Infoblog

Anyone scheduled to see Dr. Kuri for a fill on the 28th? Looking to
see if anyone wants to share ride from airport or meet to cross the
border. Let me know.
Melanie

thanks for the info!!
T

My understanding is that the difference is simply which company is
marketing him. Some of the Mexican doctors have multiple "agents" or
"marketing teams", and some "marketing companies" serve multiple
doctors. One of the many reasons I went with a doc who didn't have all of
that hoohah and overhead, and I was sure who, when, where and what I
was getting. Note that I know nothing about your scheduled doctor and
am saying nothing against him. My comments are only about the
marketing.
Monday, September 13, 2004, 9:52:32 PM, you wrote:
y
y
y
y
y
y
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Here is the current info for Dr. Malley. He did move from the
Headahce and Pain Center just this week.
Mid-West Institute of Bariatric Surgery
9300 Renner Blvd Suite A
Lenexa KS 66219
P: 913-451-0230
I had my band with Dr. Rod in Acuna and have used Dr. Malley for my
first fill on Aug. 27th. He is a great guy. I really liked him. I am
going for my second fill in early October. The first visit is $175
and each visit after that is $100. However, if you go and don't get a
fill, the charge is $50. As of right now, fluoro is free if it is
needed to do your fill. Like me, whose port is flipped, I will use it
every time.
linda
(in Wichita, KS)
5.20.04 ~ Dr. Rod ~ Acuna, Mexico
241/213.5/happiness
(I know, I know, I didn't get my first fill until 12 weeks out. I
wanted to see how far I could go with no fill. I lost 24 pounds with
no fill.)

---
There is the chicago bandster group.

Hi all,
Long time lurker, first time poster. I'm learning so much from all of
you, and I'm grateful for all the info. I'm scheduled with Ponce de
Leon through Bajanor on Oct. 1st. Very excited. But I'm puzzled about
the fact that Ponce de leon shows up on several different websites as
the lap-band doc.
Does anyone know the difference between the surgery centers he uses?
Both websites show him as the surgeon, but with different teams. The
price is the same. I'd like to hear from folks who've had Dr Ponce de
Leon do their surgeries through Bajanor and also through Obesity
goodbye. How were they different? Is one facility better than the
other?
Thanks,
Yvonne

Hello Everyone, I have found a company that does pre and post surgery
for outside the States. Check out their awesome website at
www.lapbandinternational.com.

I am not sure on plastic surgeons there although I work in the field of
Bariatrics and travel to TJ often and just last week I decided to have some
major dental work there , two root canal's and some gum surgery and I went
to a fantastic dental group there called Bio Dental you can call them toll
free at 877-231-5701 and they will speak english as well when you call.
They are right inside the Grand Hotel next to the restaurant so makes it
easy to get there as well. I was very pleased with my dental work and it was
very affordable as well.
As far as plastic surgery I would probably head to Monterrey Mexico for this
where I have had much work done there by a wonderful surgeon named
Arturo Montananna Ramirez, I think you can reach him by calling Dr.
Rumbaut's office in Monterrey.

Hi Kate, Dr. Rumbaut in Monterrey did my surgery. I flew into Monterrey
Monday morning, my surgery was Tuesday, I flew back to Baton Rouge that Friday
and
went back to work Monday. The doctor will want you to stay in Monterrey a
few days. Rafeal (dr. rumbauts associate) was surprised I was leaving when I
did, he wanted me to stay an extra day.
Good Luck!!
Tasha
427/336/180
5/25/04

Hi everyone,
I'm brand new, so I have lots of questions, but I'll try to keep
them to a minimum :).
First of all, I'm curious about people who have been banded by Dr.
Arturo Rodriguez in Monterrey. Please send me your thoughts, I'm
really leaning towards him and would love to know.
Also, what is the recovery time like? When could you go back to
work? I'm a law student but really eager to get banded, so I'm
wondering if it's possible that I could get banded on Friday and go
back to class for a few hours on the following Monday... or am I
dreaming? Please let me know.
Thanks so much
Kate

Hi everybody
I was hoping that some of you can give me some suggestions on plastic
surgeons and dentists in tijuana. I would like to have my eye lids
done when I get my fill and also need some dental work. any good or
bad information would be greatly appreciated.
christie

Is there anyone that lives in Chicago or in the chicagoland area that
is banded or is being banded by Dr. Rod??? I would love to hear about
your experiences and maybe we could get together and form a little
support group of our own!! :-) Hope to hear from someone.
Janex

I am 6 months out and down about 30 lbs.I too am struggling. I use to do all
proteins when i didnt have the band. But now carbs are a must for me.
I too have been lately struggling with water.
If we both drink our 8 glasses of water, drink crystal light lemon ad ( i
cant due to the irratation it causes my throat.) or another crysal light drink
and cut the pop or have a diet .( i stay away from pop cause it can stretch
your new stomach.) You would be surprised how many cal. you save and you will
lose weight. At this point you will need to count caleries you may have streched
your stomach. If you get anymore fills have floro and look at the size of
your new stomach and ask the dr if its stretched alot. Mine is the size of my
fist. My friends is still pretty small and she has lost all her weight and kept
it off. Best wishes.

I am scheduled for surgery with Dr. Kuri on 9/18/04 and I am getting
a little nervious about the quality of the aftercare. For other Dr.
Kuri patients out there...Do you feel that any questions or concerns
that occured after you went home were answered quickly? What has
been you expierences with getting feed back from the clinic. I know
he is a wonderful surgeon, but I dont want to be left hanging if I
have a problem after I get home. Any feedback is helpful.
Thank You
Shari

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone out there who sent me info on
Mexico docs. It really helped. The other night I was at
Bandlandia.com and read a testimonal about a woman named cynthia. I
just started crying. I was the kind of tears that come out of know
where like a volcano. I guess my weight has been bothering me more
than I realized. Anyway, thanks again for all your help. Ginger

ok, I know several of you bandsters are wondering what I am doing
wrong- well, i definately need help. i have been banded for 10
months just about and have lost only 20 pounds- i have had 3 fills
and i believe i am at 7cc. i have restriction because when i eat too
fast or too much i definately know i will pb- and it comes up even on
certain foods - i have learned i cannot eat- i do not exercise
reguarly- and i do not drink water- mostly soda and lemonade- these
are probably really two big no no's - but shouldnt i have lost more
then this - i had my last fill in may and i have lost 6 pounds since
then- and i could fill restriction after that fill even on liquids i
dont now- so does that mean i need a fill - or not since i still do
pb after eating sometimes- thats a sign i have restriction still
isn't it? i appreciate your help in what to do- should i be drinking
protein shakes or taking a vitamin- thanks for your support.

Ginger- I went to Dr. Sanchez (www.ready4achange.com). He & his staff
were wonderful to say the least. If you have any questions about my
expereince with him, please email me. Good luck on making your
decision.

