Mexico & Self-Pay Weight Loss Surgery

Yes, this is a strange topic, but it's something I've been thinking about for awhile now. I have read pretty much everywhere that no matter how many Vitamins you take, and no matter how hard you wish, hair loss will inevitibly hit around 3-4 months post op for about 95% of us. I have read of ladies sadly sheering their locks in exchange for shorter do's. I have read stories of people trying to hang on to it as long as they can before claiming defeat and cutting the remaining straggling hair off. I have read of powders and sprays to make your hair apear thicker and hide bald spots. I am 4 days pre-op, and have grown my hair with minimal trimming for the past 2 years…

Those of you who have used Dr. Lopez and Osana, VS Dr. Lopez and Dr. Ortiz, did you have a preference as to who was assisting with the surgery? I notice Lopez seems to be the only one that specifically states who will be assisting? Do you think it is important who is assisting? Was this part of your decision process? Also, those of you who had Lopez and Ortiz, were you happy? I am booked for the 3rd, and just got an e-mail from Ronda at ALighterMe that Dr. Osana has a family emergency and will not be able to be with Dr. Lopez when he performs my surgey. That Dr. Ortiz will be assisting instead. I am trying to be understanding of a family emergency, but I feel nervo…

I wanted to share my experience as well , I am recently new here! (Sorry this is long) I just came back home from my surgery with Dr.Garcia in tijuana, I was also in between those 2 companies , but finally decided to go with Ready 4 A change because of Alma, she is one of the coordinators for that company. I felt safe talking about the process of going into Tijuana for surgery, everything that she explained to me and my expectations were 100% meet. First day that I arrive to the airport- I received a phone call from Samuel when i was barely getting out of the airplane, He told me that once i was out side he was going to be there in a white van waiting for me, and he …

Anyone else headed to TJ for Dr Ortiz this week? I was sleeved by him last November but have not lost any weight. Because I had a revision from a band he thinks I had too much scar tissue to get a small enough sleeve. So, I am going back. He said this is ony the 2nd time he has had this problem. and, NO cost to me.

Hello all. I am D, or TheCurvyJ. After much thought and consideration and watching a few friends shrink, I have decided to take the plunge and have VSG. I have chosen Dr. Alvarez and am in the process of having my patient file reviewed to be cleared for surgery. My biggest issue is the money... Dr A is considerably more expensive than other doctors. When I think about going to someone else though, my stomach turns. I need to feel stable and secure in this decision and Dr A makes me feel confident in this decision. In addition, he is a few hours drive from my friend who will be coming with me. This way I can convalesce at her home instead of flying back right away. I w…

Just read the insurance question post by Bos123 and I'm starting to get really paranoid and apprehensive. I'm a teacher and although my salary is pretty good for my field, I sure as heck can not afford to have major complications resulting in thousands of dollars of debt. No way! My school system insurance plan excluded everything related to WLS last year so if something happens the bills come to me. This is the reason i decided to go to Mexico in the first place. i was prepared to pay for follow up care to my PYP but the thought of bills for complications scares me. Please, can anyone recommend an insurance company that offers cross border insurance? I'm starting to th…

Does anyone else actually want to see their stomach after surgery? The portion that's removed? I dont know why, but I'm just curious to see how big it is... Guess that makes me a weirdo! Lol

For any of you self payers, I'm just curious if you got any extra insurance anywhere just incase? God forbid anything should happen, but if it did and one had to spend extra time in the hospital what happens? Do you get a bill in the mail? Have to pay right there? Just curious as my date is dec 3 and I'm just trying to be prepared. Thanks:)

I've been reading through post and I keep seeing that the people from a lighter me are getting better service than patients from rfac I'm already in the process with them so that is making me nervous..any thoughts on this? Sent from my ADR6400L using VST

I didn’t think it would take me so long to sit down and write out my experience/review, but here it is finally! I am currently 4 weeks out. I began my pre op at 216 and on the day of surgery weighed 206. I am now 188. So at 4 weeks I have lost a total of 28 lbs. I think I would have lost more if not for my complications. Yes, I said the “C” word! After researching Dr. Lopez and Dr. Osuna, I decided to go with them. I could not find any negative reviews. I confirmed that they were both Mexico Board Certified Surgeons. I reviewed multiple forums for complaints, complications and results. I was confident in my choice. I scheduled with A lighter Me, they were having a …

Was anyone able to use the phone at the Marriott to contact their loved ones?

Since I'll be going to Mexico on my own, I'm thinking that the hospital may be almost as important as the surgeon! It would be really helpful if some of you who have had surgery in Mexico would share your thoughts about the equipment and staffing at the hospital where you had your surgery. How was your IV solution monitored - was it an electronic machine that beeped or did you have to keep an eye on it yourself? How often did they take your vitals? How often did you see a nurse? Was the language barrier a problem for you? In pre-op, did a nurse or the anesthesiologist insert the IV line, and how did it go? In recovery, what was the level of care? And, in ge…

I am 9 weeks post-op from Dr. Aceves, and I have decided to go back to Mexicali for my three month check-up. I have heard second and third hand that it is not good to take a car (I will be in a rental car) to Mexico. Has anyone had bad experiences driving across the border to see Dr. Aceves?? Gabby, Dr. Aceves's follow person, said we could also park in Calexico and walk over the border and they would pick us up and bring us back to the border where we would walk back accross. Has anyone done this option? My concern is the car getting stolen.....That is what I have heard happens alot. Is this a legitimate concern??

