different types of bands?

July 25, 2004

I am investigating going to Mexico since, in it's wisdom, my insurance has declined my surgery. Most doctors there offer 2 other types of bands along with the one appproved here in the states. What are the pros and cons of each type?

Dave

Alexandra · July 26, 2004

Hi Dave,

I'm not qualified to speak on the technical aspects of the various bands, but I do know one thing I'd consider important if I were seeking surgery in Mexico. I've heard that many docs in the U.S. won't take on Mexican patients who have anything other than an Inamed band. If you're planning to line up aftercare here in the U.S.--which I hope and trust you are--you might want to ask your local doctor if your getting a non-Inamed band would be a problem for him.

Good luck with your research!

Vera · July 26, 2004

I Agree with Alexandra!!!

I have an AMI swedish band, which I'm very happy with but after- care and fills are an issue with a NON-Inamed band. Call around now to find a after-care doctor in your area, unless you plan on visiting MX. alot.

The pro with my band type, and this is my opinion, is that I can have larger fills(taller band)which can be easier to adjust. So not to feel too tight. Meaning there are some banded folks that claim as little as 0.2 cc's puts them over the edge/too tight.

Best of luck.

July 26, 2004

Do you think the new 11cc inamed band makes it have some of the favorable features of the midband?

La_madam · July 26, 2004

Hi Dave according to my surgical report and what my surgeon told me I have the 10cc Inamed band and I had it done in Mexico . I have had no problems to date and I have had 1 fill so far . It has been 3.5 months since surgery. I agree with Alex if you plan to have your aftercare in Virginia make sure you have a doctor all lined up who will take Mexico patients. I am fortunate I live in So Cal and am just 1.5 hours from Tj Mexico..Good Luck on your decision

GeezerSue · July 26, 2004

Getting anything other than the Inamed (or POSSIBLY the Johnson & Johnson backed Swedish AGB because it should soon be approved by the FDA) would be a lot like driving cross-country, in the 1970's, in a Citroen or Saab. You might find a mechanic. Or not.