I have contacted this doctor in TJ and he only charges $7500 for the surgery and has 12 years and 2500 bands under his belt, but I still would like to hear from someone who has been to him.

Anyone that can help me? I'm calling doctor Gonzalez, but before I do can someone give me what you think are the most important questions to ask. I have notes, but would like some input.

I am not sure if anybody responded to you privately or not but here is the link for some questions to ask. I found it while browsing the site.

http://www.lapbandtalk.com/f73/some-questions-ask-about-lapband-20272/

Hope that helps!

I am scheduled for banding next Monday, 8/27 with Dr. Gonzalez... I am starting to get very nervous, but other than that, I have a few strange questions to ask those of you who went to him.

How long did you stay? I live in San Diego, so I am driving down for the surgery and they said I could drive back after I am discharged from the hospital. Is this a good idea? Should I book a hotel room at least for one night to be sure? I am worried not only about the pain factor, but also about the pain medication. Any thoughts? How sooon were you able to drive?

Have any of you gone to do this by yourself?

mehean you should not drive the day you are discharged. They probably meant you could be driven from TJ back home if it is a close distance. You are medicated and with not enough strength or quickness for emergency reactions while driving. I went down by myself and you can too. One additional night is the best way to go and it really makes a difference. I was driving after my 4th day because I could wait, its always best to stay on the safe side and not take unnecessary risks. Congratulations and keep us posted!

Thank you so much! I figured that I should book a hotel room and wait it out awhile, just in case. Thanks for the advice, much appreciated.

Thanks for the info, I got the list now and this time I´ll have it handy so I don´t lose it again .And about the thongs...I know that´s so funny...but when you think about it´s a very good idea.

Hey There-

I am anxiously waiting for you two to check in.....I can't wait to hear how everything went and what your experience was like and if there was anything that was unpleasant....I want to know everything, even if it is something that may not be so good....can't imagine it, but you never know. I just hope that things are going well and you are adjusting to band life. I wasn't sure how long you were staying in TJ before heading out. I personally will only be staying for 4 days from start to finish. Take care and hope to hear from you soon!!!

I just filled out the form for Dr. Gonzalez and got email saying that someone will contact me shortly. Reading the posts in here makes him seem like the one to go with when you are self pay and not rich.

HI all, I just talked to DR. Venzela (can't spell name) about getting surgery with DR. Gonzalez. He said that a manufactor of LapBand is having dr. Gonzalez teach docs here in US about it. He's doing this in Jan. of 2008.

I've decided to go with DR. Gonzales.

HI all, I just talked to DR. Venzela (can't spell name) about getting surgery with DR. Gonzalez. He said that a manufactor of LapBand is having dr. Gonzalez teach docs here in US about it. He's doing this in Jan. of 2008.

I've decided to go with DR. Gonzales.

Good to know you will be part of this little group, Dr. Gonzalez and Dr. Valenzuela make an excellent team.

Hello B A, and Gabe!!!! Where are you? Please let us all know how your trip and your surgery went!

I have been doing great and losing weight, very gradually but I feel its the safest way. Still struggling with my diet and I learn new things about food that I took for granted before my Lap Band. Ok everyone, I'll try to log on more often and bug you now and then.

After all this time this almost feels like a pregnancy with all the prenatal care and inquiries(flash back) I just called Dr. Gonzalez office they are emailing me a medical history questionnaire for me to fill out, and after everything gets cleared I will get my surgery date hopefully for next month...!!!!!I want to have this done so bad! I'm ready to start my journey to a healthier life.

:nervousHey sunshine,I just got off the phone with Dr. Valenzuela...isn't he the nicest ????

Annie5 Yes he is so nice. When are you going to have your surgery?

Maybe I can set mine up around the same time. I sent in my questioneer earlier tonight.

Cristine yng thanks. Ready to make the big commitment and set up my surgery date.

NM Sunshine and Annie 5-- I am getting my surgery done with Dr Gonzalez next month, Sept 25th -- I can't wait either .. Getting nervous but excited for the new me ! I'm just counting down the days now and preparing for the surgery -- Let me know what dates you guys decide on and keep in touch --

NM Sunshine and Annie 5 -

I am having my surgery on the 14th of September. Let us know when your date is set up....maybe we will run into one another!!!

I have been reading post from this forum for a while, and decided to post today, I made up my mind to have Dr.Gonzalez do my Lap Band I´m confident that he is the best after all the reseach I´ve done ( and I beleive that everyone is entitled to their own opinion) so I called today and got my surgery date set for september 6th,so wish me luck guys and I will keep you posted

Hey Chelsea -

My surgery date is September 6th also. With all of the information and research that we do before making a final decision I am totally ready for this. Good Luck and I will see you there!

Here we go.....