Weight Loss Surgeons & Hospitals

I've never even thought about Mexico - because I"m quite hopeful that I will be able to get my band approved through insurance. However, I was searching around Dr. Ortiz's site and was thinking that a quick vacation to Cancun coupled with surgery would be quite nice LOL. Of course there is all that dealing with fills and local post op care - but I had to ask - has anyone done the Cancun thing? Just curious. Sharon

I am going to talk to my pcp next week about backing me up for the lapband proceedure. I am 5' 4" and 225 lbs.(BMI of 36.5) I have foot and knee problems and high cholestrol. I have struggled with my weight for almost 12 years. (i'm 27) I have a daughter born 6-20-01 and would like to be healthy and have the energy to run and play with her. I have tried just about everything to lose the weight but can't. A friend had gastric by-pass and suggested the lapband to me. I did some research and it seems like just what I am looking for. My question is should I go to the pcp or just seek out a surgen on my own? I have BCBS PPO and it is a really good policy, as my dh works for th…

re Belighter and AnnMarie Tiesi Hello, I'm new and doing research about the Band. I've been on a few other boards for weeks but just joined here. nice layout and seems sincere people - thanks! Re Belighter and AnnMarie - I will share what I found - HUGE numbers of complaints oin almost every board. Sure, a few have had no trouble. NO ONE is terrible ALL the time! Do a search on Bandsters, Mexican Bandsters, Tijuana Bandsters, Smartbandsters and I don'r even know how many others. Most felt ripped-off and what they paid far outweighted the few services they received. At the worst, some found very dishonest things with AnnMarie and Eric. My brother is a PI, and I have…

http://www.cnn.com/2005/HEALTH/02/10/wrong.surgery.ap/index.html

Dr. Horgan in Chicago is terrific. He was one of the first in this country to do the lapband operation. One of the most experienced. He is also resonably priced for the U.S. The coordinator, Jeannie, is great as well. I've not seen her for awhile, so I'm not sure if she still works with Dr. Horgan or not. However, his staff at 900 N. Michigan, is quite frankly, not the best. I received conflicting information from different people there, i.e., how long to follow the pre and post diets, how long to leave bandages on, when first post-op appointment should be, etc. They really need to get their act together. They're not all that friendly or professional, either. Bu…

Hi, I'm new to the board, my name is Paula and I live in Houston, TX. I'm planninf on having the Lapband placed in me, hopefully at the beginning of March (we'll see) my insurance isn't paying for it, so I'm taking out a loan for the procedure. I've been reading about Dr. Hadar Spivak, and from what I've read he's like the best when it comes to doing this procedure, he's one of the doctors that partcipated in the FDA clinical trials for the Lapband. Well, I'll get to my question now, I would like to communicate with someone who's been a patient of his or is currently one of his patients, so I could ask you questions. Any feedback you guys give is appreciated!! Than…

I am have my first appointment later this month with Dr. Pleatman in Pontiac MI and was wondering if anyone has had dealings with this doctor and can elaborate on their experience? You can email or PM me if you wish, also! Thanks so much!!! T

I Am Just Beginning The Information Process For Lap Band Surgery. I Wanted To Know If Anyone Had Any Recommendations For A Surgeon In North Carolina Or Close By?

Hello - I was just curious if anyone here from Michigan has gotten, or will be banded by Dr. Zoe Deol? I've started looking for a surgeon, and she seems like she is highly qualified. Thanks for any replies! ~ Kari ~

Just thought I might post a URL to a thread going on at ObesityHelp.com regarding the group calling themselves coordinators for lapband surgery in Mexico. I have no personal experience with them, but I think the thread says alot about the type of service (or not) that they provide. For those researching, I think it would be a good thing to take heed. http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/surgtype-forums/LapBand/postdetail/95934.html?vc=0

Hi, Any of you bandster familiar with Dr. Allen? Interested in knowing his bedside manners and what you thought about his skills for performing the lapband. Also, how old a guy is he? Thanks for any info.

