Best Value for Self-Pay Banding?

[Denelle 0]

Wow! This forum is overwhelming! I don't know how to find the appropriate section to read/write my questions... So, I'll start here!

I'm 47 yo female, BMI 55, 5'10" 400 lbs, with no medical insurance. :cry

Of course, I'd like to get the best, safest band experience for the least money! How do I go about researching all that I need to know? I've read LOTS to know that this is what I want -- plus I'm a registered nurse -- but I can't find an unbiased source to answer my specific concerns.

Has anyone used MedRetreat.com to go overseas for this procedure?

How can I do my own research on reliable foreign options?

What kind of cost are we REALLY talking about?

If I'm banded overseas, how do I deal with fillings? (From Montana!)

I see that weight loss is slower with bands than bypass (which is fine with me), but are the longterm success rates comparable?

How have people dealt with excess skin after weight loss: is it a big issue? requiring surgical correction? improves with exercise?

Does it make sense to have some liposuction at the same time as banding? It seems like it might! Does anyone do that?

What are some things I should know that only experience has taught you, that you wish you'd known before making the commitment?

Many thanks, Dhira (dhira at aol dot com)

[Constance 0]

Check out the top chat forum, General Lap Band Discussion, and you'll find answers to all of your questions and more! Also, the are "Sticky" topics, things that are perma-posted for people to browse.

Another good spot for the basic overview of the surgery is on the Inamed website. They make the band. (Just google Inamed and youll find it). Obesity Help.com also has good info on different surgeries. Welcome!