Gastric Sleeve in Mexico

There are a variety of bariatric procedures that are designed to help patients address their specific health concerns and lose weight. The LIMARP® International Center of Excellence for Obesity in Tijuana, Mexico successfully performs multiple types of bariatric surgery in the context of our integrative bariatric program. The type of procedure selected for you will depend on your specific case, individual needs, and weight loss goals. Dr. Liza María Pompa González has performed thousands of bariatric surgeries and she and her surgical team are highly experienced in each type of procedure.

Once our team determines that you are a candidate for bariatric surgery, we can determine the most effective type of surgery for you.

Our multidisciplinary team will do both physical and psychological evaluations to determine your possibility of undergoing surgery.

One of those surgeries may be the gastric sleeve and if our team determines that it’s the best option for you, they will prepare you for what happens before and after the procedure. This article will mainly focus on gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico, its cost and how it differs from other countries, and some of the benefits. We’d like to highlight that the following information is general and that the case for each patient may vary significantly; for more detailed information and personal assistance, contact us and our team of doctors will be happy to answer any questions or doubts.

Before and After of Gastric Sleeve in Mexico

The Gastric Sleeve

The gastric sleeve procedure, also known as a gastrectomy, is a restrictive bariatric surgery that significantly reduces the size of your stomach and your appetite to encourage weight loss. It is an uncomplicated procedure with a shorter recovery time than others. A gastrectomy physically restricts the amount of food you can eat by reducing the size of your stomach. It is a restrictive surgery that also limits the production of ghrelin, which contributes to a reduction in appetite.

According to the latest global registry of the International Federation for the Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO), gastric sleeve surgery is by far the most requested and practiced bariatric surgery worldwide. Out of all the bariatric surgeries that are practiced around the world, roughly 59% account for a gastrectomy, and almost all of them are done with laparoscopic techniques. This is the bariatric procedure for which experts have the most data and the most register of outcomes and results in long term follow-ups. It is also the most standardized procedure in the bariatric community. It’s been largely documented that complications due to gastric sleeve surgery are very low, and that it provides good control and great benefits over comorbidities associated with obesity.

How is the Gastric Sleeve Performed?

Gastric sleeve surgery is carried out as follows. The surgeon inserts a laparoscopic camera through the belly to monitor the operation, then they insert a lean and long stapler through other incisions in the abdomen to staple the stomach vertically. This process divides the stomach into two parts: the bigger part, roughly 80%, which will be completely removed from the body, and the smaller part which will remain, in a much smaller shape, resembling a sleeve. A gastrectomy is considered a restrictive procedure because what it achieves is that it restricts the size of the stomach, preventing it from obtaining big portions of food. This procedure does not interfere with the absorption of nutrients, though, because it does not involve any alteration to the digestive process, as it leaves the intestines intact.

The recovery from a gastrectomy is faster than other bariatric procedures. Patients may expect a post-operative stay of 1 to 2 days in the hospital’s recovery room, as well as a mandatory rest for four to six weeks. During the first weeks of recovery, the patient should follow a strict only-liquids diet, which will progressively move to purees and solids.

The amount of weight loss patients can expect after a gastric sleeve procedure depends on many factors, such as the patient’s body mass index (BMI) before surgery, their commitment to maintain healthy habits, and the time that has passed after the gastrectomy. But one can expect to notice major changes in weight loss as soon as 6 months and as long as 3 years. The patient can then maintain his or her weight with diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.

Bariatric medicine studies report very different weight loss results; however, evidence shows that the range oscillates between 50 and 70% of excess weight loss, which represents the difference between your ideal weight and your initial weight before surgery.

The latest IFCO report states that the average body weight loss, one year after gastric sleeve surgery, is 31%.

Patients that suffer comorbidities associated with obesity can also expect a significant improvement in their symptoms. In some cases, patients can achieve the resolution of their illnesses. According to a systematic review and meta-analysis of gastric sleeve outcomes, 100% of patients reach a resolution for their hyperlipidemia, 50% do for hypertension, and 66% for type 2 diabetes at five years after the surgery.