Thanks Dan for your comments.
Debby

Just search google for "lapband mexico" and check out
www.obesitycontrolcenter.com
dan
Thursday, September 9, 2004, 8:15:39 AM, you wrote:
D
D
D
D
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Ginger,
Try www.ready4achange.com for Dr. Sanchez.
gingershope <gingerlarsen@...
I'm looking for any and all web sites for MD's in Mexico that do the
lapband. Ive just started my research and need more info. Ginger

I'm looking for any and all web sites for MD's in Mexico that do the
lapband. Ive just started my research and need more info. Ginger

I have been told that DR Teng does fills as well for about $1000.
Not sure if this is accurate information but thought I would pass it
on
Heather

Dr. Teng does fills in Las Vegas for Mexican Bandsters. Not sure how much he
charges.
I prefer going to back to Dr. Ortiz in TJ, who did my surgery. You can fly SW
Air for about $99 round trip to San Diego. It's about an hour flight.
Hope this helps.
Babs

go to the studios and see where they filmed Master and Commander and
Titanic. the Master and Commander boat was still there last time I was
there. Ans they offer tours too but you will have to call for information.

My parents have retired to Mexico and I have taken the bus a number
of times from Austin to San Miguel. Just recently my husband and I
took the bus from SA to Mazatlan. Now, that was a trip!! 28 hours!
But an adventure none the less!! Let me tell you one thing. Buses
are the MAIN mode ot transportation in MX. I have a book called Bus
Across Mexico. I will look up the lines available to Monterrey and
let you know. Where are you originating from? You will need to get
to the border and then catch the bus to Monterrey. The buses in the
states do not even compare to the buses in MX. As I said, it is the
main transportion and they know how to move people. They range from
Executivo to the "chicken buses" you've all heard of. The Executivo
bus is incredible. Only 30 seats instead of the normal 42. Very
comfortable, wide, and lots of leg room. You get a small pillow, and
a little goody bag when you board. I'll email you privately if you
wish on any info I can gather for you. The prices are phenominal,
too.
Becki

We (dh & three children) all went for my banding in July w/ Dr.O.. The day
after the surgery we walked to the cultrual museum and the IMAX. (It cost
about $2.00), and then shopped a little on the way back. We also took a
taxi the next day to the wax museum- not madame Toussaund's(sp) but the
children enjoyed it.
The hotel staff said there was a small children's/family amusement park (
but I was concerned for safety & getting there), and the beaches are 20 +
minutes from there. Our hotel arranged a safe taxi for our ride there and
one to pick us up. We had a great time
Can't wait- returning for our first fill 9/18. Hard to believe it is
cheaper to fly there, get the fill, spend a day or two than have it done
here for $500
Jane
Dr. Ortiz
7/27/04
-18

Can someone help me with getting a fill in the Vegas area. Someone
told me there is a physician assistant named Erik that does fills
cheap for people banded in Mexico. Does anyone know how to contact
him? How much does he charge? I would like to talk to anyone that
used him.
Maggie

Hi-
I'm planning to head down to see Dr Kuri during the next month for
my 1 year anniversary check up and hopefully a fill. Does any one
have any ideas for things to do and see in TJ or the surrounding
areas??? My fiancée is coming down with me and this will be his
first time in TJ so we plan to make this a mini vacation. Last time
I was there all I did was shop, and he isn't much of a shopper.
Thanks in advance!!
T

I'm forwarding this for the database, since this guy doesn't appear to
be in it. All I know is what this says.
dan
This is a forwarded message
From: Cathy Cass-Kraai <cathyc12_26@...

How would you get to Laredo to start the trip? Are you sure that this
would be cheaper and easier than flying out of Houston or somewhere
else? Of course if you lived in Laredo already....
dan
Wednesday, September 8, 2004, 3:01:37 AM, you wrote:
E
E
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Has anyone taken a bus from the Texas border to Monterrey? Just
looking at all the options and would like to save some money.

Tuesday, September 7, 2004, 2:40:09 PM, you wrote:
cac
cac
Then we're on the same page. It sounded to me like excuses were being
offered.
cac
surgeries.
cac
I have no opinion on his surgical skill, either positive or negative.
cac
by
cac
True enough. When someone commits a crime many suffer....colleagues,
family, and so on. Yet another reason we should all think twice about
what we do and don't do.
cac
cac
Of course that would be. I don't know of any reason he won't be back
doing bands and whatever other surgeries he does. I don't know if the
Mexican government or medical societies or anyone else has any further
sanctions.
cac
cac
they
cac
chance.
Yes, people deserve a second chance, and it is unfortunate about all
the fallout from one person's crime, but that's how it is.
cac
Verboonen
cac
seems
cac
As far as I know he's only been brought up by people inquiring about
his practice.
cac
of
cac
cac
I'm sure he will get a second chance.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

I find that sipping on any drink (I chose water) throughout the day keeps me
totally satisfied and keeps me hydrated.
best of luck,
Nicole

I drink 2 cupos of coffeee every morning with my band. However I did
not have any desire to drink coffee right after surgery for about 3
weeks due to the swelling and the gas.

I had my surgery with Dr. Ortiz on Spril 6th 2004
I'm extremely happy with my decision. Dr. Ortiz and hisstafff hve
been absolutely wonderful to me and my family!
Michelle
4.6.04
Dr. Ortiz
265/216.5/160ish
-48.5 in 5 months

I too had my surgery in TJ Mexico but with Dr. Ortiz and also
recieved the card with serial number stating I had an Inamed band as
wel las a Lap Band booklet from Inamed with everything you need to
know about the Lap Band and a card to keep track of my fills and a
card to get a discount at restraunts that states I had WLS..

I'm posting this reply back to the board....because this Shelly person
is using this group to troll for patients....which I consider
inappropriate and unethical. Perhaps the moderator/owner will find it
appropriate to take some action.
See below for my reply, and her message below that.
dan
=======================================
Shelly,
I don't think I ASKED any questions. I did answer some.
Personally, I don't think it is appropriate to be trolling for
patients on the boards, and particularly not when you're so careless
about it that you don't even notice that I'm already banded.
dan
Tuesday, September 7, 2004, 2:06:58 PM, you wrote:
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
Sac
RRT \

Sac
Sac
Sac
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Here are some other ideas. Borrow against your retirment funds. Many
companies that handle 401Ks will do that for you. Generally will cost
you less than the other option.
Also, look for a loan from your credit union or bank. Or can you get
a home equity loan, or refinance your house? Or car?
Credit cards will kill you on interest.....
dan
Friday, September 3, 2004, 7:48:38 AM, you wrote:
B
B
B
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Hello there my friends!
Well I'm back and banded. I had my surgery done on Saturday. I feel wonderful
other than a bit of soreness and the occasional pinch when I twist a certain
way. I won't be running a marathon any time soon, but I can deal with my
normal routine, if just a bit slower than usual. The surgery was uneventful
which
is good. I was in more pain afterwards than I expected, but now that I am 3
days out I feel like a whole new person. The incisions are pretty small and I
don't have stitches so they will be next to invisible when they heal. Right now
they're black and blue and pretty scary looking but I've been assured that is
normal. Dr. Ponce de Leon is very nice, and his staff is excellent. Very
friendly and they really care about how you are feeling. The worst part of the
whole
ordeal was flying from PA to CA. It was soooo long and boring.
I do have a problem though. I am SO hungry. I've been told I can have clear
liquids and jello, but my problem is I HATE jello and drinking surgary things
like juice on an empty stomach makes me nauseous. I have always been this way.
Broth is going down quite nicely, but it doesn't fill me up for 2 hours. Am I
doing something wrong? I'm drinking 1/4 cup at a time using very small sips.
It takes me at least 15 minutes to drink it. Any suggestions or advice would be
appreciated.
I also wanted to say thank you to everyone who emailed me this weekend. There
are so many of you that offered your prayers and support I am overwhelmed.
Thank you so much for thinking of me and being there. You don't know how much I
appreciate it.
Love,
Kerrie

