Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a type of bariatric surgery that helps people lose weight by reducing the size of their stomachs. The procedure involves removing a portion of the stomach to create a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach that can hold less food. This leads to a feeling of fullness after eating smaller meals, which can result in significant weight loss.
Tijuana, a city in Mexico located just south of the U.S. border, has become a popular destination for people seeking affordable weight loss surgery, including gastric sleeve surgery. In this article, we will discuss why people go to Tijuana for gastric sleeve surgery, how safe it is, who qualifies for the surgery, and how much it costs.
Why People Go to Tijuana for Gastric Sleeve Surgery
There are several reasons why people choose to undergo gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana:
Cost Savings
One of the biggest advantages of getting gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana is the cost savings. The cost of the procedure in the United States can be prohibitively expensive, ranging from $15,000 to $25,000 or more, depending on the location and the surgeon’s experience. In contrast, the cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana can be as low as $4,000 to $7,000, making it a much more affordable option.
Access to Experienced Bariatric Surgeons
Tijuana has become a hub for medical tourism, with many experienced bariatric surgeons who specialize in weight loss surgery. These surgeons are often trained in the United States and speak fluent English, making it easy for American and Canadian patients to communicate with them.
Shorter Wait Times
In the United States, patients may have to wait several months to undergo gastric sleeve surgery due to high demand and long wait times. In contrast, patients who travel to Tijuana for surgery can often be scheduled within a few weeks, allowing them to start their weight loss journey sooner.
Combined Travel and Medical Experience
For many patients, traveling to Tijuana for gastric sleeve surgery provides a unique opportunity to combine their medical treatment with a travel experience. Tijuana is located just a short distance from San Diego, California, and patients can easily fly in and out of the San Diego International Airport. After their surgery, patients can enjoy a few days of rest and relaxation in Tijuana before returning home.
Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery Safe in Tijuana Mexico?
While some people may have concerns about the safety of undergoing weight loss surgery in Mexico, the reality is that many bariatric surgery centers in Tijuana provide high-quality care and adhere to the same safety standards as those in the United States. It is important to do your research and choose a reputable and certified bariatric surgery center and board-certified bariatric surgeon.
Who Qualifies for Gastric Sleeve in Mexico?
Gastric sleeve surgery is generally recommended for people who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as high blood pressure, sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease. Candidates for gastric sleeve surgery should also have tried other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, without success.
How Much Does Gastric Sleeve Cost in Tijuana?
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana can vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon’s experience, the location of the surgery center, and the specific services included in the package. On average, however, the cost of a gastric sleeve in Tijuana ranges from $4,000 to $7,000 dollars compared to the United States, in which prices range from $15,000 up to $25,000 dollars.
Another benefit of gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana is the availability of highly experienced bariatric surgeons who are board-certified and trained in the latest techniques. Many surgeons in Tijuana have extensive experience in performing bariatric surgeries, including gastric sleeve procedures, and have an excellent track record of successful surgeries and satisfied patients.
Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery worth it?
For those who are considering gastric sleeve surgery, it is important to note that the procedure is not a magic solution for weight loss. Patients who undergo gastric sleeve surgery must be willing to make significant lifestyle changes to maintain their weight loss over the long term. This includes adopting a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and attending follow-up appointments with their bariatric surgeon.
In addition, gastric sleeve patients must follow a strict pre-op diet before their surgery and a post-op diet to aid in their recovery and ensure optimal results. Your bariatric surgeon in Tijuana will provide detailed instructions and support throughout your weight loss journey to ensure your success.
Overall, gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana can provide an affordable weight loss solution for those seeking to improve their health and quality of life. With the availability of highly trained and experienced bariatric surgeons, state-of-the-art medical facilities, and easy access to the San Diego airport, medical tourism for weight loss surgery is a popular choice for many patients.
It is important to note that, as with any surgery, there are risks associated with gastric sleeve surgery. Some potential complications include bleeding, infection, blood clots, and gastric sleeve complications such as acid reflux or leakages. However, with proper pre-operative evaluation, education, and post-operative care, the risk of these complications can be minimized. It is essential to choose a reputable weight loss surgery center in Tijuana with a certified bariatric surgeon and adequate medical facilities to ensure a safe and successful procedure.
Gastric sleeve surgery is not the only weight loss surgery option available in Tijuana. Other popular bariatric surgery options include gastric bypass, duodenal switch, mini gastric bypass, and gastric banding. Your bariatric surgeon will work with you to determine the best weight loss procedure for your individual needs and medical history.
In addition to weight loss benefits, gastric sleeve surgery has been shown to improve or resolve many serious health conditions associated with excess weight, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea. The significant weight loss achieved with gastric sleeve surgery can also improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases.
In conclusion, gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana can provide a life-changing solution for those struggling with excess weight and obesity. With the availability of highly experienced and trained bariatric surgeons, affordable weight loss surgery, and state-of-the-art medical facilities, Tijuana has become a popular destination for those seeking weight loss surgery. However, it is important to carefully research and choose a reputable weight loss surgery center with a certified bariatric surgeon and adequate medical facilities to ensure a safe and successful procedure.