Question for anyone who had WLS outside the US...

Hey everyone, I am am scheduled to have my Lap Band surgery down in Mexico with Dr. Aceves on the 28th of this month. Its comming up so soon! I decided to go to Mexico after my insurance denied me earlier this year, and now I am getting nervous. I'm just wondering what happens if I am back home and I have complications? Will my insurance pay if I need to go to the hospital? Or will I be on my own? Has this ever happened to anyone? Beth

Beth, Did you know that you could have surgery on the Oregon Coast at Bay Bariatrics for $10,000? That price includes your first year follow up and three fills.  My husband has a band and is now five years post-op and is very happy with his band. The surgery is done as an out patient by a very experienced bariatric surgeon.  You would be alot closer to home if you have a complication.  If you have a complication that is related to your lap band it is not usually covered by most insurance companies.  Dr. Tersigni has not had a serious complication with any of his band patients.  WLS is very exciting and changed my life and health 8 years ago.  I would do it again tomarrow. Best of luck to you! Robin  

I actaully thought about seeing Dr. Tersigni but I had a friend that was going to Dr. Aceves, and I have heard nothing but great things about them both. So it just came down to the fact that I could get in a lot sooner with Dr. Aceves and It saved me about $2500. Plus I am going down there with a friend so it will be nice to go through it with someone else.

HI,  I had surgery w/ Dr. Tersigni 2 1/2 year ago, if things dont work out in Mexico for you I totally recommend him. He and his staff are awesome.   Make sure you have someone to do your adjsutments and find out the cost a head of time.  I know some of the adjustments are included in the first year with Dr. Tersigni as well as  all the appointments. I know girls who have had to pay from $165 to $300 for their fills.  Good luck to you and your friend. !

I love my band and would do it again in a heart beat. I went from a size

20-22 to a happy size 8/10. Im loving the new me. Of course I did have a tummy tuck too. There are before and after photos on my profile if you want to check it out.  Gail

Hey you!  When are you going to come by to see me??  I never know when you are working in Mac or I'd stop by on my way into work some morning.   Had my 6 week visit w/ Dr. Hansen (who by the way had 2 black eyes after having a run-in with her horse!  ) and she is very please w/ the healing.  We couldn't get as agressive w/ the TT on the waist area because it would have undermined a prior gallbladder scar, but she will go back in once the lower part is completely healed and revise it by doing a reverse TT.  Next round of surgery is in Nov and will include the revision, BA/MTL and a little lipo on the neck.  Do ya think I may be in a bit of PAIN after that one?   Then I'm done!!!!  No more for this girl!  I will say that as nice as it is to have a completely flat stomach....I LOVE the BL! Take care and come see me.  I'm almost always there. Trisha

Hi Beth!! I can't believe your day is almost here! I actually went 'round and 'round with my former health insurance about complications, etc., if I self paid for surgery. I was told that they would not cover anything that was related (or could be related) to WLS. You should check with your insurance and get a straight answer before surgery. Good Luck! : ) Kristal

Beth - I wish you the very best.  I've heard some great outcomes from the foreign surgeries, but some real horror stories too.  I think StalkerVal on the main board had her surgery in Mexico and has had many complications.  She has, I think, been treated by the local hospital and regular doctor since coming home and I believe this has been covered, but you might want to PM her to ask. Linda

May I ask who is you insurance company.... I wish you the very best and, bless your friend for going with you that is friendship...... tammy

My insurace company is UHC. And thanks everyone for all your advice, and well wishes!