Add/remove tables in merge replication without full snapshot

I have a laboratory system that need to be installed in different collection stations, each with a independent database installation, but synchronizing some data among them, such as tests results, patients and doctors info etc.

The database sync is currently being doing by merge replication of the sql server. It works fine for the data, but the real problem comes when we need to add or remove tables on the actual publication of the replication. It creates a full snapshot of the database, that can reach 500gb+ in some of my customers.

Is there some way to perform this kind of update in the structure of the database creating a snapshot only with the new artefact being created or deleted?

It's possible to do this in a new publication, but it can generate integrity issues to the data if the internet connection fall between the sync of the two publications.