Saturday, September 4, 2004, 11:46:28 AM, you wrote:
cac
cac
sure
cac
The
cac
cac
But
cac
confidence
cac
If you believe this, I recommend you contact the United States
Attorney's office in San Diego and get the real story. I've never met
Dr. Verboonen and know nothing about his surgical skills, but the
above is far from a true and accurate story about what happened. The
US Attorney doesn't even start an investigation until there are
multiple complaints from insurance companies.
Many doctors do lots of "pro bono" work, for charity, for free, for
the good of humanity, etc. However, it is against the law to defraud
ANYONE, including insurance companies. Stealing from an insurance
company is no different than writing bad checks to defraud the bank,
stealing from your employer, or anything else. Robbing the bank to
give the money to the poor does NOT make it a legal or right thing to
do. Steal from someone, get caught, and you'll go to jail.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Yes, it is almost eight months late, but the pictures I took at the
Bash in Seattle last January are now on the web. Really.
www.gailndan.com/SeattleBash/ or go to the URL in my sig and pick
that item from the left menu.
I won't bore you with excuses as to why it took so long....it just
did. Better late than never I hope.
Should anyone want a big file of one or more of the pictures, let me
know, and I'll email you the big, original .jpg file. You could print
one out for your album. Not that I think any of them are album
quality, but you never know....
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Is it OK to drink coffee with the band?

In general, yes. If it irritates your stomach, no. I avoid caffeine
because it tends to make me hungrier and more wired, and when I get
wired, I want to eat. But that's me.
dan
Monday, September 6, 2004, 11:35:03 PM, you wrote:
kac
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

I know what you mean about the research part. So far I've gotten
pretty good feedback on his support team, and Dr. Ponce de Leon. I'm
still researching some everyday, to make sure I'm doing the right
thing by going there, knowing I might well change my mind any
second, but I'm growing a little more confident with them as I go. I
knew already of Verboonen's legal tangle, but didn't know he was
currently incarcerated. I wasn't holding that against him. I thought
of it as an attempt at a good deed gone wrong, and wasn't
considering that as criteria for a decision about surgical skills.
Still checking into things... will post how it goes

I had a headache I believe was from caffiene
withdrawls. Fever is a sign of infection... you
should have that checked out if you are still running
a fever. Drink plenty of fluids.
--- cowboystyle_donnie <cowboystyle_donnie@...

Janex,

Kelly,
Your doctor should be albe to help you with that. My doctor set me up with a
fill doctor near my home so I could have the fills done. They have a
relationship with them and helps if his office calls and sets you up.
Sandy
lap band -dr aceves
kqnewme <kellyquick@...
Does anyone here have any experience with doctors in the Atlanta
area who perform fills for Mexican surgery patients? I was just
banded Thursday and I am looking forward to my first fill in 6 weeks
time...Thanks, Kelly

Does anyone here have any experience with doctors in the Atlanta
area who perform fills for Mexican surgery patients? I was just
banded Thursday and I am looking forward to my first fill in 6 weeks
time...Thanks, Kelly

I go to have my surgery in Mexico on Sept 23rd. and like many have
researched many of the Doctors in Mexico. My friend that went to see
Dr. Aceves ( Mexico www.mexicolapband.com) was so happy with hers
and her experince there that I choose him as well. One thing she told
me I really like is this:He gives you
a certificate card with serial number of your lapband, from Inamed.
Size of a credit card, you can carry it with you.
I never really thought about this until I read a post from a gal that
stated she went to get a fill and to only find out the band she has
from a Mexician Doctor was NOT a lapband!!!
Make sure your doctor offers you this Certificate Card and Serial
Number of your band!!! Dr. Aceves only charges $8200.00 and I know
many that have gone to him and he is a great doctor. Just beware of
what your getting!!!
Take care
Debi

I had Dr. Lopez. he and his staff were wonderful to me.
Nicole
8/25/05

Who are the doctors in tijuana? What do you guys think of them?

HI!
I had dr. rod - and I also had Barbara - she handles the transport
back and forth from the airport to the hospital - pays for your
hotels etc. She has a minivan - that is very comfy. To be honest -
I think I dozed on the way back mostly. We made one stop to get out
and walk around - shopped at the walmart :) That was the easiest
part of my trip back to be honest - my most uncomfortable time was
the plane ride home. not much room to stretch and no hope of getting
up and walking around the plane. The ride in the van was a breeze -
but that's my opinion - and I had Barbara so was not worrying about
where we were going or any of that. I just tilted my chair back and
relaxed..
Feel free to e-mail me if you have any questions - I'll share any
info you'd like. I was just banded on July 1, and am down 25 lbs so
far.
Take care
Tina

Have you considered one of the Tijuana doctors? It's much easier to access
Tijuana from San Diego than to have to drive 3 hours from an airport. Just
a thought, FWIW.
Carol

Does anyone knoe anyhting about Dr. Sanchez? I haven't heard much
about him on here....that kind of worries me. also, those of you that
saw Dr. Rodriguez, how was the journey? That 3 hour drive from the
airport worries me, not so much on the way there, but on the way back
after surgery. How is it being in a car for 3 hours afterwards???
Please help!! I'm ready to schedule my surgery but need advice and
feedback. Thanks SO much!!

Hi there. I had my band done by Dr. Rodriguez in Acuna, MX and have had my
fills done by a wonderful fill doctor in Chicago. I think there are actually a
few doctors in the chicago area who can do fills for you but I have personal
experience with Dr. Vitello at Good Samartian in Downers Grove. He is great and
very careful and very experienced.
Bianca
10/30/03 DR. Rod. 230/182/150
janx33 <janx33@...
I have decided to have the surgery done, I have the money to do it,
now all I need to decide is the doctor!! I have been reading tons of
posts and hear great things about different doctors. I really need
the advice and knowledge of people that have been where I am.
I live in Chicago. I was thinking about Dr. Rodolfo Sanchez, but
cannot seem to find anything about him in these posts. I am also
thinking about Dr. Rodriguez since so many people have great things
to say about him, but it seems like such a LONG journey to get to his
clinic.
I am also worried about getting fills afterward, I cant keep going
back to Mexico!
I am SOOOO excited about FINALLY being able to do this, I have been
researching and thinking about it for about 3 years, but now I am
nervous I will make the wrong decision, PLEASE HELP!!!
Janex

