Mexico & Self-Pay Weight Loss Surgery

Got to start soft foods today. My first was 2 little baby meat sticks and 2 spoons of cottage cheese. Man was that good ...for dinner i had to spoons of whipped sweet potatoes. What soft foods did you like to eat???

Anyone have to have a rectal exam before surgery with Dr. Garcia? I was just reading over my medical forms and was a little startled when I saw "genital and rectal exam" on the Dr. forms! Help!

I bought airfare today for myself and my companion, a female cousin. My husband is joining us later in the week -- duty calls back home and he can't fly in until later. He's scared silly about two women being "alone" in Tijuana. For those who have already been there, done that, how was it? I have read so many reports from this forum and none have ever said they felt unsafe. My questions are, did you feel safe at all times? Did your companion travel to places besides the hotel and hospital, and if so, where? Did you go out after dark at all? Did you use a taxi service or walk while in Tijuana? Any issues crossing the border? (We both have passports.) Any trouble gettin…

Hey All, I've been lurking here for months now and decided it is finally time to become active. My name is Samantha, i am 29 years old, 282lbs and 5'6". I have been considering WLS for many years now but it was never covered by my insurance. After doing some research I decided to go to Mexico! I honestly never thought I would even consider going out of the country for surgery. Anyway, I leave friday morning to TJ for my surgery with Dr. Ramos Kelly. Anyone else out there having surgery with Dr. Kelly this week?

I'm all packed to leave for my Surgery with Dr. Aceves, I'm a frequent traveler but I'm so excited I'm worried I might have forgotten something. Aside from the obvious passport, ticket, credit cards and phone charger, does it sound like I'm missing anything? I've packed: -gas x strips -four different kinds of lip balm/chapstick (I've heard it's necessary and I like options! -toiletries -two pairs of shorts, two tops -a pair of pjs -undergarments -a book -headphones I'm there until Friday and I'm attempting to pack light.

Hey guys I will be having surgery on June 14 !! Almost a day and a half!! Omg! Excited! I made a YouTube channel to try and stay motivated and make a group of awesome friends who are going through what I am too. I will be having my surgery in Mexico so follow subcribe I'll do the same '!

So excited to begin this journey. I've been on pre-op diet for a week now & it's been a breeze! They said to take a Metamucil if I got hungry. That worked well the one time I needed it. I appreciate everyone's comments & suggestions.

Ok questions for those who have used Dr Ramos-Kelly Did you use Mexico Bariatric center or his office with Lora? Please let me know your experiences with either. I have a decision to make and I wanted to make the best one possible. I have been in contact with both. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

After much debate, I have decided on Dr. Ramos-Kelly. The other surgeons I considered seriously: Dr. Alvarez, Dr. Aceves, and Dr. Ariel Ortiz. I'm so excited! I am going to plan it for later this summer, probably early August (I am planning on having it done while I am on FMLA from work for a carpal tunnel surgery that I am having done, to kill 2 birds with one stone). The VSG will be performed at Oasis hospital (2 day stay) and recovery at the Lucerna hotel (2 day stay). I will be taking a loan against my 401b to pay for the procedure: money well spent! I only wish I had done this years ago! I am looking forward to better health, more energy, and naturally, impr…

I'm going alone on June 17th to be sleeved by Dr. Garcia at florence hospital on the 18th. Hoping to meet some people there. I'm getting so nervous now! Also I have not received my passport yet! This week is going on the 4th week of waiting and I'm really worried about it. I leave Monday! I checked the status online and it just keeps saying it's being processed.

I am trying to find information about the Dr's that do the surgery in Vegas, I believe they are surgeons from Mexico but they come up and charge more just because it's in the United States. Does anyone know anything about this?

I'm trying to schedule a flight to San Diego right now for surgery. Do I choose San Diego SAN or San Diego MYF (Montgomery Field). I'm pretty sure it's SAN. Also alma (going with Dr. Garcia) made it sound like when they drive you back to the airport that they will only pick you up after 9am so I'm having a hard time finding a flight back that does not involve an all night flight. I mean one leaves at 1:51pm so I would get back to my airport after midnight.

