World-Class Bariatric Surgery in Puerto Vallarta for Canadian Patients | Dr. Cárdenas
Save Thousands on Your Gastric Sleeve or Gastric Bypass in Mexico — Regain Your Health Safely and Confidently.
✅ English-speaking staff
✅ Personalized medical plan
✅ Certified surgeon + nutrition & psychology
✅ Personalized medical plan
Why Choose Dr. Cárdenas in Puerto Vallarta?
Choosing bariatric surgery in Mexico offers world-class medical care — at a fraction of the cost of Canadian prices — without long waiting lists or complex hospital systems.
- Up to 60% savings vs. surgery in Canada
- No waiting lists
- Performed in certified hospitals
- Multidisciplinary care before, during & after surgery
- Safe medical tourism experience
Get a free quote from our team
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Questions about bariatric surgery
What is bariatric surgery?
A procedure to reduce your stomach size, helping you lose weight and improve your health.
Types of surgery?
Sleeve and gastric bypass – we’ll help choose the best for your case.
Who's a candidate?
Anyone struggling with obesity or related conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea.
How long is recovery?
Most patients return to normal activities in 2–3 weeks.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery (Sleeve Gastrectomy)
What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?
Gastric Sleeve Surgery — also known as Sleeve Gastrectomy — is one of the most popular and effective bariatric procedures worldwide.
During this minimally invasive surgery, around 70–80% of the stomach is removed, creating a smaller, tube-shaped stomach (similar to a sleeve).
This limits the amount of food you can eat and reduces hunger by decreasing the production of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for appetite.
Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Sleeve?
You may qualify for a Gastric Sleeve if you meet one or more of the following criteria:
BMI (Body Mass Index) of 35 or higher, with or without obesity-related conditions.
BMI between 30–34.9 with associated health issues such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.
You have struggled with unsuccessful weight loss attempts through diet, exercise, or medication.
You are emotionally and psychologically ready to commit to lifestyle changes after surgery.
Surgery Details
Technique: Minimally invasive (laparoscopic)
Duration: Approximately 60–90 minutes
Hospital Stay: 1–2 days
Anesthesia: General
Incisions: Small, typically 4–5 tiny incisions
Recovery & Postoperative Care
Most patients can return to normal activities within 7–10 days.
You’ll follow a gradual diet plan supervised by our nutritionist — starting with liquids, then soft foods, and eventually solids.
Regular follow-ups are done virtually or in person to monitor progress and ensure healthy weight loss.
Expected Results
Patients typically lose 60–70% of their excess body weight within the first year.
Noticeable improvement or remission in obesity-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and joint pain.
Increased energy levels, mobility, and overall quality of life.
Gastric Bypass Surgery (Roux-en-Y)
What is Gastric Bypass Surgery?
The Gastric Bypass, or Roux-en-Y procedure, is considered the gold standard in bariatric surgery due to its effectiveness and long-term results.
The surgeon creates a small stomach pouch and reroutes part of the small intestine. This limits how much you can eat and reduces calorie absorption, leading to significant and sustainable weight loss.
Who Is a Candidate for Gastric Bypass?
You may be an ideal candidate if you:
Have a BMI of 40 or higher.
Have a BMI of 35 or more with health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea.
Suffer from severe acid reflux (GERD) — gastric bypass is often preferred over sleeve in these cases.
Previously had a gastric sleeve but did not achieve sufficient results or developed reflux.
Surgery Details
Technique: Laparoscopic (minimally invasive)
Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours
Hospital Stay: 2–3 days
Anesthesia: General
Incisions: 4–6 small laparoscopic incisions
Recovery & Postoperative Care
Initial recovery takes about 10–14 days, with most patients walking within 24 hours of surgery.
Gradual diet progression under nutritionist supervision: liquids → purées → soft foods → solids.
Full return to work or travel within 2–3 weeks.
Continuous follow-up with your surgeon and multidisciplinary team for optimal results.
Expected Results
Patients typically lose 70–80% of their excess weight within the first 12–18 months.
Significant improvement or remission of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea.
Long-lasting metabolic benefits and increased energy levels.
Bariatric surgery in U.S
Bariatric surgery in Puerto Vallarta
Savings of up to 60%-
Same quality
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International standards
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Personalized attention.
Your Bariatric Recovery in Paradise
Recover in one of Mexico’s safest and most beautiful destinations, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre mountains.
Enjoy mild weather, breathtaking sunsets, and a calm environment ideal for post-surgery recovery.
Comfort & Convenience:
We collaborate with nearby hotels that offer special rates for our patients and companions, ensuring a restful stay.
Transportation Included
We provide airport pick-up and drop-off, plus local transport to and from your appointments
Activities During Recovery:
Take short walks by the beach, enjoy scenic views from your hotel, and experience the calm of a medical vacation in paradise.
Travel Made Easy for U.S. and Canadian Patients
Flights:
Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) has direct connections from major cities like Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal.
Book early for the best airfare options.
Entry Requirements:
U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa to travel to Mexico. A valid passport is required.
Support & Logistics:
Our medical tourism coordinator helps you every step of the way — from arrival to recovery — to make your experience smooth and stress-free.
Recovery Time:
Most patients stay in Puerto Vallarta for 7–10 days, which includes surgery, hospital recovery, and post-operative care.
Certified Hospitals & Safety Protocols
All surgeries are performed in accredited hospitals that meet international safety standards.
