Did any of you try to combine this surgery with a family vacation? I am thinking about taking my ex and our two daughters along for the ride. It could be a two-fold opportunity....surgery for me and a week long vacation for my family.

Is there anything in the immediate surrounding areas that would be of great fun/learning/sightseeing opportunity for kids?

I took my sister with me when I had surgery a year ago with Dr. Lopez. One of the reasons I chose Puerta Vallarta (besides the brand new hospital) was the vacation like atmosphere of the town. I brought my sister because she is an RN and I don't get to see her much because she lives halfway across the country. The hotel is right on the water and there is a lot to do around there. I've attached pics of the view from the hospital room and the hotel.

How old are your kids?

Keep in mind you may feel pretty crappy for a few days after surgery and may not feel like doing anything "fun" with them.

I was in the hospital just the night of surgery but pretty much slept the next few days at home.

I would be taking my children's father along with me. I figured the "vacation" aspect of this would be he and the kids out doing fun things while I have several days to recuperate...alone!...at the hotel.

deedadumble....Those pics are beautiful! I haven't run across many posts about Dr. Lopez in Puerta Vallarta. Can you describe your experience with him? Was everything wee coordinated (ground transport, pre-op testing, immediate aftercare)? I am exploring his website and the forums here now.

I would be taking my children's father along with me. I figured the "vacation" aspect of this would be he and the kids out doing fun things while I have several days to recuperate...alone!...at the hotel. deedadumble....Those pics are beautiful! I haven't run across many posts about Dr. Lopez in Puerta Vallarta. Can you describe your experience with him? Was everything wee coordinated (ground transport, pre-op testing, immediate aftercare)? I am exploring his website and the forums here now.

I think PV would be an awesome place to vacation. There are whale watching tours, botanical gardens, and interesting pier and boardwalk areas. The hotel that you stay at, Casa Magna Marriott Puerto Vallarta, is really beautiful.

I have a detailed post. Search for Dr Lopez Puerto Vallarta and it should come up on the search.

I thought the coordination was pretty good. Didn't have any trouble finding our ride at the airport. The nurses are very limited in their English, so download a translation app on your phone. The hospital care was very thorough. If you feel good enough the day after surgery you can go back to the hotel. The doctor and the coordinator actually stay at your hotel, so if you have any issues they can take care of you.

Not that I've needed it, but the only thing that has surprised me is they don't do any followup after you leave Mexico. I think if I had any questions they would have answered quickly. I've had really good support from my PCP and their postop info that they give you is good, so I haven't had any issues. I've lost 84 lbs and I'm within 6 lbs of my goal weight and couldn't be happier about my decision.