VSG surgery in Havana, Cuba?

Hello,

I'm new to this site and I've been enjoying reading other people's posts.

I have received my GP's referral and I'm waiting for the information session at my hospital. They say it can take up to 8 months and then more waiting for an op date.

I can't afford going private in Montreal - the cost is prohibitive but I am exploring options in Cuba (and maybe Mexico).

I'm wondering if anyone on this forum has had their surgery in Cuba or Mexico? Pros and cons, your experience, the costs, etc.

Thank you so much.

I did my plastics in Mexico and had a better experience there than I did in the states for my vsg.  my husband is doing his vsg in Mexico in just over a week.  I think medical tourism is a good option.  I would just suggest researching the doctor and hospital you choose.  there are some very low cost options, but spending a little more for a more qualified doctor and newer hospital might be a better choice.  

Good luck!

Thank you for your quick response!

I'm a nurse practitioner.  I had my surgery with Dr. A across the border from Eagle Pass, TX in Piedras Negras, MX.  The hospital was cleaner than any one I have ever worked in in the US.  Dr.A or one of his colleagues checked in on me and my mom every few hours.  Dr. A would even come back in after going home to check on us.  I had an exceptional experience and wouldn't have any second thoughts about going to Dr. A again.

oh!  It was around $10K including hotel night before, 2 days in hospital and hotel one night after.  That was in 2008.  Check www.endobariatric.com

Thanks for the info and the link. I'm swaying more towards Cuba as it's cheaper for Canadians but I'll check out your link.

I had my VSG paid for by my insurance (under my parents insurance Aetna before I was 26). The 1 EOB I remember seeing was for $52,000! Not including other EOB's that were processed. But I was in the hospital for 1 night. Insane. So glad that others have the option to go out of country to do this. I, did not pay much out of pocket due to insurance, and rushing it in before the end of 2012 when all the out of pockets / deductibles were met.

I doubt you're going to find anyone from the US with experiences in Cuba since we couldn't go there for decades.  I've seen lots of really great things about Dr. Alvarez in Mexico, and he posts great information videos here all the time.  I'm very impressed with him, and if I didn't have insurance and had to self-pay, I would have gone to him for sure.

I haven't seen any reviews for Cuba.  Many of the Mexican places are highly regarded and have excellent facilities on par with the United States, though, for both bariatrics and plastic surgery.

I have to agree, Cuba is a big unknown for most of us in the states.

Just a precaution you should consider is to line up some healthcare in Quebec for aftercare - in the unlikely event something goes wrong in your first few weeks post-surgery.