I just joined this blog today. I am having my lap band done in Mexico on the 23rd and I am getting a little nervous. I tried a couple of doctors here and quickly found out that I could not afford to have it done. My best friend went to the same clinic in Mexico and had it done and she is fine, so I decided to go there.

I am a smoker and am trying to quit, but can't seem to get past my nerves. The doctor in Mexico doesn't require it, but in reading up on this surgery it seems best. I am sure I would be nervous no matter what but the thought of leaving the country for heath care, smoking...and I have a cold right now...seem to be getting me overwhelmed. I know I need to quit smoking to get over the cough, but smoking is like my best friend and to give up two loves in my life ( food and cigs)at one time just seems really hard. Anyone else having this problem?

As a nurse, I would not even consider having this surgery until you quit smoking. Furthermore, any doctor willing to operate on you without requiring you to quit sounds like he is in it for the money. I quit smoking over ten years ago, so I understand the addiction. You need to evaluate if you are having this surgery for cosmetic reasons or are you doing it for your health?

How much are they telling you the surgery is in Mexico? The surgery in SC costs $13,500 and offer payment plans. Maybe you should look into that b4 going to Mexico!

I dont think you will be able to smoke afterwards without being in danger of band slippage. Im still at the sore stage and coughed twice and boy does it hurt. You dont notice a little cough now, but you will when your stomach is so sore. Coughing can also cause slippage after you are banded.

I too choose to be banded in Mexico, for the price, even though as the other poster says there are places in the US for less than $10K, like Dallas at TLCEdge and in Colorado.

I was nervous, but my parents were nervous wrecks about me going to Mexico.