Weight Loss Surgery · Tijuana, Mexico
The gastric sleeve (VSG) is the most commonly performed weight loss surgery in the world. At Russald Medical Center in Tijuana, Mexico, we offer this procedure with individualized evaluation, experienced surgical oversight, and a structured post-operative support plan.
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Gastric Sleeve
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy or VSG, removes approximately 75–80% of the stomach, leaving a sleeve-shaped pouch about the size of a banana. This restricts how much food you can eat, reduces hunger hormones (ghrelin), and supports significant, long-term weight loss without rerouting the digestive tract.
Because the small intestine is left intact, vitamin absorption is largely preserved compared to gastric bypass. The sleeve produces powerful results through restriction and hormonal changes alone — making it the most widely performed bariatric procedure globally.
Gastric sleeve in Tijuana, Mexico is performed by board-certified bariatric surgeons at Russald Medical Center at 65–75% less than US hospital costs — without compromising surgical quality, anesthesia standards, or post-operative care.
Who Is a Candidate?
BMI of 35 or higher, or BMI 30+ with obesity-related health conditions
Adults who have not achieved sustainable results through diet and exercise alone
Patients without active untreated eating disorders or absolute contraindications
Non-smokers or patients who stop smoking at least 4–6 weeks before surgery
Commitment to dietary and lifestyle changes post-surgery
All procedures require a clinical evaluation to confirm candidacy. The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Real Results
Side-by-side outcomes from gastric sleeve patients at Russald Medical Center, Tijuana.
Why Russald Medical Center
65–75% Less Than US Hospitals
Gastric sleeve in the United States commonly costs $15,000–$25,000+ without insurance. Russald Medical Center delivers the same laparoscopic technique at a fraction of that cost — a structural difference in healthcare economics, not quality.
Board-Certified Bariatric Surgeon
All sleeve gastrectomy procedures are performed by a fellowship-trained, board-certified bariatric surgeon with over 1,200 bariatric cases. You know exactly who your surgeon is before you travel.
Pre-Op Evaluation Included
Blood work, cardiac clearance, and nutritional assessment are completed before your procedure is scheduled. We do not proceed without confirming you are medically appropriate for surgery.
Same-Day Ambulation
Most patients are up and walking the same day as surgery. Early ambulation reduces complication risk and supports a faster recovery. Discharge criteria are clinical, not calendar-based.
Remote Follow-Up Available
Post-operative support continues remotely after you return home. Written discharge instructions and a dietary progression protocol are provided at discharge, and your team is reachable for follow-up questions.
20 Minutes from San Diego
Russald Medical Center is approximately 20 minutes from the San Diego border crossing. The gastric sleeve procedure is typically complete in a 3–5 day trip from the US.
Patient Reviews
Patient reviews published on Google.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gastric sleeve at Russald Medical Center costs 65–75% less than US hospitals — about $4,500–$6,000 versus $15,000–$25,000+ in the US without insurance. Your exact price is confirmed in a personalized quote after your evaluation.
Yes. Gastric sleeve is performed laparoscopically by board-certified bariatric surgeons in a fully equipped surgical facility. Pre-operative evaluation is required before any procedure is approved. As with any surgery, risks are reviewed in detail during your consultation.
Most patients stay 2–4 days post-operatively in Tijuana before returning home. Discharge is based on clinical criteria — your surgeon confirms when it is safe to travel.
Long-term results depend significantly on adherence to dietary changes and lifestyle modifications. The sleeve provides a structural tool for weight loss — behavioral commitment is essential for sustained results. Most patients lose 60–75% of their excess weight within the first 12–18 months.
Gastric sleeve removes a portion of the stomach only, leaving the digestive tract intact. Gastric bypass creates a small stomach pouch AND reroutes the small intestine, producing stronger metabolic effects. Bypass is often preferred for patients with type 2 diabetes or higher BMI.
In selected cases, combining procedures during the same surgical session may be possible. This is evaluated on a case-by-case basis based on surgical time, anesthesia safety, and your overall health profile.
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