The Gastric Sleeve Center is your destination for world-class bariatric care tailored to patients traveling from outside the United States.
Led by Dr. Moises Jacobs, M.D., F.A.C.S., our practice has been performing advanced minimally invasive bariatric procedures since 2005. We understand the unique medical, logistical, and travel-related needs of international patients, and we are committed to making the process as seamless as possible.
Dr. Jacobs is a nationally and internationally recognized bariatric surgeon and an early pioneer of the gastric sleeve procedure in the United States. His experience includes thousands of successful bariatric surgeries and advanced laparoscopic techniques.
Our Miami-based center provides a comprehensive, patient-focused approach — from your initial consultation through surgery and long-term follow-up care.
• Remote consultation and medical record review
• Personalized surgical planning
• Assistance with travel timing and scheduling
• Minimally invasive gastric sleeve and revisional procedures
• Clear pre- and post-operative education
To help ensure a smooth experience, we recommend international patients prepare the following before traveling to Miami:
• Relevant medical records and weight-loss history
• Completed lab work and testing when possible
• A responsible adult to accompany you during recovery
• A clear understanding of payment and scheduling details
Miami is a major international travel hub, offering direct flights from many countries and convenient access from across the United States. Its warm climate and vibrant setting also provide a comfortable environment for recovery.
Our team is happy to assist you in planning your stay. We can provide guidance on nearby hotel and short-term lodging options close to our surgical center, including accommodations that are convenient for post-operative follow-up visits. If you are traveling with a companion, we can also help you understand what support you may need during your initial recovery.
Before you return home, we will ensure you are medically cleared for travel and fully understand your post-operative instructions, diet progression, and follow-up schedule. We will also provide clear guidance on when it is safe to fly and how to stay comfortable during your trip.
Even after you return home, our team remains available to answer questions and provide continued support throughout your recovery journey.
Your care does not end when you leave our surgical center. We work closely with international patients to create a personalized post-operative follow-up plan that continues even after you return home.
Before you travel, we provide detailed recovery instructions, dietary guidelines, vitamin supplementation recommendations, and clear milestones for your weight-loss journey. Our team remains available for ongoing communication through virtual check-ins, phone calls, and email to monitor your progress, answer questions, and address any concerns.
We also coordinate with your local primary care physician, if needed, to ensure appropriate lab work and routine monitoring are completed according to your follow-up schedule. Regular follow-up visits — whether in person or virtually — are essential for tracking weight loss, reviewing nutritional status, and making adjustments to support long-term success.
Through continued education, accountability, and open communication, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain sustainable, healthy weight loss — no matter where you live.
Yes. International patients can complete an initial consultation remotely. Our team will review your medical history, prior weight-loss attempts, and any required records to determine whether bariatric surgery is appropriate before you travel.
Most international patients stay in Miami for approximately 7 to 10 days after surgery. This allows time for post-operative follow-up visits and ensures you are medically cleared before traveling home.
Dr. Jacobs specializes in minimally invasive bariatric procedures, including gastric sleeve surgery and revisional bariatric surgery. During your consultation, the most appropriate procedure will be recommended based on your medical history and weight-loss goals.
While we do not book travel directly, our team can provide guidance on recommended lodging options near our surgical center and help you plan your stay around your surgery and recovery timeline.
Yes. Follow-up care is an important part of long-term success. Our team will provide detailed post-operative instructions and ongoing guidance after you return home, including nutritional recommendations and progress check-ins.
Many international patients choose to self-pay for bariatric surgery. Our team will review payment options and pricing details with you in advance so there are no surprises before your procedure.
If you are considering bariatric surgery with Dr. Jacobs and are traveling from outside the United States, our team is here to help guide you every step of the way.
