Frequently Asked
Questions

We are committed to making safe, successful, affordable and comprehensive bariatric and related surgeries, accessible without sacrificing quality. By operating in our state-of-the-art clinic just 20 minutes away from San Diego, CA, we are able to dramatically reduce costs while following strict American healthcare standards, including HIPAA compliance. Our unique model allows us to offer savings of up to 85% in prices compared to the same or similar types of procedures done in the United States, making this life-saving and life-changing surgery affordable to everyone.

Patients typically experience significant results within the first month, with an average weight loss of 30-50 pounds. Our comprehensive aftercare, including nutrition and psychological support, helps you maintain these results and build lasting lifestyle changes.

We have offices in the US and our Hospital is situated in Tijuana, Mexico just 20 minutes from San Diego, CA. We offer VIP medical van transport from San Diego and the whole process is hassle free. Including Airport Transfer and Room for your guest in our hospital as part of our full-board package.

Universal Medical Group is an American-owned and American managed company, committed to upholding the highest quality United States healthcare standards and regulations. You healthcare needs will be managed from the United States., giving you the security, compliance, and trustworthiness of an American company.

Yes, we have flexible financing available in our Financial Providers Partnership. We’re easy to get health that you love without breaking the bank With monthly payments as low as $149 and a 98% approval rate, we make it easier than ever to spend your money on your health. Talk to one of our experts and learn more.

We offer a complete support system, including personalized nutrition plans, psychological services if needed. This comprehensive approach ensures you have the resources to succeed both immediately after your surgery and throughout your weight-loss journey.

All that’s provided with your package for a painless and relaxing bariatric procedure: a well-appointed operating room, two skilled, board-certified surgeons, a world-class anesthesiologist, a staff of nurses, and expert care throughout your surgery. Have a 2 day hospital stay with food served and your own nutritional plan to help you recover and stay healthy for the rest of your life.

Benefits for out-of-state patients and spouses

All that’s provided with your package for a painless and relaxing bariatric procedure: a well-appointed operating room, two skilled, board-certified surgeons, a world-class anesthesiologist, a staff of nurses, and expert care throughout your surgery. Have a 2 day hospital stay with food served and your own nutritional plan to help you recover and stay healthy for the rest of your life.

The cost for our Gastric Sleeve surgery is $6,900, while the Gastric Bypass is $7,500. For patients interested in financing, payments start at approximately $149 per month over a 60-month term. Other bariatric procedures, such as revisions and additional treatments, are similarly priced. Please reach out to our team for a personalized professional quote and financing details tailored to your needs

Our all-inclusive package covers the entire surgery experience: the procedure, a 2-day hospital stay for you and one guest, meals for both, all necessary exams, a personalized nutrition program, and VIP Medical Van round-trip transportation from San Diego to our clinic.

Yes, we offer a flexible financing program through our Financial Providers partnership, allowing you to begin your weight-loss journey with monthly payments starting at just $149. Contact our team to discuss options and find a plan that works for you.

Yes, all payments and financing arrangements must be completed before your scheduled surgery date. This ensures we can provide seamless care without any interruptions or delays.

All payments are final, including any promotional or discounted rates. We are unable to offer reimbursements on these specially priced packages, as they are designed to provide the best value upfront on a promotional basis.

Most bariatric surgeries take approximately 45 minutes. Many patients are able to return home the same day, but a 2-day stay option is included in case additional rest or monitoring is recommended.

We accept various forms of payment, including: cash, credit and debit cards, including financing options. Our team can help you explore the best payment method for your needs and provide the necessary guidance throughout each step.

Bariatric surgery can significantly enhance a person’s quality of life by promoting weight loss, reducing physical discomfort, improving mobility, and boosting self-esteem. This transformative procedure is known among numerous other health benefits, to relieve joint pain, reduce fatigue, and increase overall energy, allowing patients to fully enjoy daily activities and interactions.

Yes, bariatric surgery is highly effective in combating chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea. Studies show that weight-loss surgery can help reduce or even eliminate these conditions, which can extend life expectancy by up to 10 to 20 years for many patients.

Bariatric surgery has shown exceptional results for people with Type 2 diabetes, often leading to long-term remission. By promoting weight loss and hormonal changes, the procedure can stabilize blood sugar levels, decrease insulin resistance, and lower or eliminate the need for diabetes medications, providing a powerful treatment option for diabetes management.

Liver health greatly benefits from bariatric surgery, especially for those with fatty liver disease, which often improves as patients lose weight. Surgery can reduce liver inflammation, enhance liver function, and help prevent future liver complications, leading to a healthier, more resilient organ.