Pam,
I don't mean to make you worry but I read that Dr. Ponce de Leon isn't being
supplied bands from the supplier, they didn't say he was a bad doctor or
anything but it is weird he isn't able to get them, maybe you should contact
INAMED the supplier to find out if they recommend him. I don't mean to make you
worry, there are plenty of good doctors in Mexico and have heard great things
about so many of them.
Good luck!
S
P <psprouls@...
This if for Jeff,
I'm scheduled for Dr Ponce at Tij on Sept 21, right now it's with
Obesitygoodby.com, but I've emailed the Bajanor group today and will
be checking them out too, same doc different facilities I think.
Please let me know how it went. I could use the support in my final
decision.
Good Luck to You!
Pam

I have decided to have the surgery done, I have the money to do it,
now all I need to decide is the doctor!! I have been reading tons of
posts and hear great things about different doctors. I really need
the advice and knowledge of people that have been where I am.
I live in Chicago. I was thinking about Dr. Rodolfo Sanchez, but
cannot seem to find anything about him in these posts. I am also
thinking about Dr. Rodriguez since so many people have great things
to say about him, but it seems like such a LONG journey to get to his
clinic.
I am also worried about getting fills afterward, I cant keep going
back to Mexico!
I am SOOOO excited about FINALLY being able to do this, I have been
researching and thinking about it for about 3 years, but now I am
nervous I will make the wrong decision, PLEASE HELP!!!
Janex

Prayers and hope sent your way to you and the rest of Fla. Please stay safe
and let us know how you did.
Debby

I just wanted to say that I too had planned to go to Dr Verboonen. Their
staff were the best and the most helpful I have ever seen. When all the mess
started I was set up for surgery with him 3 months in advance. I had alot of
support from his team. More than one called me when i was struggling with the
worry
of having the band.My money was returned when i was told the Dr could not do
my surgery. The option was given for another surgeon. But my familys and my
confident was shaken. As time has gone on I do feel they would have been a great
place to have the surgery.I had gotten many many personal references from very
happy bandters that had him do their surgery.My search was six months of
about 4 hours 5 days a week. I was obsessed with knowing every thing i could
about
this Dr and his team. The rest of the team would have taken great care of me
i feel. Dr Verboonen got in trouble because he tried to help a patient get ins
to pay for her surgery since she could not afford it. In retrospect i am sure
he wishes(and his staff)he had just given her surgery free or over time. The
problem now is: the whole team is suffering due to this mistake. The team
didnt all of a sudden become (bad medical personal) None of us are perfect. But
Throwing the baby out with the bathwater seems foolish to me. I hope confidence
in Dr Verboonen will be restored and forgiveness. Afterall how many lives has
he saved and lives changed because he helped them. I hope other patients of
his will respond to this note. To give back to a man that gave them more time to
have a better quality of life. As well as his whole team.
Debby

Hey
just thought my band was finally really tighting up and working right. That i
was eating too fast too.
Too often. Still struggling with the desire to eat even though I am not
hungry. In reality I was eating very little and chewing very well, too fast
still.
It started just before I was to get my 2ed fill so I just figured it was just
starting to work. Go figure. I also though I was not really paying close
enough attention to the band because I was side tracked with a lot of pain and
recovery due to another surgery and could not mentally focus on the band. All my
attention was going to my arm surgery. The trouble started about July4th and
continued until Sept3. Now I can eat small meals and its a thrill. Now I have
gone on nexium x2 each day(since Aug something) and went on soft foods and
liquids until yesterday. I will remain on the nexium x2 for another 4-6 weeks
then
cut it down to 1x day.
I lost 13lbs during that time but expect to gain it back. But my focus is
getting well so I am not going to worry about the weight right now. Except to
try
a make good food choices.
Thanks for sharing. Your situation and mine was very similar and its kind of
you to share as to inform others what to watch for. Since we are not Drs. and
are new at this we can surely use help from each other as far as what to watch
out for. My biggest mistake is not contacting one of my Drs for advice. I
just didnt want to bother them as i know they are busy but they never have
treated me like I could not call if i needed to.I am learning as i go!
Best wishes to you and your recovery in time you and I will be on the winning
side of losing the weight. I have needed time to adjust to all this new way
of living. Mentally as well as physically. Now is our time to "tweak" our
struggles
Just another banded friend.
Debby
banded 3/23/04
248/225/140 (slow as snails but on my way)
DR J.Rodriguez Acuna Mex.

I, too, will be self pay and I'm looking at various options without
having to pull out some retirement funds I have. (I will have to pay
some pretty hefty taxes and penalties, if I do.)
On Dr Jose Rodriguez's site they list a finance company called
Medicredit http://www.medicredit.com/. Some of Dr. Rod's patients
have used this company and were pleased. No problems with MX Dr's
either.
Also, another route that was discussed on the message board for Dr.
Rod's patients was a very creative kind of financing using credit

I also withdrew some cash from my 401K, the way I see it, I can later
write it off my taxes as a medical procedure and recoup some of the
burden from the taxes for withdrawal that way.
linda
(in Wichita, KS)
5.20.04 ~ Dr. Rod ~ Acuna, Mexico
241/214/happiness

In a message dated 9/1/04 7:42:21 AM Pacific Daylight Time,

Yes, a friend got back with surgery with him last week with horrible
results...I will not post them here, but you're welcome to email me
privately. I will be leaving for the weekend tho, and may not be
able to get back with you until Tuesday...K.

Please say a prayer for all of us that reside in Florida. I am in Palm Beach
County and the panic is evident all around. For once I am thinking of something
else then my lap-band surgery with Dr. Acaves on 09/14/04.
Trying to stay safe
Sari

Hi everyone...It has been sometime since I have posted. Just wanted
to let you know that I have been a little under the weather...and was
scared to death that I was going to lose my band! I thought that I
would share my story so that you can take measures to prevent what
happened to me.
I started out with this super full feeling after I had eaten 2-3 bits
of food. I was not PBing and the food went down fine...it was just
uncomfortable to eat for a day or two then pain went away...well this
continued on and off for 4 weeks (even after going on liquids and
soft foods) and got to the point where it was constant!!!
I went to the doctor to see if they could get x-rays to make sure
that everything was ok and that I was not having a heart attack...it
got so that it was hard to take deep breaths so I was hyper
ventilating...and almost passed out. You can see why I would be
freaked out at this point. I thought that I had bruised my ribs or
something, but was not sure.
After 3 visits and a persistent doctor along with a barium swallow.
We figured out what the problem was... Gastrointestinal Acid Reflux!
I was immediately put on medication and had my band unfilled.
I will have to wait 6-8 weeks before I can get another fill. Such as
life...the good news is that I have my band...the family practice
learned a lot about the band during this time...and I found out that
one or the radiologist technicians has a band!!!!
Life is good and I feel truly blessed. The morale of this story is,
do ignore uncomfortable ness in the stomach area...take a Zytac,
Tagament or something if you start feeling uncomfortable. If I had
done this, then my stomach would not have gotten irritated and I
would have been able to keep my fill.