Cost and Financing for a Gastric Sleeve

When analyzing costs and options, please keep in mind that quality and safety have a price, and even though LIMARP® is a competitive clinic, we spare no expense when it comes to the safety of our patients. Medical tourists that travel to Mexico may expect to save 50 to 80% of the price they would have paid for the same medical services in their home country, especially when it comes to surgeries like the gastrectomy. The same applies for medication and counseling. Let us assure you that the low price of medical services in Mexico does not translate to poor service nor poor results. You will be getting the same, if not superior results and, most of all, you will be receiving the best customer/patient experience there is. Surgeons, medical professionals, and nurses provide their services with human touch, empathy and the legitimate concern to fulfill your every need.

The overall cost of sleeve gastrectomy surgery in Mexico depends on which part of the country the bariatric procedure is performed. Sometimes, gastric sleeve surgery costs are quite high mainly because of the specialized tools and medical supplies needed to successfully perform the weight loss procedure. Then, there are other administrative and extra costs that really add up to a significant amount.

In comparison to the United States, Mexico has the most affordable cost of sleeve surgery. While in the US most patients report spending up to $20,000 USD per sleeve surgery, you can expect to pay from $3,995 to $7,000 USD for the entire high-quality weight loss procedure in Mexico. In Canada, vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery is covered by the national healthcare system, but you should keep in mind that waiting lists are usually quite long since this is not an emergency procedure.

The good news is that there are specialized facilities with excellent healthcare which provide high quality gastric sleeve surgery procedures at a very affordable cost in Mexico. It is no surprise why medical tourism for affordable sleeve gastrectomy surgery has grown exponentially in Mexico in recent times. For example, the full cost of sleeve surgery is sometimes lower than 50-70% of what you would pay in the US or Canada.

You may be wondering why bariatric surgery is cheaper in Mexico and that is because the healthcare system in the country is different than in the United States, as well as the money flow. The cost of bariatric surgery in Mexico is 3 to 4 times less than the cost of surgery in the United States and this is due to the following points[2]:

• Surgeons and hospitals in Mexico have less overhead. This does not mean a reduction in quality care, it means money flow operates differently in Mexico.
• Medical supplies, salaries, and administrative costs are less, meaning you pay less for your surgery.
• Malpractice insurance cost is significantly lower for surgeons in Mexico. Unlike in the United States, malpractice lawsuits are relatively uncommon. At best, lawsuits in Mexico conclude with patients receiving follow-up care at no charge, contrasting the large cash settlements we see stateside.
• In the United States, complex relationships between healthcare groups, patients, insurance companies, billing procedures, brokers, and hospitals ultimately increase patient cost. In Mexico, there is freedom to practice medicine with less regulation.
• The focus of the surgeon and hospital is shifted from tracking and collecting money to patient care. You will receive a straightforward, all-inclusive bill.

The lower cost for gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico does not equate to less professional healthcare services. On the contrary, most facilities providing this highly effective bariatric procedure are staffed with the best bariatric surgeons in Mexico, such as our team of doctors at LIMARP®. The facilities also provide their clients with payment options including credit cards and financing. The best sleeve gastrectomy surgery facilities in Mexico are straightforward in their charges. They will not surprise you with hidden costs although you can expect to be charged a bit higher if you have a larger than usual BMI and or other conditions.

Our treatments at LIMARP® may be covered by your American or Canadian medical insurance, although this mostly depends on your insurance’s policy. Many medical insurances cover the cost of bariatric surgery interventions since they have been recognized as safe and effective treatments for obesity that improve the general health condition and life quality of obese patients. One of the many surgeries covered by most medical insurances is the gastrectomy, but if for some reason you’re unable to use it, we also provide other options so that the surgery is affordable to you.

Benefits of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico

Mexico has become one of the most visited countries when it comes to medical tourism. The reasons why people seek this external service vary, but one of the main ones is that the treatment they need is not available in their location and if it is, the cost is not accessible. At first, medical tourism was known as “those who traveled from less-developed countries to major medical centers in highly developed countries for treatment unavailable at home”[3]. The most popular available specialties in Mexico are plastic aesthetic surgery, lap band and bariatric surgery, oral care and eye care.

