Mexico & Self-Pay Weight Loss Surgery

I feel like hiding at all times, and not from a few but everyone! I am so aware of my size that I can't even be comfortable at home alone, but at least at home I am alone. It's kind of strange that I've shared on this forum the things I've shared as I usually lurk but stay hidden like you might see me even here. I'm in the process of getting this all figured out so I can have this surgery with Dr. Kelly, but a part of me feels like a failure for having to do something so drastic to myself to accomplish what I've done in the past, but it didn't last. I do have family and bf that love me unconditionally, but I even close myself off to them too because they don't underst…

Going to mexico!! The crazy thing is, I have never even considered going for surgery. But something in me changed. I think mostly i am just fed up. I was paying cash for my surgery where i live. Not only is it 3 times the cost of going to Mexico, But I also paid 2k out of pocket for testing. Then when I had a date, i was so excited and then got a call that I needed to be rescheduled for a month later. I had worked my butt off to jump through every hoop (not insurance company hoops) I was heart broken. So, after reading through hundreds of posts on here, my husband and i sat down and made a decision.....Mexico! I got in touch with Dr.Kelly yesterday and by the end…

Anyone had this doctor? Scheduled for the 27th.... I was told that Lopez is great. A little nervous, more and more each day , but looking forward to losing this weight! Thank you in advance. !

So, I'm self pay and this may take a little while to save up for. I'm REALLY excited, and sometimes find it hard to sleep at night because I'm thinking about sooo many things. I've been researching doctors in Tijauna and getting lots of recommendations! of course I have worries, but I'm more excited than anything to get this done and get on with my life! I'm so tired of hiding behind this weight...

I was wondering if anyone has scheduled without a coordinator? Can you go straight through the Dr? I am thinking about using Dr Garcia for my surgury.. opinions either way would be great or can you even do it without one?

Okay, is it really THAT bad in Juarez? Has anyone had the VSG done there? I'm self pay due to an exclusion, and there is a surgeon in my state who does VSG for right at 10k, which is super reasonable. That said, I only have about $5k right now, so I'm thinking of going through BeLite and financing the remainder, which wouldn't be too much. I know you can go to Tijuana instead of Juarez if you want, but I've seen some great pictures of the Juarez hospital.

I suppose this could apply to any of the Doctors in Mexico, but do they give you a plan to follow before leaving Mexico, And do they give guidelines for when you may resume certain activities in writing?

I am scheduled! I am having the sleeve surgery with Dr Garcia 8/31 in Tijuana and I have so many questions. What tests pre op and/or post op should be preformed? How many incisions will there be and where will they be placed? Do they leave one of the incisions open? Will there be a drain left in and for how many days? I plan to ask all those questions to my coordinator as well, I just want to make sure I know what is supposed to happen.

let me know if anyone else will be there at that time.. I think my niece will be going with me so we will be at the Hotel Ticuan Any advise from people who have already done this, feel free to reply . So Happy and scared and excited

I keep getting these 2 doctors confused! Lol I guess because the names sound similar... Idk.

I haven't officially set up anything yet, but want to get as much information as possible before I do. Which Dr. Would you recommend for us that are going to travel to Mexico for surgery?

So, my parents are saying that I'm crazy for wanting to go to Mexico for weight loss surgery. They said I need to watch the news because there has been several mass killings down there close to the border. This scares me... I know this is a stupid question, but they seriously have me worried now. Lol

I had to move my surgery up 3 weeks and luckily was able to cancel my airfare. However, I'm in shock over the difference in prices, assuming because the date is closer but it's still 3 weeks out. Where did you find the lowest airfare? (going from DC area to san diego)

My surgery is scheduled with dr. Kelly and Omar told me to be at te airport by ten am... Having trouble finding a flight. Why happens if you can't find a flight or that time or you come a night early?

How did you choose/decide which doctor in Mexico to use? I keep leaning towards dr Kelly because of all the great things I've read on here but there are so many others mentioned and some that are cheaper then him as well. Sooooo exhausting.

I knew there was something else I wanted to ask - does Dr. Garcia use a catheter? I have read that some say their dr's did but put it in after being put under and took it out before they woke up. That helps a little, but really.....I personally do not want anyone messing around down there especially if I am asleep...ya know? I'd almost rather just be awake and know about it....

I suppose this could apply to any of the Doctors in Mexico, but do they give you a plan to follow before leaving Mexico, And do they give guidelines for when you may resume certain activities in writing?

Just returned from a life changing experience. Dr kelly is an amazing caring and very dedicated doctor. He went well above any dr in the us. He fixed a horrible lap band issue, scar tissue and more. I had my sleeve july 4th, and the entire experience was a plus. Omar, is a kind, caring, hard working man who does more than anyone I've met. He took care of my fears and doubts. I went alone, and the team was there for me. Dr kelly and his family drove me to san diego tonight, and what a amazing conversation and person he is. You will NOT be disappointed

So, I've filled out the patient care form and I was approved for the surgery in March. I'm choosing to go then because it will give me enough time to come up with the money between now and then. I haven't put down the $500 deposit yet to reserve the date. I have so many things running through my mind right now! Like will I be able to get plane tickets around that time because it will be near spring break? And I'm thinking of when should I make my hotel reservation? I looked on Southwestairlines.com and I can't even book this far in advance lol I think that I'm going to drive myself crazy....

