Gitana

Lola.. Im so happy for you- YOU GO GIRL.. 10 pounds is TEN POUNDS honey so celebrate! :uwelcome: And take those before pictures, I know theyre painful to take now but you will be so amazed later and proud of yourself! And its true Dr Huacuz is one of the best isnt he? Very inexpensive and easy on the eyes to boot ladies I tell ya what! lol.. Wishing you all the best of success! Gitana Gitanav@hotmail.com

Heya.. I've had my lapband done by Dr Huacuz in TJ and as far as I know he's still the most competetively priced. I only mentioned it because I was a self pay also and understand how important the money was to us. Anyway I know it doesnt help because it isnt about either of your Drs but Im about 8 months out, and 90 lbs down.. If you want to know more about the Dr ask around or email me. But either way, do it! Youll wonder why you waited so long! Best of luck to you! gitanav@hotmail.com g

Hello again and long time no talk fellow Bandsters! And of course all you Bandster wanna be's! I was banded 4/2/05 just about 8 months ago.. Dr Huacuz performed the surgery as well as a subsequent gallbladder surgery. My overall impression of the doctor was phenomenal really. Great bedside manner, the kind we're just not used to here in the states. I wont ramble on about his care as I've stated it was unparalleled and I would and have recommend him and his services to anyone considering the procedures offered. I've sent family and close friends alike to him and they're experiences have all mirrored my own - fabulous!! If youre considering the surgery - DO IT! You will ask yourself after you've had it why you waited so long. Dont put your lives on hold because of fear or the slander of others, do your research contact some of his patients and ask questions.. BUT DO IT.. Youre worth it, the quality of life that I am currently experiencing is out of this world, I havent been this thin or this healthy since I was in high school, I've lost over 80 pounds and Im currently a size 8.. A SIZE 8! Surely most of you dont know me but I can tell you that a size 8 for me is nothing short of a miracle.. Sisters! Brothers! You can do it - you should do it - Just do it!! I am more than willing to answer any questions and or share pics with anyone considering the surgery..feel free to email me at Gitanav@hotmail.com.. The Best of Luck to you ALL~ g

ok... i feel sheepish, the first message didnt seem to take, and now i see apparently it did.. agh. anyway you guys get the point.. atta girl miss g

Missy, Congratulations and *high five to you sister! Im happy you had a great experience and I was certain youd love Dr Huacuz, hes wonderful! Keep us posted on you becoming the Big Loser you will become!!! best wishes, g

Missy! You did it *high five to you sis! Congratulations and keep us posted on your becoming a BIG Loser! g

Wow... you ladies have heated it up in here!! I just would like to take this moment to officially "come out of the closet" and say I am "Grace" the person Gina was referring to in her oh so passionate posts (i love ya G). But its true I was in a panic after hearing what Fran had said about our bands being discontinued and whatever else. I called Don also and he said she was up in the night, the bands werent discontinued or different in anyway. Huge relief. He also added that there did seem to be some vendetta against Dr Huacuz at the time. I just have one question I guess Ive missed something.. Dr Grossberg was a patient of Dr Ortiz? Or is mentioned in some book that Ortiz wrote as a colleague? THAT in itself should speak volumes or atleast give rise to question regarding hidden agendas. I feel bad for Fran, I cant even imagine having to go through all that BS seriously. And then to be used as a ploy agh I cant even imagine.. I would imagine I would feel very angry, confused and used. Not to mention that shes got to start all over again while everyone else is losing the weight and having their lives start anew she's got to have surgery again. If she choses to have it again. Wow.. WOW. Im not offended by opinions, everyones got them like something else we all share. Sometimes we've got to realize that just like that other thing we share, sometimes they stink and should be kept to ourselves.. Im here for support and to give support. If youve got it, give it if you need it let me know and Ill do my best for ya! keep the peace ladies.. g

