & post-operative support: Get expert guidance from US registered nutritionists and emotional support through a bariatric Facebook support group.
  • Easy payment plans: Enjoy the convenience of multiple payment plans and financing options for a stress-free experience.

Gastric Sleeve Procedure in Mexico

Gastric sleeve surgery, a transformative bariatric procedure, involves reducing the stomach size to promote weight loss. 

The surgical procedure involves removing a portion of the stomach using a bougie. The new stomach left behind is known as the sleeve.

Anesthesia Administration

  • On the day of the surgery, you will be put under general anesthesia, ensuring they are asleep and will not experience any pain during the procedure.[3]MedicalNewsToday
    What to know about gastric sleeve surgery
    “A person will need general anesthesia for the surgery. This will put them to sleep, so they will have no memory of the operation.”
    View in Article

Creating the Incisions

  • The surgeon will make small incisions in the abdomen.
  • These incisions will serve as entry points for the surgical instruments and the laparoscope.

Stomach Reduction

  • Utilizing the laparoscope and specialized instruments, 80% of the stomach will be removed by the surgeon.[4]ASMBS
    Sleeve Gastrectomy
    “The Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, often called the “sleeve”, is performed by removing approximately 80% of the stomach.”
    View in Article
  • The remaining part will be shaped into a sleeve or tube, thereby reducing the stomach’s capacity and restricting the amount of food it can accommodate.

Closing the Incisions

  • The doctor will use staples or absorbable sutures to close the cuts and keep the reshaped stomach secure.
  • This stapling is important to close the stomach’s edges well to prevent potential leaks.
Gastric Sleeve

Gastric sleeve surgery may lead to changes in gastric emptying, potentially causing food to pass into the small intestine more slowly than before.[5]NIH
Gastric emptying after sleeve gastrectomy: statistical evidence of a controlled prospective study with gastric scintigraphy
“suggests that LSG reduces gastric emptying time..”
View in Article

This altered gastric emptying rate can contribute to feelings of fullness and satisfaction with smaller meals.

Other Names for Gastric Sleeve

Gastric sleeve is also called:

  • Sleeve gastrectomy
  • Gastric reduction
  • Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG)
  • Vertical gastroplasty
  • Greater curvature gastrectomy
  • Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG)

Wondering if you are a candidate for gastric sleeve surgery? Continue reading to find out!

Do You Qualify for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico? 

To qualify for gastric sleeve surgery, you should have a minimum BMI of 30, and your age should be above 18 years. 

You can check your BMI here!

BMI Calculator

[BMI]

Here are the eligibility details for gastric sleeve surgery.

Suitable if you:

  • Have good psychological and physical health
  • Obesity-related sleep apnea, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia
  • Have realistic expectations

Not Suitable if you:

  • Suffered severe heart failure
  • Are undergoing active cancer treatment
  • Have end-stage lung disease
  • Are severely alcohol or drug-dependent

Source:NCBI[6]NIH
Obesity Surgery Indications and Contraindications
“Patients with BMI OF 30 to 34.9 kg/m2 with diabetes or metabolic syndrome also may undergo weight loss surgery…”
View in Article

However, your weight loss surgeon in Mexico will assess your eligibility for the surgery. Fill out the medical questionnaire to know if you qualify!

Trip Schedule for Sleeve Surgery in Mexico

In Mexico, your sleeve surgery trip takes 4-5 days. Check out the day-wise plan below for more clarity.

Trip Schedule

Day 1

  1. Arrive at the destination
  2. Hotel Stay

Day 2

  1. Shuttle to hospital
  2. Fill out the consent forms and pre-op tests.
  3. Pre-op consultations & surgery

Day 3

  1. Receive discharge instructions and medications.
  2. Overnight stay at the hotel

Day 4

  1. Pick up from the hotel
  2. Return home.
Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4
1. Arrive at the destination
2. Hotel Stay
1. Shuttle to hospital
2. Pre-op consultations & surgery
1. Recieve medications
2. Overnight stay at the hotel
1. Pick up from the hospital
2. Return home

Continue reading to explore the detailed timeline of your gastric sleeve transformation in Mexico!

Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Timeline

Significant weight loss results appear 4-6 months post-gastric sleeve surgery. 

Explore the table for a clear timeline of expected weight loss. 

Expected Weight Loss Timeline of Gastric Sleeve
Timeline3 months6 months12 months18 months
Weight loss33% 50%65%70%

The actual weight loss varies from patient to patient as it depends upon the individual’s overall health before the surgery.

For the best results, it’s important to keep making small changes in your daily life that suit your body. 

The long-term effects can vary, depending on how effectively you make lifestyle changes after bariatric surgery.

Here, we share Dr. Hector’s realistic weight loss after gastric sleeve in Mexico. As a US-trained, board-certified bariatric surgeon in Mexico, he has undergone the procedure himself.

He achieved an impressive 30 to 40% reduction in excess weight within just 2 months.

Explore his monthly weight loss figures below, serving as inspiration for gastric sleeve patients in Mexico.

Expected Gastric Sleeve Weight Loss Per Month
Post-surgery Excess weight loss per month
First 2 months25 to 40 lbs
3 to 6 months 4 to 8 lbs
6 to 12 months4 lbs
12 to 24 months0 to 4 lbs
*Weight loss outcomes may differ. Specific results are not guaranteed.
Dr. Hector Perez Corzo Before and After Bariatric Surgery
Dr. Hector Perez | Before & After Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico

Benefits and Risks of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico 

Gastric sleeve surgery is notably costly in the US. Opting for cost-effectiveness abroad doesn’t ensure its effectiveness. 

Understanding the potential risks and benefits is crucial to make an informed decision. 

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve

  • It is a laparoscopic procedure, which means shorter surgery time and smoother recovery.
  • Effective weight loss in the long term.
  • Improves health conditions related to diabetes, heart diseases, and sleep apnea.
  • Gastric sleeve patients have a relatively lower incidence of cancer.
  • Improves fertility rate and reduces pregnancy-related complications. (Pregnancy is advised at least 18 months after sleeve surgery).

Risks of Gastric Sleeve

  • Micronutrient deficiency.
  • Bloating, flushing, lightheadedness, and diarrhea within one hour after meal post-surgery. 
  • Post-operative complications like bleeding and leakage at the staple line.
  • Further wound infections, incisional hernia, and pulmonary embolism are post-surgical complications.

Source: NCBI[7]NIH
The advantages and disadvantages of sleeve gastrectomy; clinical laboratory to bedside review☆
” Also, dumping usually occurs around an hour after eating and presents with symptoms of bloating, flushing, diarrhea, and light-headedness..”
View in Article

Interested in knowing more about getting sleeve gastrectomy in Mexico? Let’s dive into the location details.

Best Place in Mexico To Have Gastric Sleeve Surgery

The best place for your surgery in Mexico depends on your residential location and priorities.

Here is a brief location-specific outline:

Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana

It is on the US-Mexican San Ysidro border, a 20-minute drive from the San Diego International Airport via Interstate 5 (IATA: SAN).

Crossing the border and reaching Tijuana is convenient for Americans living in the southwestern region.

We have some of the best bariatric surgeons in Tijuana. 

Dr. Guillermo Lopez and Dr. Luis Cazares have performed thousands of successful surgeries in their decades of experience.

Hospitals in Tijuana, are accredited as International Center of Excellence for Obesity by the Surgical Review Corporation.

Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana is one of the cheapest bariatric surgeries in Mexico.

Gastric Sleeve in Cancun

Cancun (State: Quintana Roo) is developed as a resort city.  You can fly to its international airport (IATA: CUN). 

Dr. Hector Perez Corzo is one of the best bariatric surgeons in Cancun, Mexico. 

