What are the Best Practices for VSG Surgery in Mexico Surgery

I sent a deposit via PAYPAL several weeks in advance, and then hand delivered a certified check for the balance.  Felt very comfortable with this procedure.

I spoke to 2 bariatric surgeons near my home before deciding on my sleeve and got alot of information from them on nutrition, etc.  You can research any bariatric site on the web and get alot of good information.  I personally did not do any protein shakes or drinks, as you move to full soups at day 8 and then to mushies on day 15, so I was eating better than I had been considering my prior diet of carbs, etc.  I do take a multi vitamin and calcium citrate as recommended by the local bariatric docs here.

I had a heart attack 8 weeks prior to my VSG surgery and had been advised to think seriously about getting this type of surgery to lower my risk of future heart attacks.   I had lab work and much testing for cardiology as well as getting a clearance for surgery which my surgeon insisted on.   I took a copies of all my medical records with me which were studied intently by both the Cardiologist and Dr. Almanza.  I only did the three day liquid diet, but if I had to do it over again, I would do it much longer.

I made sure everything was done-up at my home before leaving so I would not be tempted to do alot when returning.  (laundry, cleaning, bedding, errands)  I was more than able to drive and go about my normal routine when I got home, but it was nice not to have to do anything for a week.

Pack very lightly, you really just need minimal clothing for 3 days as Terry said, and not much else.

As for signs that something is wrong.........any kind of fever and you need to be concerned.  Blood pressure out of whack...too high or low...need to watch.  If you are alarmed or feel something is wrong, you should immediately tell a nurse, who should then alert the surgeon.  Don't wait!  If you cannot get an a satisfactory answer from the nurse, INSIST on talking to the surgeon!!!
Call your co-ordinator at ANY time you feel uncomfortable or that something is wrong.  Be calm BUT PERSISTANT.  If you think something is wrong, voice that concern.

I agree with Terry, that while I did see many people go it alone,  I do feel it is best to travel with someone who can advocate for you.

I agree also about finding out what your co-ordinator will or won't do, and whether or not they are available to you 24/7.  I was quite fortunate with that both times I was there  (my surgery and my sister's) as my co-ordinator was VERY available 24/7, and I felt quite comfortable with her.  Now heading back there for the 3rd time on May 14th, I again feel quite comfortable with my new co-ordinator in Melissa.  She has quickly answered every email and phone call with numerous questions.

As for what I would do differently.................I would have my gall bladder out at the same time as my sleeve.  I had been warned that many weight loss patients have gall bladder issues, and about 6 months after my sleeve I began having trouble.  It took 2 months before I was correctly diagnosed and then had it out, but it cost me alot in terms or deductible/co-pay and PAIN!  It was the most painful thing I have ever had.  My husband is having the sleeve on May 14th, and he will be having his removed at the same time.

I took out my own stitches at 10 days, and one of the incisions did pop out a bit, but I closed it with a butterfly strip.  Leaving them in longer creates issues too, so I removed them at 10 days.  It is very easy to do this, and my local doctor was unconcerned about me doing so. (am a former EMT)   I will be taking out my hubby's also.

I never felt anything other than safe, but I also would not go out anywhere at night just to be on the safe side unless I was with one of the hospital driver/chaperones.

Hope this helps!