Hi , I'm from Southern Oregon. Medford actually. I am looking for a doctor to do my band. I have heard of only 2 doctors so far and was wondering if anyone heard of them. A Dr. Tersigni of Coos Bay and a Dr. Mirande from Klamath Falls. Thank you for any help . Diana

Has anyone heard anything about dr kole in michigan?

i am thinking about getting the band, wanted to know if anyone could give me any feed back on the doctors in monterrey mexico...dr javier de la garza, buenaventura leal and eduard lozano...thank you.

Someone had asked for the approx price of a gastric band awhile back and I have just located the price for the 10cm Inamed band which is $2995/ea for the particular facility I have found. I am not sure how much variance there would be for the 9.75cm or the 11.0 cm. However, I do see 3 different catalog numbers and these subsequent sizes which confirms there are 3 bands distributed by Inamed instead of two. This particular facility appears to use only the 10cm. Interesting. This is, of course, their cost and does not reflect the markup to the patient. After further investigating. It appears the 9.75 is the same price.

This is my first time using this site and I am finding it very helpful after reading other postings. I have an appointment on Dec 23rd to discuss the lap band surgery with my Kaiser doctor. I am now 290 at 5'2" and can not take it anymore. I have tried to loose for over 10 years and have failed. I have researched a little on the lapband and gastric bypass, but the lapband seems to be the procedure with fewer complications. I think that is best since I am separated with two children. So, now that I am leaning towards the lapband, wanted to see if anyone out there can help me with the following questions... 1) I am currently with Kaiser and not sure how the appt. will g…

Hi Everyone, I hadn't planned on checking in for a while, then I learned of a rumor floating around about Dr. Lopez in Tijuana. I know some of you have commented that in the past the aftercare service was not up to your standards and that some of you have had problems with healing, acid reflux, even rejection. The ones who have had to endure these problems are good people I'm sure. Sometimes in the stress of living through it, venting is a healthy part of the recovery process. I want to encourage those who are venting to keep commentary honest and accurate. Since I have been a patient with Dr. Lopez, there have been staff changes surgery center changes and policy …

Hello, I Have Been Researching Lap Banding For 5 Months And Have Considered Several Different Doctors. Currently I Am Leaning Toward Dr. Himpens In Belgium. Is There Anyone Here That Has Had Their Lap Band Placed By Him? What Types Of Bands Does He Use? Any Information About This Will Be Greatly Appreciated. I Have Looked On Other Websites But Most Only Mention Ds Or Rny

This section is the place to get firsthand accounts from patients banded by the doctor or practice you are considering. Have questions about the process? Bedside manner? Hospital food? Nurses? Post a new thread with the name and location of your doctor, and invite people with experiences to share to post. As Big Bird says, asking questions is a great way to find out things!

Hi all just thought i would ask you all what band you thought was the best to have fitted and why? My surgeon uses Obtech (swedish band) and also the american Inamed one. Which one is easier to get fills for etc? Many thanks Tracey

As I think I mentioned, I'm pretty limited as to who I can see based on the fact that I work at an HCA facility. The only doctor I've found is Dr. Nirmal Jayaseelan. Here's the map of hospitals that are covered by my insurance. Does anyone's doc practice at any of these hospitals??? Anybody? Anybody?? http://www.hcahealthcare.com/CustomPage.asp?guidCustomContentID=56B0A2BE-268D-407A-BA31-3223710C7EC0# (I think you have to cut and paste the whole URL into your browser, including the pound sign, for some strange reason). So far I've found "Dr. Jay", who was recommended by a Yahoo bandster. It looks like he's done about 400 surgeries, so I like that experience level; als…

Any patients of Dr. Allen here, he's the proctor to assist my doctor in my band surgery Dec 6, sure would like to know something about him. Thanks, Pat in VA

Hi! I'm new to the group and I have an appointment to see Dr. Williams at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. Has anybody heard of him? Is there anyone in the South Jersey/Philadelphia area you recommend? Thanks for your help!

