Duodenal Switch Surgery in Mexico
Struggling with weight can significantly impact your health, and for some, traditional weight loss methods may not be enough. If you’re looking for highly effective solutions, Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS) and its Single-Anastomosis version (SADI-S) are among the most powerful bariatric surgeries for sustained weight control.
These complex procedures are mastered by only a select group of surgeons worldwide. For patients from the U.S., Canada, and New Zealand undergoing Duodenal Switch surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, Hospital Azar’s team of top bariatric surgeons offers an affordable option.
Understanding Duodenal Switch
The Duodenal Switch: BPD/DS (Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch) and SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodeno–Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy) are efficacious metabolic bariatric surgeries. They are restrictive and highly malabsorptive to achieve significant weight loss and health improvements.
Both Duodenal Switch (DS) and SADI-S procedures are effective for significant weight loss and improving obesity-related health conditions. While DS leads to greater overall weight loss, it generally involves a longer operative time and can result in lower vitamin and mineral levels compared to SADI-S.
The DS procedure is typically performed in two stages. First, the stomach’s size is reduced, similar to a sleeve gastrectomy. Second, the small intestine is rerouted, which can lead to malabsorption, limiting the calories and nutrients your body can absorb.
At Hospital Azar, our skilled bariatric surgeons recommend this procedure to patients with a BMI of 45 or higher or those who require substantial weight loss. The Duodenal Switch offers not only impressive long-term weight reduction but also helps reverse many obesity-related health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.
Your Duodenal Switch Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s what you can expect on your weight loss journey with Hospital Azar.
Initial Consultation and Preparation – Your journey begins with a thorough initial consultation with the best bariatric surgeons specialized in the Duodenal Switch. They will review your medical history and discuss your weight loss goals to determine if the Duodenal Switch is right for you. It’s crucial to share any health concerns you have, including type 2 diabetes or heart disease. Once cleared, our coordinator will assist you in scheduling your surgery.
Arrival – On the day you arrive in Tijuana, you’ll undergo pre-operative tests at the Hospital Azar, then spend the night relaxing at the hospital or hotel.
Surgery Day – The following day, the specialized surgeon will perform your surgery, which typically lasts between 120 to 150 minutes. You’ll be under general anesthesia, meaning you’ll be completely asleep for the entire procedure.
Technology – Hospital Azar utilizes advanced technology and laparoscopic techniques, which involve making small incisions in your abdomen and using cameras to guide the procedure. This approach helps ensure an easier and faster recovery.
The Duodenal Switch is a multi-step process:
Gastric Sleeve: First, a significant portion of your stomach is removed, creating a smaller, sleeve-shaped stomach. This drastically reduces the amount of food you can consume.
Small Intestine Bypass: Next, your small intestine is rerouted. The end section of your small intestine is connected directly to your duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), while the middle section is closed off.
Biliopancreatic Diversion: Finally, the closed-off middle portion of the small intestine is reconnected further down to the end section of the small intestine. This allows essential digestive juices, such as bile and pancreatic fluids, to flow into this new intestinal pathway.
Once the procedure is complete, the DS surgeon will remove the surgical instruments and close your incisions.
Recovery and Results – You’ll spend three days and nights recovering in the hospital, where our dedicated staff will closely monitor you for any complications. On the evening of your fifth day in Tijuana, you’ll be ready to travel home and continue your recovery there. You can expect to start seeing significant weight loss results over the next several weeks!
What Does Duodenal Switch Package Include?
The price of Duodenal Switch in the U.S. and Canada without insurance can easily set you back $18,000 to $25,000. Fortunately, we offer U.S. quality weight loss surgery in Mexico at a fraction of the cost. We eliminate all of the planning and preparation by taking care of everything from the moment you arrive in San Diego to the moment you depart. Ground transportation, hotel stay, and everything in between are covered in our all-inclusive package.
Duodenal Switch Package
Starting at
Travel Itinerary For RNY Gastric Bypass Package
Arrive one day prior to surgery before 12:00 pm PST. Transportation Included. Pre-Op Tests and Stay at Hotel.
Transportation to MBC Hospital. Stay for 2 nights in our Hospital w/ ICU under 24/7 care.
Recover in Hospital. 2-3 Leak Tests. Spend day/night at MBC Hospital under 24/7 care.
The driver takes you across the border to the San Diego airport. Plan departure flight after 2:00 pm.
Details
Duodenal Switch: Effective Solution for Life-Threatening Obesity
The Duodenal Switch procedure is one of the most effective surgical options for treating severe obesity and its related health issues. It combines the benefits of both gastric sleeve and intestinal bypass surgeries, making it a powerful tool in weight loss and metabolic improvement.
