Help thinking about getting the gastric sleeve

[Orlando79c 2]

Hello guys in really interested in the gastric sleeve and been doing some research but haven’t consulted any doctors yet. I’ve been really motivated to do the surgery as one of my best friends just got it recently. If any one could help me answer these questions it’d be greatly appreciated

Dose anyone recommend any surgeons in Tijuana Mex.

Dose anyone recommend any surgeons in Southern California

Insurance companies I should look into before I self pay or finance

Thanks

[JamieLogical 8,708]

I had my surgery with Dr. Ariel Ortiz of Obesity Control Center (OCC) in Tijuana and I was happy with my decision, but there are a LOT of great surgeons in Tijuana, so it's best to do your research and find the one that best suits your needs. BariatricPal is actually affiliated with several surgeons in Tijuana, offering a range of prices and services. Definitely think about whether you would prefer to have your surgery in a hospital or in a surgical center. Also think about what your budget range might be. And remember to factor in travel expenses in your budget.

[Orlando79c 2]

I had my surgery with Dr. Ariel Ortiz of Obesity Control Center (OCC) in Tijuana and I was happy with my decision, but there are a LOT of great surgeons in Tijuana, so it's best to do your research and find the one that best suits your needs. BariatricPal is actually affiliated with several surgeons in Tijuana, offering a range of prices and services. Definitely think about whether you would prefer to have your surgery in a hospital or in a surgical center. Also think about what your budget range might be. And remember to factor in travel expenses in your budget.

Is OCC a hospital or a surgical center?

[vincereautmori 323]

Hello guys in really interested in the gastric sleeve and been doing some research but haven’t consulted any doctors yet. I’ve been really motivated to do the surgery as one of my best friends just got it recently. If any one could help me answer these questions it’d be greatly appreciated

Dose anyone recommend any surgeons in Tijuana Mex.

Dose anyone recommend any surgeons in Southern California

Insurance companies I should look into before I self pay or finance

Thanks

Well, without knowing your BMI, age, health problems, it's hard to know what would work best for you. We will assume that you have met with your physician and had a conversation about how your weight is effecting your health(?). Under the Affordable Care Act you (should) have coverage, what does it say? Before you get too far into it, I'd look into your insurance first, cost will be your limiting factor, consider things like deductible, and what's covered, including weight loss surgery(WLS). Different insurance companies have different policies regarding WLS. I'd also recommend going to a WLS seminar, usually found at local hospitals, give them a call. Best to know what you're getting into and they can answer many of your questions especially about insurance and financing. Good luck in your decision.

[JamieLogical 8,708]

I agree with @@vincereautmori that talking to your PCP should be your first step. Also, try to find out what your insurance might or might not cover. The reason I chose to go to Mexico for my surgery was that my insurance only covers WLS if you have a documented BMI of 40+ for five years. I had lost 90 pounds "on my own" back in 2010/2011 and gradually re-gained, re-lost, re-gained, and re-lost my way back up to within 10 pounds of my highest weight. But since it took me a while to get all the way back up there, my BMI had been well under 40 for big chunks of the past 5 years. I didn't want to have to stay fat for another 4-5 years just to have my health insurance pay for my WLS, so I opted to self-pay and spend that 4-5 years at a healthy weight instead!

PS: OCC is a surgical center.