Laparoscopic Kidney SurgerySmall incisions, shorter recovery.
Dr. Guillermo Cueto Vega performs laparoscopic nephrectomy and kidney cyst surgery at Star Médica Mérida — at a significantly lower cost than in the US or Canada.
If a kidney tumor, a large cyst or a kidney that stopped working was found on your scans, today most of these surgeries no longer require open surgery.
Laparoscopy uses three or four small incisions and a camera. The surgery inside is the same; what changes is the path — smaller wounds, less pain and a shorter hospital stay than open surgery.
Not every cyst or mass needs surgery. Part of the evaluation is telling you honestly whether yours should be operated on or just monitored.
When to reach out
A kidney tumor or mass found on an ultrasound or CT scan A kidney cyst that grew, hurts or needs surgery A non-functioning kidney causing infections, pain or high blood pressure You were told you need a kidney removed and want options or a second opinion
Treatment options
Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy
Removal of the whole kidney when there is a kidney tumor, through small incisions. Most people live normally with one healthy kidney.
Laparoscopic simple nephrectomy
Removal of a kidney that no longer works and has become a source of infections, pain or high blood pressure.
Laparoscopic kidney cyst surgery
For large or painful cysts, the cyst is unroofed or removed laparoscopically. Most simple kidney cysts do not need surgery.
The right option depends on your case. Dr. Cueto recommends a treatment only after reviewing your history and studies.
Cost and planning your trip
Treatment takes place at Star Médica Mérida, a private high-specialty hospital certified by Mexico’s General Health Council (Consejo de Salubridad General) — at a significantly lower cost than in the US or Canada. Because every case is different, we do not publish a single price: you receive an itemized written quote before you book anything.
Your personalized plan includes:
Surgeon and team fees Hospital: operating room and stay Anesthesia and supplies Pre-operative evaluation and indicated studies Follow-up visits Recommended length of stay in Mérida
How long to stay? It depends on the procedure and on your case, so it is defined individually and included in your plan — you will know before you buy your flights.
Recovery and follow-up from home
Laparoscopic kidney surgery involves a short hospital stay, depending on the procedure and your progress. Most patients walk the next day and resume light activity in one to two weeks. Your stay in Mérida before flying home is planned with you, with written instructions and WhatsApp follow-up.
Frequently asked questions
Can I live with one kidney?
Yes. One healthy kidney is enough for a normal life. After a nephrectomy, periodic checkups, good hydration and care with medications that affect the kidney are recommended.
Is a kidney tumor always cancer?
Not always, although a solid kidney mass is always taken seriously. Simple cysts are common and benign. The CT scan guides whether to monitor or operate.
Can every case be done laparoscopically?
Most, but not all: tumor size, previous abdominal surgery and other factors may make another approach better. You will know after Dr. Cueto reviews your studies.
Send your case — get your personalized plan
Tell us about your case and share your studies if you have them. You will receive a personalized plan with the recommended treatment, how long to stay in Mérida, and an itemized written quote — before you book anything.
You will talk directly with Dr. Cueto, in English.