Infoblog

Check the database on this MexicanBandsters site. It lists all known
fill docs.
dan
Monday, November 22, 2004, 5:13:13 PM, you wrote:
k
k
k
k
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61 Fair is whatever God decides to do.

Three people in my supportr group ordered tjis book weeks ago, and
have heard absolutely nothing, even though it was promised to ship in
Nov 9.
Today, all 3 discovered their credit cards had been charged $129.50
for this $12.50 book. This put one lady over her limit, and she could
not get her car out tof the repair place for work tomorrow. she had
to take a $50 cab home, which she could not afford.
This all sounds very fishy to me. They all cancelled their orders. If
you ordered tjis book, you might want to check your credit care
statement for fraud like this. Ellen

Where is that and who is the doctor?
Monday, November 22, 2004, 10:25:04 AM, you wrote:
s
s
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61 Fair is whatever God decides to do.

See the database on this site. It is the most comprehensive list of
fill docs.
Monday, November 22, 2004, 5:02:22 PM, you wrote:
l
l
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61 Fair is whatever God decides to do.

I'm needing a fill, and will be in SanFrancisco on business the
beginning of December. I would like to know if anyone knows of a
Fill Dr. there that will take MX patients. I don't have a surgery
report, I am a self pay. Any ideas???

I am searching for a doctor who will fill my port in the Annapolis
Maryland area. Any ideas?
Thanks,
Lori

My name is Shannon and I am having the lap band done on 12/3/04.
Anyone had their surgery done at The Molding Clinic?

Sure. Obviously, the doc will need to avoid the port and band tubing.
With a good weight loss, though, there will be little fat left to
lipo out. If one has lost a lot, many need a tummy tuck, and some
surgeons add a small bit of lipo then, if needed.
Sadly, once skin has been badly stretched-out by obesity, nothing
will get rid of leftover sagging skin after weight loss, except
plastic surgery. no amt. of exercising will help, since exercise
tones and firms muscles, but has no effect at all on skin. Sandy R

Can you have liposuction on your stomach if you have been banded....

Yes, of course you can. Amy legitimate medical costs can be claimed,
to the extent allowed by your income. Sandy RN
http://www.wwwebtax.com/deductions_medical/medical_and_dental_expenses
.htm

I live in Maryland,and I went to Mexico for my surgery. I was a self
pay,I want to be able to claim my surgery costs on my taxes..Anyone
done this,and know how it works? What do I need to do?

Here is an article I found when I googled Gastric Pacemaker Hope this helps.
Annette
Implantable Gastric Pacemaker to Aid Weight Loss31 Dec 2003
New research shows an electronic pacemaker implanted under the skin and
connected to the stomach can help morbidly obese people lose weight without the
side effects of other drastic weight-loss strategies, such as bariatric surgery
or medications.
The study suggests that gastric pacemakers work by targeting hormones in the
body associated with obesity and helping people eat less. But more research is
needed to determine exactly how these pacemakers work.
Although the device is still considered experimental and not approved for use in
the U.S., the device is already on the market in Europe, and researchers say
gastric pacing may one day provide a low-risk alternative to bariatric surgery,
such as gastric bypass or stomach stapling, for severely obese individuals.
'Gastric pacing is a novel approach to treat obesity: less aggressive than the
usual surgical procedures and with no side effects compared with long-term drug
therapy or bariatric surgery,' write researcher Valerio Cigaina, of Venice
Hospital in Venice, Italy, and colleagues in the December issue of Obesity
Research.
New Clues on How Stomach Pacemakers Work
Previous studies of gastric pacemakers have shown that the devices aid in weight
loss in humans and animals, but the mechanism is unclear. For example, the
weight loss associated with pacemakers may be the result of changing nerve
stimulation activity of the stomach, inhibiting hormones related to food intake
and metabolism, or stimulating the stomach muscle itself.
In this study, Italian researchers looked at how the device affected levels of
hormones in the blood associated with satiety and obesity in 11 morbidly obese
men and women (average BMI of 46) who were treated with gastric pacing.
The pacemakers were surgically implanted via either minimally invasive
laparoscopic surgery or open surgery under general anesthesia. The device
consists of electric wires placed in the wall of the stomach and connected to an
electric pacer, about the size of a silver dollar, that is inserted under the
skin of the abdomen.
After the gastric pacemaker was implanted, the participants were not prescribed
any specific diet, but they were encouraged to eat three meals a day or less and
avoid snacks and high-calorie beverages and alcohol.
Six months after the device was implanted and activated, researchers found that
gastric pacing resulted in a significant weight loss, an average of about 23
pounds per person.
The study also showed that levels of a hormone associated with obesity called
leptin were lower when the pacemaker was in use, which the authors say may have
been the result of the loss of body fat. Leptin is secreted by fat cells and
acts on the brain to decrease food intake and increase metabolism. Obese people
are thought to be resistant to leptin.
But researchers say they were surprised to find that levels of hormones normally
released after eating that trigger feelings of fullness, cholecystokinin (CCK)
and somatostatin, were actually reduced compared with measurements taken before
the pacemaker was implanted.
Researchers say the participants reported feeling more satisfied after and
between meals even though the levels of these hormones were lower. Therefore,
researchers suggest that gastric pacing may work by increasing the body's
sensitivity to these hormones and help them feel fuller and eat less, but more
research is needed to prove this theory.
'Further studies are needed to elucidate associations between gastrointestinal
hormones, satiety, and weight loss during treatment with gastric pacing,'
conclude the researchers.
Message: 2
Date: Fri, 12 Nov 2004 15:43:03 -0800 (PST)
From: Patti Brooks
Subject: Re: Digest Number 977
HI
What is a gastric pacemaker? I am not familiar with
what it is, but have heard a lot of conversation on it
lately.
Input?
Thanks
Patti :)

In a message dated 11/14/2004 1:49:41 AM Central Standard Time,

Dr Joya does the gastric pace maker his website is http://www.drjoya.com/
Hope this helps
Annette
Message: 2
Date: Thu, 11 Nov 2004 21:07:38 -0000
From: "onita_mclendon"
Subject: Gastric pacemaker
Can anyone tell me the names of the mexican doctors who are trained
to put in gastric pacemakers or stimulators. I would appreciate
their web sites.
Thanks,
Onita

Hey everyone, I filled out this survey involving fill Doctors in the
United States. I was wondering if everyone would go to this link and
fill it out. So that we don't have to go all the way back to Mexico
and spend that much more money. Check it out
http://arrowpine.com/survery/index.asp
Banded People Together Forever. Thanks Emily.