Hi All, Just wanted to see if any of the ladies and gentleman that had surgery around the same time as me are on here, wanted to see how you all are doing!! I'm great, taking it slowly but my incisions are healing well!! Down 19lbs since surgery on 10/9, that's a total of 41 pounds, yay me!! 2lbs and I'm out of the 300's!! For all of you going to have surgery, good luck, I had mine in Mexico with Dr Garcia and have no issues!

Just wondering if anyone was scheduled for surgery nov 1st wirh DR.Garcia,

I have decided if insurance don’t approve that I will be going to Mexico and get my sleeve done. The only thing that I am worried about is my husband might not go with me. So I have decided to go alone! Has any other ladies gone alone? I will be honest I have never been by myself ever so that really freaks me out, but I know that I am going to get sleeved one way or another. I have decided it would be between either Dr. Garcia or Dr ponce de leon. I would love to hear any feedback or advice that you have.

Hi all! I was just wondering what phone service if any is best to stay in contact with family and friends back home? I am heading to Mexico on November 18 and really want to have a way for my kids to contact me and my husband directly if they wanted to. And I would feel better knowing we have that line back home too. Thanks for the help in this!!

I have a high BMI. Over 50, which I am working to lose weight to get it down. I understand the higher the BMI, the higher the risk. I would love feedback from those who had a BMI over 50 and who've gone to Mx and had a positive experience/care in respect to your higher BMI risk. Amanda Rae

Hello everyone. I'm new here. I have a question for people who are being sleeved in Mexico. I'm concerned about post surgery care, for example if you spring a leak or something? Does your regular health insurance cover postsurgery care? I have Blue Cross Blue Shield, which covers the surgery however my employer puts an exclusion on weight-loss surgery. I'm just wondering if I have to go through any extra hoops to make sure I get good care after I have the surgery in Mexico.

Do you really need one?????????????

Had surgery with Dr Lopez on Wednesday. Resting up at the Marriott before flying home tomorrow. Anyone surprised at the size if the antibiotic pills they give you? I was expecting some type of liquid. They even gave some type of Malox to take before taking the pills to coat my stomach.

What levels of energy did everyone have after surgery? How soon after surgery did you feel 'like yourself' again? Were you able to get up and do 'normal' everyday tasks a week out? If not, how long did it take?

I am 99% sure I will be scheduling gastric sleeve surgery with Dr. Ortiz in Tijuana, MX. My primary concern at the moment is traveling to and from Tijuana. My husband may not be able to accompany me due to limited financing. I am considering bringing my 15 year old sister to accompany me, but want your feedback on whether this is a good idea or not. I DO NOT want to jeopordize my sister's safety and would love reassurance and/or specifics on anything that may be of concern. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

So tomorrow I pay for my deposit with Dr. Lopez in Tijuana n then there is no turning back. I know there is, but that's my mind frame so I stay positive n not have second thoughts...!! February 4 couldn't come sooner!!! =)

Have anyone ever used this company before. If so what was your experience?? Beliteweight

I am having surgery in Dec. W/ Dr. Ponce and although I feel like I have asked some good questions, I want to make sure I am not missing anything. Can you pls,share the questions you had for your Doc and/or coordinator? Thanks!!

Hello everyone, Its been a long long long while since I have logged in. Things have been hectic but going great. Just for review, Im Kisha from MD. Had my surgery on May 22, 2012 with Dr. Fernando Garcia. My experience was wonderful from the moment I stepped foot in Mexico. Starting weight was 216. Goal weight is 145.... current weight 151!!!!! Only 4 months out and I am almost at my goal. Life has changed so much and is going great as a non-obese person. I am now wearing a medium top, medium dress (depending on the store) or size 10, and in pants, also depending ont he store, size 11 or 12. My feet have even shrunk. 7.5 now. I just want to say anyone cons…

I've heard that it is very uncommon, but has anyone on here had one? If so, what did you do for follow up care, and did your insurance cover it?

Hi friends, I have not been on here in some time because I honestly haven't had a reason to be... I know a lot of people drop off and do not check in because these forums are of no real use to them once they move on with their lives, but I just want to chime in as someone a year out from surgery. Dr. Kelly keeps in regular contact with me to see how my health is, and to say my results with him have surpassed expectations is an understatement! I no longer suffer with the emotional ups and downs that I used to have associated with my meals. I am completely capable of choosing what is healthiest to eat, and eating that (AMAZING! I used to eat a package of oreos for a n…

My husband and I just landed in San Diego. Waiting with Abraham at the airport to pick up another patient. Can't believe it's tomorrow!!