He has a 0% complication rate in his career of more than 3000 surgeries and is an IFSO member too. 

Our all-inclusive value-for-money packages for gastric sleeve in Cancun start at $4,995. It includes a 2-night hospital stay with a 1-night hotel stay, travel assistance, private ground transportation, pre- and post-ops, and the surgeon’s fee.

You can relax well in this resort city as you heal.

Gastric Sleeve in Nuevo Laredo

This destination is easily accessible, especially for those residing near the Texas border, requiring only a short drive. You can also fly to the Laredo International Airport (Laredo, Texas)

Dr Galileo Villarreal is your weight loss surgeon for gastric sleeve in Nuevo Laredo. He holds a track record of 0% mortality rate and less than 1% complication rate.

Besides, he is a prestigious ASMBS, AMCE, and CMCOEM member and has performed over 300 bariatric procedures.

During your recovery, you can go on a local sightseeing trip here in Nuevo Laredo.

Gastric Sleeve in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is in the west-central part of Mexico, facing the Pacific Coast.

Your gastric sleeve in Puerto Vallarta will be at CMQ Premier Hospital. It is a 5-minute drive from PV Beach and the hotel zone and just 15 minutes from the airport (PVR).

Proximity to the airport makes it convenient for bariatric patients to reach here.

CMQ Premier Hospital is one of the first hospitals in Puerto Vallarta to provide bariatric surgery.

It is a JCI, ACI, and National Health Council of Mexico accredited hospital. 

The weight loss surgeons in Puerto Vallarta have a proven track record, having performed over 3000 bariatric procedures.

Let’s now explore some lesser-known destinations in Mexico.

Gastric Sleeve in Reynosa

Reynosa is a city in the northeastern part of Mexico, in Tamaulipas. It is situated on the US border. Americans living near the southeastern US, in and around Texas, can reach here with ease.

Dr. Oscar Trevino will perform your gastric sleeve in Reynosa. 

He is certified by the Mexcian Board of Surgery and is an expert in laparoscopic bariatric surgeries. With 14+ years of experience, he is a renowned bariatric surgeon in Reynosa.

You can indulge in cultural excursions and leisure activities in Reynosa, making your recovery holistic.

Gastric Sleeve in Piedras Negras

Piedras Negras is a border town in close proximity to Texas.

Having been closer to the US border, it is easily reachable from cities like San Antonio, Austin, and Houston. 

Dr. Cristobal Garza will perform your gastric sleeve surgery in Piedras Negras. He is a distinguished surgeon with a CMCOEM membership.

With over six years of experience, Dr. Garza has performed over 10,000 surgeries.

Gastric Sleeve in Guadalajara

Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, Mexico.

Direct flights from Guadalajara seamlessly connect the city to prominent US cities like New York, Chicago, Washington, and San Antonio.

Dr. Gilberto Gonzalez, an esteemed member of IFSO and the Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases, will conduct your gastric sleeve in Guadalajara.

With over 3,000 surgeries under his belt, he is one of the best surgeons in Guadalajara.

During your recovery, you can also explore attractions like the Guadalajara Cathedral and Bosque Los Colomos.

Top Hospitals for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico

You can experience top-tier care, state-of-the-art facilities, and in-house labs during your gastric sleeve procedure in Mexico. 

Here is a list of leading bariatric hospitals across various Mexican cities.