We understand that the idea of traveling to Mexico may pose some challenges due to the transportation or uneasiness of being in a foreign country, but there are many hospitals and clinics, ours included, that provide a comfortable and safe space if you’re visiting us from abroad. Aside from the difference in pricing, other benefits of having bariatric surgery in Mexico are that many cities in the country offer a relaxing environment and some patients even travel to Mexico early to enjoy vacation prior to surgery.

It can also provide privacy and discretion. If you’re uncomfortable with people knowing you are having weight loss surgery, you might choose to tell them that you are going on vacation to Mexico instead. Other benefits include high quality preoperative and postoperative care; all-inclusive pricing for the entire bariatric procedure with financing available; short wait-times; better outcome from high quality services by certified bariatric surgeons with years of experience in the field; extremely low complication rates, and high quality services at a fraction of what it costs in the US and Canada.

All-Inclusive Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Most clinics in Mexico offer all-inclusive packages for their patients when they cross the border for their gastric sleeve surgery. These packages may include ground transportation, hotel stays, lab tests, and/or follow-up consultations. At LIMARP®, we offer an integrative treatment program as part of our all-inclusive package, which also consists of access to a luxurious and private recovery room. Our clinic is located right next to the beautiful golf course of the Tijuana Country Club. Our private recovery rooms have breathtaking panoramic views to the golf course and to the business district of Tijuana.

Furthermore, our all-inclusive packages specially designed for patients traveling from abroad include a two-night stay at the prestigious Grand Hotel Tijuana and transportation to and for the airport and hotel. With our all-inclusive package, you can just relax and focus on what is really important: your journey to a healthier future.

Our state-of-the-art facilities in Tijuana are certified as an International Center of Excellence for Obesity and meet international safety standards. All of our certifications and the global recognition our team of doctors have obtained throughout the years are reflected on the success stories of the patients who have come through our doors. The media has also recognized Dr. Liza María Pompa González as one of the top bariatric surgeons in the country.

Risks of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Mexico

While gastric sleeve surgery has been proven to be safe, when carried out accordingly, in Mexico, there are still several downsides or risks of traveling to another country to have any type of procedure done. Two of the main ones are the pre-surgical care and the cost of any arising complications. If you’re traveling far from your hometown or have little to zero access to your surgeon prior to the surgery, you may feel uneasy when the day of your surgery comes. On the other hand, while complications are rare, they might arise due to one thing or another; if you have complications as a result of surgery, it is not likely that your health insurance will cover the care you need if you had your surgery in Mexico. You also may not be able to sue for malpractice.

Another risk may be communication, especially if you’re not fluent in Spanish. Most clinics count with a bilingual medical staff, but the language barrier can open up space for misinterpretations which can hinder your experience in Mexico. It’s also important to point out that there is a lot of misinformation regarding Mexico online and that it’s up to the patient to also do their research when it comes to choosing a bariatric clinic for their gastric sleeve surgery.

At LIMARP®, we not only pride ourselves in providing top-quality care and facilities, but we’re also transparent with our patients when it comes to pricing and information on all the services we offer at our Tijuana clinic. We’re always available to answer all of your patient’s questions through different platforms, such as our website, WhatsApp, or by phone.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you want to learn more about gastric sleeve surgery in Mexico, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

References

[1] “What is the Average Gastric Sleeve Cost?”. https://www.bariatricmexicosurgery.com/gastric-sleeve-mexico-cost/. (Accessed November 24, 2022).
[2] “Weight Loss Surgery in Mexico – 9 Things You Should Know”. https://www.bariatric-surgery-source.com/weight-loss-surgery-mexico.html. (Accessed November 6, 2022).
[3] Horowitz MD, Rosensweig JA, Jones CA. Medical tourism: globalization of the healthcare marketplace. MedGenMed. 2007 Nov 13;9(4):33. PMID: 18311383; PMCID: PMC2234298.