What if I banded in Costa Rica ...would I have problems with Post Op Follow-up in US?

[marketingdude 79]

My fiance and I are thinking of going on Honeymoon in Costa Rica for 3 weeks and then come back to the states. The first 2 weeks will be our honeymoon and then the 15th day get the surgury (with 6 days rest) and come back to the States.

Will I have a problem with post operation care (or band adjustment and fills) if the doctor (that the performed the surgury) was in Costa Rica? How would this work if I came back to the United States? Will doctors see me and do any band adjustments if the band deflates and need it filled again?

Curious....thanks guys (this is all new to me so hope you understand)

[silvers320 12]

I think there are a number of folks on this board that would say, yes you would have a hard time. I would make sure if you go this route you have a state side doctor lined up before you go.

I had a port infection 3 months after surgery, that required 2 additional surgeries. I dont know what I would have done if I had been 1,000 of miles from my doctor or without a doctor.

That said - I would do it again in a minute. Good luck

[MistyD65 1]

Definitely make sure you already have a local or nearby doctor who will take over your aftercare. That is vital. Don't wait to get home after your surgery and hope you can find someone who will accept you. The band isn't a "fix it and forget it" plan. The aftercare is what helps your success. Some people require a number of fills and even unfills before they find the right amount of restriction to make the band work the way it is intended. If you have trouble getting to a doctor for these, or are reluctant to go due to price or some other obstacle, your experience is going to be frustrating and you may have trouble being successful. You should also look into support groups in your area. Those can be so helpful, especially early in your journey.

[RestlessMonkey 7]

Ditto what they said. Maybe yes, maybe no. Try lining up aftercare BEFORE you go. And realize this is common whether you go to another country or another county; many surgeons won't take on another surgeon's patient, or at least not willingly. I THINK (don't know this) they just don't want to inherit someone else's "work".

[Unforgettable 0]

Agree with other posters - definitely something you want to check out and have lined up beforehand. Follow-up care with the lapband is so important!!

[Gone4Now 4]

I tried switching across town and was told there was a fee of $2000 just to be taken as a new patient. It's just another 45 minutes added to my drive, so I still go to the original doctor.

I agree....definitely line that up before you go. After is more important, imo, than any of it.

Good luck, and have fun on the honeymoon! :blushing:

[kimberlyann2009 0]

I am also thinking of having it done in Mexico. There are Fill Centers USA that will do the fills. Not bad on pricing either. Check them out.