Top Bariatric Hospitals for Gastric Sleeve
CityHospital and Surgeon
TijuanaLIMARP, Dr. Guillermo Lopez
Blue Medical, Dr. Luis Cazares
Dr. Hector Perez
CancunHospital Joya, Dr. Hector Perez
Puerto VallartaCMQ Premier Hospital, Dr. Sergio Del Hoyo
Nuevo LaredoHospital de Especialidades, Dr. Galileo Villarreal
ReynosaLos Lagos Hospital, Dr. Oscar Trevino
GuadalajaraHospital Lomas Providencia, Dr. Gilberto Gonzalez
Piedras NeigrasClinica de Especialistas, Dr. Cristobal Garza
Blue Medical Tower Tijuana, Mexico
Azura Hospital, Cancun, Mexico
Azura Hospital, Cancun, Mexico
Hospital de Especialidades, Nuevo Laredo, Mexico
Hospital de Especialidades, Nuevo Laredo, Mexico
LIMARP, Tijuana, Mexico
LIMARP, Tijuana, Mexico

Schedule your consultation today!

Different Types of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico

We have provided a brief overview of different gastric sleeve procedures you can expect in Mexico.

Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy

  • LSG stands for Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, a surgical procedure that involves the removal of a portion of the stomach to create a smaller sleeve-like structure, resulting in weight loss.[12]JAMA
    Sleeve Gastrectomy
    “In sleeve gastrectomy, part of the stomach is removed, reducing its capacity by approximately two-thirds. Reducing the size of the stomach limits intake of food.”
    View in Article
  • It cannot be reversed. It can be revised for other bariatric procedures.
  • Generally more effective in cases of severe obesity.
  • Requires small incisions for surgical instruments; no stitching inside the stomach.

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty

  • ESG stands for Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty, a non-surgical procedure where a scope is used to reduce stomach size.[11]NCBI
    The Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty as an Alternative to Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
    “Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) is a therapeutic endoscopic technique for reducing the size of the gastric reservoir in obese patients, using a full-thickness endoscopic suturing device”
    View in Article
  • This procedure is reversible, offering the flexibility for potential adjustments in the future.
  • While effective, ESG may be less impactful in cases of severe obesity.
  • ESG involves no external cuts. The stomach is stitched inside with absorbable sutures using an endoscope.

Mini Gastric Sleeve in Mexico

  • Mini Sleeve removes a smaller portion, about 60-70%, of your stomach compared to the gastric sleeve
  • It is a variation or modification of the traditional gastric sleeve procedure.
  • The procedure often requires a shorter surgical duration than the standard gastric sleeve.
  • Recovery after a mini sleeve is generally comparable to the standard gastric sleeve.

Moreover, if you’ve undergone lap band surgery previously, you may consider gastric sleeve as a revisional procedure.

Lap Band to Gastric Sleeve Revision in Mexico

Lapband to gastric sleeve is a surgery where the surgeon will remove the adjustable gastric band and reshape your stomach into a sleeve to achieve your weight loss goals.

  • Incisions: In the abdominal area, the surgeon will make incisions.
  • Lap Band Removal: Then the surgeon will remove the lap band, eliminating its presence in the stomach.
  • Stomach Reshaping: The surgeon will then reshape the stomach into a sleeve structure.
  • Closure of Incision: The medical team will securely close the incisions with stitches or staples.
Gastric Band to Gastric-Sleeve
Lap Band to Gastric Sleeve

Source: PubMed[13]PubMed
Band removal and conversion to sleeve or bypass: are they equally safe?
“Patients who require laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) removal are often converted to sleeve gastrectomy (SG)”
View in Article

Now, let’s understand about preparing for a gastric sleeve surgery.

Pre Gastric Sleeve Care

The entire weight loss procedure can be stressful and emotionally draining.  It would help to make yourself emotionally strong to make the most of your surgery. 

Successful surgery is one where you reach your goal weight with no (or fewer) complications.

Start easing yourself into the post-bariatric routine at least 3 weeks before the surgery so it’s not a sudden shock. 

This also makes the entire surgery more successful, and you lose more weight.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes Pre-Op

The first step for preparing for the gastric sleeve is the pre-op diet.  You would need to go on a liver shrink diet at least 2-8 weeks before your surgery date.

The exact time depends on your BMI, and the nutritionist will guide you through this.

The liver shrink diet is a liquid diet, where you get all your nutrients from liquids. 