Thursday, November 11, 2004, 2:07:38 PM, you wrote:
o
o
o
Don't know of any, but why would you want one? The early reports from
the studies show that they're only successful on half of the people.
For the others they do nothing. Want to gamble on which half you'll
be in?
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61 Fair is whatever God decides to do.

Sorry the link that I posted was wrong the right link is
http://arrowpine.com/survey/index.asp
Sorry for that thanks Emily..

Can anyone tell me the names of the mexican doctors who are trained
to put in gastric pacemakers or stimulators. I would appreciate
their web sites.
Thanks,
Onita

Enter your vote today! A new poll has been created for the
VegasBandsterBall group:
sorry everyone it looks like I am going
to have to put up another poll..Vegas
is swamped with conventions next year
and it's making it difficult to get
space the early part of the year.
However, I can get you a great hotel
rate of $75 per night!! Sun/Mon/Tues
29th/30/31st of MAY for the Vegas
Bandster Ball at the 4* Monte Carlo
Hotel on the Strip. Is this doable for
you?
o Yes
o No
o Doesn't matter to me, I am going whenever, wherever :-)
To vote, please visit the following web page:

I ask my local library to get it and i borrowed it from the library. It was
most helpful.
Debby

I have correspondence from a group of investors looking at the logistics
of setting up regional fill resources for those of us banded outside the
US. At this point it is still just a concept, as far as I know there
is nothing concrete in place yet but I think the concept definitely has
potential merit!
Saludos,
Judy
3/17/00
Dr. Sanchez
225/135

Jessie Ahroni is a PH D nurse practitoner who has writen an excellent
guide for all things Bandster! It is not only for the pre-bandster
but a reference for everone with a band.
There are a great many things that no doctor without a band can
possibly know about living and dealing with the band every day, as
Jessie does. she has had hers for ober 6 years, has been at goal for
5 years and has an extremely successful band practice. NO ONE knows
more about banding followup than she does. She works for a large band
practice and does all the fills and counselling. The surgons like Dr
Ortiz do mostly surgeries and a few fills. They don't know much about
the band day to day -
Everyone should have this book." Adjustable Gastric Banding,"
byJessie H Ahroni, PHD. printed by IUniverse and availbe through them
or Amazon.com

There is a doc in Elkhart listed in the database. but, there may be
others. Call around, and call radiology clinics too, as there may be
some interventional radiologists who would be filling to fill you,
since the chemo ports they access frequently are identical to our
ports. If you locate one , please let us know so we can update the
database. There are several fill people in Toledo, and surely a few
in Detroit. Sandy RN

Check the database section of this website. They're all listed there.
If memory serves, you may have to go to Chicago area, but check it
out.
dan
Monday, November 8, 2004, 8:29:49 PM, you wrote:
j
j
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61 Fair is whatever God decides to do.

hi my name is joyce looking for doctors in indiana to do my fills
after banding in mexcio thanks

added to Database for everyone's future use. Sandy r

Is stomach cramping normal? If I don't eat my stomach growls very loud
and I get cramps, on the other side sometimes when I eat I also get
cramps. Is constipation a side effect of this surgery? Has anyone else
had these kinds of problems?

I forgot- I also took some isopure (clear liquid protein shake crap) with me-
and I made myself take some- but I was nursing so it is different for me. I
worked this out here between a nutritionist and my lactation consultant. So I
would not see any major drop in milk production
I also still use a shake in the morning - I use the GNC pro-performance with all
soy protein I get about 30 - 35 gram of protein a shake with skim milk. I can
not eat at all til about noon. I am so tight in the morning (and my day starts
at 5 am) It works for me and since I am still nursing I need slightly more
calcium and protein than the normal 60 they ask bandsters to get.
The hotel staff was wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! They were actually my
favorite part of the trip and were so dissappointed that when I returned for my
fill wioth mom. I only brought the littlest one.
Jane

Yeah but....
Transportation expenses of a nurse or other person
who can give injections, medications, or other
treatment required by a patient who is traveling to
get medical care and is unable to travel alone
The above is quoted from the cited document. Personally, I think it
would be ill advised for many going for band surgery to travel alone,
before, or after, surgery. Were it me, and there was any question,
I'd include the partner's expenses in the tax deduction. You just
list a total on the return. If you get audited, they might disallow
it. However, less than one percent get audited.
NOTE that I'm NOT advocating cheating on your taxes. But if you don't
think you're able to travel alone back from surgery, then I'd say you
should deduct them. If you get audited and they disallow it, you just
pay the taxes that you "should have paid" in the beginning.
Of course either way, assuming the extra person going costs $500 more
than going alone, the difference on taxes, depending on your tax
bracket, isn't more than 50 to 150 bucks, so do what you think is
best.
dan
Sunday, November 7, 2004, 4:09:58 PM, you wrote:
S
S
S
S
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Thanks Sandy that's extremely helpful!
Sylvia
Dr Kuri
350/230/199
Subject: [mexicanbandsters] Re: tax deduction - and new 2004 medical deduction
guidelines
Nope, sorry. Only the direct medical expenses of the actual patient.
Here is the newly-released IRS guideline for 2004 medical and dental
deductions to review. http://www.irs.gov/publications/p502/index.html
Sandy RN

Nope, sorry. Only the direct medical expenses of the actual patient.
Here is the newly-released IRS guideline for 2004 medical and dental
deductions to review. http://www.irs.gov/publications/p502/index.html
Sandy RN

