Hey I am a newbie to this site. But have been throwing WLS around for year. I will be self paid and most likely heading to Mexico I had a very good friend just got a sleeve done in Mx and i feel pretty comfortable going that route . But the after care is what really is holding me back a bit ( and saving the money) I am wondering when you and if you did look for a instate surgeon to be available if something major came up and you needed them. How did you start the conversation at asking if they would do after care for people that had surgery out of US. I am at a lost how to ask my Gp about after care. How much do you really need Blood test and what. else. How did you all do it. I am scared I will say or word it the wrong way and scare them away??

Thanks

My surgeon recommends labs at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and then yearly after that. As to the exact tests needed -- hopefully your surgeon can provide that information. If not, then your PCP should either know or be willing to research it in order to help you.

Don't be scared. Your PCP either is supportive and wants to help you and see to your medical care, or should be your ex-PCP. And if they get scared away from a patient who is having surgery, they should DEFINITELY be your ex-PCP! Just tell them, "I'm having (or had) a vertical sleeve gastrectomy in Mexico on [date]. Here's a list of the blood work I'm going to need done in the first year. Can you help me with this? If not, can you recommend a doctor who can?"

You might also want to check and see if any local bariatric surgeons provide follow up care to wls patients who went out of country. I know mine does. But in most instances, follow up lab work from your PCP is all that is needed.

Good luck!

Thanks for your advice. I guess I am just maybe over thinking this. But did not want to be stuck on my own ounce I got home. would feel bad and do not want to look unprepared for the long term care.