Some liquid diet foods include:

  • Protein drinks
  • Sugar-free juices
  • Low or nonfat milk
  • Decaf coffee or tea

The main reason for doing the liver shrink diet is to shrink your liver so it’s easy for your surgeon to operate on your stomach.[14]NIH
Effectiveness of a Low-Calorie Diet for Liver Volume Reduction Prior to Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review
“The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the literature on the effect of an LCD on liver volume reduction in patients awaiting bariatric surgery”
View in Article

This diet also helps you lose weight. Some side effects of this diet could be nervousness, anxiety, and dizziness. 

Decrease your caffeine intake and drink more water. Plus, check your blood sugar if you’re diabetic.

Post Gastric Sleeve Care

Strict post-op care is crucial for the success of gastric sleeve, especially considering the hormonal changes that occur.

Our US-registered bariatric nutritionist, Katelyn Mock, summarised some important dietary considerations you will have to make after gastric sleeve surgery.

Gastric Sleeve Post-Op Diet

You can go home 1-2 days after your laparoscopic surgery. However, be careful with your diet and stay on only clear liquids.

It may still be difficult for you to move around at this point, but it’s completely normal. Focus on getting enough fluids and caloric intake. 

If you feel dizzy while sitting and standing up, it’s a sign of dehydration. Keep yourself hydrated with at least 64 oz of fluids a day. 

You can move to the pureed diet after the first week.

Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass

Mexico offers various bariatric procedures, among which gastric sleeve and roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgeries stand out.

Learn the differences between the two procedures for a clear understanding!

Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass
Gastric SleeveGastric Bypass
Food leaves the stomach sleeve to intestineA large portion of the stomach is removed
Leaves banana-shaped narrow pouchLeaves small stomach pouch connected with small intestine
Food leaves the stomach sleeve to the intestineFood bypass stomach and upper intestine
Irreversible Reversible
Relatively less frequency in nutrient deficiencyGreater frequency of nutrient deficiency 
Relatively lower rate of success Higher rate of success
Associated with fewer complicationsAssociated with more risks and complications

Check out the video below for a brief comparison!

Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Bypass

Let’s understand the safety aspects of sleeve surgery in Mexico. 

Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico Safe?

Our partnered surgeons in Mexico are experienced and board-certified. They’re active members of prestigious organizations like IFSO and ASMBS. 

Some of them have done over 5000 bariatric procedures! So you’re in good hands here in Mexico for your gastric sleeve surgery.

Further gastric sleeve is a relatively safe bariatric procedure.[8]JAMA Surgery
Comparative Safety of Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass Up to 5 Years After Surgery in Patients With Severe Obesity
“Sleeve gastrectomy is also recognized as a safe surgical option for high-risk patient groups..”
View in Article
It has a lower risk of complications and death rate. 

If safety in Mexico is your concern, around 11.7 million Americans and 1.5 million Canadians travel to Mexico in a year.[9]Relaciones Exteriores
Mexico Tourism Data and Statistics
“The arrival by air of residents of the United States stands out with 11.7 million, followed by Canada with 1.5 million,”
View in Article

Furthermore, not every place in Mexico is dangerous. Following the basic safety precautions can ensure your safety. [10]Travel Lemming
Is Mexico Safe for Travel?
“Mexico is generally safe for travelers if you take proper precautions, do your research, and use your head. The safety situation in Mexico does vary considerably by region, however.”
View in Article

For more details, check out our page: Is Mexico safe for bariatric surgery?

Traveling to Mexico

Check out the essential information on passport and visa requirements to ensure a seamless and enriching healthcare experience.

Passport Requirements

  • Americans and Canadians must have a valid passport.[15]Government of Canada
    Mexico travel advice
    “Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Mexico.”
    View in Article
    [16]Travel.State.Gov
    Crossing the U.S.
    “U.S. citizens must present a valid U.S. passport book”
    View in Article
  • Your passport should be in good condition. If it’s damaged or torn, you might not be allowed into Mexico.

