Single Incision Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Single Incision Gastric Sleeve Surgery in Tijuana

Single incision gastric sleeve surgery, also called SILS or single incision sleeve gastrectomy, is a minimally invasive approach to gastric sleeve surgery. Instead of using several laparoscopic access points, the surgeon performs the procedure through a single access point, commonly placed near or within the belly button.

SILS may offer less visible scarring for appropriately selected patients, but it is not the right surgical approach for everyone. Eligibility depends on factors such as BMI, abdominal anatomy, medical history, previous surgeries, and evaluation by an experienced bariatric surgeon.

Quick Answer: What Is Single Incision Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Single incision gastric sleeve surgery, or SILS, is a minimally invasive version of sleeve gastrectomy performed through one access point, usually near the belly button. The stomach reduction is similar to a traditional gastric sleeve, but the surgical access technique is different.

Also called: SILS gastric sleeve or single incision sleeve gastrectomy.
Main difference: one surgical access point instead of several laparoscopic incisions.
Potential benefit: less visible abdominal scarring for selected patients.
Important limitation: not every gastric sleeve candidate qualifies for the single-incision approach.
Next step: a bariatric surgeon must evaluate anatomy, BMI, prior surgeries, and medical history.

Discover Our Bariatric Procedures

Meet Dr. Fernando Garcia

single incision gastric sleeve surgery through the belly button

Understanding Single Incision Surgery (Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy)

SILS is a rapidly evolving, advanced, and minimally invasive technique used in bariatric surgery to ease post-operative pain and reduce complications. During traditional laparoscopic surgery, surgeons make four to five incisions in the abdomen to access the digestive tract. SILS gastric sleeve builds on this foundation but uses a single incision hidden by the belly button instead of multiple openings. While the procedure takes slightly longer and lasts approximately one hour, the recovery is very similar to the traditional version of the procedure. Patients can rest assured that the doctors within the Tijuana Bariatric Center network are highly qualified to provide safe and successful laparoscopic bariatric surgery.

SILS vs. Traditional Laparoscopic Gastric Sleeve

Factor	SILS Gastric Sleeve	Traditional Laparoscopic Sleeve
Surgical access	One access point, commonly near the belly button	Several small abdominal access points
Stomach procedure	Creates a smaller sleeve-shaped stomach	Creates a smaller sleeve-shaped stomach
Visible scarring	May be less noticeable in selected patients	Several small scars may remain
Candidacy	Requires additional technical and anatomical evaluation	May be appropriate for a broader range of sleeve candidates
Recovery	Varies by patient and surgical complexity	Varies by patient and surgical complexity

Before & Afters Bariatric Surgery

View Gallery

What Are the Benefits of SILS?

Single-incision laparoscopic surgery is a less invasive surgery technique that is used in many other surgeries, allowing for reduced risks and faster recovery times. Creating only a single small incision, your surgeon can insert the instruments he needs to complete the operation quickly and with less stress and scarring for patients.

Minimal Invasiveness – A single incision gastric sleeve in Tijuana only requires one small incision inside the belly button. A tiny camera is then inserted, which allows your doctor to navigate precisely without creating a large incision and scar.
Improved Surgical and Recovery Experience – Because the procedure is less invasive, you can typically expect a shorter recovery time, minimized discomfort, and reduced risk of complications. Additionally, the discreet incision leads to little to no scarring.
Significant Weight Loss – Achieving your weight loss goals has many life-changing advantages, including boosting your self-confidence, reducing your risk of obesity-related health issues, and improving your overall health.
Reduced Blood Loss – Since laparoscopic surgery only involves the use of small incisions, much less bleeding occurs during the surgical procedure. This is better for the patient as it helps reduce the risk of complications during a procedure that otherwise may require blood transfusions.
Reduced Infection Risk – With open surgery, the potential for infection can be high because of the exposure of the internal organs during a procedure. Thanks to laparoscopic techniques, there is a reduced risk of infections after surgery since the internal organs are not exposed during an operation.

Determining Your Candidacy

As you can see, laparoscopic surgery is a great option to consider for bariatric procedures. Not all patients are candidates, however, which is why you will need to undergo a thorough evaluation. Patients should exceed their ideal body weight by approximately 30%. Additionally, candidates should understand the full importance of the procedure, including risks and complications. We’re proud to offer laparoscopic surgery to our patients and are more than happy to discuss your weight loss surgery options in more detail during a consultation. By doing so, you’ll be able to get the answers you need to be confident in your decision to undergo bariatric surgery.

Post-Operative Commitment

Candidates should be prepared to follow post-operative nutrition, hydration, vitamin, activity, and follow-up recommendations after weight loss surgery.

Prior Surgeries

You cannot have had more than two abdominal surgeries, as it can increase your risk of complications.

Commitment to Weight Loss

To achieve the best outcome, you must be committed to maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen.

Procedure Fit Quiz

Answer 10 simple questions and get an educational guide to discuss with TBC.

This quiz is designed to help you understand which bariatric procedure may be worth discussing with a TBC coordinator or bariatric surgeon. It looks at your goals, BMI range, health history, previous surgery, reflux, metabolic concerns, and biggest questions.

Important: This tool is for educational purposes only. It does not diagnose, prescribe, or replace a medical evaluation. Your final procedure recommendation must be reviewed with a qualified bariatric surgeon.

Question 1 of 10 0%

Start here

Loading question...

Your educational guide is ready

One last step to view your result

Enter your contact information to view your personalized educational summary and send your answers to the TBC team.

You do not have to figure this out alone

A TBC coordinator can help you understand your procedure options, package details, pricing, travel logistics, and next steps.

