Any advice

after years of living for others, I want WLS for me. I'm 5'2 and 260 pounds , my weight has steadily I creased year after year. I've lost and gained weight. I. Ready for a change the challenge is I live overseas Soon, I will be going back to the states for a few weeks I can extend the trip for a few months. Should I try to get the surgery done while I'm there , how quickly can a self paying patient get in for WLS?

 I'm aware this is a huge lifestyle change I am committed, I want to do it for me and to be a healthier happy person. Thanks

I don't know anything about self pay, but you need to start researching your options now.  My RNY was in 2008 and I've been very pleased with the results.  Is it not possible to have the surgery done in the country are you living in?

It is a lifestyle change and you must be committed to be successful.  The first year the weight comes off so easily, but once the honeymoon stage is over, you have to work at maintaining your loss.

The country there is a language barrier .

Realistically?  I'd say a month would be needed from the first appointment until surgery.  I say that, because that's how long it took me back in 2008 - my insurance was approved the same day and it took that much time to get all the other required prep appointments done.

Now - being self-pay, I'd think some of them may not be required, but it depends on your doctor.  Doctors sometimes require things that insurances don't and vice versa.

What country are you coming from and where in the states are you going to? 

it totally depends on the Dr.  My dr required the same process, 12 classes, 4 weeks preop diet, etc of self pay that they did of anyone else, no matter what their insurance required.  It took me 7 months and that was not insurance requirements.  those were done very quickly.

congrats on your decision.  It is a lifelong commitment and the hard part isn't the surgery.

There are many self pay options out there. You have to do a lot of research to find one that is right for you. I ended up choosing Dr. Pleatman (Michigan)for multiple reasons. But to get you started, check out his website it has a ton of information! Good luck :)