Partially Reversible
One unique feature of the Duodenal Switch is its partial reversibility. The malabsorptive component, where the intestines are rerouted, can be reversed if necessary. However, the stomach reduction remains permanent, functioning similarly to a standalone gastric sleeve.
Eat a Wide Range of Foods
Unlike some other weight-loss surgeries, Duodenal Switch patients are able to enjoy a broad range of foods post-surgery. Much like those who undergo gastric sleeve or bypass, patients can eat balanced meals without severe dietary restrictions. However, the key is maintaining a healthy diet to ensure long-term success.
No Dumping Syndrome
Another advantage of this surgery is the rare occurrence of dumping syndrome, a common side effect of other bariatric procedures like gastric bypass. At Hospital Azar, our surgeons have extensive experience in the Duodenal Switch procedure, making us a trusted leader in this specialized field.
Improves Severe Obesity-Related Health Conditions
One of the most compelling benefits of the Duodenal Switch is its high success rate in improving or even curing life-threatening obesity-related health conditions. These include:
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Sleep Apnea
- Dyslipidemia
- Arthritis
- High Cholesterol
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
- Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
- Cardiovascular Diseases
Post-Surgery Considerations: Strong-Smelling Stools and Flatulence
Due to the rerouting of the intestines, patients may experience stronger-smelling stools and, in some cases, looser bowel movements, particularly if a diet high in fats is maintained. Foods high in carbohydrates, fiber, and carbonated drinks can exacerbate flatulence.
Nutritional Support: Requires Strict Vitamin Regimen
Since the Duodenal Switch impacts nutrient absorption, patients must adhere to strict vitamin and supplementation guidelines to prevent nutrient deficiencies. This is essential to avoid issues like protein-calorie malnutrition and loss of lean body mass.
Potential for Anemia and Gallstones
One common side effect of the Duodenal Switch is the risk of anemia due to insufficient iron absorption. This is why iron supplements are crucial after surgery. Additionally, rapid weight loss post-operation can increase the likelihood of developing gallstones, a potential risk to be monitored closely.
Limited Revision Options
While the Duodenal Switch is highly effective, it is important to note that there are no reliable revision options if the surgery does not achieve the desired results. This highlights the importance of thorough pre-surgery consultations to ensure the procedure is suitable for each patient’s unique health needs.
Duodenal Switch: Achieving Exceptional Weight Loss Results
On average, patients undergoing the Duodenal Switch procedure experience remarkable weight loss, shedding around 78% of their excess body weight. This outcome is driven by the surgery’s dual mechanisms: reducing stomach volume and rerouting the intestines to create malabsorption. The rapid initial weight loss typically stabilizes within a year, offering long-term success, particularly for patients classified as super-obese.
Expected Weight Loss Timeline
- 3 Months Post-Op: Patients can expect to lose between 34% to 39% of their excess weight.
- 6 Months Post-Op: By this stage, weight loss typically ranges between 50% to 58%.
- 12 Months Post-Op: Around 68% to 79% of excess weight is reduced within a year.
- 18 Months Post-Op: The maximum weight loss occurs, with an average of 79% to 88% of excess body weight shed.
These figures reflect average outcomes, but with proper diet, exercise, and adherence to vitamin supplementation, achieving 100% excess weight loss is possible.
Complete the Consent Form: The link will be sent in your booking confirmation email.
Upload a Copy of your Passport/Identification: To ensure crossing the border is smooth, we verify your identification which you can attach to the consent form.
Send Us Your Flight Itinerary: Make sure to have your arrival time before 12:00 PM (noon) and departure time after 2:00 PM.
Proof of Final Payment or pay online (21 days prior)
Patients Packing List – Our patients collectively came together to make this list to prepare for Weight Loss Surgery in Tijuana, Mexico. Don’t forget your required travel documents including your passport.
Whether is gastric sleeve surgery, gastric bypass surgery, mini bypass, or gastric balloon – here is the packing list to bring to Mexico for bariatric surgery! Don’t pack too much, remember you are not traveling for a fashion show. You are traveling for weight loss surgery.
- Just a small suitcase and a carry-on!
- Don’t waste luggage space with your own pillow, you probably will never use it. Although bringing a pillowcase is helpful.
- Bring a neck pillow.
- Bring some spending cash, preferably smaller bills. Although tipping is up to you, having extra money for your travels may be worthwhile.
- Bring slippers that easily slip on when you get out of the hospital bed.
- Bring extra washcloths.
- Loose, stretchy clothes. You don’t just magically become skinny immediately after surgery. Easily accessible clothing is a must.
- Pack headphones with your own music for extra comfort.
- Bring extra underwear.
- Bring a Gas-X strip with you. If not MBC has a limited number of Gas-X strips for sale – ask the staff!
- Bring a warm jacket or a sweater for the plane ride, just in case you’re cold in the hospital.
- Sleep masks and earplugs.
- Heating pad.