
Duodenal Switch Surgery
Losing weight and keeping it off can be a challenge, even with bariatric surgery. A duodenal switch may be ideal in these cases.
A duodenal switch combines restrictive and malabsorptive weight loss methods, helping patients overcome severe obesity and comorbidities.
Learn how ALO Bariatrics in Tijuana, Mexico, can help you shed excess weight and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life...
What Is a Duodenal Switch?

Reduction of Stomach Size
The first step in a duodenal switch is performing a gastric sleeve (sleeve gastrectomy). This removes up to 80 percent of a patient's stomach. This makes patients feel fuller faster and reduces sensations of hunger. Reduced calorie consumption aids in restrictive weight loss.
Bypassing Part of the Small Intestine
Next, your surgeon bypasses approximately two-thirds of your small intestine. By making this alteration, patients will absorb fewer calories from food during the digestion process.
Rerouting the Bypassed Small Intestine
The third step is biliopancreatic diversion. The bypassed portion of the intestine is reattached to the end of the rerouted small intestine. This allows bile and pancreatic digestive juices to flow to the end of the rerouted intestine and continue to aid in digestion.How does a duodenal switch compare to other bariatric surgery options?
A Patient's Success Story Weight Loss Surgery Makes a Difference
"Three (3) years ago I decided to make a change in my life. It wasn’t just a physical transformation. The transformation was more than that. I’m more confident in my own skin now. The insecurities I used to have, that used to prevent me from being the person I really was all along, are now gone. I have definitely bloomed!!
"Folks will say, 'You’ve changed!' Well, don’t let that bother you. In fact, embrace those comments because you know that it’s really just the real you showing up now, without those pesky insecurities. I sure have changed! I’m ME now, and enjoying life to the fullest!!" Michelle Bueno
Ready to Talk About Duodenal Switch Surgery? Contact Our Bariatric Surgeons
Duodenal switch surgery may be just what you need to lose weight and lead a healthier lifestyle. Our bariatric surgery centers in Tijuana, Guadalajara, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico are here to help. These state-of-the-art facilities can safely and affordably perform complicated bariatric procedures.
The ALO Bariatrics team includes proud members of the following organizations:
- The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery
- The Mexican College of Surgery for Obesity and Metabolic Diseases
- The Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery
To learn more about duodenal switch, contact our bariatric surgeons online or call our bariatric surgery practice at:
(844) 461-2831
The team at ALO Bariatrics can develop a custom weight loss solution based on your needs. With three convenient locations in Mexico, you can shed excess weight and save on surgery.
The Cost of Surgery Duodenal Switch Pricing
The cost of a duodenal switch at our Tijuana surgical center is $6,800. The final cost of surgery can vary based on the needs of the patient and the city in which you undergo the procedure. While more expensive than gastric bypass and gastric sleeve surgery, BPD-DS can yield more dramatic weight loss results.
Location | Gastric Sleeve | Gastric Bypass | Duodenal Switch | LAP-BAND |
Tijuana | $4,700 | $6,300 | $7,300 | $5,700 |
Puerto Vallarta | $4,900 | $6,500 | $7,500 | $5,900 |
Guadalajara - Puerta de Hierro | $4,700 | $6,300 | $7,300 | $5,700 |
To help make duodenal switch surgery more affordable, ALO Bariatrics offers financing options.
Insurance Coverage
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Duodenal switch surgery is often covered by insurance. However, coverage can vary. Be sure to contact your provider directly to learn about your coverage. The team at our bariatric surgery centers in Tijuana, Guadalajara, and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico can help with the filing process.
A Patient-Centered Approach to Treating Obesity Our Weight Loss Centers in Mexico Can Help
I received the best care at ALO Bariatrics TJ location. The whole medical staff amazing! I promise you will not regret allowing them to give you the tool to kick obesity out of your life. I'm forever grateful. The doctors at ALO are very humble and the driver is super nice.
View On GoogleI had a wonderful experience at ALO Bariatrics. I would highly recommend this facility! The doctors, nurses, and facility were comparable to those in the U.S., and the care was wonderful!
View On GoogleA Closer Look at Duodenal Switch Surgery
The Duodenal Switch Procedure A Step-by-Step Look
Duodenal switch surgery takes three to four hours to complete
Contact Our Weight Loss Specialists Schedule a Free Consultation
If you're in need of a revision bariatric surgery or have a BMI of 50 or greater, a biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch may be right for you. When you visit our offices in Tijuana, Guadalajara, or Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, you'll discuss your weight loss options with our experienced bariatric surgeons. We'll help develop a custom treatment plan so you can achieve your wellness goals. To learn more, contact ALO Bariatric online. You can also reach our weight loss surgery center by phone.
(844) 461-2831
Recovering from Surgery
After duodenal switch, patients will be on a liquid diet for approximately two weeks. Patients will slowly switch to pureed food in the next two weeks of recovery, gradually reintroducing soft foods and solids into their diet after about a month. Be sure to eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and savor your food.
Most patients are able to return to work after two weeks. Strenuous physical activities should be avoided for up to six weeks after surgery. While running and heavy cardio must be avoided, patients are encouraged to walk a little each day in order to promote circulation and improve the healing experience.
ALO Bariatrics will provide full post-op aftercare instructions to patients. We will also answer any questions or concerns you may have while you are healing.

