Are you scared to have WLS outisde the US?

I've had weight loss surgery (RNY in 2006) and 2 rounds of plastics in Mexico (all self pay) All my pre-op health issues are resolved: GERD, severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea, High Blood Pressure, and a host of other issues, I am off all 8 medications I was on prior to surgery, I have not been to the doctor for anything more than routine check-ups in 5 years. Best decision I ever made. It's not the right choice for everyone but it definitely was for me. BTW it was the best Dr./nurses/hospital experiences I have ever had and I speak maybe 20 words of Spanish (10 of which are numbers LOL)

Obviously, there are good & bad Dr.'s in every country (research is key) and if your insurance won't cover the surgery chances are if you have complications they won't cover those either.

~Michelle "Shelly"
www.theworldaccordingtoeggface.com

P.S. ¡Viva México!  ;)

Hi,

I always love it when people respond and tell their own story. We all have had a experience that we can share.  I am like you, I am healthy, very few meds and I only go to the doctor about 1 time a year for a annual check-up.  I feel great and this was the best thing I ever did for myself.  Thanks for sharing your story.  I hope that what we say will help someone else make a good choice.  We are always out here to answer your questions.

Suzanne

I would say the single most important detail to collect would be real-life references from patients in the US that have used the medical practice that you're considering. 

With the DS having only a handful of docs around the world who do it, going out of the country to have it, especially for self-pay, is necessary for some.  Some of those surgeons are world-renowned, while others are just a step below a butcher.  People on the DS board here share much about their experiences.  I remember a particular gal who was warned vehemently about a certain doc in TJ, but because he offered a lower rate, she went with him against everyone's recommendations.  He was indeed the butcher she was warned about, and she suffered as a result - kicking herself in the ass for letting the allmighty dollar go against common sense.

Hi Valerie,

I agree with your comment.  Ask around and you will hear certain names that just keep coming up as being excellent doctors.  I keep saying when it comes to surgery, my safety and GOOD health it is NEVER a time to price shop.  There is an old "saying, you get what you pay for."  That is the truth, and when it is your health please listen to others.  We have been out here, for awhile we know what is going on.  We will tell you the good bad and ugly.  It is your job to sort it out, but keep in mind "you get what you pay for."

Hugs,
Suzanne

Had my surgery in India 6 years ago. I'm doing well, stayed in the hospital at the surgeon's insistence for 9 damn days! He said he couldn't let anything happen to his American!
I went from the hoapital to the apartment I rented for the duration, my mother had traveled with me and was the best help ever.
I had exellent care and the best nursing care I've ever gotten. Patience and kindness were key, along with service.
I'd do it again.

Hi,

Just another great success story of having surgery outside of the US.  Thanks for sharing.

Hugs,
Suzanne