Hi, I am now 10 days post op. For the last 3 nights when I sleep...sleep only....I have been getting terrible thigh pain. I was sleeping on my right side and it happened. I got up and walked a few minutes and it was fine. I decided to sleep on my back. I woke up this morning with my left thigh on fire and it really hurt to move it. I rubbed it a little and got up. I have been searching...most say it's not a blood clot....some say its when they were flopping you around during and after surgery could've caused some nerve damage and should go away. Some say lack of sodium, sugar, magnesium etc. Anyone else experience this? I'm calling my regular Dr tomorrow morning. Ci…

Hey everyone... Just wanted to check in and say hello!! I started my journey over a year ago to research sleeve surgery and had the surgery in March 2013 with Fernando Garcia thru Ready4AChange.com in Mexico which was a very simple, easy and no regrets experience... I owe him a huge thank you for giving me such a gift! Im down over 50 pounds today and I feel amazing! 50 more to go to my goal but Im happy just to be this far! Some days I am a tiny bit more tired than others but most other days, I have this crazy energy and want to walk for miles.... but all days I have this new passion for life and well being!! I love sharing my journey with others, especially those w…

First let me start out by saying I am so happy I found out about Mexico and Dr Kelly!!! I researched for a few months and picked Dr Kelly. I read all of these chat boards and watched every you tube video I could find on him or his patients. I think I made a very good choice. I went direct with him and emailed back and forth with Lora. She was pretty prompt in answering my questions and sent me all the info packets very quickly. The day started early flying from Ohio to San Diego.Upon arrival I had a text from Alina, another one of Dr Kellys helpers. She took us to the hospital. About the hospital, small but nice. It was clean and the cleaning ladies were in our roo…

I got approved for surgery. Waiting on a few particulars before setting an actual date. Went and applied for a passport card yesterday. The person I've talked to through email is named Cindy. However, I've seen the name Lora in many related posts for Dr. Kelly. Not sure what all that means. Anyone that has used his services please any advice would be greatly appreciated. In all likelyhod I'll have it done mid July. Still a little nervouse but excited. Thank you

I was sleeved on April 10, 2013 and I have lost 38 pounds to date from my starting weight of 253. I'm thrilled with the weight loss, but not with the horrible stretch marks on my thighs (I still have the fattest thighs on the planet), which strangely look like a giraffe's coat. HELP!! Anyone know of any stretch mark products that really work? Dawn

I'm scheduled for surgery next week. Is there anyone else scheduled for Florence/Oasis on June 10th? I'd love to hear from you!

Hi! I'm very new to this and techno slow. I'm scheduled for surgery on June 26th and would love to hear from anyone who's had the procedure done by him at Hospital Angeles. Hope I hear from someone so I can ask about their experience and decrease my anxiety.

Here goes my journey........... Me and my husband drove form Las Vegas to San Diego where we were picked up by Ricardo( alighterme me new driver). We had to wait an extra hour at the airport cause it took him a little longer then expected to get across the border( wasn't his faught tho). Ricardo is very nice and he drove us straight to the Marriott hotel and got us checked in. The Marriott is really nice and clean. After getting settled in we went to the restaurant to eat. I didn't like the broth but my husband loved his meal, he has steak:) The next day Abraham pick us up at 8:00 sharp to take us to the hospital . Once there I was checked into my room to relax befor…

Sooo excited and nervous and obsessed..today Ready 4 a change sent me a email to confirm my flight and cell number..so far they have been very efficient and Alma answers all my questions...so does Dr. Garcia i hit him up on Facebook..so happy as of now with my choice..

On my way to the airport.. Official before pic taken today..so excited.

Hi all, My husband is having surgery tomorrow and it was suppossed to be at Mi Doctor. We requested Mi Doctor specicifially because I had such a great experience there last August. They just changed us last minute over to florence because they said that the laproscopic equipment at Mi Doctor is sub-par and not working properly. Since I always sing the praises of Mi Doctor, I thought it was only fair to share this news too, so people can do their homework. I know there were quite a few people trying to decide between the 2 hospitals so I thought this might factor into any decisions. We are sad about switching because I really loved the care I got at Mi Doctor, but happy …

Hi everyone, I live near Atlanta ,Ga. I have decided to have a gastric sleeve in Mexico.I am a school teacher and have United Healthcare Ins, but they won' t cover any weight loss procedures on our school system's policy so I will have to self pay. Since I live close to Atlanta I need to find the best place to go in Mexico with a good price...yes money is a factor...I know my health is important but being a teacher I have to consider price...any information would be greatly appreciated.