I had surgery in May with Dr. Garcia. I sent him an email with a post op question on Friday. So far no response. I am kind of disappointed with no reply. I'm giving it another day or so before I contact the company who booked the surgery (osi solutions) to see if they can assist. Don't get me wrong ...I am not unhappy about my surgery ...or the results so far... But geeze... I wish there was some follow up!

Ok I have everything ready except my airtickets.... Reason.? I been waiting for my last check the compAny owes me. With that money I want to buy my round ticket but I been waiting since June and is just stressing me out so much.. I'm really short on money I don't have a job.. I got injured my right arm and I'm waiting on my case also under restrictions(can't lift more than 10lbs.) I'm thinking to cancel my surgery with Dr. Almanza. Until I get some money.. Just fustrated.... My surgery is on Aug.10th. Thank you.

HI all, hoping you can answer if you know if insurance is available to help in case there ARE complications? I am scheduled for surgery with Dr. Kelly on Aug 31 and my biggest concern is getting back to my home and then having a problem. I do not want to bankrupt my family and I am not sure how much risk I can take. Thanks!

Greetings! I would like to know from Dr. Kelly patients what time your return flight was scheduled for and if you had any issues crossing back into the US. I would imagine that there must be a rush hour for crossing the boarder... Thank you for your input! Harmoni

I'm probably posting in the wrong spot but I shot for the "mexico" angle. Many sleevers have said that the broth they got in Mexico was the best. I'm trying to stock up on things I would need for post-surgery since I work 2 jobs and will not have time to shop when I return. Does anybody have a recipe for this magical mexican broth?

I am wondering how I will feel on the plane flight home after surgery in Mexico. What have you all experienced? Is there anything to bring for certain to make it more comfortable? My trip home is only 2.5 hours so it's not too bad, but I want to know what to bring.

There's This insurance that I read here where the Dr. Offers you a coverage insurance in case something goes wrong. Do you recommend it.? I'm having surgery next month and trying to get as much information I can . Thanks.

How much we're your tickets and with what airline.? What hotel you staying in Tijuana and how much was it.? Sorry for to many question..lol

Hi everyone! I'm just begining my journey. I found out yesterday that my insurance won't cover my surgery, so I'm heading to Mexico. I've been reading the boards for a couple weeks and have learned sooooo much from you guys! I've decided to go with Dr. Garcia in Tijuana. I sent an inquiry and filled out the health history form through Ready4Achange and am waiting to hear from them. I have noticed several have gone through alighterme. Is there one that stands out or are they all about the same? I was also wondering about aftercare. Who do you see after surgery? Your primary care physician? A Bariatric specialist?

Just thought I'd take a moment to say hi and introduce myself. I'm Kathy and have been researching and contemplating WLS since November of last year. I actually had surgery for something uncomplicated and unrelated and first heard about the sleeve from my general surgeon. Her practice is entirely WLS, but she assisted in my surgery as a favor to a colleague. She invited me to find out more about WLS. Initially, I thought I'd be set on the Lapband. After attending a seminar, though, I decided the sleeve could be a viable option. I researched, changed jobs, and researched some more. I set an appointment and followed up with the surgeon I'd developed a rapport with, only t…

I'm having surgery on Aug 10 with Dr. Almanza. I'm hoping to find somebody going to Mexico on Aug 9. I'm just dont want to be alone maybe meet them in the airport . Flying from Houston tx to San Diego. Thank u guys.!!

I just spoke with Omar!! I'm scheduled for August 30th!!!! I'm so excited!!!!! Anyone else going to dr. Kelly that week?

I wrote through his website asking for information a week ago. Finally on Tuesday, I got a reply that they got my message and would be sending me some information. Still waiting. Is this a typical response from them? I usually get really fast replies so this has surprised me since it was a basic inquiry (when coordinators/doctors just forward typical intro forms/information). I like prompt answers so it makes me hesitant to even consider his practice, but I figured I would ask if this is the norm.

Ok, I was sleeved on June 15. I just started "full liquids" this Tuesday. Now I didn't seem confused about the post-op diet when they went over it with me in the hospital, but now I am! I know they gave us a specific list, or meal plan rather, but I thought it was more just a guide for the types of food we should be eating. So I'm curious, at day 21 post-op can we start having really mushy tuna salad, refried beans w/ cheese, noodless-lasagna etc?? Like mushy food? I know it says soups with the chunks in it and watermelon, shouldn't these other things be ok? I'm not getting enough calories/ protein on just soup! Please let me know how you all are going about it. Also at …

I'm new here, but have been reading through this very informative forum. I plan on getting sleeved soon (I've been researching WLS for over 3 years now). I will be a self-pay patient as my insurance doesn't cover ANY bariatric surgery. But I have checked with them twice, and if any complications arise from the surgery, they do cover that. I've thought about Mexico because they are experienced, and of course, lower costs. I currently live in Houston, and we have some VERY good surgeons here for WLS. I am very comfortable with them, and as a nurse - I'm comfortable with the healthcare here in this city. But I am very curious - many of the posts I have read for peop…

Has anyone used or dealt with Weight Loss Angels? They are advertising $4499.00 all inclusive, minus flight, sleeve surgeries on OH, and they claim to be most experienced... I didn't see any Doctors names, or places and I was curious...