We use modern laparoscopic technology and strict infection-control protocols to guarantee optimal safety and recovery.
Every package includes:
Hospital stay (1–2 nights)
Medical and surgical team fees
Specialized bariatric materials
Pre- and post-op lab testing
Post-operative follow-up and 24/7 assistance
About Dr. José Andrés Cárdenas
Board-Certified General and Bariatric Surgeon
Member of the Mexican College of General Surgery (CMCG)
Specialist in minimally invasive and metabolic surgery
Fluent English-speaking medical team
Leader in medical tourism in Puerto Vallarta
University of Guadalajara
-Specialty in General Surgery
Autonomous University of Guadalajara
-High specialty in Advanced Minimally Invasive Gastrointestinal Surgery
Certifications and associations
-Certified by the Mexican Council of General Surgery AC
-Mexican Association of General Surgery AC
-Mexican College of Obesity Surgery and Metabolic Diseases AC
-International Federation For The Surgery Of Obesity
multidisciplinary team
comprehensive approach including nutrition and psychology
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes—when you choose the right surgeon and hospital, surgery in Mexico can be just as safe as in the United States or Canada.
At our practice in Puerto Vallarta, all procedures are performed in certified hospitals that follow strict international standards for patient safety, hygiene, and surgical technology. Dr. José Andrés Cárdenas is a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience in advanced gastrointestinal and bariatric surgery, supported by a multidisciplinary team that oversees every step of your care.
Additionally, we provide personalized medical tourism services, including private transportation, post-surgery accommodations, and 24/7 support—so you feel secure, informed, and cared for from the moment you arrive until long after your recovery.
For many patients, Mexico offers the same high-quality surgery at a more accessible cost, without compromising results or safety.
Yes, we do accept insurance. To make the process easier for our international patients, we have a dedicated insurance coordinator who works exclusively on handling all the paperwork and communication with your insurance provider.
This means you won’t have to worry about the details—we’ll guide you step by step, verify your coverage, and ensure you understand exactly what is included. Our goal is to give you peace of mind, so you can focus on your health and recovery while we take care of the logistics.
Our bariatric surgery packages are designed to be all-inclusive, so you can feel confident knowing there are no hidden fees.
The cost covers:
Surgery performed by Dr. José Andrés Cárdenas and his multidisciplinary team.
Hospital stay in certified facilities, with 24/7 medical and nursing care.
All required pre- and post-operative labs and diagnostic tests.
Medications during your hospital stay and immediate recovery.
Post-operative care and follow-up, ensuring you are supported every step of the way.
In addition, we also assist with transportation, accommodations, and medical tourism support, so your experience in Puerto Vallarta is safe, seamless, and comfortable.
You are welcome to travel alone—many of our patients do. Our team provides full support before, during, and after surgery, so you will never feel unattended.
However, if you prefer to bring a family member or friend, they are more than welcome. Having a companion can make you feel even more comfortable, and we offer accommodations and recovery arrangements to ensure both of you have a safe and pleasant stay in Puerto Vallarta.
Either way, you’ll be fully cared for by Dr. Cárdenas and our dedicated team throughout your journey.
Your care doesn’t end when you leave the hospital—it’s just the beginning. After surgery, we provide continuous follow-up to ensure your recovery is safe and successful.
While you are in Puerto Vallarta, Dr. Cárdenas and our certified staff will see you daily during your hospital stay and post-op checkups.
Once you return home, we maintain regular contact through video calls, emails, and phone support, so you always have access to medical guidance.
Our team will also provide long-term follow-up plans, including nutrition, lifestyle, and medical check-ins, so you feel supported well beyond your surgery.
We operate exclusively in a private hospital with certified staff, guaranteeing safety, professionalism, and high-quality care at every stage.
Travel Information for U.S. and Canadian Patients ✈️
Getting to Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is home to the Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) — a modern airport with direct flights from major cities in the United States and Canada.
Direct Flights from Canada:
Toronto • Vancouver • Calgary • Montreal
Direct Flights from the U.S.:
Los Angeles • Dallas • Houston • Chicago • Phoenix • Denver • Seattle
With frequent flights year-round, reaching Puerto Vallarta is simple, quick, and convenient.
Travel Tips
To get the best airfare, we recommend booking your flight in advance and checking multiple dates.
Our team can assist you with information about the best times to fly, ideal travel durations, and nearby hotel options for your stay.
Find the Best Flights
Explore your flight options to Puerto Vallarta using these trusted travel sites:
🛫 Search and compare flights to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) from Canada or the U.S. here.
Local Transportation
We provide ground transportation from and to the airport, your hotel, and the hospital — ensuring you arrive safely and comfortably at every stage of your medical journey.
Our patient coordinator will be waiting for you at the airport and will assist with your entire itinerary.
Visa & Entry Requirements
For U.S. and Canadian citizens, traveling to Mexico is simple:
No visa is required for visits under 180 days.
You only need a valid passport.
Upon arrival, you’ll complete a tourist entry form (FMM) provided by your airline or at the airport.
Our team can also assist you with any travel documentation questions before your trip.
Puerto Vallarta: Your Health Destination
Recover your health in a destination known for its beauty, safety, and hospitality.
Puerto Vallarta combines modern healthcare, personalized care, and a peaceful environment — making your recovery feel like a true renewal experience.
Health, safety, and serenity — all in one place. 🌴✨