Hi everyone. I am going to get my Lap band on Nov 6th with Obesity good bye. I am not scared or nervous about the procedure, infact I can't sleep I am so excited about it. I am however so so worried about getting fills. I am in Tampa Fl and have been checking all around and can't find any dr to do the fills if they are needed. I am paying for this band with my own money and can't afford to keep going to mexico! HELP

Well, instead of fighting my HMO, I've decided to go to Mexico for the surgery. After careful consideration, I think I've settled on Dr. Arturo Rodriguez. But, I was wondering... has anyone had a negative experience with him? I just want to be sure I've done my research. So far, all I have found is positive, so I want to be sure nothing has been overlooked. Thanks,

Anyone know much of Dr. Ponce de Leon's reputation? I've been working with dr. verboonen in mind, but found out today he's out of office until late September. I'm scheduled for surgery September 21, 04 with Dr ponce de leon, (YAY I HAVE A DATE! ) and haven't been able to find much about him in regards to personal posts of experiences. What little I've found so far has been positive, so that's a plus, but like all of you can probably remember being during your pre-banding countdown, I'm pretty nervous!

Dr. Houston has agreed to do my fills. He's in Nashville and wants me to also participate in his aftercare program which sounds good. I'm curious to see if anyone is a patient of his, and if so, what has your experience been with him? Positive or negative feedback is welcome :mad:

Has anyone heard of any doctors or hospitals that perform lap band surgery in D.C.?

Anyone out there been banded by Dr. Johnell in Greeley, Colorado? I'd like to hear about your experience if you're willing to share. hopeful1

Hello, I am new to this board so if this question has been asked before please forgive me. I am trying to narrow down my decision to a local doctor or a Mexico doctor. I just recieved an email from Dr. Cirangle in San Francisco and his fees are as follows $375.00 Consultation Appointment (due day of) $1,000 Anesthesia (due 10 days before) $6,500 Hospitalization (1 night) (due when check-in) $5,000 Surgeon’s fee (2 wks before surgery) $3,500 for 3yr fu or $300/visit (pay day before) ------- $12,500 (w/out fu) -$16,500 (w/fu) +$375 consult fee My question is is it worth paying for the 3yr follow up fee or pay as you go? I believe it will be worth paying the …

I think I have narrowed it down to Dr. Kuri. The one thing that I am worried about is the San Francisco Hospital. I know he has another hospital which is fantastic but I am trying to watch my money. Can someone tell me what they think of the hosptal? Does anyone have any opinions about this subject? I have no known problems other than my weight problem. my other question is strange but, here goes.... Did anyone worry about taking a shower in Mexico? I know the hospitals are clean, I've always been told to stay clear of the water in Mexico. Thank you Tammy

Like many people here I read a lot, went to the seminar and was told $16,500 total cost for the proceedure. This included the doctor, hospital, two weeks in the hospital if something went wrong, lab work, everything. I had insurance and had everything pre-approved before hand by the insurance. When I arrived at the hospital they had notes from the insurance as well so I know they had spoken with them. After the surgery the explination of benifits came in from the insurance company. Total hospital charges alone went up to $20,000.00 Not exactly the $16,500 I was told. But I was told 16,500 and was going to stick to that. Feeling was if they wanted to bill the insuranc…

Wanted to let everyone that was banded or has plans to be banded by Dr. Spiegel in Port Neches that we are starting a support group. It will be called The TLC Support Group. Our first meeting will be on July 13th at 5:30 in the NederlandPt. Neches area. We are still deciding on a location, I will post it once we decide for sure. We will start having these meeting the second Tuesday of every month. If at all possible let me know if you plan on attending. I will be looking forward to putting your face with your screen name!!!

HI I am researching surgical weight loss. I have been to several presentations and was the most impressed with Dr Martin in Dayton, Oh. Was wondering if anyone else has heard anything about him? I was originaly going to have the Rou N Y but, I have somethings tht I am afraid will make that impossible. Would love to hear from informed members that have any input for me. I have a partially rotated bowel ( appendix up under rt. ribs, and I also take time released anti depressants and worried about problems with irritation and absorbtion.) Thanks Badger 2

I am getting banded by Dr. Rumbaut on September 8th. Is anyone else going to be there that same time?