My mom and I are headed down on July 1st for my surgery! I'm super excited that my mom is able to accompany me, however we can only stand to be around eachother for so long if you know what I mean. I was Hoping she would be able to stay at the hotel at night instead of in the hospital with me. Did anyone else have their companion stay at the hotel? Is there anything for them to do throughout the day aside from staring at you after surgery? Lol! I'm having my surgery on July 1st at MiDoctor with dr Ortiz. Is anyone else scheduled to be down and around there at that time?

I cannot believe this has gone by so quickly. I was the first person yesterday and surgery lasted about an hour. I even got to keep my lapband as a souvenir (lucky me!). Yesterday was exhausting and when I wasn't sleeping, I was walking. I did not have ANY gas, but have had swelling, which I think is normal. Today I had my first leak test which went great and no concerns. I also began my gatorade, apple juice and ice chips. I brought my chicken broth with me since the restaurant was 'closed' they said and would have to wait until getting back to the Marriott to get some. So I marched down to the hot water pot and made myself a cup. I feel pretty dang full though, so wi…

I was sleeved by Dr. Garcia..on may 20 I have done very well!! The surgery was a lot easier than I thought....but today I started having some issues..of course Ive had the gas pains, which I honestly thought would be gone by now? How long do the gas pains last? Also these protein shakes are killing me!! They make my stomach feel so full and heavy!! Does anyone think it would be ok to wait another week or so to start those back? Also I have a pretty bad taste in my mouth I read that gum wasn't a good idea because it can add to gas, so would it be ok to suck on lifesavers? Also when did any of you guys start the puree and what did you try first? any advice would be apprecia…

I had surgery last Thursday May 30th. Is it normal to have your stomach growl? I'm not supposed to feel hungry but I do.

I am leaving TONIGHT. So the panic is setting in. Packing bags, and then re-packing. I am only taking 1 carry-on (and I had to pay $25 on Spirit to do that), so I need to pack essentials and buy any forgotten socks or toothpaste etc in Mexicali. Most important of course is passports, wallet with my driver's license and ONE credit card. Also a certain amount of CA$H. Plus camera, phone (with chargers) etc. You know how crazy it is. You think you have EVERYTHING under control, but it is still a mind numbing process. For any other of Dr ACEVES patients who are scheduled at the end of May ? I look forward to meeting you, and walking the halls with. I hear there is…

Ok, I went on a bit of a crazy spending spree this evening. I ordered from Amazon, Unjury, and Bariatric Choices and I spent, hmm, lets see, about $152! OMG! I just couldn't help myself! I ordered protein soups, protein drinks (clear kinds like Isopure and Protidiet), mixing cup, Unjury's starter pack, a portable hand mixer, etc (I have some weight watcher powder packs here that I can barely stomach because they don't mix well in my shaker bottle with the whisk ball, I am hoping the little portable mixer will do the trick). Earlier today, I bought a thermos, tea, various gummy vitamins, and crystal light water bottle packs at Target. I am SO excited and ready for th…

My VSG Story PRE-OP: Two weeks prior to my surgery date of April 10, 2013, I had a check up with my primary care physician and tipped the scale at 343 pounds, 5-10 in height. I researched the VSG procedure and doctors in Mexico due to my insurance not covering bariatric surgery in the US for several months. All my findings led me to Dr. Fernando Garcia in Tijuana, MX. I went through the coordinating company, Ready 4 a Change. I chose that company because the response was instantaneous and I never waited more than a couple of hours for a response to my questions via email, even on weekends which is unheard of in the States. All in all, I would definitely recommend this…

I'm heading down on July 4th for surgery on the fifth with Dr. Kelly. I am so excited to start this journey. Anyone else heading down at the same time or had Dr. Kelly in the past and want to share more stories? I look forward to hearing from everyone!!

Hey would I need a passport or a pass card for my surgery in Mexico???

Just curious will my AT&T iPhone work in Mexico or will I have to call them do something to it?

Just wondering if there will be anyone there while I'm there...

