I'm thinking about getting the lapband surgery and have been doing a lot of research. I'm thinking about using Dr. Ortiz in Mexico since I've only read positive info on him. However, I have been seen where a lot of people who have had LBS are having complications and that scares me since I will be self-paid and can't afford a lot of medical problems. Should I really be worried?

Hey, I also thinking about getting the surgery, but in the states. I noticed a lot of people are having complications too, but then you also have to look at the positive and noticed that a lot of people are successful. I also think that this surgery has far less complications than Gastric Bypass, so that made me feel good. I think that every case if different and you have to take it with good faith! Good luck to you =]

Hey there. I was banded nov 3rd of last year and yes I have had complications but I am hoping that everything is worth it in the end. You are the only one who knows if it is the right thing to do for you. Unfortunately, it is not as cut and dry as we'd like it to be. My process has been slow but I do know other people that have had no complications what so ever and yes lap banding is SOOOOO much safer as opposed to gastric bypass. The thing that sold me on lap band is that fact that I am only 24 and want to have kids someday and w/ the band since it is adjustable my dr can remove saline from it so that myself and the baby are getting all the nutrients we need and then after the baby the band can be filled. The down fall w/ the band is you are going to be spending a lot of time at the drs. Every 6-8 weeks i have to go back in for a fill or to see where I am at. This is only for the first year though and then I make the call as to when I need a fill. I don't know if this has helped at all but let me know if you have ?'s I'll help the best I can. Good luck in whatever decision you make.

I was really worried about complications also, since I too am self-pay. Everything has gone smoothly for me, so far.

Just curious - why is it so popular to go to Mexico for the surgery?