Ok.. heres a little tidbit I had forgot to add in my long drawn out posts.. lol When I initially started researching for my lapband, and had contacted Andres Betancourt at Molding Clinic I was told another doctor, Im trying to think of his name... would be the operating surgeon. About a month later Dr Huacuz was thrown in to the mix. I was told that because of differences, personality or otherwise that the other doctor wasnt operating anymore at the clinic. I thought this was interesting at the time but opted to go with Dr Huacuz anyhow because of his experience, credentials, etc. My point I guess is that apparently this isnt the first time that "professional or personality differences" have occured where a doctor has decided to stop operating with Andres acting as coordinator. Anyhow, just food for thought I suppose. And to anyone interested, I dont recieve free fills, or any other type of free services for my testimonies or opinions. Dr Huacuz does offer a discount on any related services after youve had initial surgery with him. But most do, Im still a ways away from thinking about cosmetic surgery but will I use him when the time comes? For sure.. Oh and to the comment made that some people have decided to go with Dr Huacuz because he is attractive I would say thats the most idiotic reason to chose any particular doctor, true he is attractive and he is cheap but Im not familiar with anyone chosing him for that particular reason. Are you kidding me here? Wow.. Brad Pitts a hunk but I wouldnt trust him with my life. We're all a bit smarter than that- I would hope! lol -45 pounds and going strong.. Gitana

Fran, I am also sorry that you had to go through such a bad experience. Really does not sound like a great time and Im sure if I had the same experience with a doctor I might be discouraged and want to speak out also. I can however appreciate the manner in which you have done so. There are many of us, like youve said and that have posted and are extremely happy with Dr Huacuz and his services and I believe its VITAL that you pointed that out. I have had two surgeries from Dr Huacuz because I have that much confidence in him. And I have referred friends and my family to him and they have all been quite satisfied and had no complications, any of them. I wouldnt presume to know what happened in your case. But I do believe that when it comes to medicine and surgery in general you take your chances, for whatever reason the band didnt work for you. I wish you the best and hope for a full recovery for you. One last thing that I do find incredibly interesting is that the doctor whom removed your band, Dr Grossberg was trained or is associated with Dr Ortiz who is as we all know a surgeon practicing in Tijuana Mexico, performing the same operations. I work in a hospital and understand that doctors are a very close knit group, its a brotherhood and a kinship. I dont find its a huge coincidence that these same doctors are in same city, competing for the same patients. Many of us have contacted Inamed and spoken with Mr Mills as a preliminary step to the operation. We do it to inform ourselves. The fact that there would be another complaint regarding any particular doctor or clinic shouldnt be suprising people, come on. Im sure the next question asked was, well what about the rest of the surgeons in Mexico, do they have any complaints? How many of our general physicians here in the United States do you figure have "complaints" against them? Why do you suppose our insurance premiums are as high as they are? Because we as a people love to complain, we live in a country where frivolous lawsuits are the norm and people become filthy rich off of getting burned by a cup of coffee.. But I will stand up for what I believe in and this is a doctor with whom I have trusted my life with twice, my mother, my cousin and various friends lives with and would do so again in a minute. Every day myself and others like me as youve seen today consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have found this particular surgeon, Huacuz has made the biggest impact in my life. I am living life again, comfortably and without pain, so yes I am grateful to him. I am honestly sorry for your experience and I dont mean to belittle it in the least. This is not my intention so please dont take offense. You have every right in the world to voice your opinion, please respect mine. Good luck Fran and God Bless. g

Notta problem! I know how hard it was for me initially and how much anxiety I had, but I feel youve really no need to worry this really is an exceptional doctor.. except for what youre going to do with all those "fat clothes"!! and lemme tell you how much fun that is! you know what missy, if youre interested in contacting me personally please do so, we can chat or you could even call me if you like k. gitanav@hotmail.com g

Shirley, You make a great point. Research and investigating is crucial. Its also important to mention that with any surgery with any surgeon minor or major complications can arise. I've got to stick to my guns here and say that I believe that rumors or gossip only succeed in frightening those who during this delicate time in their lives need all the support they can have instead of a downpour of negativity. Fact is Shirley, you and I were extremely lucky and apparently we are one of the many Huacuz success stories. You've lost 106 pounds?? Those results are amazing and should be commended. Its true we need to stick together and use our own experiences to help others, but heresay is just that heresay. I think you said it best when you said (regarding Dr Huacuz) "I love the man, he was great,kind and very understanding, also a great surgeon." I feel the same way. g

Missy, Dont be frightened hon, it simply isnt true. Dr Huacuz is and will continue using the Inamed bands. If youve any concerns or doubts, call or contact Inamed or the doctor himself. One thing I would like to mention though is that while a certain doctor might offer to use other bands, ie Johnson & Johnson, doesnt make that doctor any less credible. Alot of people opt for the different bands for different reasons, mainly financial and the majority have been pleased with the results. The fact that we're offered a choice is refreshing and accomodating to the patient. I chose the Inamed band, but my best friend actually has the Johnson & Johnson and is completely satisfied with it. Choice- a great thing - ok that sounds like a Pepsi commercial? lol.. you guys get my point. g