[A Copy of MY Message to Stone Phillips ...]
I urge you to look at my profile on ObesityHelp.com as a means of
learning about MY experience with gastric banding. It is the SAFE
alternative to bypass surgery as it does not require any rearranging
of God's design. I have lost 42 pounds in 3 months and have had NO
serious complications (minor unpleasantries like gas, clogged food,
some burping). My husband and I BOTH think this was the best thing we
could have ever done.
the link to my profile is:
http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/profile.phtml?N=T1088448222
The problem is, many insurance companies do not recognize the band
yet, and will not approve. I went to Mexico and paid cash to have mine
done, I knew it was the right thing and that I needed to do something.
Instead of spending time and energy fighting an insurance company, I
got on it, researched, selected a doctor and got it done, so my energy
is focused on getting healthy as we face the new year, I would still
be waiting appeals & going through all the red tape if I had NOT just
gone and paid for it ...
Feel free to contact me with any questions/ concerns/ for additional
information.
Sincerely,
Karyn E. Taylor

I was banded by Dr. Jose Rodriguez Friday the 5th in Acuna, MX. It
was an wonderful experience. I went in at 9:10 and was in my room,
awake, at 11:00. I was walking the halls by 1:00pm. Had an
uneventful night and was realeased the next morning and on my way
home. We stopped halfway to San Antonio so that I could walk around
WalMart for about a half hour. Got home at 4:00pm and was able to
eat Soup at Hand and Jello. Soup at Hand is wonderful.. Some of them
are already blended up. Just nuke it for 1min 15 sec. and then sip
it out of the little sippy lid that comes with it.
I feel great and so very fortunate to have decided on the band and to
have researched and found the surgeon just right for me. He is
wonderful, kind, gentle and experienced. Barbara, the coordinator, is
up for sainthood as far as I'm concerned. She has it all together and
prepared me very well.
Now, I'm ready to start my new life, be healthy and spread the word.
I'll report more later....but all-in-all it was a geat experience.
Becki

Glad you found another good source. I too liked the guys in Paris TX,
but saving a couple hours of driving each way is surely good,
particularly with the prices of gas these days....though yours are
certainly lower than those in Idaho or California. Paid 239 for
regular today in my rental car.
dan
Saturday, November 6, 2004, 6:55:17 AM, you wrote:
i
i
i
i
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Some of you may have seen the story Stone Phillips did on the gastric
bypass last night on Dateline. Actually, it was more balanced than
most, since he included the story of a man who did not survive the
surgery. Still, he quoted the old death stats of 1 in 200, rather
than the currently supported 1 in 50, and did not even mention the
Band as an option.
I stayed up most of the night writing a very detailed letter to him
about
the Band, with numerous references and statistics, and asked him to
do a story on the Band in the near future.
I told him he would be doing a wonderful public service to help
people know that there is a better option than the bypass, and would
likely be saving a good many lives.
I'm asking you guys now to email even a brief note to him to also
request a Band story. Doesn't have to be lengthy or detailed at all,
unless you want to. Just maybe mention your success and easy recovery.
The address is: Dateline at NBC dot com ..., and put
"To Stone Phillips re Banding" in the subject line.
We might get through to them! Sandy RN

Hi bandsters,
Shoulder pain that was being discussed, can also be caused by irritation to the
diaphragm. Mine quit when I started losing weight. I think I was bothered with
it for about 4 months off and on. Now since I have lost 50+ pounds it is gone
altogether.
Cheers,
Cheryl
Kansas Bandster
Banded 2/16/04 Mexico
-42.5"
-59lbs.

I still have discomfort in my left shoulder if I over eat or when I fly
or scuba dive. Pressure changes seem to bother me and I am almost 5
years out. Tylenol seems to take care of the discomfort easily and I
can tell you that the mild ache in my shoulder at 135 isn't anything
like how my knees and feet hurt at 225 pounds.
Saludos,
Judy
3/17/00
Dr. Sanchez
225/135

Want to let everyone know about Doctor I used yesterday for a fill.
I drove to Paris for my first fill and loved the doctors there but
thought I would try someone closer this time. I live in Ft Worth. I
made apponitment with Doctor Dobson in Arlington for yesterday and
am I glad I did. Him and Doctor Petersen are the best in my book.
They also gave me film of my port and pouch. I was really impressed
with them and will continue to use them. Price is the same with
fluoroscope. I understand he also does it without. I will not let
them give me a fill without one.....Ima

I did have shoulder pain from the gas......I was forewarned about it....had
it.....and it lasted for about two weeks for me.

The Seattle Bash and Splash Web site has now returned. You can find
it at http://barbooch2.homestead.com/SeattleBandsterSplash.html
Please note that the Bash to be held this President's Day Weekend
will be at the Embassy Suites at Southcenter not at the Doubletree as
previously stated.
We are expecting a sell out crowd. Try to get your registration in
early for the reduced rate. The Embassy Suites Hotel will guarantee
the special Bandster Conference Room Rate till January 15th,2005.
Afterwards, their normal rates if any rooms are still available will
apply. Joanne Godmintz-Coordinator -Seattle Bash

MEETING: INLAND EMPIRE x-post
We meet the Tyler Mall Food Court. It is very easy to find, just off
the 91 FWY at Tyler exit go North (you can see the mall off the
freeway), go to the back of the mall just south of Penny's, you will
see the outside dining area upstairs, enter their at the arch that
says "Tyler Mall" and there is a escalator just inside the door. Go
to the second floor. And you are there.
Any and all are welcome, banded, pre-banded, banded support people
ect, you do not have to be from the Inland Empire, you can drive as
far as you want to get to us.
I will post this info on the OSCB Board, Dr. Kuri Board & Spotlight
Board.
If you know of any other bandster boards to post this to please do
not hesitate to do so. The more the merrier.
DATE: Saturday November 6 at 10am (the Mall is open)
I will be the lady with the balloon.
Hope to see someone, other than me, there.
Lesa
1-18-03
220/150/150
Size 22 to size 8-10

