Gastric sleeve surgery
in Tijuana, Mexico

Gastric sleeve surgery is named this way because the stomach is reshaped into a small tube or sleeve. The surgeon inserts a laparoscopic camera through the abdomen to monitor the operation and uses a long, thin stapler through other incisions to staple the stomach vertically.

This divides the stomach into two parts: about 80% is removed, while the remaining section is left in the shape of a sleeve. It is considered a restrictive procedure because it reduces the stomach’s capacity, limiting food intake. However, it does not affect nutrient absorption since the intestines remain intact.

Patients with obesity-related comorbidities often experience significant improvement in their symptoms, and some may even achieve remission. A systematic review and meta-analysis of gastric sleeve outcomes found that 2  years after surgery, 80% of patients had resolution of hyperlipidemia, 70% of hypertension, and 66% of type 2 diabetes.

Recovery from this surgery is faster than with other bariatric procedures. Patients usually stay in the hospital for one to two days and must follow postoperative instructions for four to six weeks. Continuous rest is not recommended. During the first weeks, patients follow a strict liquid diet, gradually transitioning to purees and then solids.

The amount of weight loss after a gastric sleeve procedure depends on factors such as the patient’s body mass index (BMI) before surgery, their commitment to healthy habits, and the time since surgery. Significant changes can be seen within a few weeks and up to three years after the procedure. Long-term maintenance requires diet, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle.

Studies in bariatric medicine report varying results, but evidence shows patients lose between 50% and 70% of their excess weight, which is the difference between their initial and ideal weight. According to the latest IFSO report, the average total body weight loss one year after gastric sleeve surgery is 50–70%.

The gastric sleeve procedure 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.

This procedure 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 and cravings. This satisfies patients with less food, thus encouraging portion control.

The sleeve gastrectomy is considered one of the safest and most effective obesity procedures, and it is widely available in Mexico. Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana is especially popular due to the city’s reputation for excellent medical tourism and its proximity to the U.S. border, making it highly accessible. Safety during the journey and stay is an important factor when choosing Tijuana for surgery.

Mexico has become one of the most visited countries for medical tourism. Many patients travel because the treatment they need is unavailable in their home country or too expensive. While medical tourism once meant traveling from less-developed countries to major medical centers abroad, today Mexico offers world-class hospitals and clinics that provide comfortable and safe environments for international patients.

Traveling to Mexico may seem challenging due to transportation or being in a foreign country, but many clinics, including ours, specialize in making the experience secure and welcoming. Beyond cost savings, patients often benefit from relaxing environments, and some even choose to arrive early to enjoy a vacation before surgery.

Other advantages include privacy (patients can simply say they are visiting Mexico for vacation), high-quality pre- and postoperative care, all-inclusive packages with financing options, short wait times, low complication rates, and care from certified bariatric surgeons with extensive experience. All of this is offered at a fraction of the cost compared to the U.S. and Canada.

A sleeve gastrectomy is mostly recommended for patients with a body mass index (BMI) over 30, especially if they have serious weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, or fatty liver disease. Candidates also include patients who, in the last three years, have repeatedly failed to lose weight through conservative methods like diet and exercise.

This procedure may also be recommended for patients with a BMI over 60 as the first stage of a two-part treatment, later followed by a duodenal switch. In general, bariatric surgery is reserved for patients whose medically supervised diets and exercise attempts have been unsuccessful.

At LIMARP, we pride ourselves on the quality and excellence of our services while offering tailored, all-inclusive packages. We understand that cost is a key consideration for life-changing surgery. That’s why we provide a variety of plans to help patients find the right option for their budget, without compromising health or safety.

If you want to learn more about our services, packages, or which bariatric surgery is right for you, please call LIMARP in Tijuana at (619) 270-8823 or contact us online.

While quality and safety have a price, medical tourists traveling to Mexico can typically save 50–80% compared to costs in their home country, including surgery, medications, and counseling. A lower price does not mean lower quality, patients receive equal or superior results and an exceptional experience. Our surgeons, medical staff, and nurses provide care with empathy and attention to every need.

At LIMARP, the focus is on patient care rather than tracking payments, with a clear, all-inclusive bill. Payment options include credit cards and financing. Prices are straightforward, with no hidden fees, though higher costs may apply for patients with unusually high BMI or additional health conditions. Most bariatric surgery facilities in Mexico, including ours, employ the country’s top surgeons to ensure the best outcomes.

Gastric sleeve surgery in Tijuana, or anywhere in the world, is safe if the medical facility and staff are properly researched and certified, and if they use the latest technology. Safety is a top priority, and certified clinics follow high-quality standards comparable to those at home.

Tijuana is an accessible and cost-effective location for this procedure, especially for patients from the United States. Proximity, experienced surgeons, clean and modern facilities, and additional amenities make it a convenient choice. Under the care of experts like Dr. Liza María Pompa at LIMARP, major complications are very rare.

Before surgery, it’s helpful to consider pre-surgical care and be aware of how follow-up or unexpected situations are handled. For patients traveling from out of town or meeting their surgeon for the first time, it’s normal to have questions or feel a bit unsure. Understanding how health coverage and local regulations work can help you feel more confident and prepared for your journey.

Language barriers can also pose challenges, though most clinics, including LIMARP, have bilingual staff. Patients should research thoroughly and choose a reputable bariatric clinic such as ours.

At LIMARP®, we provide top-quality care and transparent information about pricing and services. Our team is always available to answer questions via our website, WhatsApp, or phone.

At LIMARP®, we offer an integrative treatment program as part of our all-inclusive package, which includes access to a private recovery room. Our clinic is located next to the Tijuana Country Club golf course, and our recovery rooms offer panoramic views of both the course and Tijuana’s business district.

For patients traveling from abroad, our packages include a two-night stay at the Grand Hotel Tijuana and airport transportation. With this all-inclusive program, patients can relax and focus on their 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. Our team’s global recognition and certifications are reflected in the success stories of our patients. Dr. Liza María Pompa González has also been recognized by the media as one of the top bariatric surgeons in Mexico.

At LIMARP®, we offer a comprehensive treatment program as part of our all-inclusive package, which includes access to a private recovery room. Our clinic is located next to the Tijuana Country Club golf course, and the rooms offer panoramic views of both the golf course and Tijuana’s financial district.

For patients traveling from abroad, our packages include a two-night stay at the Grand Hotel Tijuana and transportation to and from the airport. With this all-inclusive program, patients can relax and
focus on what matters most: their journey to a healthier life.

Our state-of-the-art facility in Tijuana is certified as an International Center of Excellence in Obesity and meets international safety standards. Our team’s global recognition and certifications are reflected in our patients’ success stories. Dr. Liza María Pompa González has also been recognized by the media as one of the best bariatric surgeons in Mexico.