I have not scheduled my date yet, but I am hoping for Aug 8th...just waiting to find out where the money is coming from. Hope to meet someone from here, its been such an incredible source of info on the journey to changing my life like so many others! Misty

I was not too sure where to post this or even if I should post this but it has been bothering me since it happened yesterday. I have been researching Garcia, Kelly and Alvarez. They all seem like great doctors. Well i filled out each of their contact forms or emailed each of them. I tell some coordinater with "alighterme" (responded to inquiry with dr garcia) which doctors i am looking at and mistaking alvarez for Almanza she immediately says " I would never to go hospital jerusaleum".. um ok ive done my research. But then she tells me she had surgery with Dr. Kelly last year and while he did a great job on her he has developed "certain Habits" and she would steer c…

I Have migraines. I am nervous about not being able to take those medications for a month before surgery. I am currently on a preventative as well as 3 meds for treatment when I get a migraine. Does anyone else have these concerns or been through this already? I am hopeful that the number that I have will decrease after surgery.

I'm trying to get my husband on board with me going to Mexico and he's driving me nuts. He wants to know why is the practice in Mexico if it's a bunch of Americans getting it done, and why is it so much cheaper?? Anyone help me please

I was researching info on Dr. Kelly and found out he has done over 7,000 bariatric surgerys.....I then looked up the Doctor I was going to use and he has done just over 2,000....hmmm now who would I want to cut 85% of my stomach out?? No brainer there!

Wondering if anyone else is getting sleeved in Puerto Vallarta in August 17,18? My doctor is DR. Joya

Hi All! I thought I would pass on a little tip learned by one of my doctors, Dr Elmo in Mexico. I had surgery with Dr Rodriguez in Juarez on June 29th and after surgery wanted to call family but Sprint doesn't have an international plan that doesn't cost an arm and leg!! Well, Dr Elmo was saying that he lives in El Paso but works in Juarez so in order to call his family throughout the day he downloaded the magic jack app so that the calls were free... hmmmm! First you have to have an Iphone, it won't work with a Android but it worked great! I got to call everyone I wanted when I wanted! So cool =)

When we first got here, I thought that Omar probably got a stipend to spend on gas and food since he has done so much for us since we got here. I found out that he doesn't. Dr. Kelly pays him a modest base salary to work from 9am-4pm with Sunday off, plus a (very) small per patient bonus (compared to the amount of work he does). Omar said he gives to people and works way beyond his paid hours because he loves his job. So have any of you left him a big tip or gift when you were departing? I certainly feel that he deserves it for the outstanding service and friendship he has shown us during our stay.

Anyone see Dr. Pleatman in MI? I had phone consult with him, next step is to make appt. He's 4hrs away but around here it's $25,000.

this is the link to my youtube vlog. It will be up in about 20 minutes http://youtu.be/lyKfqr7ZLNQ

IMHO all genders want to feel loved, beautiful, and special, regardless off their weight, height, religion, etc... But for some reason there is always that one particular person (or more) whom feels it's their responsibility to announce to others any and every fault you may have, and it hurts!!! I'm so humiliated every time this person says "sing, cuz we know it ain't over till the fat lady sings," refering to me! I've told him this is mean and hurtful and that I don't address the many flaws I feel he has...btw he is a co-worker/"friend"! I know he's only joking, but I am obese, (hate that truth), and it makes me extremely self conscious and I want to hide, if not fo…

Hey group, I was sleeved in the USA a year ago and I had to go through the arduous pre-surgery process of medical tests and nutritional counseling etc. My mom went to Mexico, to the Jerusalem Hospital and was sleeved with Dr. Almanza. She didn't have to have all the pre surgery tests that I did. Her surgery went very well and her recovery was uneventful until she moved into the regular diet phase. She had terrible reflux, and even went to the hospital thinking she was having a heart attack. She is still getting tests run but she may have some serious problems that could have been exacerbated by the sleeve surgery. If there is a problem with the pyloric sphincter valve…

Did anyone just use US dollars instead of getting pesos? A friend of mine just went to visit and said the she didn't exchange her money because a lot of places take dollars.

Any self-pay folks have a leak emerge while in Mexico and if so, did they keep you there and treat the leak, or...did they simply send you back to the US for treatment? If anyone didn't pass one of the leak tests, what do the surgeons do? Do they reoperate? Thanks.

Jennifer suonvieri and I are traveling to Mexico today, and we will both be sleeved by Dr. Kelly tomorrow! I think Jennifer leaves on Monday or Tuesday, and I will be in the hotel until 04Jul12.