I was banded in July and went through the same thought process that you are
going through.
Finally after about 4 - 5 weeks --- I went to work really early and went through
McDonalds for a side of scrambled eggs to get some protein --- that's the first
time that anything got stuck on me! Pulled off on the side of the road --- but
was kind of relieved that it had happened because I knew the band was really in
there!
Also -- I could eat anything after about 6 - 8 weeks --- no restriction
whatsoever. I have now had 3 fills........I might need one more small
adjustment --- still deciding ---- but I have talked to several people and my
doctor about this and everyone says it takes patience to get to the proper
restriction --- and that 3 - 6 fills is normal. Some lucky people only need one
or two fills after the surgery ---- I hope that is true for you.
So -- you are not alone -- hang in there --- might take a few more months even
to get you to the proper restriction.
Anna

I did have the shoulder pain too -- mine lasted for 1 - 2 weeks as opposed to
the few days I had been told -- as a result of the gas.
I did walk everyday after the surgery though and maybe that made it last a
little less. It does go away though....so anyday it will probably cease.

during surgery, a small amount of CO2 gas is used to inflate the
belly to better visualize and work with the abdominal organs. This
gas dissipates completely by the end of the surgery (as soon as the
trocars are removed), but the stretching of the organs remains. The
diapharagm, especially, is irritated by the stretching and sends
("refers") pain to the shoulder. The mexican docs also put a couple
extra sutures into the diaphargm to better secure the band, and this
can also irritate the diaphragm until it heals. This irritation can
also cause hiccups (which are diaphragm spasms) and make it hard to
take a deep breath for 1-2 weeks.
A heating pad to the shoulder and abdomen often helps. 3 weeks,
though, is a long time to still be having this pain. If it continues,
please check in with your doc.
Do you really mean shoulder BLADE pain? as in the middle of the left
side of the back? the diaphargm pain is usally higher, in the
shoulder itself. Perhaps you have a pinched nerve from something
else? sandy RN

I have not been banded yet. I do know, however, that shoulder pain
is often a result of trapped gas post-operatively. Actually the
phrenic nerve (I think that's the one)in the gut is being irritated
from the gas and the pain is being referred to the shoulder. I would
just increase my activity to try to eliminate the gas. Of course, if
you're very concerned, seek medical care.
Hope that helps,
HCT.

It's only after you have a good fill and some restriction that your
hunger will begin to diminish and you'll be able to eat only much
less. You've probably read that in your pre-band research. You're in
the 6-8 week healing phase now before you can get your first fill (if
you need it - some don't).
You don't really even HAVE much of a pouch until you have a fill,
and most people can eat and drink pretty normally until a good fill
level in a few months.
You can still lose some good weight in the next month or two, even
without a good fill, if you follow the band guidelines about choosing
good foods, limiting quantities, and getting some good daily
exercise.
A good calorie goal is about 1200-1500 calories a day, but this can
be hard until you get a decent fill. Many of us use FitDay.com to
learn about better foods, and the protein (50-60 grams a day) and
fiber (25 grams a day, on average) that we need. Sandy RN

Dr. Kuri's site is www.beliteweight.com . He also has his own support group on

I had the gastric lap band placed 3 weeks ago. I am having left
shoulder blade pain. Has anyone else experienced this? Thanks for
your help.

Hi, I've been banded for alomost 2 weeks and I am a little worried! I
keep hearing about PBing and only being able to have a couple of
bites and then being full - this is not my experience!! I measure
everything - except water - so I know I'm not eating too much but I
do not think I feel full. I can drink a glass of water fairly
quickly without any difficulty - and I think I have felt hungry - I
say think because maybe its just pain or gas i feel. Is something
wrong here? Im just terrified that i have a non-working band or that
i somehow stretched my pouch. Has anyone had this experience? I
guess i shouldn't complain since im down 18 lbs - but i think my
first PB i will rejoice just because then i'll know my band is up and
working! Can anyone help alleviate my fears. Much appreciated!

I am not a patient or even someone researching Dr. Lopez. But your points
are well taken. I agree with why would Inamed allow such low standards.
Contact Don Mills at Inamed email is don.mills@.... He is wonderfully
helpful and insightful! If he knows what is happening he will tell you what
he can. They don't keep records of those types of things, but he knows the
surgeons that are using Inamed and he knows their standing with Inamed. He
also has a connection to the Sales Reps that visit these Surgeons on behalf
of Inamed. EXCELLENT RESOURCE!
Another way to determine care of other Mexican Doctors is to call and talk
to every single name they will give you as past patients - don't be
satisfied with 10! Ask for patients within the time he has been placing the
band, not just recent ones. But you definitely want to talk with recent
patients, as their experience will be FRESH on the mind.
I have found you can learn a lot about the Dr and the patient by hearing
them talk about their experience, rather than writing about it.
ASK A LOT OF QUESTIONS - and when someone attempts to shut you down, as if
you have asked too many, KEEP ASKING! You must be as informed as possible
and if it takes a 10000000 of the same types of questions, SO BE IT! Just be
sure to get your answers and be comfortable with it!
I wish you the very best of luck in your search! It is a difficult decision
especially when there are soooooo many differing opinions on Mexico
Surgeons. But rest assured when armed with the right information we are a
force to be wreckend with! LOL :)

New fill option in Bend, Oregon. All I know is what is here, but
thought there might be some interest.
For those who don't have a local fill doc, my recommendation is to
start banging on doors of interventional radiologists. That's the
kind of thing they do.
dan
This is a forwarded message
From: Stephanie <arterburns_97@...