Hello to all- My question- WHen I started this process I was gung ho on the lap band. Went to a CORI seminar- Dr Wood was all geeked up on thier version of RNY. So I got exceited sent all my paperwork and all the are waiting for is the letter of recommendation from my PCP and my pysch eval results. I have since reconsiderd and decided Lap Band is the best choice for me. Psych evaluation was today and the psychologists though it was a good choice and told me that he has had 15 paitents do the lap band, but the all use the dr out of port hurin because all he does in lap band and maybe I shoud keep my options open. (He has had several patents do RNY also- so he di…

I think I have decided to have surgery with Dr. Kuri in Mexico. Does anyone have any feedback about their surgery with Dr. Kuri or recommendations? I am researching fill doctors in Portland, Oregon and have found one. But if anyone has any recommendations, I would GREATLY appreciate them! Thanks. Collectively this board has been very helpful in my research and final decision to go ahead with this surgery.

I am researching Dr. Rumbaut (sp?) in Monterray, Mexico. Does anyone have any first hand experience with him? Has anyone heard anything about his aftercare and ability to contact him with questions etc... after the surgery?

I recently read a thread by someone who had surgery done in Mexico. She contracted a terrible infection where she has to be on antibiotics for a year. I am contemplating having my surgery done in Mexico and would like to know which MD and facility this occured at? I am sorry I didn't pay more attention to the info. Thanks! Lisa in NOLA

I had my surgery in Dubai. The hospital is new and wilth ecellent facilities. It is a surgical hospital. The operation was done by Dr Christiaan De Bruynes who has done over 1000 of these operations. He is from a Belgian hospital.I believe the Belgians started this surgery? It cost AED 30,000. at todays rate there are AED 3.6 to 1U.S. $ and AED 6.7 to £. That is an all inclusive package inc. follow-up,2 fills,dietitian etc. I believe quite a lot of people come from ouside the region combining their op with a holiday in Dubai. All the Drs and staff are trained in U.S. etc. You can check out their site if you like www.emirateshospital.com The stay was one night and th…

I'am new to these board and wanting to know who has had Dr. Lopez for a dr. I'am having surgery with him on the 5th of June. Wanting to know what to ecspect. How he does things like food after surgery, fills, things like that. Any info would be great.

I am looking for a doctor in Massachusetts that will do this as a day surgery if possible.

This is just a notification of a new physician in the Jacksonville Florida area performing the Lap Band procedure. His name is Dr. Robert Cywes and he is located at 6134 Harvin Road, Jacksonville, Fl. 32216. Phone (904) 733-7077.

Hi, Does anyone know how to add information to their profile. I see a lot of people have their height, weight and goals listed and I'd like to add that to mine. Thanks, Kathy

I would appreciate any info about Dr Ponce' in DALTON GA. Mo

Hi everyone, After surgery? What can you and can't you eat and drink? I drink my coffee in the morning and then Diet Coke most of the day. I do drink Water at times. But I love my Diet Coke. Is that a total no no? And coffee? I am having surgery on the 21st Dr. Lopez and I read some of you are on PO diet and I haven't been told anything on that yet by my doctors office. I have some time yet but I want to start getting prepared. If I can no longer have coffee and diet coke want to start now. The headaches from the lack of caffiene are terrible but if I start now it shouldn't be so bad. Any suggestions? Thanks, Kathy Dr Lopez May 21st 284

Hi all, I just received a call from the WISH center and I scheduled an evaluation appointment. Has anyone ever heard of DR. Jeffrey Rosen? Let me know. Thanks, Karen

Hi, I am looking into this procedure with Dr. Deol. If anyone could give me input on how she and her staff are, it would be greatly appreciated. I always say the more info you have the better off you are! Thanks! Baileym

Hey guys: I have an appointment with Dr Adam Naaman in Houston, Texas. Does anyone have in experience or knowledge of him? Thanks! Bullit in Texas

Any feedback on surgeons in Tacma Wa.?