What Do I need to Ask???

live2canoe · August 18, 2004

Hi All -

I'm new here (but I've been 'lurking' for quite a while!)

Thank you all so much for sharing your victories (and disappointments). It has been very illuminating.

I have sugery with Dr. Kuri in TJ scheduled for September 15th.

I'm probably going about this all backwards, but I saw on a few threads folks who recommended making an appointment with your PCP prior to surgery - OK, I've done that.

Now - what is it I'm supposed to ask my PCP? Or what are we supposed to discuss?

Maybe she'll learn to do fills for me!!! Then everyone in the Denver Metro area who had surgery in Mexico could see her instead of having to go back every time they need a fill!

Any advice or information you could share would be most appreciated

Kim

Scheduled 9/15/2004

Dr. Kuri

225/225/140

New Hope · August 18, 2004

I had to start w/my PCP to get the proper chain of events for my insurance company rolling. I don't think Mexican bandsters have to do that first. However, you might want to talk w/ your PCP about any health issues you have, any RXs you're taking. You won't be able to swallow very large pills. You will need to change to a regular release, not time-released med. One thing stressed has been your aftercare. Will you be planning on going back and forth to Dr. Kuri for your fills and any potential problems (band-related)? Do you have a fill dr. lined up near you? Do you know for a fact that he/she will accept you after you're banded? Just be sure that you have all of your bases covered! Best of luck to you!

live2canoe · August 18, 2004

Hi Marie -

I'm a self-pay, so I don't HAVE to go to my PCP.

I don't take any medications, so I'm set there.

Right now I plan to have Dr. Kuri do my fills. I'm working on getting a local band Dr. to accept Kuri's patients, but I'm not counting on it. Besides, it's still probably cheaper to fly to San Diego (about $225) and spend the night and have Kuri do my fill than pay a US doctor.

Is there anything with aftercare that my PCP should be aware of or can help with?

I guess that's a better question to ask you guys.

Thanks again

New Hope · August 18, 2004

I haven't seen my PCP since my banding. He doesn't even know I had it done. My PCP is not familiar w/ the band, so I wouldn't go to him for band-related problems. My band surgeon is local.

That's wonderful that you don't have any pre-existing health problems! That just puts you that far ahead of the game.

My husband and I are coming to Estes Park in 10/04. I can't wait to enjoy the gorgeous Aspen, bugling elk, and mountains!

You might research some old posts regarding Mexican banding, what to bring, how to get around, where to stay, how to communicate. There's some great stuff posted. Please keep us updated!