Viola

Hi Kemo, I looked into Dr. Alamanza too. There were mixed reviews on him from one end of the spectrum to the other. I decided that I didn't want to chance it and be one that it didn't go well for. I came across one in particular that sealed the deal for me. It was a 17 yr old girl who was writing because she wanted folks to know that her mother was still in the hospital post opt from Dr. Alamanza and that she was in a coma. She was very passionate about letting folks now about this guy. After reading that, I decided to go else where. I'm going to Dr. Jamie Ponce de leon in TJ on the 29th. He teaches bariatrics and has done them on other doctors as well. I talked with a recent patient through this site and she said that Dr. Ponce even does community work where he does the surgery for disadvantaged folks in TJ. His price currently is $4,500 dollars as well. I couldn't pass that up either. He has privileges in several hospitals and often assists new doctors on the procedure.....even Alamanza I've read. Anyway, I guess what I'm saying is do your research and follow your gut, your life is too important. I know that others have had great experiences with this doctor and others who make it a mission to let people know how bad it was. Either the case, educate yourself and go from there. Good luck to you.

Ready4change, its what your gut tells you. Just trust your judgment. It's really a personal preference and to each his/her own I say. Good luck to you.

Hey MissMinnie, If US insurance companies covered this surgery we wouldn't have to go other places. I agree with you. I tried to go through my insurance and it seemed like every chance they got they put up another barrier. It was very frustrating and finally I said to myself, Hey, I'm in charge of my own destiny, so, TJ here I come! : )

Hi Theresa, Sorry to hear you are having problems with the band. But I also agree that the sleeve will be a great choice for you. I did lots of research and found a good surgeon that I'm going to at the end of the month for my sleeve. There is another member "Ms Lady from NC" who just went through the surgery with the same doctor and had great reviews. His name is Dr. jaime Ponce de leon in Tijuana. He teaches on bariatrics, he often assists other new doctors on the procedures and is very reasonably priced. "Ms. Lady from NC" said that while she was there she found out that Dr. Ponce does a lot of community service for those who really need the surgery and can't afford it. His patient coordinator is Tommy Lopez and he is speaks perfect English and is very reachable. He even returns my emails at night when I'm on sending him information as well as known to give me a call on the weekend. Dr. Ponce is running a special for the sleeve, its $4,500 (that includes all pre-opt, and post-opt, hotel, transportation, meds etc) and although that is a great price it was not my deciding factor. Tommy's number is 866-774-3002 /619-730-4161 if you are interested. I hope your insurance covers you, that way you could stay close to home. Best of luck to you Theresa. Keep in touch girl.

Had the gas been bad since the surgery? It is my greatest fear.....thanks for giving up your remady. I'll keep it in mind when it's my turn. :painkiller:

Welcome MaryMoon, I'm new to and have gotten so much information and support from all the great folks on this site. You sound like you are an awsome mom and daughter. Going to Mexico is a big step and I'm going alone as well. Best of luck to you. To a healthier you and skinny jeans : )

what about fajitas in beef or chicken or ribs, double yum! would oatmeal with protine mixed in be too much? (I'm still pre-opt till the 29th of this month.) that would be a good question, because I really enjoy oatmeal. egg white omlet with a little bit of ham and tomatoes, or those real bacon bits, that's good too. I make deviled eggs with slenda and put them in the fridge and eat those as a snack.

I got tickets through Southwest dirt cheap. From Florida to San Diego round trip for $287. If you pay an extra 10 dollars you get preferred seating (you can pick the front of the plain like first class) Its worth checking out.

Father in Heaven, We ask you to please be with our sister Sam. You know what is in her heart and how much she has wanted for so many reasons. Please guide the surgeon and keep him steady and true, that he may perform the best surgery ever in his career on Sam. Please comfort Sam and give her what she needs to get through this. In your Son's name Jesus, Amen. Keep us posted Sam. Remember, just relax, Daddy J is got you!

Ms. Lady!!! WOW....I'm so excited I found you. I'm going to dr. Ponce de leon on the 29th of this month. I just booked by flight. I can't tell you how excited I am to finally find someone who has been to him. I did as much research as I could and finally just decided to trust my gut and go with him. I hear he teaches bariatric surgery and that he is very good at what he does. I just spoke with Tommy his coordinator and he said the same thing, Dr. Ponce is more interested in helping others and teaching the medical community than making mad money. That's why he is so reasonably priced. Anything you can offer by way of your experience I'd love to hear about. Best of the Best for you Ms. Lady. Bravo to you! Oh please keep in touch and let me know how you are doing.