Life After Surgery Vitamins and Supplements
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The changes to the digestive tract will require duodenal switch patients to take nutritional supplements for the rest of their lives. This ensures that patients are getting their daily recommended allowances of iron, calcium, zinc, and vitamins A, K, D, and B12. During the consultation process, the ALO Bariatrics team will provide a detailed list of vitamins and minerals that will require supplementation.
Our Team Is Ready to Help You
Your Success Is Our Goal Patients Shares Their Story
I highly recommend the team at ALO Bariatrics. Sandra is amazing at providing details and ensuring you are their #1 priority. Dr Lopez is a gifted surgeon with vast experience in bariatric procedures. The Tijuana facilities are clean, safe, well staffed and dedicated to protecting the patients’ dignity and care. If you are thinking about weight loss surgery as a health or cosmetic option, ALO should be your choice.
View On GoogleI would recommend this practice go anyone seeking bariatric surgery. Dr. Lopez and the hospital staff at Hospital Guadalajara were great, and my coordinator Sandra was awesome. I felt safe the entire time and the hotel staff at the Marriott provided the best service Ive ever had at a hotel. No regrets here.
View On GoogleMake a Positive Change in Your Life Contact Our Bariatric Surgeons
Undergoing weight loss surgery may be just what you need to reduce your BMI and improve your general health and wellness. ALO Bariatrics is here to help.
During a consultation at our offices in Tijuana, Guadalajara, or Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, we'll go over the risks and benefits associated with surgery. This will help you make an informed decision about your surgical options.
Make a change today. To schedule a consultation, contact our practice online. You can also call our team of weight loss specialists at:
(844) 461-2831

Duodenal Switch FAQs
What Is the Difference between Duodenal Switch and Gastric Bypass?
While both of these surgeries combine malabsorptive and restrictive weight loss mechanisms, they have some key differences. Most importantly, a duodenal switch bypasses two-thirds of the small intestine, and is much more complicated than a gastric bypass procedure. This major revision of the digestive tract allows people to lose more weight with BPD-DS than they would in a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass.Which Surgeries Can Be Converted into a Duodenal Switch?
If your initial weight loss surgery was ineffective, a revision can be performed to help you lose additional weight. It's possible to convert most other bariatric surgeries into a duodenal switch. This includes popular options like gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy) and gastric bypass surgery.Is Duodenal Switch Surgery Safe?
Yes. The duodenal switch is safe. For patients with a very high BMI or who require revision of a previous procedure, BPD-DS may be the most ideal option to achieve long-term health and wellness.What Are the Potential Risks of Duodenal Switch Surgery?
Duodenal switch is a complex procedure and does involve some risk of potential complications. These complications include malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies, gallstones, and bowel obstruction.
During your visit to our offices in Tijuana, Guadalajara, and Puerto Vallarta, we will go over all of the potential disadvantages of surgery in greater detail. By carefully considering the pros and cons, you'll be able to make an informed decision on whether or not a duodenal switch is right for you.
Can You Regain Weight after a Duodenal Switch?
It is possible to regain weight after you've undergone BPD-DS. Regaining some of the weight you've lost after surgery is normal, but our primary concern is a major regain of the initial weight that's been lost. This may be due to diet, physical activity, or various health and medical factors.
That said, patients are less likely to regain weight after BPD-DS than they are after other bariatric procedures, such as gastric banding, gastric sleeve, or gastric bypass. This is due to the nature of duodenal switch surgery and how it promotes both restrictive and malabsorptive weight loss.
What Can I Eat after Surgery?
Immediately after your bariatric surgery, you'll be on a liquid diet that will help with healing as you slowly reintroduce solid foods. When you return to eating solid foods, it a good idea to incorporate the following items into your regular diet:
- Lean sources of protein
- Vegetables
- Fruits
- Whole grains
- Low-fat milk and dairy
We recommend avoiding candy, sodas, sugary juices, and junk food. We can provide additional diet guidelines during the consultation process.
If you have a question that wasn't addressed on this page,
the team at ALO Bariatrics can give you the answers you're looking for.
"I'm forever grateful." Five-Star Reviews of Our Tijuana Bariatrics Center
I did numerous hours of research before considering ALO Bariatrics because of the dangers of medical tourism. Once I convinced my mom (a 20+ year RN) that I had done enough research and that he was licensed and had a great record I had the gastric sleeve performed in Puerta Vallarta and it was an amazing experience. After 3 years I have lost close to 100 lbs and am doing well. No complications and I have several underlying health issues prior you. I got clearance from my US doctors prior to traveling for my surgery. (Cardiologist and Endocrine) who worked with me to make sure I was prepared for the procedure. The hospital was clean (cleaner than any us hospital I've ever seen) the doctors were pleasant and knowledgeable and very great at communicating what to expect. On top of all that thr recovery resort was absolutely beautiful and the beach recovery was so relaxing. In conclusion this was one of the best decisions I've ever made!
View On GoogleWow. Exceeded my expectations after doing over a year and a half of research into gastric sleeve. I had a friend recommend ALÔ and it was the best decision of my life! The care, attention, treatment, communication, everything was top notch. Any misconceptions or doubts you have about Mexico, Tijuana or “foreign medical care” doesn’t apply here. 100% would recommend to anyone. Dr Lopez was incredible! Did my surgery Aug 23 2019 and already down 85 lbs! 60 to go.... UPDATE: it is just over a year from my surgery and I am down to about 185 lbs. from the original 330! Some new encounters with heartburn, but have managed it well with antacids. I am LOVING the new me!
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