This... is exactly my point.. You obtained your information regarding Dr Huacuz from a clinic where he no longer operates because of personality conflicts between himself and others at the clinic. Lets just assume for a second that you and a girlfriend didnt get along anymore for whatever the reasons are - do you consider it a possibility that the same girlfriend just might say something untrue about you to hurt you or get to you somehow? If theres a question regarding a particular surgeon, his practice, ethics, education, then INVESTIGATE dont assume any particular thing is true simply by gossiping. Two women have responded to this last post now afraid because of it. This is where the harm comes in. Because of gossip. I was banded first in April at the Molding Clinic with Andres as acting patient coordinator. My experience with Andres? Great! He was everything I could have hoped for, others have had worse experiences but personally for me everything was great. When the practice was dissolved, via decision of the doctor I decided to follow the doctor not the patient coordinator. One would think that would be a no brainer? And true Andres was banded also, but were you aware that he was banded only after failing with the gastric bypass, and wasnt even banded in Mexico, it was in Europe because it was such a risky surgery. But as far as Andres as a person? He was great, funny, and very accomodating in general. Ive never said and would never say anything derrogatory regarding Andres, Ive no reason to. I only said he was a patient coordinator, which is what he is. Dr Huacuz is a surgeon. I would value their opinions on different scales is all. And as far as you losing 106 pounds since April, Id like to take this moment to give you a Great Big High Five sister - you go girl. Thats a huge accomplishment! And seriously, Im not out to make anyone feel bad or annoyed. We're all in this together and we should unite in fight to beat off the chub, ok? Friends? g

Almost fell off my chair with the border story! Tooo funny! Banded 4/2/05 Dr Huacuz, TJ MX Great experience Down 40 lbs and counting.. g

Just wanted to reply to this last post. I am a firm believer that if youre not absolutely positive on something youd probably shouldnt say it you could be doing more harm than good. An opinion is one thing, stating something that is false is nothing more than a lie or an obvious misunderstatement. I dont mean to come off so strongly but I realize that there are people out there who will take the written word as the truth. This isnt always the case and we've got to keep in mind that we can only rely on ourselves to investigate and inform ourselves on the actual truth. I am only concerned that someone who is investigating having WLS would become discouraged after reading a false post. The allegation that Dr Huacuz is not allowed to operate using Inamed bands provided by Inamed is absolutely false and should be considered heresay. Should you have any questions regarding a particular doctor and his status with the Inamed bands or any other matter - RESEARCH people! Go to the Inamed site, under the section labeled "contact us" and ask your questions on any particular doctor. If the doctor has gone through and met the requirements which include, being formally trained, attending the required seminars and being proctored for approximately 25 patients it will then be determined if he or she can then obtain and use the Inamed products. Only then are they considered "certified" which is a term used loosely as Mr.Mills explained isnt an actual certification rather a training regime the surgeons must complete before they are allowed to use the Inamed bands. Regarding Andres Betancourt, one should keep in mind that he is not medically trained or educated and is by admission a patient coordinator. I have personally met Andres and found him quite personable but he isnt the reason I chose to be operated by Dr Huacuz. The problems that arose at the clinic had more to do with the service they recieved at said clinic then with the doctor himself, I have personally spoken with the patient in question and she has assured me of such. Regardless of the situation the doctor believed it would be better for his reputation to remove himself from a clinic whose standards did not mirror his own. Follow the surgeon, his experience, his patients, check out his testimonials, ask for referrences. I was banded by Dr. Huacuz 4/2/2005, returned 7/5/05 for gallbladder removal. My experiences with Dr Huacuz have been wonderful. Initially I chose Dr Huacuz because his prices were the most competetive I could find and that was extremely important to me being self pay, however I continue using his services because they exceeded any expectations I could have had. I am down over forty pounds in 4 months, 4 months! This surgery has been the best thing Ive ever done for myself. Please understand I dont mean to be aggressive in anyway nor do I wish to offend. I just realize how much this surgery has done to enhance my own life and I would hate that someone should become discouraged after reading a negative and false post. Regardless of the doctor you chose, be informed and be well. Gitana Gitanav@hotmail.com feel free to write with questions