Julie,
Feel free to email me and I can answer any questions you have about
Dr. Kuri. My twin sister and I were banded by him last December and
I can't say enough good things about him.
We researched a TON and like Dan has said on here before we came up
with 3 mexican docs that we would even consider (Kuri, Ortiz &
Rumbaut). We ended up going with Dr. Kuri and have been very pleased
with our decision.
My email is awayfrmitall@...
Good Luck to you,
Jamie

I do know where infections come from.
Well, Of course I am unable to attest to the conditions in the operating
suite, as I was unconscious. What I merely meant to imply was that I felt
that the staff at San Oviv was doing an excellent job and that things
appeared to be appropriately handled. (bandages came in sterile wrapping,
food was covered, floors were mopped with what smelled like antiseptic
cleaner at least once a day, my nurse washed his hands each time he came
into my room) Of course, wherever sick people are, there are germs and even
where healthy people are.. but attempting to practice good hygiene is one
way we can try to reduce the spread of those germs.
I have had no problems with infection and I felt that Dr. Lopez and the
Nursing staff took excellent care of me while I was having the procedure
done. Based on my experience I would recommend both the hospital and the
surgeon to a friend. I believe that a doctor and staff who practice good
care in my presence might be trusted to practice good care when I am under
anesthesia. I could be wrong, but a doctor who did not practice good care in
my presence would not be trusted to care for me while I was under
anesthesia.
I am not in the medical profession, but I have had experience as a patient
and having had children who had some longer than usual hospital stays in our
area. I felt that the staff at San Oviv was every bit as professional as I
have experienced at the hospitals I have experienced in the States.
That said.. I think that the information about Dr. Lopez is curious. I have
to wonder why Inamed would continue to use him as a proctor if his
reputation is soiled as having much larger than average incidence of port
infections. Especially since he is proctoring in the US. It would be
interesting to know if the high number of infections came from people who
received treatment during a certain time period, or at a certain hospital.
To say that He has "unreported" infection incidences implies that he does
not have integrity. This was not what I experienced and so I wanted to offer
a differing opinion.

Hi,
And thank you again for all the information on Dr. Lopez. I have
been recommended to see Dr. Kuri. Could you please give me any
information that you might know about him. So far i have found the
best resource for info right here in this great support group.
Thank you and warmest reguards,
Julie

You guys are so completely wonderful thank you so much for all the
great advice. I can't wait to help out the next person who is in my
shoes.
XOXO,
J

He is the best. I was banded by him on 9/14/04 and he is truly a fabulous
doctor. His bedside manners are amazing. The hospital he uses is very nice,
clean and staffed with the most gentle nurses. I has such a positive experience
while there. Dr. A gave me his cell number in case I would need it, I also got
all the Inamed material along with the serial number to my band. Included in the
8200 price was everything except the flight to san diego. Nina, his assistant,
picked me up from San Diego and drove me to mexicali. She also stayed and
translated all the action for me. I can tell you that it was as nice as you
could imagine. Now I can go back to him for fills and pay only the 80 for
fluoro. If you choose Dr. A, you will not go wron since he is totally great. We

I'm afraid that the way a place looks or smells has nothing at all to
do with surgical technique or surgical sterility. Bacteria are not
visible, and do not smell until there is an overwhelming infection. .
Infections like port infections are largely caused by poor sterile
technique during surgery - inadequate skin prep of the patient,
inadequate autoclaving, contamination during surgery, inadequate
antibiotic coverage.
As another example, the good US hospitals have a far greater
infection rate than the good MX hospitals, largely because there are
so many more germs from so many more clients and medical personnel
around. Nurses may wear gloves, but that is done to protect *THEM*
from *YOU* - not the other way around! the gloves are not sterile at
all. SAndy RN

I am looking to get the lapband in Mexico. I am wondering if anyone
has any feedback on Dr. Alberto Aceves in Mexicali. Thanks so much!

Thanks Dan..........I'm sorry for the misinformation. I just remember him
saying that I would be able to deduct it. Maybe he said I'll be able to get 80%
back, I don't know but I do know that between my husband and I we don't make
anywhere near that.
Deb
Dan Lester <honu@...
It isn't that it is 80 percent decuctible. It is that it has to be
over 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income (AGI). If your AGI is
200 grand, that would mean you could only deduct the amount of medical
expenses over 15000 so you might not be able to deduct any of it. But
of course most of us don't have that kind of AGI. Know I sure don't.
dan
Wednesday, October 27, 2004, 12:07:27 PM, you wrote:
b
b
b
b
b
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Before you automatically think of another fill, there are other
things to think about if you're not losing well.
I'd suggest tracking your intake for 2 weeks on Fitday.com to see if
your protein, fiber, and calories are in good shape. 1200-1500
calories is a good goal - more, ands especially LESS, will stall your
loss. also, inadequate protein will stall you out - most women need
50-60 grams a day.
Remember, too, that fluids and soft foods will never be restricted.
The band only works with solid foods. You'll only remain full between
meals if you are eating solids, even with a good fill.
Your exercise and water sound very good, so that part should not be a
concern.
If all these things are pretty much ok, but you're still not losing 1-
2# a week for more than 3-4 weeks in a row, then do consider another
fill. It takes many people more than the average 3-5 fills to get to
a good fill leveel, and some a LOT more. It often depends on the
skill level of your fill person. (knowing how much to increase,
according to several factors, not losing fluid when he/she withdraws
the needle, not pulling the fluid in and out several times which
causes swelling and makes you temporarily feel more restricted than
you really are, more)
All you can do is persevere until you get to a better level.
Remember, the band is not going to do all the work. even with
a "perfect" fill, you have a great deal to do yourself re good
choices, limited quantities, and stopping before you slime or pb. The
sad fact still is that the only reason people are not losing weight
is that they are eating too many calories - with or without a good
fill.
Hope this helps! Sandy RN (Kuri, 3/25/03, 230/138/138)

Monday, November 1, 2004, 5:48:02 AM, you wrote:
c
c
c
c
Where are you getting the fills? And with fluoro?
c
c
c
c
c
c
How many calories are you eating? It still gets down to calories in
and calories out. Walking is good. Can you also get to the gym or do
other exercises?
c
c
Yup. 3 to 6 is the norm. Some take a dozen. All depends.
What are you eating? Is it soft food? Soft food will go thru much
faster and leave you feeling hungry much sooner.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

I was banded by Dr. Lopez in July of this year.
No infection, my wounds have healed great and I am doing wonderfully.
I think Dr. Lopez spoke English clearly and his associates spoke excellent
English. I had no problem understanding him.
San Oviv was an exceptional hospital and I would be happy to have a
procedure done there again in a moment. The nursing staff was excellent and
I was well cared for.
I do however have to say that the company that did the coordination on my
surgery did not do follow-up well. I don't think that was Lopez issue
though.. but the company who booked an arranged my surgery.
If I were recommending a friend for the procedure I would recommend going
through Dr. Lopez personally, and skipping the middleman. I think you would
get better attention after the procedure was complete.
If Inamed has such concerns about Dr.Lopez's rate of infections, I wonder
why they are still asking him to proctor and train other doctors? That
doesn't really make sense does it?
Good luck choosing,
Nicole