Visa Requirements

  • No visa is needed for trips under 180 days for Americans and Canadians.[17]gob.mx
    Visitors who do not require a visa, with a stay up to 180 days
    “Citizens from the following countries who wish to visit Mexico as tourists, in transit, for business, technical activities, as journalist or for studies, for a period not exceeding 180 days, and who will not receive any remuneration at all in Mexican territory, do not require a visa”
    View in Article

Conclusion

Choosing gastric sleeve in Mexico not only offers a cost-effective solution but also a chance for transformative health.

With all-inclusive packages and experienced surgeons, your weight loss journey becomes a rewarding experience.

FAQs

It takes 1-2 weeks to return to work after gastric sleeve.[18]ASMBS
FAQs after Bariatric Surgery
“After surgery, most patients return to work in one or two weeks. “
View in Article
If you’re in a physically demanding job, you may need to be off work for a longer period.

It’s better to avoid flying right after getting a gastric sleeve. You will have to wait at least 10 days after the surgery.[19]NHS
When Can I Fly After Surgery?
“As a rough guide, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) says that before flying, you should allow 10 days after more complicated abdominal surgery “
View in Article

Even though the surgery uses small cuts on the belly, it makes big changes internally.

Flying long distances can increase the chance of getting blood clots in your leg veins. 

Plus, sitting for long during flights can pressure the cuts, causing problems you don’t want

Following gastric sleeve surgery, you will receive a vitamin and mineral supplements prescription. 

Taking these supplements for the rest of your life is important to avoid deficiencies and keep your body healthy. 

Even though it affects absorption in the intestines less than gastric bypass, using supplements ensures your body gets enough nutrients.[20]Science Direct
Bariatric surgery, gastrointestinal hormones, and the microbiome: An Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) 2022
“High-quality bariatric-specific multivitamins are routinely recommended after bariatric procedures, with vitamin supplements often containing higher amounts of vitamin B12, iron, vitamin C (to assist with iron absorption), vitamin D, and calcium.”
View in Article

Start your weight loss journey today!

References

  1. Vox: A lack of insurance is leading more Americans to have weight loss surgery in Mexico
  2. SpringerLink: Current Practice of Global Bariatric Tourism—Survey-Based Study
  3. MedicalNewsToday: What to know about gastric sleeve surgery
  4. ASMBS: Sleeve Gastrectomy
  5. NCBI: Obesity Surgery Indications and Contraindications
  6. NCBI: The advantages and disadvantages of sleeve gastrectomy; clinical laboratory to bedside review
  7. JAMA: Comparative Safety of Sleeve Gastrectomy and Gastric Bypass Up to 5 Years After Surgery in Patients With Severe Obesity
  8. Relaciones Exteriores: Mexico Tourism Data and Statistics
  9. Travel Lemming: Is Mexico Safe for Travel? 
  10. NIH: Gastric emptying after sleeve gastrectomy: statistical evidence of a controlled prospective study with gastric scintigraphy
  11. NCBI: The Efficacy and Safety of Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty as an Alternative to Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
  12. JAMA: Sleeve Gastrectomy
  13. NCBI: Effectiveness of a Low-Calorie Diet for Liver Volume Reduction Prior to Bariatric Surgery: a Systematic Review
  14. Science Direct: Bariatric surgery, gastrointestinal hormones, and the microbiome: An Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) Clinical Practice Statement (CPS) 2022
  15. ASMBS: FAQs after Bariatric Surgery
  16. NHS: When Can I Fly After Surgery?
  17. Government of Canada: Mexico travel advice
  18. PubMed: Band removal and conversion to sleeve or bypass: are they equally safe?
  19. Travel.State.Gov: Crossing the U.S.
  20. Gob.mx: Visitors who do not require a visa, with a stay up to 180 days