made2beme

Oh there are LOTS of dentist out there....just do some research as you did for the WLS and you will find a ton. I really was just wanting to know if we would be able to have a dental exam after surgery - you know, infection, etc. Not that it should matter since its not doing actual dental work....but just checking. I wrote to the assistant of Dr. Garcia and she told me there is actually a dentist right there in the same hospital they set people up with. It is through Obesity Solutions International. So, I will be scheduling with him on my 2nd day after surgery and my husband also.

Hi there - Just wondering if anyone had any dental work (really just an exam and evaluation) while already there? I need quite a bit of work done and Ive been researching dentist in Tijuana and the one that looks like a great place to start does the exams for FREE. I know we would/could not want to have any "work" done since just having surgery, but wondering if just going in for an exam while there, to know what to expect on work and cost when/if I want to go back for that? I dont see the harm in just an exam....anyone else?

Congrats Joyv on making a decision and it being so soon!! I have yet to have my surgery so maybe I should keep my mouth closed, but it is so very disapointing and discouraging to see posts like this.... Yes, I do understand that the process of chosing can be overwhelming...I was there just a few wks ago myself. And I am also very, very sorry that this person is going through what she is (I did read the post) but honestly to even bring the Dr.'s name in to it is not necessary. When reading the posts it was as if you could not WAIT to find out the doctors name so you could post this complication everywhere possible. Suppose she had gone to Dr. Aceves....I wonder if we would see the same from you? Yes, its horrible but it an infection......probably one of the most common complications of surgery. I am pretty sure that when you agree to surgery of ANY kind no matter what it is or where it is you sign forms that make you aware that infection can be a complication of surgery. I am very curious to find out if Dr. Aceves, Kelly or Alvarez have ever had anyone in the history of their practice end up with an infection. Also, I am not so sure about it being because of "lack of medical care". I did extensive research on Dr. Garcia talking to numerous people that used him, internet research, talking with a coordinator and the dr himself before I decided. This truly is the FIRST complication I have seen with one of his patients. I am sure he has had them, just as any other surgeon on the face of the earth....but its the first I have found in all of my research. Not to say it is the fault of the patient, but honestly if I had not had anyone come check on me in 2 days after surgery....I would have asked about it and made sure someone did. I will not be leaving the hospital without knowing how to take care of my incisions, whether they initiate it or not....honestly, Ive had to take control of my own healthcare at hospitals here in the US as far as making sure the nurses do what they are supposed to do. So, I guess my point is if I had known about this infection before I chose Garcia...I would still chose him and still be happy with my decision. It just disappoints me to see someone asking to help them decide between 2 very reputable doctors and a complication that can NOT be proven to be the Dr. or hospitals fault get thrown in. I am sure she will be happy with Dr. Kelly and in the end it is her decision just as everyone elses....but I just had to share my piece I guess. Sometimes, I feel we are on the playground in elementary....

Hi all....just wondering about the water in Mx? You always hear not to drink the water, but I know we have to drink water while we are there not to mention the broth that may have water and our support person.....any experience with that or suggestions?

I was going between Dr. Kelly, Garcia and Alvarez...hearing great things about all of them. I am in Texas and could drive to San Antonio to Dr. Alvarez which would save me air price and the hassle of flying altogether but he is much higher than Kelly and Garcia. In the end, those 2 are only about $500 difference but in the same location, great experiences with both, etc. I honestly prayed about it and felt peace with Garcia and never looked back. The only thing I have really heard that could be a negative is not as much experience. But, he is also a teacher at a university and his record of the surgeries performed is great. I havent met him yet, but have spoken with him through email and can not wait...I am very happy with my decision!

So awesome- thanks for the info. I have contacted her and she confirmed my surgery date, arrival time, etc......relieved!

yeah - I have all of my paperwork turned in, but there is nowhere for the Dr. Garcia to sign. alma did tell me that once he looks over the medical history she would let me know and maybe that will have something from him? Oh well, I am sure I am just being paranoid....its just different than going to a Dr. here in the US where you know you are scheduled...usually you would receive paperwork or somethign in the mail, phone call, etc. with appt date from Dr. office ya know.

Just curious - have either of you with Dr. Garcia received any type of written confirmation of your scheduled surgery? I dont know why, but I just started thinking what if I get all the way there and I am not actually scheduled. I mean, we pay our deposit and trust a coordinator that just says we are scheduled..... Im sure its fine, just wondering if anyone else has received or requested a confirmation of any sort?

My doc requires a 2 week pre-op diet, but I am still about 5.5 wks out. I started this week eating like I will once I get to solid foods after being sleeved, just larger portions. High protien, very little carb, almost no sugar and really getting in the liquids. Then instead of a 2 wk liquid diet I will start a week early and do 3. I would really like to lose about 25 lbs before surgery.

Meadowesky - sent you a private msg....

Will you be there Aug 2nd or July? I thought I read in another post it was July....but if its Aug, how very cool....we will be there at the same time and I am so glad to have found a Sleeve buddy!!!!

I ended up scheduling a week sooner - so mine is Aug 3rd....we leave in the 7th, but dont think I will be going to the hospital that day...we will barely miss each other!

