I too am going to get LapBand outside of USA due to expense - I did a lot of research and will be going to Italy next month (surgery date is 3/28) - I really wanted this surgeon as he was one of the original surgeons in Europe to use LapBand and unlike USA has been doing the procedure since the late 80s. The surgery there is $11,000 US - so even with the flights, hotel, etc. I come out at less than $15,000, which is $20,000 less than here in Northern Cal - Looking forward to the surgery, but getting more nervous as the time approachs - wish me luck!