ducky125

Hi - (I posted this on OH as well) I've been researching WLS and the sleeve for quite a while. I even had a date, but canceled after the recent death(s) and feeling like I wanted and needed additional food (irony) for thought and consideration. My current insurance does not cover WLS, but my insurance will be changing in November and they will likely cover a large portion of the WLS - but my out-of-pocket costs will still be more or similar to the amount MX WLS would cost (including airfare, etc.). I'm interested to know... If you were approved in USA, why/how did you choose Mexico? If you are a health care professional, why/how did you choose Mexico? What were your concerns and what were the answers that made you comfortable choosing Mexico? I know so many of you have had terrific experiences and I enjoy reading them. However, I'm looking for the nitty gritty on how you found peace with your decision and the questions/steps/info that brought you to your final decision. I greatly appreciate your feedback and hope these questions and your responses are helpful to others as well. the duck I am not a coordinator or superfluous poster who stands to gain from my posts. I'm the real deal - a working wife, friend, mentor, daughter, sister, business owner - always striving to be the best I can be. And, a mother of 2 amazing boys.

Susan - I agree, this is no small thing. For that reason, I am actually grateful that the recent tragedies have resulted in people (including me) taking a deep breath and stepping back a bit. We SHOULD take it seriously and remind ourselves of the risks and possible complications as well as the life-changing benefits. I am in no position to comment on these recent losses as I did not know them or their families. I can only pray for peace and comfort for those who knew and loved them. In some small way, I feel they did not pass away in vain. The fact that people are researching more, educating themselves and asking questions is a wonderful memorial. For me, it is a small blessing because it DID cause me pause and prompted me to double, triple, quadruple check my rationale and research. I should say, I do not judge any of the surgeons nor do I place blame on the medical professionals or patients. While many people find peace in knowing how many surgeries any one doctor has performed, I feel compelled to point out that with more surgeries, the complication rates and possible fatalities increase as well. That's just basic math...no matter the location, country or medical professional. If US surgeons were performing up to 6 surgeries a day, we would hear of more complications and fatalities. With frequency comes expertise, but also potentially more problems. I'm drawn to Mexico for many of the reasons stated above, including price. I'm also concerned about after-care because my PCP is supportive, but has also given me insight into how many US physicians/surgeons approach procedures done outside the states. Not that they are unsupportive or do not appreciate the skills of non-domestic medical professional, it has to do with documentation, accountability and their own liability, malpractice and complication statistics. And, most of these surgeons do not have individual malpractice insurance, rather the facilities do. This is one PCP's take, and I respect her perspective. I am so grateful for the opinions (to which we are all entitled) and advice on this forum. I see it as another element in my process of researching and decision making. Even if it is a post that I question in terms of credibility or motivation, I take it for what it is, with a grain of salt and recognize this is an open forum with pros and cons, much like every surgeon, hospital and patient. We are all human and take risks everyday. Not one person here has the answers that will make someone decide one way or another. In the end, it is our decision to make, own and live. My gratitude for all who share their stories.

Hi! After much research and help from this forum, I'm scheduled for 8/21 with Dr. Aceves. I'd very much appreciate any links to blogs or details from Dr. Aceves patients. And, what questions did you ask prior to surgery? Much appreciated - The Duck

AmandaRae - I very much appreciate your well-worded, correct grammar, smart responses. I'm a geek that way. I'm wondering, if you would consider sharing, what questions and answers you received prior to surgery. Thanks much - Amy

I'm interested to hear more details on experiences with Dr. Leslie. I have first consult with him on 8/1, but have just learned my insurance does NOT cover bariatric surgery...

Hi - Just joined the forum today after making my first surgeon visit. Now, time to start the real process - paperwork! I'm focusing on learning all that I can. Good luck to you! ducky825