Individuals with a history of alcohol dependency may still benefit from bariatric surgery, but they need specialized pre- and post-surgery care including abstinence or reduction of alcohol intake after the surgery. Our team will carefully evaluate each case and provide personalized support to address this history, ensuring the safest and most beneficial outcome possible.

Yes, bariatric surgery is highly recommended for those with extreme obesity (typically a BMI of 40 or higher) as it is one of the most effective long-term solutions for significant weight loss. Our experienced team has successfully performed over 28,000 surgeries, delivering lasting results for patients with high BMI levels.

Teens with severe obesity and related health conditions may be candidates for bariatric surgery. Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if surgery is appropriate and work closely with the teen and their family to ensure the best possible support throughout the process.

Our collective surgical team has over 85 years of combined experience and medical certifications in bariatric surgery by the most highly accredited and recognized medical institutions known globally. Each member is dedicated to providing safe and effective treatment. With a resume of thousands of all successful surgeries, our team’s skill and expertise ensure high-quality care and proven outcomes.

As a art of our comprehensive care, a dedicated nutritional team works with you to create an individual personalized plan for sustainable weight loss. From preoperative guidance to post-surgery support, our nutritionists are here to help you maintain a balanced diet for long-term success.

Beyond the surgery itself, we provide a robust support system including personalized nutritional advice, regular follow-ups, and a supportive patient community. We also offer psychological support and guidance to help you maintain both physical and mental well-being throughout your weight-loss journey.

Many patients experience a dramatic reduction in weight within the first month, often losing between 30-50 pounds. With ongoing support and adherence to recommended lifestyle changes, patients can expect steady, sustainable weight loss and a healthier future.

Yes, bariatric surgery is known to improve cardiovascular health by lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and improving heart function. Many patients report improvements in heart-related conditions, which significantly reduces health risks and improves overall life expectancy.

No, Universal Medical Group is not a financial institution. We’re a medical provider offering a unique payment plan in partnership with Sundance Medical Financing. This isn’t a loan—just a simple way to pay for your surgery in 2 or 3 installments, with no interest or credit involvement.

Not at all! Since our payment plan isn’t a loan, there are no credit checks or inquiries. Your credit score remains unaffected—our process is designed to be straightforward and hassle-free.

There are no APRs or interest rates with our plan. Unlike traditional financing, you pay a fixed, all-inclusive amount split into 2 or 3 payments—no extra costs or hidden fees.

You can pay ahead with no penalties—flexibility is part of our promise. If you miss a payment, there’s no fee after the first strike. However, if payment is delayed beyond 40 days, a $250 late fee applies to keep your surgery schedule on track.

Yes, you can bring a companion, but we need to know upfront. An extra room incurs an additional cost (not included in the base package), so please inform us during planning to secure space and confirm pricing.

Your final price is determined during your personalized consultation with our surgeon and team (typically a $500 value, included free). They’ll assess your medical situation and provide a clear, all-inclusive cost—ranging from $6,900 to $8,500—based on your specific needs.

We understand life happens. There’s no penalty for the first missed payment. If it exceeds 40 days, a $250 late fee will apply to maintain your reserved surgery date and cover scheduling costs. Contact us if you need to adjust your plan—we’re here to help.

If you choose to cancel, we can process a refund, minus a $1,200 administrative fee to cover merchant fees, phone meetings, your doctor consultation, medical assessment, and reserved surgery and room planning costs. The remaining amount will be reimbursed within 9-12 business days. Just let us know as soon as possible so we can assist you.

If you cancel within 3 days of your surgery date, a full refund isn’t available. This is outlined in your signed agreement with Universal Medical Group, as we’ve already booked your room, scheduled our team, and reserved resources just for you. Instead of a refund, you can reschedule your surgery—see below for details.

You can reschedule by calling our main line or sending an email, as long as it’s more than 4 days before your scheduled surgery date. We’ll work with you to find a new time that fits your needs, keeping your full payment secure.

If you cancel with more than 4 days’ notice and choose not to reschedule, we’ll process a refund minus a $1,200 administrative fee. This covers merchant fees, phone meetings, your doctor consultation, medical assessment, and costs for reserving your surgery slot and room. The remaining amount will be refunded within 9-12 business days.

We accept all major credit and debit cards, ACH transfers, and wire transfers for a single, full payment. Please note, we do not accept Zelle or PayPal.

Your payment is processed after you sign the agreement with Universal Medical Group, securing your surgery date and all-inclusive services.

Yes! If you and your partner both opt for surgery and pay in full upfront, we offer a 10% discount on the total cost for both procedures. Contact our team to coordinate your plans and claim this special rate.