Surgery in Mexico.. You hear all sorts of horror stories regarding surgery in Mexico, some may be true others not likely. What most people arent aware of are these two small factors, first as human beings we were blessed with a brain in which we can use to decipher the truth – conduct research and make up our own minds instead of taking the words of others and second that the medical education and training the surgeons recieve parallels our own here in the United States. What worries me about negative feedback or comments regarding heresay is that someone reading may contribute the written word with the truth and that isnt always the case. This same person may opt against a life saving surgery because of these same false comments. While it is extremely important to research your surgeon and I advise checking out atleast 3 of the referrals, it is always been common knowledge that in some cases during any type of surgery, done anywhere in the world by any surgeon with any amount of experience – complications may arise. This isnt always the fault of the surgeon and can happen for many different reasons. Currently studying to get my Registered Nurse’s license, Im actually just a mom, a wife and a woman. I had a million questions and asked them all I think. When I was researching my lap band here are some of the questions I asked the surgeon and the answers I was given. After finding all of this out I consented to the surgery and am extremely pleased with the results. First – After personally speaking with a spokesperson from Inamed the makers of the lapband I was told in order for a surgeon to purchase these lapbands he must first be medically experienced as well as properly educated to operate, preferrably a bariatric surgeon or gastrointerologist, he or she must then complete an extensive training program and then he or she must be proctored for atleast 25 patients each. Only then are they allowed to purchase the band. There are doctors or surgeons out there operating out of their own clinics and or other hospitals who do the weight loss surgeries, whats important to realise is only a few of them have gone through Inamed for actual certification – which in actuality “certification” doesnt exist a doctor claiming certification only means he or she has completed the necessary trainings and seminars. Some of these doctors include, Dr. Huacuz, Dr.Kuri, Dr.Lopez Corvala, Dr.Aceves and a few others, the surgeons I have named above each have an average of over 300 patients each. While having surgery done in Mexico may be troubling for some its important to keep in mind that Mexico and it’s top surgeons have been doing these procedures for years longer than our American surgeons, case in point when I recieved my first fill here in the U.S. my doctor said he infact had been trained and proctored by a Mexican surgeon. The facilities in Mexico may be a bit more humble then we’re used to here in the states. But the technology, experience and educaton is there. Whats important is to research your surgeon- not the hospital. A respectable surgeon wouldn’t jeopardize the health of his patients nor his reputation at a clinic or hospital that was unprepared in any way. While a great deal of our insurance policies are flawed in the sense that they dont cover these necessary surgeries, its vital that we dont allow ourselves to fall victim or prey to a surgeon who doesnt meet the highest standards. Please do your research people, and dont discourage others from going to this doctor or that doctor because of a negative comment you may have heard, sure voice your opinion but in the end offer the advise that they do the research themselves as you could be doing more harm than good. Make sure your surgeon has gone through the Inamed process, make sure his credentials are in order, contact atleast 3 of his referrals or testimonials, if you opt for a band other than Inamed thats your choice but make sure the experience is there and his patients are pleased with the results. Ask how many operations of type the doctor has perfomed ask for potential complications. Make sure your surgeon is a Bariatric Surgeon, this is also extremely important, while many doctors are qualified to do other surgeries this should be his main focus. Be informed, be well.. Personally I had my lapband surgery done by Dr.Huacuz in Tijuana Mexico 4/2/2005, since then I have lost 35 pounds. I have healed nicely and my American doctor has said the work the surgeon did is some of the best he’s ever seen. I enjoyed the surgeon and his team so much that I decided to go back for a gallbladder removal surgery 7/5/2005 and a post op fill. Both of which were a great success. I dont mean to be an advertisement for any particular surgeon, I can only say that my experience was terrific I am happy with the decisions I have chosen and I have since referred many of my family and closest personal friends all of which have had their experiences mirror my own. One of the biggest factors for me was the doctor was very affordable, more than most and that was important to me at the time, the fact that I recieved impeccable service and was treated like family was above and beyond my greatest expectations. If anyone is interested in more info, please feel free to email me at gitanavdothot@aol.com. Best of luck to you all! g

