Considering Medical Tourism for Bariatric Surgery
Many patients travel to Tijuana seeking accessible medical care and experienced bariatric specialists. Tijuana Bariatric Center works with board-certified surgeons who perform different types of weight loss surgery.
Procedures are performed in a hospital setting with modern medical equipment, established safety protocols, and bilingual staff. Patients also receive guidance and support before, during, and after their procedure.
Our team can pick you up at San Diego International Airport, take you safely across the border to your accommodations, and coordinate transportation to your surgery and follow-up care.
How Weight Loss Surgery Works
Bariatric procedures support sustainable weight loss through changes in stomach capacity, digestion, hunger signals, and metabolism. The specific effects depend on the procedure.
- Reduced stomach capacity: helps patients feel satisfied after eating smaller portions.
- Digestive changes: some procedures reroute part of the small intestine, changing how calories and nutrients are absorbed.
- Hormonal and metabolic changes: certain procedures may affect hunger, fullness, blood sugar regulation, and other metabolic responses.
Successful bariatric surgery requires close consultation and cooperation between you and the Tijuana Bariatric Center team. To support your progress, we provide guidance and a structured program designed to help you work toward the healthier, lighter version of yourself you have always wanted.
Types of Weight Loss Surgery
Our doctors perform several types of bariatric surgery. The procedure that may be appropriate for you depends on factors such as your current health, BMI, medical history, and weight loss goals.
Gastric Sleeve
During this procedure, also known as a sleeve gastrectomy, approximately 80% of the stomach is removed. The remaining part of the stomach is shaped into a narrow, tube-like structure.
The smaller stomach cannot hold as much food and produces less ghrelin, a hormone associated with hunger that also plays a role in blood sugar control. This procedure does not reroute the intestines.
Gastric Sleeve Plication
Gastric sleeve plication may be performed laparoscopically and involves creating one or more large folds in the stomach to reduce its volume by approximately 70%.
No cutting, stapling, or removal of the stomach or intestines occurs. The procedure works by restricting the amount of food a patient can eat, helping them feel satisfied after consuming a smaller portion.
Gastric Bypass and Mini Gastric Bypass
During gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a smaller stomach pouch and reroutes part of the small intestine. The procedure supports weight loss by limiting food intake and changing how calories and nutrients are absorbed.
Mini gastric bypass uses a different surgical design with one intestinal connection. Both procedures combine restriction with changes to the digestive pathway.
Duodenal Switch
Duodenal switch, also known as biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch, combines a sleeve gastrectomy with an intestinal bypass.
The procedure reduces the size of the stomach and reroutes a substantial portion of the small intestine. Food and digestive enzymes meet farther along the digestive tract, changing the absorption of calories and nutrients.
LAP-BAND®
Adjustable gastric banding is a restrictive bariatric procedure performed laparoscopically.
The procedure involves placing an adjustable silicone band around the upper portion of the stomach. This creates a smaller stomach section that fills more quickly and may help patients feel satisfied after eating smaller portions. Food then passes gradually into the remaining stomach, where digestion continues normally.
Am I a Candidate for Bariatric Surgery?
Answer a few questions to see whether a personalized bariatric evaluation may be an appropriate next step.
This quiz does not provide a diagnosis or medical approval. Final candidacy must be determined by a qualified medical professional after reviewing your complete health history.
Before we start
Bariatric candidacy depends on more than weight alone. Your BMI, health history, previous treatments and personal goals may all be considered.
What is your age range?
Age is not used by itself to reject a patient, but some age ranges may require a more personalized review.
Which measurement system would you like to use?
Choose the system that is easier for you. We will calculate your estimated BMI automatically.
Enter your height and weight
Your BMI is only one part of bariatric candidacy. Your medical history and personal circumstances must also be reviewed.
Have you had a previous bariatric procedure?
Previous bariatric surgery can change which procedures, tests, and treatment options may be considered.
Have you been diagnosed with any of these conditions?
Select all that apply. You do not need to share lab results or extra medical details here.
Which weight-loss approaches have you tried?
This helps the coordinator understand your history. It does not determine candidacy by itself.
What is your main reason for considering bariatric surgery?
Your motivation helps the team give more human, personalized guidance.
Do you already have a bariatric procedure in mind?
This is only informational. The final procedure recommendation should come from the medical team.
When are you considering surgery?
This helps the team understand how soon you may need guidance.
Would you like information about financing options?
Financing can be an important part of planning. Your answer helps the coordinator follow up with the right information.
Your assessment is ready
Enter your information to view your result and learn about the recommended next step.
Important: This assessment is educational and does not constitute medical approval. Final candidacy must be determined after the medical team reviews your complete health history.
Take Control of Your Life Now
Realize your goal of creating a healthier, lighter version of yourself. The Tijuana Bariatric Center team can help you understand your bariatric surgery options and the next steps in receiving a personalized evaluation.