I had my surgery in 7/04. I have since had 3 fills and none of them
have gotten me to where I am getting the full filling between meals,
etc... Is there a definitive difference as far as noticing that you
are feeling full faster and keeping that feeling for several hours?
I am scheduling again for another fill next week. I have not lost
much weight and am 3 months out though I don't have as much to lose
as some so I know that's a factor as well. I've regularly walked 5x
a week which I didn't do before......I drink only water and skim milk
and gave up my regular coke completely since the surgery as well as
all carbonated beverages -- still.....not much weight loss.
Has anyone else had to get 4 and 5 fills or more before they got to
the proper restriction after surgery?
I'm getting very frustrated......I have 2 cc's now which I know
doesn't matter because this is different for everyone....just would
like to hear if someone else has gone through the same thing as far
as their initial restriction goes.
Thanks.
Anna

Please call your doctor NOW. there should never be excruciating pain
with banding. Please always call your doctor for any serious
problems, rather than simply posting on a site like this and hoping
someone sees your post. Your post and any answers can also take a
long time to appear here. Good luck - Sandy RN

I would call your doctor asap and let them know what
you are experiencing.
Patti
--- jackherod <herod4@...

When I was researching getting banded, my doctor talked directly with
the Inamed doctor's representative and was told that Dr Lopez has a
much higher rate of infections than other Mexican band doctors, and
that they knew of other infections he had not reported, as required.
Debbie, it sometimes takes much longer than only a few weeks for
infections to develop as they brew and fester inside. Lyn

I am 9 days out of surgery. Everytning was fine....no problems what
so ever. So I went to the Grocery Store Saturday and bbought
groceries. I (like a dummy) carried them all in the house by myself.
A 10LB bag potatoes in one hand and a x-tra large Tide detergent in
the other. Felt tired after I finished putting everything away, so I
laid down for about 45 minutes. I went to get up and my left side is
killing me. I started back on the pain pills. Today Sunday I can
not move, I am hurting so bad. The pain is around the port area and
down on the left side. The incision for the port looks great....no
redness, no knots and it looks healed on the outside. I CAN NOT
cough without it bring tears to my eyes. There is no way I can go to
work tomorrow. Does anyone have any advise?????????????????????

nicki - I'm confused -are you a Mexican doc's client? You said you
were banded by Dr Ren?
If you really can't keep anything down, you need to call Dr Ren for
help. you may be getting very dehydrated and should not wait until
the office is open on monday. If you really mean that you just cannot
keep solids down, you are likely too tight, and may need a small
unfill - but you can wait until monday to call.
If you have not had a fill for a long time before this one, please
review all the basic band rules. it's easy to forget the things you
need to do to not barf - choosing dgood foods, chewing well, tiny
bites, not drinking with meals, etc. Your doc can give you more
information. Sandy RN

Infections can & do occur after surgery, both in the U.S. and in
Mexico. I had my gallbladder out earlier this year. I wanted to stay
overnight in the hospital (here in San Diego) and my surgeon
wouldn't let me, citing that their are too many germs in the
hospital & I could get an infection!
The band & port are foreign objects to our bodies. If you read the
Inamed handbook, it clearly states that problems can occur. There
are more problems with the port than there are with the band. Also,
an infection can travel from the port up along the tubing to the
band, thus requiring removal of the band at a later date.
Diane Beck
Dr. Lopez Corvala
1.31.02
-97 lbs. BMI 22

Ok friends,
I am a lurker. I never post, but I need some fellowship and advice. I have
been banded since April 2003. I have only had one fill until one week ago. I
have lost 80n pounds and have not been in a rush to take it all off quickly.
I was banded by Dr. Christina Ren at NYU and recently had a fill. Problem is
that I can't seem to keep anything down. All I am eating is soft foods in a
puree stage. Am I too constricted or will I adjust. I could eat anything
before but had not been losing for months...not gaining but not losing. I am
a 23 year old college student that is sure finding life more interesting and
fun 80 pounds lighter. Any advice would be appreciated.
Nicky

Maybe some folks here could give me some contact numbers or websites
for docs in Tijuna. Thanks.

Try Bandsters or SmartBandsters. Also you are more likely to find a Dr in MX
(rather than the USA) who will be able to fill a Midband; but even so, make sure
you ask before travelling down for your fill.
Sylvia

Hi,
I noticed there is a list of fill docs in the US. But is there a list
of fill docs in Mexico and what they charge for patients not banded
with them? I figure Tijuana is the easiest to get to from Seattle via
San Diego. Thanks.
Brett
341/318/207
Frering MidBand
7/09/04

That's Great Becky!!
Which doctor will be doing the surgery?
Patti

I love the Quick Tabs for my migraines. But I can't find them in any
stores any more. Corkie

I haven't used him, but know a lot of people do go to him and have
not heard anything negative at all.

If you are talking about the mini port, no, it doesn't yet have FDA
approval. I have the mini port, have had it almost 3 yrs. with no
problems.
Diane Beck
Dr. Lopez Corvala
1.31.02
-97 lbs. BMI 22

Dr. Lopez did my band. I feel great and I think that he is a very kind man
and I enjoyed his staff.
I have not had very good follow-up, but I think that is mostly because the
coordinator who coordinated my trip through Belighter has since quit
Belighter and is working for Dr. Lopez now. I think this allowed me to slip
through the cracks.
You can email me personally for my views on everything from San Oviv to the
individual staff members if you want more information.
Nicole

Yessiree..........I am headed south of the border on Friday the 5th.
This was beginning to look like such a slow process.......waiting for
funds to come in (they said it would take 8 weeks, only took 2),
trying to get a date that would work for hubby and me. Thought it
would be the 15th........but when things start rolling they moved
pretty fast!! The coordinator told me about the 5th and I jumped on
it like a frog on a June bug. So, now I am anxious, nervous,
scared......you all know the routine. But very grateful that it is
happening.
I'll be in fine shape by Thanksgiving to travel to Nashville and by
then I can probably even have some chopped up turkey with some gravy!
Christmas my family and friends will not know what has gotten hold of
me when they see the tiny plate and small portions I'll be
consuming. They will, however, be very proud and happy that I am
taking back control of my life. For, you see, they love me.....just
as I am, but they long to have me around for many years. So, I'll do
that for them.........but,secretly, I'll do it for me. I'm ready to
be reborn.
Becki

When you search you should type in "Lopez" ... It will come up...
Just keep clicking the "next" portion in the search since it only
searches a certain number of records at a time. Go back at least a
year...
Good luck to you...

