New to the sleeve

[Nana 0]

He did my band... but because of problems I had to have it removed....he wanted to do my sleeve but my ins would not cover it.... so now I am thinking of going to mexico. Sure wish I could have him do the surgery for the same amount that I have to pay to go to mexico.lol. Tell Sue ( his nurse) hello and him also. From Jill in Chippewa. We are not very far apart at all.

[Nana 0]

Dr. Pitchford was great.....as was his staff. I would in a heart be go back to him if my ins would cover the sleeve. When I had the band put on 5 yrs ago I was working someplace else and that ins covered the whole thing. I lost about 150 lbs on the band. I have gained back 30 lbs and I am not happy. So I am going to have the sleeve done in Mexico it is my only choice. They want to do it before I gain the weight all back. I am very sad that Dr. P can not do the surgery but the cost in the states is just unreal.

[wayupnorth 1]

Just got back from my app't with Dr. Pitchford. I thought if a band failed that an insurance co would pay for the sleeve. I have good ins. thru the marshfield clinic it is security Health as I work there. I started out to be a RNY but tooooooooo many adhesions. So it was converted to a band. So I really lucked out because that is what I reallllllllllllllllllllllllllly wanted. I have not had a lick of trouble. He was happy with my progress even tho 1 week out I have not really lost that much. How long ago were you banded?

[Paloma 0]

Welcome Paloma,

I hope that you feel better soon. Where did you have your surgery? Texas? Judy

Hi Judy,

I had my sleeve done at Innova with Dr JJ Gonzalez.

[wayupnorth 1]

I wish you all the luck in the world. What is the difference between the states and mexico for price> How long will you stay there (on the beach)

[Malaika 50]

I wish you all the luck in the world. What is the difference between the states and mexico for price> How long will you stay there (on the beach)

In Las Vegas the surgeon fee is about $20,000; plus you have all your pre-op tests, the hospital and the anesthesiologist. In Mexicali I paid $9500 and that included absolutely everything - all pre-op tests, one night in a lovely resort, surgery, anesthesiologist, medication, 3 nights in the hospital and my surgeon has performed well over 600 sleeves with no leaks and is FACS - he is, in my opinion, one of the best surgeons and definitely the most compassionate doctor I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.