Flew in this morning to San Diego ( the small and extremely tight squeeze further on airplane further helps me know I. Am making correct decision). Was picked up right on time by our excellent driver set up through Be Light Weight and he got us safely to our Hotel. Explored a little and went for some authentic Mexican food at the cantina 3 blocks from hotel. Just love hotel and Tijuana....thinking about a swim tonight . Get picked up tomorrow in morning to head to INT for surgery and the testing. My girlfriend who came along to support me is getting a full facelift on Wed morning at INT as well.

I am planning on it, but would like feedback...

I did and just wondered if anyone else has... I am pre op.

Well I am supposed to have sleeve surgery on June 10th, and I am choosing Dr. Garcia. I told the coordinator that I would pay the deposit on June 4th because I thought that once I borrowed from my 401k, they would deposit into my account the next day. Not so!!! They still mail checks! WTF!!! Now I don't know what to do. Of course I am going to let my coordinator know but I still cannot purchase my airline tickets without this money! Last time I borrowed from my 401k (5 years ago), my bank tried to make me wait 14 days until the check cleared because they wanted to make sure they check was good. I have been with my bank for over 15 years and I have a feeling my bank will…

I'm having a hard time. When I first started doing my research into surgery and options with getting it. I was feeling rather defeated. I knew it would be 4 or 5 years before I would be able to get a surgery if I chose to have it paid by insurance. That't just how long the wait list is , here in BC, Canada So i checked out this whole "self-pay" thing. I thought..okay..if i just put a little money away every so often, then I can afford it. Well, the surgery is almost paid for..so whats the problem? Well, all of the sudden, I have been feeling guilty. I have been thinking about how that is $5000 just for the surgery and then flights on top of it..so 6,200$ …

I live in Las Vegas. It takes about the same time to fly to San Diego as it does to drive. I hate the hassle of flying and my sleeve buddy is afraid to fly. How hard would it be to drive home after surgery? We could take turns. It is about 5.5 hrs. Am I crazy to consider it?

Leaving in about 20 minutes to cross the border. I am a little nervous, but know I am in good hands. Side note: went to the casino last night and won $400! That will cover most of me and hobby's airfare.

Oh my god it's been 6 months already & I lost over 60 pounds... Maybe for some is not to much but for me is perfect I feel great with the results... So glad that I choose Dr. Garcia and his team!! I have to say they are so sweet!!!!

and his staff....ARE THE BEST!!!! #IJS

If so, what was your experience? Any recommendations for other surgeons at Mi Doctor? My surgery is a little more than a week away (April 11th) and I'm getting nervous. Want to be sure I've made the safest choice.

Heading to Costco looking for suggestions for tolerable vitamins, shakes or anything else I may need...

Has anyone traveled to Mexico (Tijuana, Cancun, etc.) and had VSG surgery with a partner? I am thinking about asking my hubby to do it with me. We have been talking about me doing it first, them down the road he would. But it just makes sense to kill 2 birds with 1 stone. If so, do you get a group rate or something? LOL I'm sorry I know that sounds horrible, but I hope y'all know what I mean!

I was wondering after the surgery when you are back at the hotel, who would you call if you had something go medically wrong with you in the middle of the night? Would you call the people at the hotel, your coordinator (I've heard it's hard to get a hold of them once you are there), or would you call some type of emergency number?

Just an update... Dr Aceves, dr campos, staff, and Almater has been such a good experience. Everything is very well organized, staff is very attentive, and its very clean and modern. I am comforted staying in the hospital for 3 days. I had my surgery on Wednesday. I did get sick from the morphine, but that is expected for me. When I was nauseous or in pain my needs were met immediately. I was able to rest and if you need a sleeping pill just ask. I had my blue dye test yesterday. I had to nap in between drinking. I was mostly afraid of hurting my stomach. Today I had my barium swallow test. It was very cool to see. I took a big gulp and you could see it exiting my stomach…

I was sleeved by Dr Garcia on May 11th and here is my adventure: Firstly I was going to have my surgery in NZ for $17000 ... then I heard how all the North Americans head down to Mexico and have great results for 1/3 the cost. I also believe that the Drs like Garcia, do as many surgery's in a month as a Dr in NZ would do in a year. I felt like I was in very good hands and had made the best decision (I was right by the way) So I left for LA on Wednesday 8th and had 2.5 days seeing all the beautiful sights of Los Angeles, shopping and eating - I was on no carbs no fats for 5 days pre op (low BMI) I kept waiting for the nerves to kick in for the upcoming surgery ... I was su…