Hi everyone,
I am new here and I was wondering if anyone had any info on this
Doctor in Mexico. I looked through the archieves and could not find
any info on this Doctor.
I would like to do this surgery by the begining of December but,
need to do my research first. PLEASE HELP!!!
Thank you so much!!

Hi,
Does anyone know of any fill doctors in the MA or new england area.
Not too successful at finding this information out. I have spoken
to both belighter.com and sanoviv and both are dead set on getting
me to put a deposit down for the surgury, but not able to produce
this information for me.
Still deciding if this is the facility and Doctor is right for me.
Thanks!
Julie

---
I agree with Dan
as little as .1 or .2 cc's can make a difference. Im at 2 and
anytighter I would be closed up..I have been atthiscurrent fill
level for 3 months now and still losing. I could not imagine any
more in my band
Michelle
Dr. Ortiz

I live in Fort Worth and my first fill is schedule for November 12th
in Arlington at the Imaging Center On Matlock with Dr. Walter Dobson
who's based out Grand Prairie but he does the fills in Arlington
where he can do the X-rays.
Selecia

Dan,
Let me see if I understand this. Let's say we make $100,000 a year.
7.5% is $7500.00. Let's say I paid $10,000 for lap band surgery,
hotels, travel, etc. My deduction is $2500.00?
Thanks,
NANCY

This product was suggested on another board-Excedrin Quick Tabs. They
dissolve in your mouth and don't taste all that bad (place one on
your tongue and press it against the roof of your mouth - you won't
taste that mediciny flavor. Do not chew.) They do not contain
aspirin. They are acetiminophine and a little caffiene. They helped
another bandster after surgery when she was having headaches due to
caffiene withdrawals.
Any of you used this? Is it a safe pain reliever for post surgery and
forever after your band? Sounds like it would be easy to use.
Becki

It isn't that it is 80 percent decuctible. It is that it has to be
over 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income (AGI). If your AGI is
200 grand, that would mean you could only deduct the amount of medical
expenses over 15000 so you might not be able to deduct any of it. But
of course most of us don't have that kind of AGI. Know I sure don't.
dan
Wednesday, October 27, 2004, 12:07:27 PM, you wrote:
b
b
b
b
b
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

I found a couple of doctors in the Chicago area that will do fills
for Mexican banded patients for a reasonable price.
I have been emailing Dr.Vitello from Downers Grove Ill. that uses
Good Samaritan Hospital to do the fills. Has anyone used this doctor
in the past for fills? Can you please share any information before I
make my appointment.
Thanks

by dr. kuri on 9/28/04 by dr. kuri .. do i have that?
wendy
what is the difference?

i had surgery monday,have fever,headache...this normal?

i suggest dr. Carlos Ivan Buritica in Tijuana Mexico, he's web site
is www.pragaweightlosscenter.com and www.moldingclinic.com.mx he has
a lot of experience and he is really good......

Hi,
I have a couple of questions for some of you experts out there... I
am starting to be able to eat a lot more right now, I have had one
fill since my surgery. I am still losing but as I mentioned, I can
suddenly eat more and I do not want to wait around for a month to see
if I stop losing...SO, I am thinking of getting a fill. Does anyone
have thoughts on this?
Also, I am not sure what I should do about going back to Dr Ortiz. I
trust him and would do it in a minute if I could afford it BUt I have
found a few Doctors in my area that will do it mostly without
flouro. The instate Dr will even try to bill insurance and he may
decide to use flouro. I am just so leary and protective of my band.
I can not stand the idea of someone who may not be as competant as
Drs O and M messing around with my band. I have the latest port
which is not even available in the US so they will not be all that
familiar with it but it is very palpable and I think will be an easy
stick.
Thoughts? Advice?
Beth

Fill amounts are meaningless. You just can NOT compare. Some might
take 9, others 1, others none.
But since you're near your sweet spot, I can tell you that a change of
as little as .1 or .2 can make a giant difference. For me 2.0 (in a
4cc band) is just right. 2.1 is too tight. 1.8 is like wide open.
2.2 closes me off.
It is VERY fine tuning.
Where do you live? You may be able to get a fill much closer, and
even with fluoro if you want, if you check the database on this
website.
dan
Wednesday, October 27, 2004, 8:37:13 AM, you wrote:
bac
bac
I
bac
cc
bac
5.6cc
bac
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Dan,
sorry to hijack this post but I need to know - the fill group you use
in TX - which was it? Also, since I'd be flying from New Orleans
which airport would I fly in to?
My local fill docs lost their fluoro facility and the other docs I
know of locally that will do Mexican fills do not use fluoro. I
think it's important to do it under fluoro if your not going to the
doctor who placed the band to lessen the risk of damaged ports and
tubing. I mean - a dentist knows where your teeth are but you
wouldn't want him to fill one blindfolded, right?
Please let me know,
Laura

Just want to know if anyone else has had a 5 cc fill and still very little
restriction? I can eat any kind of meat or bread or rice etc and no pbing. I
have seen my surgeon, Dr Rumbaut, and no leaks or slippages. I tried 5.6 cc
and that was too tight. My sweet spot should be somewhere between 5cc and 5.6cc
but I am discouraged and broke from fills. Any suggestions.
Betsy

If you have a surgery date, you can add yourself to the Dr-Rodriguez-Bandsters
calendar and have it send a reminder to the group! Adding yourself is easy!

