Looking in to weight loss surgery

I have just started researching weight loss surgery and really would like to have the surgery in Calgary apposed to Toronto. I am not sure which surgery is best, I am looking at the lap band surgery because it's not as invasive and doesn't have as many complications but I can't afford to pay for it. I am 5ft 1' and weigh 250 lbs. and my BMI is 47. My friend had a gastric bypass surgery about 12 years ago and has lots of effects from the surgery. (Not positive) But again that is 12 years ago and things have probably changed. I would like some more information from anyone who has had surgery, any problems and which surgeon they used and how long was the wait? Was it covered and if so how much? I have called Manitoba Health and all I am told is that I have to get my doctor to send in the request for approval, which doesn't answer much. Any one's experience and information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Connie Hi there, I recently had surgery in Toronto. I had Lap Band on April 11 of this year. I myself choose to have this type of surgery because the band is used as a tool to control hunger. Manitoba Health will only pay for about 1,100. of the cost. Also they will pay for you and a caregiver flight to Toronto. I think they will actually pay for 2 trips if needed. Dr. Cobourn in Mississauga did my surgery and is a excellent doctor and he has a doctor in Winnipeg that can do fills. To date I have lost 30 lbs, 13 lbs since surgery. You do take the weight off slower with the band but you don't have the dumping issues that RYN has. Hope this help you and if you need anymore innformation please feel free to contact me. Lynnette

HI Connie I live in Saskatchewan & have scheduled my Lap Band surgery with Dr. Kuri in TJ Mexico for Aug. I know mexico scares a lot of people but I know 2 people who have had this surgery by Dr. Kuri and the hospital there is cleaner & safer that our hospitals here. the cost is half of the cost of what it is in Ontario, 18.000 vs 8000.00 plus your travel expenses. You get p/u & dropped off at air port. pre-op , 2 night in hospital & 2 nights hotel. Your travel companion will get Dr. Kuri's special rate at the hotel or they can stay in your room with you. it is very safe and resonable & fast. You can usually get it done in 2-3 weeks if you would like to know more e-mail me at [email protected] & I will give you my contact person here in Sask. She had the surgery done in Jan & the other person I know had it done in May. wish you all the best in you desicion.

I saw Dr. Nohr in Medicine Hat, Alberta in May 2007 for a consultation for RYN surgery (I had to wait from 2004 to 2007 for an appointment). I am scheduled for surgery in March 2008. I know RYN is invasive but I want a more permanent solution to my weight problems..... I've emailed lots of people on this web site to talk about their successes and challenges with this type of surgery, also did more review of the scientific literature (MED-LIne). MB Health will pay the cost of travel but the doctor has to make a request for every visit, etc.... Diane Wpg MB