Call +1-800-970-0577

Your educational procedure fit guide

Your result

Why this may fit

Options to discuss

Ask your surgeon

Talk to a Coordinator Call +1-800-970-0577

Next Step

Your quiz result is only the beginning

The right procedure depends on your medical history, BMI, health goals, reflux symptoms, previous surgeries, and personal needs. A TBC coordinator can help you understand your next step and prepare the right questions for your surgeon.

Talk to a TBC Coordinator

Dr. Fernando Garcia – A Precision-Minded, Board-Certified Bariatric Authority

Dr. Fernando Garcia is among a select few board-certified bariatric surgeons in North America qualified to perform this technically difficult procedure. With over 10,000 successful bariatric procedures completed and over a decade of surgical expertise, he is considered a leading authority in his field. He is deeply passionate about elevating patient quality of life and allowing overweight individuals to reclaim their self-confidence, mobility, and peace of mind.

Philosophy
and Approach

Because Dr. Garcia experienced his own weight loss journey, he understands firsthand how frustrating it can be to turn to one failed solution after another. Many patients who have not found success at other practices discover Tijuana Bariatric Center and are finally able to achieve the weight loss they always envisioned. Dr. Garcia has designed a comprehensive program that goes far beyond surgery to include dietary counseling, peer support, and extensive email follow-up, ensuring patients are able to maintain their results over time.

Educational Background
and training

Dr. Garcia completed multiple elite Fellowships in gastric sleeve surgery, minimally invasive gastric bypass surgery, and LAP-BAND procedures. He holds a Licensed Physician Degree through the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo. He completed his residency in General Surgery at Hospital General (General Hospital), endorsed by Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC). Currently, Dr. Garcia serves as a professor of Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery at Universidad Autonoma de Baja California, and for over a decade, he has been on staff at the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social.

0101 Overview 0202 Philosophy 0303 Background and training

I had my Surgery 8/2/2022 – best experience ever. Dr. Garcia and his staff are amazing. The facility is well-organized and very clean. I have lost 43 lb since my pre-op diet. I feel much healthier and had no complications at all. I recommend Tijuana Bariatrics 100%.

— Edna Tamayo

How Is Single Incision Gastric Sleeve Surgery Performed?

During single incision gastric sleeve surgery, the surgeon creates one access point, commonly near the belly button, and introduces a laparoscopic camera and specialized instruments. Part of the stomach is removed, and the remaining stomach is formed into a narrower sleeve shape.

The procedure reduces stomach capacity and may also affect hunger-related signals. The exact surgical technique, amount of stomach removed, operating time, and recovery process vary according to the patient and the surgeon’s medical plan.

The Single Incision Sleeve Gastrectomy Procedure At A Glance

Anesthesia – During the first step of your procedure, the doctor will place you under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
Incision – Your surgeon will create a single incision in your belly button and situate the port.
Sleeve Surgery – A portion of your stomach will be removed, and the remaining section will be shaped into an oblong tube.
Final Steps – Your new stomach will be sealed, and the incision in your belly button will be closed.

What Does The Recovery Process Entail?

Because a single-incision laparoscopic sleeve only requires a single incision, patients enjoy little to no scarring. Surgeons can make the incision either within or around the belly button to ensure that scars are as discreet as possible.

After SILS, patients typically return home the same day and resume light activities within 1-2 days. Most will take off at least one week to rest and recuperate. Diet-wise, patients will need to consume liquids or mashed foods for 2-3 weeks, slowly adding in soft food and eventually regular food over time. After 6 weeks, most patients resume eating normal food.

Remember that Dr. Garcia and his team will provide a detailed aftercare regimen, including post-op meal plans and access to online support groups. Your treatment doesn’t stop once your surgery is over. Every team member at Tijuana Bariatric Center is committed to your long-term success and goes above and beyond to ensure you receive the highest quality of care – and aftercare – possible.

FAQs About Single Incision Gastric Sleeve Surgery

What is single incision gastric sleeve surgery?

Single incision gastric sleeve surgery, also called SILS, is a sleeve gastrectomy performed through one surgical access point, commonly positioned near the belly button.

How is SILS different from traditional gastric sleeve surgery?

The stomach reduction is generally similar, but SILS uses one surgical access point instead of several small laparoscopic access points.

Does SILS gastric sleeve leave a scar?

SILS still requires an incision, but placing it near or within the belly button may make the resulting scar less noticeable after healing. Scarring varies by patient.

Who may qualify for single incision sleeve gastrectomy?

Qualification depends on BMI, health history, abdominal anatomy, prior surgeries, surgical risk, and evaluation by an experienced bariatric surgeon.

Is recovery faster after single incision gastric sleeve?

Recovery varies. Having one access point does not guarantee a faster recovery, and patients should follow the activity, nutrition, medication, and follow-up instructions provided by their bariatric team.

Is SILS appropriate for every gastric sleeve patient?

No. Some patients may be better suited for a traditional laparoscopic approach because of their anatomy, BMI, previous surgeries, health conditions, or surgical complexity.

Contact Tijuana Bariatric Center Today

By choosing to undergo a single-incision gastric sleeve surgery with the Tijuana Bariatric Center, you can expect to pay just a fraction of the cost you would pay for bariatric surgery in the U.S.

For more information about bariatric surgery and how it can help you achieve a trimmer and slimmer frame, be sure to contact our weight loss surgery center today. The team at Tijuana Bariatric Center looks forward to your visit. You can call us at 800 970-0577.

Single Incision Gastric Sleeve (SILS) in Tijuana