My loan is 45% funded so far in just 5 days so I'm getting closer to make the big decision! I want the surgery done this month because June-Sept is my busy season at work and I can't get off and I don't want to wait til fall. My loan after fees is a little over $5700. Direct flight to and from Charlotte, NC is $509 which I can put on a credit card if needed. I'm getting my birth certificate and applying for a passcard this week. Money is also an important factor in my decision. I'm doing this alone and getting so much flack for going to Mexico. I've told everyone that it's not if I go, it's when and with what doctor.

My first choice is Kelly. I've read tons of positive things about him on 3 message boards. As of yesterday I was 304lbs (5'5") which with a bmi over 49 surgery is $500 more. I wouldn't want to book unless I lost those 10+lbs because $6K is out of my budget. His assistant Omar is really friendly. I like the idea of no drain, b/c I've had one before and they hurt coming out. His pre-op diet is 2 weeks.

My next choice is Ponce de Leon. I haven't read as many reviews, but all have been positive. His cost is a flat $5,500. Trish said it can be done at INT or Florence Hospital and if I choose INT I get a video of the procedure and the hotel is the same as Kelly.

Lastly, I'm considering Almanza. He has the highest count of surgeries, but the negatives are waiting to have surgery done with highest bmi, in a clinic instead of a hospital, and the loudness/crowding of the recovery house. Including the hotel, San Diego hotel, and flight in my calculations, it would be almost $5300 which is under budget. I've emailed back and forth with Linda and Larry called me yesterday. His pre-op diet is 10 days low carb, no sugar, high protein, 5 days 2 protien shakes & 1 meal a day, and 14 days of liquids.

Given the choice of the three above, which would you choose?

Pam, for me it was my interaction with him and his team. It was never high pressure sales, it felt honest. Dr Ponce is good but does not speak English and since I don't speak Spanish, that was not for me. Dr Aceves was not available when I have time off, and I didn't want to fly to see Dr Alvarez. So it came down to Dr K and once I started having regular communications with them (I email them several times a week) I realized it was the best choice for me.

Pam' date=' for me it was my interaction with him and his team. It was never high pressure sales, it felt honest. Dr Ponce is good but does not speak English and since I don't speak Spanish, that was not for me. Dr Aceves was not available when I have time off, and I didn't want to fly to see Dr Alvarez. So it came down to Dr K and once I started having regular communications with them (I email them several times a week) I realized it was the best choice for me.[/quote']

 

Thank you all so much. I truly appreciate all the help.

Hi Crystal how did your surgery go? I was just reviewing options with my daughter who has a friend who might be considering, so wanted to check in with you and find out how your surgery went and how your journey is going.

 

Take care

 

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sandyd, surgery went great, no pain, no drain! After the first 24 hrs I felt good. I've lost 15.2 lbs since surgery and 40.2 lbs inc the preop diet. I had 5 incisions which are healing well. I have an unfinished blog here for more details: losethisbelly.blogspot.com .

sandyd' date=' surgery went great, no pain, no drain! After the first 24 hrs I felt good. I've lost 15.2 lbs since surgery and 40.2 lbs inc the preop diet. I had 5 incisions which are healing well. I have an unfinished blog here for more details: losethisbelly.blogspot.com .[/quote']

 

Thanks for sharing, sounds like you are off and running! Great job and super glad you are well on your way to good health...and gettin in those amusement park rides

 

Take care

 

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Crystal I just read your blog and it made me giggle!!! I left you some comments. So glad you're doing well.

sandyd' date=' surgery went great, no pain, no drain! After the first 24 hrs I felt good. I've lost 15.2 lbs since surgery and 40.2 lbs inc the preop diet. I had 5 incisions which are healing well. I have an unfinished blog here for more details: losethisbelly.blogspot.com .[/quote']

 

Please update your bog!!!!

I also am having a time deciding which surgeon. I wanted to stay here and if not then I will see either Dr. Kelly, Dr. Aceves, or Dr. Ponce De Leon. Congrats! on your decision and Good luck.

Who did you get financing through?

Pam, your wish is granted!

Phoenix, I used lendingclub.com . With my interest rate, my payments are $202/mo for 3 years.