I'm forwarding this to the group since it relates to fills for Mexican
patients. I hope someone can add the appropriate updates to the Fill
Doctor Database.
dan
This is a forwarded message
From: Suz <lean_mean_size_14@...

This if for Jeff,
I'm scheduled for Dr Ponce at Tij on Sept 21, right now it's with
Obesitygoodby.com, but I've emailed the Bajanor group today and will
be checking them out too, same doc different facilities I think.
Please let me know how it went. I could use the support in my final
decision.
Good Luck to You!
Pam

Hi Christie
I had surgery wit Dr. Ortiz back in April and I expereinced the same
exact thing. Maybe it has something to do with his technique. I have
had no problems since surgery. I have had 2 fills with Dr. Ortiz and
have lost 45 pounds in almost 5 months. I couldn't be happier. The
pain did go away as I healed. I on occassion get a sideache on my
left side where my port is located but he told me not to worry about
it that it could be just gas.

I used the Doctor in Paris TX. He is very good. Wish I could find
one in Ft Worth. The drive to Paris is not bad and very scenic after
you leave the metroplex. Ima

Debbie,
There seem to be a few in DFW that offer fills. I'm not to the
stage of contacting anyone yet since I just got banded last week,
but look on the files or database feature and there should be files
about fill docs. Dan also recommended someone in Paris, Texas. I'm
not entirely sure where that is yet.
Chris

Two hours away in Paris TX they'll fill under fluro for 250 bucks.
www.rrvr.net Really nice people. I believe there are others in the
metroplex itself, but can't say from personal experience, like with
the above.
Tuesday, August 31, 2004, 9:43:15 AM, you wrote:
drsn
drsn
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Dr. Ortiz is still a proctor for Inamed. He does surgery in two
different facilities in Tijuana. Why not call his number if you need
more details? Or call me at 208-283-7711 if you want to talk to a
happy Ortiz patient. There was some nonsense tossed around on this
and other groups about a month ago, but I certainly don't want to get
into a rehash of that.
dan
Monday, August 30, 2004, 7:32:28 PM, you wrote:
J
J
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Does anyone know of any dr in the DFW area that does fills for Mexico
patients.....

Don't miss out on the bandster party of the season... join us at lovely
Rosarita Beach in Mexico for Dr. Kuri's 5th Annual Bash... open to ALL
bandsters and guests.
There are still rooms available at our overflow Festival Plaza Hotel.
www.festivalplazahotel.com. A hotel reservation confirmation number is still
required for online BASH
registration.
Join us for our 60's Friday night beachside barbecue and a wonderful
Saturday night bash party... all food and entertainment is provided by Dr.
and Maria Kuri. Your low registration fee of $35 covers the rest of the
weekend... fitness and fun, discussion groups, and other surprises.
Registrations are closing on September 3rd at midnight PST. Don't get left
behind or you'll miss all the fun!!
See you at Bash!!
Susan from NC
Executive Steering Committee
5th Annual Bandster Bash
Sept 10-12, 2004
Rosarito Beach, Baja California, Mexico
http://bandsterbash2004.com/
(Sorry, all fill slots have been taken... please sign up earlier next
year!!)

I used Dr. Ortiz for my surgery on 4.6.04 and everytime I told
people I was going to Mexico I got the same reactio nas you are
getting . I had a wonderful experience. The care I recieved from Dr.
Ortiz , his staff and the hospital staff is by far better then any
care I have ever recieved here at any American hospital. Dr. ortiz
is top in his field and runs a very professional operation. My hubby
went with me and was also very pleased by the care I recieved. Not
to worry, your daughter is in good hands .... Good Luck to your
daughter

Sunday, August 29, 2004, 8:44:09 PM, you wrote:
J
J
Best way to avoid those hassles is just not to tell people. Of course
once you've done so, you can't un-tell them. Key point is that TJ is
a city of a couple million people. Like any big city it has good and
bad parts of town. You're going to the good parts. When you visit
Chicago or LA or NYC or Miami you go to the good parts, too, right?
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

As far as taste I love Spiralina cho shakes from the Health food store. Buts
its only about 15 grams of protein. I get 30 grams of protein in 2 oz packets
(liquid) from Vita4Life.com that I just suck down to get it over with. Not
great tasting but gets the protein in quicker if you can drink it and gargle
after. I have not been too good at using it lately though.
Debby

Thanks to all who responded to my post regarding which doctor to
choose. We have decided to use Dr. Ortiz to do my daughter's
surgery. Her date is October 5. I am so excited for her!! I also
got a wave of terror when she called to tell me the appointment is
made. My husband is ok with her getting the band, but is not so sure
about her going to Mexico. I've told him that he is just going to
have to trust me on this one, and I hope and pray that everything
turns out wonderfully. Actually, several people have looked at me
like I am crazy for letting her go out of the country to have it
done. I am getting a little tired of defending the decision. I
might just tell people that she is having it done in San Diego, or
just not tell people about it at all.
Has anyone else met up with this reaction when they told people what
they were doing and where? Thanks in advance for your reassurances!
Janis

Saturday, August 28, 2004, 10:57:03 PM, you wrote:
c
c
c
c
No concern unless there is infection, bleeding, fever, etc. The
muscles there have the band sewn to them and they're getting adjusted
to things.
c
c
c
What you think tastes good may taste icky to me and vice versa. Yes,
Atkins is ok, but I just used the Costco ones since they're half the
price. And they're a few more calories, but that's the least of your
worries at present.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Janis,
I was just banded last Wednesday by Dr. Kuri. The posts are right,
he is a wonderful Dr. That being said I believe his practice is
growing a bit out of bounds. I saw him for about 5 minutes the
night before the surgery, he peeked his head in before he had anyone
in surgery and gave us the thumbs up, briefly late that night he
stopped by the hospital. I think, in total, when I was coherant I
only saw the man for around 15 minutes. He did 8 surgeries the day
that I got mine done, that we know of. Several of the people that
were with me couldn't help but feel disappointed. I understand he
is busy, but as a businesswoman myself I restrict my client list
(I'm a Realtor) to serve everyone to the best of my capabilities. I
have referred people to other Realtors when time is short. If I get
overloaded I know what will happen to my business. I hope that Dr.
Kuris office organizes his time better and reverts to his apparantly
great ways before.
Chris
237/235/135

Hi
I was banded 9 days ago by Dr. Ortiz in TJ Mexico. Everything has
gone just great except that every now and then i get a sharp pinching
feeling in the port area. has anyone else experienced this. do i
need to be concerned?
I am also getting close to the protein phase of the diet. does anyone
have any suggestions on decent tasting protein drinks? Does Atkins
qualify as a pretein shake?
thanks for the help!!!
christie

oh man - I just re-read the link - and for that $7300 it includes
the medications too!
He really is awesome..
Tina
7/1/04
265/240/145 ish