Ok, so I have to save up the money for my surgery, but I was wondering if there was anyone else on here that has to do the same? Would you be interested in possibly scheduling our surgeries on or around the same day and be sleeve buddies? Lol. I'm probably going alone, so a buddy would be nice. I know that my nerves are gonna be a wreck, and I will be somewhat anxious and scared.

Was anyone able to access the US cell towers while in Tijuana?

I was sleeved in TJ on 10/9 by Dr. Lopez. Hopefully someone can help me. All of my incisions except drain hole were glued shut. Now that the glue is wearing off, I have stitch ends poking out of 2 incisions at the end. Does anyone know if these are ment to disolve? To me it doesn't appear that they should be outside of the skin but more like interior sutchers. Do I stretch them out and cut them off?

Trying to decide on what Vitamins & supplements to go with post surgery. I have read posts on the nutrition section of this forum but I still find myself wondering what Mexico sleevers have been going with. Curious about brand and type (powder, gummy, chewable, etc.) Thinking of ordering some specific bariatric kind but not sure. Currently, I take One & Only for women which I buy from a Vitamin health food store but the pill is rather large so I'm thinking that won't work directly after surgery. I also take Biotin, alpha lipoid acid and selenium.

YAY!! I got a date!! I will be w/ Dr Garcia in september getting my sleeve! Anyone else out there getting theirs in September??!!! AHHH im stoked! Those of you that have gone to Garcia already how you all doing now? any complications?

Has anyone ever claims this surgery on there taxes( self-pay). I posted this in another forum but think that it should been posted here

Any suggestions for what I should take with me? Perhaps something you wished you had taken? Also, what drinks did you take for the trip back home?

Who did you book your flight through? Any recommendations for the cheapest way to fly? Orbitz? Priceline? Thanks...

Any Spring Breakers looking to get sleeved in March? I'm going for 3/11/13 so I don't miss class. Nervous and excited! Amanda Rae

Hi - I am new to the board. Scheduled for surgery on august 23rd with Dr. Castaneda in puerto vallarta. Traveling from Seattle. I don't see him discussed often so hoping someone might be out there that used him.

Okay i posted this in the success forum too but wanted to put it in the self pay to let any of you know especially self payers that this surgery is totally worth it and it works so well!!! I could never have imagined i would be down so much in so little time. I was scared to go to Mexico when i first started researching it but was amazed with my experience... i loved my doctor and my coordinator can't say enough great things about them!! I just want you to know that this will be the best decision you have ever made for yourself.. life is great on the other side!! and yes i didn't spell check my video.. i spelled my doctor's name wrong lol...If anyone needs any advice …

So Im obviously over weight and have high blood pressure. I do not take meds, but do have them. Will they still perform my surgery if its pretty high? Granted I have had a horrible day.... but considering i listed it as a co morbid thing..Should I worry. Im afraid they might cancel it once I get there? Im guessing it will be high there too with the worrying:-(

As having surgery is such an incredibly personal decision, I have decided not to tell anyone. I'm single and have no children so its fairly easy for me to let friends and family think I'm just going on a little Mexican vacation. Is there anyone else here who has chosen not to share this with anyone?

Just wondering what the prices are for all of the different surgeons down in Mexico.

Hi I am new after lurking for months. I have my surg scheduled on dec 3rd...I am thrilled, scared, worried... Not scared about surgery scared about life afterwards . Will I be me still? Since I can't eat will I turn into a drunk??? The thing I fear the most .... One sibling functional drunk...yeah right like any drunk can really be functional...right? Sorry not the point anyways - how have you all dealt with cross addiction? Any anyone going with Garcia in dec? I'm going alone so a little scared but not enough to stop...I am a lightweight as they call it but I certainly don't feel light- just sayin...remind me please I'm not crazy and I am just being OCD...lol. Like…

I know testing is done prior to surgery at the hospital in Mexico, but did anyone (or is anyone planning) to have the same tests done that the US/insured sleevers have before going to Mexico? Because I haven't had a physical in a long time and my current PCP is not supportive, I am switching to another PCP and thought of possibly having some of the tests done.

Im 34 days away from being sleeved. YES!!! I scheduled back in Aug and its felt so far away. Now it seems as though Its coming quickly! Wooh hoo B-)

Anyone here do CrossFit?

I am new here to these forums and just wanted to see if anyone else will be in Juarez the week of Sept 25th? I am going through Belite Weight and getting sleeved by Dr. Jose Rodriguez. I am so excited! I am on day 3 of my High Protein/Low Carb Pre-Op Diet!!!

I'm so nervous, excited, and more nervous. I'm ready to have the band removed but afraid of failure a second time. I followed e rules with my band but gained everything back after a slip. I'm afraid of the procedure, the pain, and the recovery. My husband is going with me but would love to meet other people going to Mexico as well....