Surgery Date with Dr. Joya...any tips, advice about the experience?

Did a lot of research over the past couple of years on Docs both here in the US and in Mexico, and have chosen Dr. Joya to do my surgery.  I am going to have  VSG done in April...I know it's a long time off yet, but I like to be as prepared and ready for any hiccups or possible problems as I can be...

Can anyone out there who has gone to Dr. Joya to have WLS, and /or had the VSG, tell me about your experiences?  Doctor, Hospital, staff, hotel, what to bring, any problems, food/clears, etc...

Anything you have to tell me would be appreciated.

I start my two week preop diet on Monday and have surgery on November 9th with Dr Joya.  I will post how it goes.  So far Gerald has been great.

Hi,

I had the Lap Band with Dr. Joya on October 2, 2009. He was very professional and friendly.  His staff made me feel very comfortable and I had no problems with him or the hospital.  The one piece of advice I got was to bring a heating pad because your back will hurt after surgery.  I did bring mine and it was a life saver.  It was the only pain I had and went away within 24 hours.

The nurses don't speak much English but we found a way to communicate just fine.  The hospital is small but very clean. 

You will be fine and I have no regrets.