Dr. Ortiz did my surgery on 6/24/04. He was recommended to me by a bariatric
surgeon here in Fla. who was also banded by Dr. Ortiz his name is Dr. Grossbard.
The reason Dr. G recommended Dr. Ortiz was because in 1989 I had previous WLS
(the stomach stapling) and Dr. Ortiz had already done many patients with
previous WLS.
I've had no complication and the whole experience in Tijuana and with Dr. Ortiz
and his staff was wonderful.
My 20 yr. old daughter will be banded by Dr. Ortiz on 9/2/04 and I will have may
first fill on 9/4/04. Dr. Ortiz is one of the greatest band surgeon around.
Teresa
282/257/160

Hi,
I have been lurking for a while, reading and learning all I can about
banding, and about Mexican surgeons. Most of you sound thrilled with
your results and with the care you received. I am trying to help my
daughter decide which doctor to use. She lives in Las Vegas, so
going via San Diego would be easiest. At this point we have narrowed
it down to Dr. Kuri and Dr. Ortiz. Can anyone tell me anything that
will help us decide which one of these doctors to go to?
Thanks in advance!
Janis

Hi
I am going to see Dr. Aceves on Sep 14 and he seems really nice. You may want to
search him also before making a decision. He can be found on
www.mexicolapband.com/ If you have not been to www.obesityhelp.com please do
visit them since there is lots of info on these docs. I am sure which ever you
chose, you will be happy.
ttfn
Sari
Janis <janis91350@...
Hi,
I have been lurking for a while, reading and learning all I can about
banding, and about Mexican surgeons. Most of you sound thrilled with
your results and with the care you received. I am trying to help my
daughter decide which doctor to use. She lives in Las Vegas, so
going via San Diego would be easiest. At this point we have narrowed
it down to Dr. Kuri and Dr. Ortiz. Can anyone tell me anything that
will help us decide which one of these doctors to go to?
Thanks in advance!
Janis

San Antonio....then a 3 or so hour drive, either in a rental car, or
getting his associate to transport you for an extra fee.
Friday, August 27, 2004, 8:07:33 PM, you wrote:
k
k
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

San Antonio texas - it's then a 3 hour drive to Del rio - the
hospital is just over the border - like 5 minutes or less.
Tina

Debbie!
I too had Dr. Rod and live in Ohio! Are you on the Ohiobandsters
board? do you know we have a monthly support meeting for Northeast
Ohio Bandsters? and there is also a monthly Toledo meeting..
Maybe you already know about it all - I don't remember to talking to
you though - and it's great to meet a fellow Dr. Rod patient only an
hour away!
:)
Tina

Hi Cindy,
I wrote a nice note. Its gone to Damon-hell-0 .any way would still like to
write a private note.
Debby

Doris,
I'm not Beth but I have done this twice by myself and so has my twin
sister (at another time... twice by herself).
I think the hardest part the first time was dealing with the unknown
but once we each did it we couldn't figure out what we were freaking
about... It's totally a breeze...
Although if there are any bandster's out there that are new and not
in good health (ie: have trouble walking etc) I suggest you grab
Mexicoach right there at the border because the trek walking is up
inclines and down ramps etc.
Jamie

I suggest you join this group. They have some good
information.
Also at ready4achange.com Judy lives in Minnesota and
can give you some great info on Minnesota doctors.
Marilyn

Elizabeth, Hello! So good to hear from you! I remember you. I am so
very happy for your success! Doesn't it feel wonderful to be thin?
Aren't you so proud of yourself? I read all this negative stuff about
lap band and I think "what a bunch of bunk!" If you want it to work
and you work at it, it will work! They say only 2% achieve their
goal. Well, I must know every single one of those 2% because I know A
LOT of people who've reached goal!
Debby~ I would be happy to talk with you privately. I had several
medical set backs myself, beleive me! I had a hysterectomy, ovarian
cysts, etc. that caused me to need surgeries, so I had to empty my
band for 6 weeks (twice). That was no fun! (Okay, the hamburger and
pizza was fun, but I was terrified of regaining the wieght!)
I, too, have been back to Mexico to see Dr. Rod. He is such a nice
person. I have referred many patients to him and even took my father
to him for lap band. He has lost 70 pounds and has about 15 more to
go. He has been very happy with the band. Men rarely have to have
more than 1cc of fill. NOT FAIR! LOL! Cindy Smith

Hi Everyone
I have made a decision to have my Lap-Band performed in Mexicali by Ar. Aceves
on Sep 14, 2004. Any tips and advice would be greatly appreciated. Also has
anyone gone to Mexicali for fills? Any tips of how to get there along with how
much time to reserve before flight back.
Thanks for any input
Sari

I was hoping to find something within driving distance. Nebraska
would have been cool if it was closer to my parents house, then I
could visit them and have my fills done. But it's 7 hrs. from their
house, 12 hours from mine. Maybe if I check a little more I'll find
something, but 2 states away seems to be as close as they get.

Well, very few have them "locally", depending on what that means to
each of us. Out here in the midwest and west, or to me at least, that
means "within a day's drive", but know that not all feel that way.
I can get a fill in a day's drive, but normally choose to fly back to
San Diego and hop across the border, which I can do in half a day, and
for no more money.
Budgeting time AND money for fills is vital.
dan
Thursday, August 26, 2004, 1:12:12 PM, you wrote:
Kyc
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

on finding one locally.

Check the file on this website. It lists all known fill docs.
dan
Thursday, August 26, 2004, 12:39:29 PM, you wrote:
Kyc
Kyc
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Are there any known doctors in or around Minnesota that will fill
patients done in Mexico?

Thursday, August 26, 2004, 8:11:00 AM, you wrote:
cac
cac
other
cac
to
cac
so I
cac
You can't compare band sizes, or amounts of fill even if you have the
same band as someone else. All of us have different stomachs and
bodies. Some larger people need lots of fill, some don't. There just
is NO correlation to anything.
cac
cac
months
cac
cac
cac
cac
cac
cac
cac
My advice is to have more protein. Are you getting sixty or more
grams a day? Doesn't sound like it. Personally, I think we should
all avoid all of the "old sweet stuff" even if it is fat free or sugar
free. Yeah, we should be able to have a treat on occasion, but having
the sweet crap every day is waaayyy too tempting for many of us and
just leads us into wanting the "real thing" that is full of sugar and
fat.
But, to each his or her own....
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

When you were banded and got your fills what size band did you get and what
fill was just right for you? I am still just at the starting gate as of other
health issues I am dealing with. I have lost 33 lb. since March 23 but had to
have the fill taken out due to esphogitis so now I am trying to just heal so I
can get my band filled again. I am still having trouble with swelling and
keeping food down for 7-10 days no more hopefully I will be on nexium for 2
months
before I get another fill. What did you eat when you were losing weight and
how much? I was having diet shake breakfast or oatmeal-salad for lunch chicken
veg and salad for dinner sugar-free popsicles and chocolate fat free
fudgesicles. Just wondering what your typical meal is.
Thanks for any advice.
Still love to eat and want to eat.
Debby
248/215/140 P.s. Dr Rod was my DR too. He is great!