Surgery in Mexico.. You hear all sorts of horror stories regarding surgery in Mexico, some may be true others not likely. What most people arent aware of are these two small factors, first as human beings we were blessed with a brain in which we can use to decipher the truth – conduct research and make up our own minds instead of taking the words of others and second that the medical education and training the surgeons recieve parallels our own here in the United States. What worries me about negative feedback or comments regarding heresay is that someone reading may contribute the written word with the truth and that isnt always the case. This same person may opt against a life saving surgery because of these same false comments. While it is extremely important to research your surgeon and I advise checking out atleast 3 of the referrals, it is always been common knowledge that in some cases during any type of surgery, done anywhere in the world by any surgeon with any amount of experience – complications may arise. This isnt always the fault of the surgeon and can happen for many different reasons. Currently studying to get my Registered Nurse’s license, Im actually just a mom, a wife and a woman. I had a million questions and asked them all I think. When I was researching my lap band here are some of the questions I asked the surgeon and the answers I was given. After finding all of this out I consented to the surgery and am extremely pleased with the results. First – After personally speaking with a spokesperson from Inamed the makers of the lapband I was told in order for a surgeon to purchase these lapbands he must first be medically experienced as well as properly educated to operate, preferrably a bariatric surgeon or gastrointerologist, he or she must then complete an extensive training program and then he or she must be proctored for atleast 25 patients each. Only then are they allowed to purchase the band. There are doctors or surgeons out there operating out of their own clinics and or other hospitals who do the weight loss surgeries, whats important to realise is only a few of them have gone through Inamed for actual certification – which in actuality “certification” doesnt exist a doctor claiming certification only means he or she has completed the necessary trainings and seminars. Some of these doctors include, Dr. Huacuz, Dr.Kuri, Dr.Lopez Corvala, Dr.Aceves and a few others, the surgeons I have named above each have an average of over 300 patients each. While having surgery done in Mexico may be troubling for some its important to keep in mind that Mexico and it’s top surgeons have been doing these procedures for years longer than our American surgeons, case in point when I recieved my first fill here in the U.S. my doctor said he infact had been trained and proctored by a Mexican surgeon. The facilities in Mexico may be a bit more humble then we’re used to here in the states. But the technology, experience and educaton is there. Whats important is to research your surgeon- not the hospital. A respectable surgeon wouldn’t jeopardize the health of his patients nor his reputation at a clinic or hospital that was unprepared in any way. While a great deal of our insurance policies are flawed in the sense that they dont cover these necessary surgeries, its vital that we dont allow ourselves to fall victim or prey to a surgeon who doesnt meet the highest standards. Please do your research people, and dont discourage others from going to this doctor or that doctor because of a negative comment you may have heard, sure voice your opinion but in the end offer the advise that they do the research themselves as you could be doing more harm than good. Make sure your surgeon has gone through the Inamed process, make sure his credentials are in order, contact atleast 3 of his referrals or testimonials, if you opt for a band other than Inamed thats your choice but make sure the experience is there and his patients are pleased with the results. Ask how many operations of type the doctor has perfomed ask for potential complications. Make sure your surgeon is a Bariatric Surgeon, this is also extremely important, while many doctors are qualified to do other surgeries this should be his main focus. Be informed, be well.. Personally I had my lapband surgery done by Dr.Huacuz in Tijuana Mexico 4/2/2005, since then I have lost 35 pounds. I have healed nicely and my American doctor has said the work the surgeon did is some of the best he’s ever seen. I enjoyed the surgeon and his team so much that I decided to go back for a gallbladder removal surgery 7/5/2005 and a post op fill. Both of which were a great success. I dont mean to be an advertisement for any particular surgeon, I can only say that my experience was terrific I am happy with the decisions I have chosen and I have since referred many of my family and closest personal friends all of which have had their experiences mirror my own. One of the biggest factors for me was the doctor was very affordable, more than most and that was important to me at the time, the fact that I recieved impeccable service and was treated like family was above and beyond my greatest expectations. If anyone is interested in more info, please feel free to email me at gitanavdothot@aol.com. Best of luck to you all! g

Visit Dr Huacuz's site and call the toll free number. Dr Romero will answer and is very informative, he is acting as coordinator for Dr Huacuz. I woulld ask him about the large deposit. If youd like to email me I could give your more info k.. Best of luck. g

Tiara, I was banded 4/2/2005 by Dr Huacuz and Im doing great! I was impressed by the doctors experience and all of his credentials were in order. Before the surgery I made sure to do my homework and studied up on the doctor. I am in my third year studying to become a licensed RN and had a pretty good idea of what to look for/ask. I have heard recently that doctor Huacuz will not be operating at the molding clinic any longer from a good source due to problems that have risen due to complaints about the clinic. However - the surgeon himself Dr Huacuz does operate out of another hospital, and I recently (7/13/05) came from Tijuana after having Dr Huacuz take out my gallbladder and I couldnt be happier with him or the service I recieved. If you would like more info please feel free to email me and Id love to talk further with you. Wishing you the best, g