My surgery is scheduled for aug 3rd with Dr Garcia as well & I couldn't be happier with my decision. Just about a month ago, I was where you are....did not want to go to Mexico & was looking into insurance covering it. The plan I have has an exception, no WLS coverage no matter what. My husband is on the verge of getting a job where his ins would cover it....so I was gonna stick it out. Then did some research & realized my copays & deductible would be most as much PLUS the hoops I'd have to jump through....all while my health is suffering. So, I became addicted to this board....you will find so much support & info here. There is also a Self-pay Mexico forum....you should join us there! I know it's not what we may have imagined, going to another country for surgery....but I have complete peace with my decision !

I know im a wierdo to even think about this, but can not remember from past surgeries..are contacts a No-No during surgery? I've worn them daily for over 20 yrs & am just so used to it. But if I have to wear glasses for surgery I'll just leave the contacts at home & wear glasses the whole time...it will be easier in the long run.

Oh Praise the Lord....is it really possible Menopause symptoms can get better or go away?? I had a total hyster at 32 and have been on HRT, finally with a combination of Estrodiol & Effexor I feel human again, but still constantly burning up, sweating constantly & still drench the bed when sleeping. I was afraid my HRT may hinder my weight loss....but never thought about the symptoms getting better yeah for VSG!!!!

Hey fellow sleevers, I've just started thinking about the fact that I am on Estrodiol for hormone replacement (total hysterectomy at 33) and also Effexor for mild depression due to hormonal changes & to help with hot flashes. BOTH of these are known to have side effect of weight gain which is no doubt why I was able to put on over 100lbs in less than a year (that's way faster than normal). So just wondering from personal experience if weight loss has still been good if on either of these or has it not even been an issue. Also have Hypothyroidism which didn't happen till after Hyster also..... Thanks for any experience....

I have been speaking with Dr. Garcia's coordinator alma as well - really love her. She is extremely quick to respond and has answered her phone each time I have called. I sent her an email with lots of very specific questions and she called me almost immediately to answer all of my questions...she just went down the list and knew what she was talking about. I am still pre-op and havent been down there but I am not really understanding what the "aversion" is to dealing with a coordinator. Alma has given me Dr. Garcia's email and I can also speak with him personally if I would like. I really think it depends on the surgeons preference. Maybe the surgeons that use a coordinator simply like having someone to help in all of the details. Wow...thats a little harsh. I personally could care less about sight seeing and purchasing souvenirs but why is that a horrible thing if on day 3 you want to get out of your hotel room and instead of paying for a taxi you have a coordinator take you around? Also, I have seen a number of people come from all over the globe to Mx....maybe they want to pick up a little something because they may never be back. Really - is there proof of this? They take roughly half of the doctors fee, maybe I should apply for a job then. To me this also suggests that if your surgeon uses a coordinator they are less competent, not caring or qualified as Dr. Kelly is. I apologize in advance, I rarely ever would post any type of response but this one really struck a nerve with me. The original poster lynnz asked if you could book without a coordinator? The responses she received (if I were just starting to research) would lead me to believe a surgeon that uses a coordinator are not as reputable or as good of a choice. Maybe I am just crazy......wishing the best for everyone, no matter who they chose and for what reason.

Awesome - thanks....I think I will vlog also along with written blog I will be keeping up with. I think watching my (in your case, your) own vlogs will be awesome as we shrink!! What a great way to document the journey of a lifetime. How much are you paying for Dr. Gonzales again? How many nights in hospital and how many in hotel? I know you have posted this already, but I can not seem to find it. Good luck on your pre-op diet....not looking forward to it, but i AM looking forward to the weight loss that happens during it!

All good suggestions, I am a MAJOR list maker (on the obsessive side, lol) so I have been compiling every list I can of what to expect, what to take to the hospital, what foods to purchase before hand, etc. I have been keeping a list of mini goals I will have as I loose, starting a blog so that I can remember each day and how I am changing plus it will keep me more accountable, etc. Even though I am almost 2 months from surgery, I have started trying to limit my sugar & carbs, up my protien, I am reading everything I can get my hands on just so that I am fully prepared for how my body may react and what is the best course of action starting now. So, if you are like me....these are some things that will not only keep you busy but really get you ready and have less surprises as you go along.

I have not been, but from what the paperwork I received said they do TAKE US $'s but will only give you back change in Pesos, so to take lots of singles so you wont need change (bills). I dont think I will exchange mine....

Q - did you know you had a hernia before they went in to do sleeve? I have never thought I had one, never had issues or been told I had one....but just wondering if this is common to not know and when they go in, its there and repaired?

Dr. Garcia - Tijuana, MX...can not wait to begin the rest of my life!

Nevermind - all is done, surgery scheduled for Aug 3rd! woohoo.....

Seriously - I thought I was already excited...but I feel like a 2 yr old about to wet her pants, lol!! I can not wait for the journey to begin, I a starting a new blog about digging deep to become the ME that God created me to be. Emotionally, physically and spiritually....as we know this is NOT just a physical journey!! Hope to meet someone from here, so let me hear ya if you will be there too!

I heard from Linda 2 days ago and emailed her right back, she responded very quickly. Then yesterday AM emailed her a few more questions and have not heard from her yet. Anyone else have trouble getting a hold of her or is there a better way to get answers to my questions?