Hello,
I got the lap-band about a year ago and I am doing great. I have
learned alot about my eating and drinking. By this time alot i have
worked with my band. With the help of the TWIGS team. I do not work
for them I don't liking being asked that all I am trying to do is
help people find the right way to lose weight that is healthy and
safe. Please let me know if there is anything I can help you with.
TWIGS works with insurance company and in my cass they had what i
consider the best doctor in mexico Dr. Lopez doing my surgery. The
surgery went great and So I am here to answer any questions about the
lap-band or TWIGS or anything else you may think of. Please let me
help you.. Thanks

Hi Christi,
Write to me privately at debj@... and I'll send you a before
and after pic. As for Dr. Fabio (in Vittoria Brazil) I did quite a
bit of research and he does wonderful work...the price is right as
well. The backround is that an American DS patient (Christi DeMoraes)
with a Brazilian national husband went to Dr. Fabio for her
reconstrive plastics after losing 180 lbs. She looked so fabulous
that many of the people in her American support group started wanting
to come to Brazil after their weight loss and needed her help to
facilitate the process. Eventually the word spread, the circle
widened and grew into a business for her..a medical concierge
service. The name of this is MedNetBrazil and there is a website

I went to DR Rodriguez March23 2004 and was pleased with his skill and
kindness as well as the kindness of his staff. No problems. no complications
after
surgery. I recommend him highly. His cost is consistent with the type of person
he is kind and caring and wanted to help others. He is not advertising I
think that is how he keeps his costs low. Not a fancy hospital but clean and
able
to handle emergencies I believe.
Debby/Cleveland Ohio
e-mail me if any questions as well

Hi,
I am just back from a fill and some of you may have seen my "freaking
out" post about how to get from the airport to Dr ortiz without
paying $50 each way for a driver.
Well, I got there and the info booth was very helpful and i thought I
would share this info for anyone who needs it in the future. Does
anyone know how I could make a file in the database that can store
this info? It is really helpful stuff!
Total cost $7.25
Take the 992 citibus which picks you up right outside any terminal at
the bus stop sign. It is $2.25 ...ask for a "transfer" from the
driver when you get on. Have exact change.
Get off at America Plaza. Across the street is the station for the
blue line Trolley bound for Tijuana. Hop on that. Your transfer is
good for that ride. You will be on that trolley for about 45
minutes to the border. Walk across to Mexico and grab a taxi. The
ride to Lucerna or Dr Ortiz should cost no more than $5.00
Total time to get from airport to Doctor's office is about 1 hour and
10 minutes. The trains and busses run constantly so if you miss one
they will be by again in about 10 minutes.
Overall an easy trip and saves you a lot of money.
Beth

Thank you Cindy for your encouragement. It is most appreciated and needed, I
too went to DR Rodrigez and was too pleased with him for his caring and skill.
I did very well with the surgery and recovery. Dealing now with other health
issues not related to the band but it has slowed down my progress so the
encouragement is so welcome. I will e- mail you later to get more details on
your
success if I may.
Debby
3/23/04
248/215/140
down 33

Hello Mexican Bandsters,
I have not posted on this group for about 18 mnths. I was banded by
Dr. Jose Rodriquez, In Acuna, Mexico, in Oct of 2002. Just wanted to
update everyone on my progess. I started at 212 and within one year I
weighed in at 145. I have weighed between 145-150 since that time. I
remember when I was contmeplating my decision to have lap band and
wishing I could read more success stories. Now, here I am, almost two
years later with a sucess story of my own. I cannot begin to tell you
what a blessing this surgery has been for me. Not that there have not
been struggles, because there have been. Lap band is strictly a tool
to help you lose wieght, but if you take that tool and use it wisely,
you can achieve the impossible. I am thin now. I mean really thin. I
am happier than I have ever been my entire life and I wanted to share
this with those who are contemplating thsi surgery. If you are
willing to stick with the rules of banding, you can achieve your
goal. Also, I highly recommend my surgeon. He is a highly
experienced, caring, Christian surgeon. He has answered every email
or phone call I have ever made, promptly. I don't know why his fees
are lower than other docs in Mexico, but somehow, they are. My
husband is a surgeon here in Baton Rouge and personally researched
Dr. Rodriguez for me and actually chose him as my surgeon. I am so
thankful to him that my life is completely changed now. I am a
different person than I was two years ago. Anyone who wants
information regardind lap band is welcome to email me personally and
I will be happy to answer any questions you have to help you to
become the person you were meant to be. Sincerely, Cindy Smith, Baton
Rouge, LA

In Mexico the good surgeons charge 9 to 11 thousand or so. There are
some cheaper ones, but not ones I'd choose to go to. That doesn't
mean they're bad, just that they're not ones I'd go to.
dan
Monday, August 23, 2004, 4:32:03 PM, you wrote:
d
d
d
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

I went to Dr. Rodriguez in Acuna, Mexico. Paid $7,000. Acuna is just
on the other side of Del Rio, TX and the hospital is like 2 blocks
across the border.
Loved every minute of it and would do it again in a heartbeat. His
website is www.joseband.com
linda
(in Wichita, KS)
5.20.04 ~ Dr. Rod ~ Acuna, Mexico
241/217/happiness
*Going for my first fill 8/27

WHAT IS AN AVERAGE COST OF THE SURGERY?
THANKS
TRACY

Hello Everyone
This Company called TWIGS has thier own nurse that is doing the fills
for the mexico lap-banders. Some of the Doctors in the United States
are no longer doing fills for banders that went to Mexico. What they
do is they charge $750 for Post Op support 24 hours a day. Also they
give you your first fill free. Call them at 1-877-235-0680 or email
me at waterRay1123@.... They have gavin me everyone of my fills
and they are wounderful to work with. So give me a email anytime or
call them for questions...

Sunday, August 22, 2004, 5:52:27 PM, you wrote:
mac
pays
mac
be
mac
us
mac
It isn't illegal to charge more, depending on the patient, the
procedure, and the situation. There's no "standard price" for
anything in medicine in the US, and certainly no government regulation
on it. Of course many insurance companies will only pay based on the
"reasonable and customary" or whatever they call it, but that's a
different issue.
mac
mac
had
mac
The doctors who did follow ups didn't do anything but examine you, I'm
betting. They didn't poke needles in your eyes or anything like that.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

I am so sorry to hear that you are having this problem. This has
happened to many that I know in the central Florida area and ALSO in
several other states. I have seen where doctors in the US will say,
yes I will take you are a fill patient, then later claim you are
grand fathered in as they will no longer take Mexican banded
patients, then suddenly you've done "something" that voids your
grandfather status. Well, most that I have seen did not do what was
claimed in order to void the "agreement". IMHO, US doctors do not
have to take anyone as a patient. If we were to show up in an
emergency room, then yes, a doctor there would have to see us to at
least stabilize us, but after that, .....?
I know several Mexican Surgeons that have tried to talk to the US
doctors on behalf of their patients and got no where or at best got
the run around. Some patients have written to the US doc stating that
they in no way realized that they were creating an infraction and if
were allowed to be seen again, would make a point to understand the
doctors office requirements and follow them to the utmost. This has
gotten a few back in to the see the us doc. Good luck with this. I
know many just go back to their Mexican surgeon and use the free fill
for life offer that was included with the original surgery cost.
There are kind doctors in neighboring states that are willing to take
on the liability of adjusting Mexican banded patients. And sometimes
a cheap air ticket is worth going to a different location then to put
up with the frustration.

