WeightAMin

Hi, I’m at the very start of this journey! A little about my situation: I’m 53, live in the Atlanta area and have a BMI of 40. I live with excruciatingly painful knee osteoarthritis. I have a long history of failing at various efforts to lose weight. If you can believe it - I’m otherwise pretty darn healthy…sleep apnea but no elevated blood pressure or cholesterol and a healthy A1C. Haven’t found a single orthopedic surgeon who will operate on me without my losing a significant amount of weight - both my GP and my orthopedic consults have suggested bariatric surgery. My employer-provided healthcare excludes virtually anything to help me with weight loss - no meds, no programs and of course, no surgery (even if medically necessary). (Apparently having a heart attack or getting other serious health issues is preferable??SMH) One of my coworkers had the gastric sleeve done (she is independently wealthy and self-paid) and looks/feels fantastic. I haven’t found anyone locally who can do a gastric sleeve (I prefer this to RnY) under 15,000. All my research domestically yields prices that are comparable, as the quoted price is always more than the one in the ad. As a teacher, I have limited means. Surgery in Mexico is probably my best bet. My GP was trained in Guadalajara and recommends Puerta de Hierro hospital. I’m considering this over Tijuana because it is closer and I’d be in a plane for less time. Research seems to indicate a low of about 5K and high of 7K. I speak Spanish fluently (native speaker), so communicating will be no problem. To that end, I have a few questions: 1) Has anyone had a bariatric procedure in Guadalajara? Experiences? 2) I feel quite old in getting this surgery - has anyone done it after 50? 3) For those who have had the surgery in Mexico, what have you done for follow-up care? Any groups/resources for post-op support? 4)Is there anything you wish you’d known before you had the surgery? Any tips you would love to pass on? My deepest thanks for reading this and for any responses!

Thank you everyone! Your responses make me feel better about it not being too late!