Starting Out and Self-Pay in Mexico?

[WeightAMin 0]

Hi, I’m at the very start of this journey! A little about my situation: I’m 53, live in the Atlanta area and have a BMI of 40. I live with excruciatingly painful knee osteoarthritis. I have a long history of failing at various efforts to lose weight. If you can believe it - I’m otherwise pretty darn healthy…sleep apnea but no elevated blood pressure or cholesterol and a healthy A1C. Haven’t found a single orthopedic surgeon who will operate on me without my losing a significant amount of weight - both my GP and my orthopedic consults have suggested bariatric surgery.

My employer-provided healthcare excludes virtually anything to help me with weight loss - no meds, no programs and of course, no surgery (even if medically necessary). (Apparently having a heart attack or getting other serious health issues is preferable??SMH) One of my coworkers had the gastric sleeve done (she is independently wealthy and self-paid) and looks/feels fantastic.

I haven’t found anyone locally who can do a gastric sleeve (I prefer this to RnY) under 15,000. All my research domestically yields prices that are comparable, as the quoted price is always more than the one in the ad. As a teacher, I have limited means.

Surgery in Mexico is probably my best bet. My GP was trained in Guadalajara and recommends Puerta de Hierro hospital. I’m considering this over Tijuana because it is closer and I’d be in a plane for less time. Research seems to indicate a low of about 5K and high of 7K. I speak Spanish fluently (native speaker), so communicating will be no problem.

To that end, I have a few questions:

1) Has anyone had a bariatric procedure in Guadalajara? Experiences?

2) I feel quite old in getting this surgery - has anyone done it after 50?

3) For those who have had the surgery in Mexico, what have you done for follow-up care? Any groups/resources for post-op support?

4)Is there anything you wish you’d known before you had the surgery? Any tips you would love to pass on?

My deepest thanks for reading this and for any responses!

[catwoman7 10,854]

I had my surgery at age 55. I know several people who've had it in the 50s and 60s - and even a couple in their 70s!

Edited January 7, 2023 by catwoman7

[Arabesque 6,468]

Can’t help with the surgery in Mexico. Though if you have a good GP you trust & who is willing to support you through the process when you get home you’ll be fine.

I was two months shy of 54 when I had my surgery (& am 5’3” & was a teacher in one of my lives too 🙂). The surgery was the best decision I’ve made. I feel (& look) younger & better than ever.

[summerseeker 1,843]

I had the surgery last year when I was 62. Only regret was waiting so long but I never had the funds before. I feel so well now and am super happy with my weight loss so far

[Merri Beth 96]

I had my surgery this past November at the age of 60. I am down about 32 LBS, i don't expect to lose fast due to genetics and my history but i am determined to continue to follow my plan no matter what. With what i lost so far i already can tell a big difference in how my knees and legs feel, i can walk longer distance without pain which to me is a huge win. I just put on a pair of jeans that have been hanging in my closet for a year because i couldn't even get them over my hips!! For me, the sleeve was definitely the right decision. I still new on this journey but so far so good.

I have my surgery with the surgical weight control center in Las Vegas highly recommend

[WeightAMin 0]

Thank you everyone! Your responses make me feel better about it not being too late!

[Kelly Sweetheart 32]

I am 53. I had my surgery last year. I had the gastric sleeve surgery. They fixed a hiatal hernia as well. I live in Ohio, but flew to Las Vegas for my surgery. I paid $9800. My general practitioner did my follow up labs at 6 months, and will do my one year labs as well. I'm a couple pounds away from my goal and a normal BMI. I will definitely hit my goal before my one year mark.

My sister saw my success and wanted to go to Las Vegas as well. Her price was a few thousand more so she looked into Mexico. She did go to Tijuana, and I was her companion. She paid half of what I paid. She had her surgery last month and has lost 25 lbs so far. She has not had any complications. The gastric sleeve seems to be a common surgery with very minimal complications wherever you go.

I wish you the best!

Kelly