Hi All, does anyone know of fill doctors in Central Florida that I could
contact?? I had surgery with Dr. Ortiz after I was given his number by a lap
band surgeons office near where I live. After surgery several of us had a
visit with this same doctor, one of us had a fill..the other had a port
infection that needed treatment.
Because of illness I had to reschedule my next visit and my friend just
didn't need a fill yet. Prior to my next app. I called to confirm my
appointment
and while speaking with the doctor's office I was told that unless I needed
a fill there was not a need to come yet..(after explaining "throwing up"
issues) so I didn't but ONLY because of being advised that I didn't need a fill
yet. Subsequently I called several more times over the next few months to
check in and ask if I needed a fill because of not losing anymore weight. They
explained that since I still got choked and food got stuck it was more than
likely that I needed to change my eating habits instead of getting a fill.
So once again I deferred to their judgment...after all they were the
professionals.
During this time an additional friend of ours who had the surgery at the
same time was denied treatment at this office because this doctor was no longer
seeing Mexican patients. However "we" were told that the 2 of us were
"grandfathered" in. Our friend could not come when we initially did because she
worked out of state. In fact she flew home for her appointment to see this
doctor 2 days early and the day before she went for a fill they called and told
her she would not be seen...
So...we were glad that we were still patients but not glad that she would
not be seen. We contacted Dr. Ortiz's office to see if they could intercede
for our friend and was told that they would do what they could to get her seen
by this doctor.
NOT ONLY did she not get seen by this doctor we were informed that since
"WE" had complained that we were refused treatment we would no longer be seen.
Also it was stated that since we had missed appointments we would not be
allowed to return for fills. WE did not complain, we asked if our friend could
accompany us for fill, she was the only one who was refused. WE did not miss
appointments, I rescheduled and then was told it would not be necessary to
return until I needed a fill.
If there was a miscommunication from Dr. Ortiz's office then it was a
mistake...A simple phone call from the other surgeon would have cleared up the
whole matter. Our friend was the one in need and wanting help from Dr.
Ortiz....we were already patients.. If this other doctor had only been "LOGICAL"
in his
assumptions he should have realized that something was awry... The
opportunity to sever relationships with Mexican patients was seized upon and we
were
rudely dismissed as patients without cause. WITHOUT CAUSE BECAUSE WE NEVER
STATED WHAT WAS WRITTEN IN HIS LETTER TO US...
So there are now 3 of us in Central Florida needing to communicate with a
doctor that is interested in our well being. If anyone can help please
respond.

Hi,
Let me start by saying.. i totally got myself in this pickle by
procrastinating and I am now hoping someone can bail me out! I am
leaving at 6:00am EST for a fill with Dr Ortiz. My appointment in
2:00pm PST I am arriving at the airport at 1:00pm PST if all goes
well. I have no clue how to get to the hotel from San Diego airport
for less than a small fortune. Can anyone provide me with any of the
following ASAP?
1. Mrs Ortiz' phone number in case she can be of any kind of help if
I get stuck.
2. Some sort of shuttle or bus ideas? From Sandiego airport to at
least the border? I guess from the border I could take a cab ???
3. Does anyone have any idea what a fair cab rate should be from the
border to the Hotel?
4. The address of Dr ortiz' office for the cab driver?
I SURE would appreciate any help I could get tonight as I am starting
to panick a little.
Beth
banded 6/22
-25 lbs and eating ay too much.....I NEED THIS FILL!

I hear your frustration, Marianne. Only you can decide just what you can
afford. I had to have my surgery done in Mexico - and even with the reduced
costs, I will be paying for it for about 4 1/2 years.
A surgeon here was willing to do it at his outpatient surgery center for
about the same price that you have been quoted. When we discussed costs, he
informed me that there was no way he could compete with the prices that the
doctors in Mexico were charging. He even told me that the band costs him
more because he is in the US than what the Mexican doctors have to pay for
it.
Look, everything is more expensive here than in Mexico. I stayed at a 5
star hotel for 1/3 the price I would have paid in the US. My dinner at that
hotel was probably 1/3 what I would have paid in the US - and that's
comparing it to Midwest prices (I live in WI.) Follow up is EXTREMELY
important. In fact, without good follow-up and appropriate fills, the band
won't do you much good. If you do decide to go to Mexico, be sure that you
have someone at home that will care for you and will do your fills.
I was pulled both ways - wanting to stay at home with a doctor I trusted and
concerned about the money, but eventually I decided that the cost was just
too prohibitive for me to stay in the US for surgery. I'm glad I did what I
did. I wish you the best in deciding what is right for you.
Carol
//....., but what was really important was the follow-up (fills,
counseling, the 2 times a month support group) and that they would not see
any Mexican Banded Patients. I would love to have my fills done at
Northwest and to make sure that I am OK.
The price for me is $17,200 dollars for everything (fills for one year
only, after that-- fills would be I think $150.00)
I can do a lot with $8,000 dollars, and I know that Dr. Kuri does not have
all the malpractice insurance and the high overhead that his office has.//

Thanks everyone for all your posts. My surgery date is coming up (Sept 13
Th. ) . I am coming to the Bash first and then on Monday I will have the band!
I am so excited.
I live in Seattle, Washington. I went to buy Jessie's book at the Northwest
Weight Loss Center in Kirkland, WA on Friday. I was able to meet Jessie and
the other great ladies there that also have the lap band. I told her that I
am having my surgery in Mexico, and asked her about her center where she
works (frankly, I wanted to know how much they charge to see if it would be
worth it). Jessie weighed me and got my height. I have a BMI of 33. She told
me that I should speak with Dr. Watkins about having surgery where she works.
I would love the convenience of having it done just 20 minutes from where I
live, and to especially have her do my fills and follow-up care. Dr.
Watkins, who was extremely nice, saw me without an appointment said that he
could do
my surgery, even if my BMI was lower than 40. He explained that
Laparoscopic Gastric Banding is not that difficult of a surgery, but what was
really
important was the follow-up (fills, counseling, the 2 times a month support
group) and that they would not see any Mexican Banded Patients. I would love
to
have my fills done at Northwest and to make sure that I am OK.
The price for me is $17,200 dollars for everything (fills for one year only,
after that-- fills would be I think $150.00)
I can do a lot with $8,000 dollars, and I know that Dr. Kuri does not have
all the malpractice insurance and the high overhead that his office has.
I am very healthily, except that I am 75 plus pounds overweight (I'm 50
years old ). I lived in Mexico for 7 years when I was in my thirties and even
had 2 surgeries there. I have heard so many great things about Dr. Kuri, his
staff, and the hospital, that I am not scared at all about going there. I
wish I could have it done today !!
I just wish the US Doctors could compete more with the ones south of the
border.
I would think if the Doctors that do gastric banding would fill ANYONE no
matter where they had their surgery. I would be willing to pay the 200 for a
fill. How l