Gastric Sleeve procedure at Russald Medical Center, Tijuana

Weight Loss Surgery · Tijuana, Mexico

Gastric Sleeve Surgery in 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.

Medically reviewed by Russald Medical CenterApril 25, 2026

75%Avg. Excess Weight Lost
2–3 hrsProcedure Time
2–4 daysStay in Tijuana
4–6 wksReturn to Full Activity
75%Avg. Excess Weight Lost
2–3 hrsProcedure Time
2–4 daysStay in Tijuana
4–6 wksReturn to Full Activity

Gastric Sleeve

What Is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

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

Gastric Sleeve — Before & After

Side-by-side outcomes from gastric sleeve patients at Russald Medical Center, Tijuana.

Why Russald Medical Center

Why Choose Russald for Gastric Sleeve?

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 Videos

Hear From Our Patients

Joshua Standifer

The facilities are incredible

Kyle Cappo

The location is great

Ingrid Sánchez

The clinic is beautiful

Patient Reviews

Anthony Preciado

a week ago

Wow, I want to thank the staff and doctors here at Russald Medical. They were so nice and made us feel comfortable. I loved how they were explaining everything in detail, Also were letting me know what they were doing in the moment. I would definitely come back here and recommend Russald Medical to anyone who’s thinking about getting a hair transplant. Trust me you’ll love the experience here.

Elvia Gomez

a week ago

I am so grateful to the Russald Medical clinic. They treated me like a queen — the staff, the doctors, the drivers. My thanks for my hair transplant. Thank you so much.

Tim Spires

a week ago

The clinic was clean and wonderful. The people treating me were fantastic, and easy going. Great food was supplied, full facility available in your room. They provide a driver to take me straight from the airport to the clinic, and one to take you back for any flying needs. Procedure appears to be like all the rest you do research about. It was interesting learning about how it works. High hopes for a great outcome. Thank you, Russald Medical.

Creative.ness__

a week ago

My husband went to Russald Medical for a hair transplant and we had a very good experience. The staff was very professional and made my husband and myself feel comfortable and welcome. Loved that they had transportation options so that was one less thing for us to stress about. Can’t wait to update with his final results.

Luis Cazares

6 months ago

Excellent service, very professional! The facilities are spotless, making clients feel very comfortable and at ease. 10/10. Thank you for your attention!

Eric Su

7 months ago

I came here for multiple PRP procedures for tendinitis. The prices were far superior to those in America with superior service as well. The surgeon was incredibly kind, professional and helped all of the issues in my shoulders and my knees. I felt better the next day. Previously I spent thousands on chiropractors and acupuncture — so glad I chose Russald Medical instead. Referring friends and family as well.

Caro Medina

7 months ago

I did my hormone replacement treatment with Russald Medical and had AMAZING results. Before selecting them I reached out to 3 other clinics in Tijuana and they all wanted to sell medicated creams without any blood tests. Russald immediately requested a full blood panel including hormonal tests, which obviously makes more sense. The lab-based approach made all the difference.

Andrew Castro

a year ago

I saw the surgeon here after 5 months of shoulder pain from an injury. We injected PRP into my shoulder and that’s where my recovery began. Every week I felt improvement — my shoulder was 100% by about the 8 week mark. He is an exceptional doctor, well versed in what he does, and listens to his patients. 100% recommend Russald Medical.

Stephanie Perez

a year ago

I highly recommend this place; the facilities are very welcoming and beautiful. The receptionist was friendly. And most importantly, the changes since I started going here are very noticeable; in a short time, my hair is healthier and stronger.

See more patient reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Gastric Sleeve in Tijuana — Common Questions

How much does gastric sleeve cost in Tijuana, Mexico?

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.

Is gastric sleeve surgery safe in Tijuana?

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.

How long do I need to stay in Tijuana after gastric sleeve?

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.

Will I keep the weight off after gastric sleeve?

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.

What is the difference between gastric sleeve and gastric bypass?

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.

Can I combine gastric sleeve with other procedures?

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.

No Commitment Required

Request Your Free Medical Evaluation

Our team reviews your case individually: connecting you with the right specialist at no cost and with no obligation to proceed.

  • Pre-approval path: submit your profile and receive a pre-approval decision

  • Response within 1 business day: often same day

  • Fully confidential: your information is never shared

  • Minutes from San Diego: no flights, no long trips

  • English-speaking team handles your case from start to finish

  • Transparent pricing: receive a personalized cost breakdown

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