For recent Rumbaut patients -
Does anyone have Dr. Rumbaut's current contact info? Email, phone,
address, etc? I was banded by him 2 years ago, am having problems
and need to talk to him. Please email privately. Thanks for your
help.
Becky McKay
Dec. 2002
Rumbaut
becky4310@...

Ima,
Where do you get your fills? Any details would be helpful...
Thanks!

In addition to the Plastic surgeons in Mexico, you might also
consider the excellent ones in Costa Rica. The Rosenstock-Lieberman
clinic there is world-renowned, and the surgeons wree trained in the
US and are US Plastic-surgery Board-Certified. The costs are also far
less than in Mexico. lots of Bandsters and bypass clients have used
this clinic, including me. http://www.cosmetic-cr.com/

Rachel, I live in Ft Worth and don't have any problems getting fills.
Ima

Friday, October 22, 2004, 11:08:37 PM, you wrote:
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
ayc
For SAGB if that's what the doc says, go for it. Not with an inamed
band, though.
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

I had my surgery in March04. He is an excellent Dr. did a great job. I was
pleased with the whole process and the cost was very good as well.
Debby

Put the doctors name that you want to investigate in the search box
at the top of the messages (you have to be reading the messages from
from the web)..keep clicking "next" until you find enough messages
to satisfy your research needs.
Sylvia
Dr. Kuri
350/230/199

Has anyone had surgery with him? What are the thoughts good and bad.
I am on hold until I meet with my PCP again on November 1st but my
good friend just told me yesterday that she was going to see him. But
then I found out that she had not done much research. She lives in
San Antonio so it is very convenient for her.
I mentioned Dr. Kuri because that is who I had done so much research
on.
Any information or insight on Dr. Jose Rodriguez would be
appreciated. She is bound and determined, I support that. But at the
same time I want her to make an educated decision.
Your help is NEEDED!
Thanks,
Rachel

I have a SAGB
My second fill was to 7.6; for my third fill they were only able to
remove 5cc's & refilled with 8. I wrote to my band doctor (different
than my fill) to ask why this might be happening and this was his
response:
"With some patients we have seen what is happening to you.
Changing the band fluid from saline to contrast urinary fluid will solve
the problem, the contrast media is called IOPAMIRO and is for studing
the urinary system but can be placed inside the band without
exchanging with the other corporal fluids ( too technical!!!) and this
way you will remain with what the Dr. fill in."
Has anyone else heard of this as a fix for the problem?
Kerrilynn

INLAND EMPIRE MEETING
WHEN: Saturday November 6. 2004 at 10 am
WHERE: Tyler Mall Food Court. It is very easy to find, just off the
91 FWY at Tyler exit go North (you can see the mall off the
freeway), go to the back of the mall just south of Penny's, you will
see the outside dining area upstairs, enter their at the arch that
says "Tyler Mall" and there is a escalator just inside the door. Go
to the second floor. And you are there.
WHO: Any and all are welcome, banded, pre-banded, banded support
people ect, you do not have to be from the Inland Empire, you can
drive as far as you want to get to us.
We are a small but fun group, you can choose to eat or drink, or
not. The stores are open if you kids/companion wishes to shop.
Hope to see you their, as Polar bear Mike has stated, "people who
participate in support groups loose more weight (he has an exact
percentage)".
Lesa
1/18/03
220/150/150 (SZ 22 to 8/10)

I am all set for Nov 22 with Dr. Rod! Can't wait!!!
Thanks all for your advice, I am soooooo excited.

Everyone in the Vancouver,WA or Portland,OR area is invited to
attend a support meeting on Wednesday October 29th at 7:00PM at the
Elmer's restaurant located at NE 101st and NE Sandy Blvd. This is a
first evening meeting to discover if there interest in evening
meetings in our area and if so, where and when to have them.
Absolutely everyone is invited that can attend. I am sincerely
hoping to find a wealth of support from this community that I can
give and receive. Thank you for letting me post this. If anyone
has any questions, please e-mail me directly. Thank you,
sandig2001@...

Is it OK to take Advil with the band?

Katy,
Why wouldn't you want it to be part of your medical records? I
called my insurance company even though I knew I would not be
covered by it because I wanted to make sure if I had an emergency
when I returned that I would be covered. What they told me (i
don'tknow if this is true for all) is that any afercare that is done
is done in the Bariatric clinic would not be covered, but if I had
an emergency and went to the hospital or need xray's if I was in
pain while at my PCP office, they would cover it. I talked to my
PCP about the surgery beforehand, I personally think it is something
important for them to know.
Why wouldn't you want your insurance company to know?

This may be a stupid question. I know NOTHING about insurance and
HIPPA laws. I was a selfpay and went to MX for surgery. Does anyone
know if insurance companies have access to your health records? I
haven't seen my pcp since being banded and I have an appointment next
week. I'm concerned that she'll put my banding info in my records and
that my insurance will have access to that. I don't want to cause
problems for myself. You know how nasty Ins. can be. Am I making any
sense? HAs this been a problem w/ anyone out there?

Please answer quickly!

Hello Utah Bandsters:
I have been banded for over a year now! The band was not the
miracle I had hoped for BUT it has changed my life for the better in
a lot of ways. I have lost 40 pounds in all and gained back 5. I
recently had my 4th fill a week ago. I need to get out there and
MOVE and make better choices of what I put in my mouth.
Anyway, I was banded in Mexico with Dr. Ortiz and my band sister
from Arizona is coming to Utah for a visit (We were banded on the
same day). She flys in Saturday morning on October 30th. If any of
you would like to go to lunch with us, we will be eating at the
Chili's at Jordan Landing, West Jordan at 12 noon sharp. Jordan
Landing is off the Bangerter Highway to the west between 7000 and
7800 South right about half way (North of the new Kohl's). I hope
some of you can come. There are so many of you that post that I
still have not met. Karen, Kirsten, and Diane from McGraff's last
November...see if you can come.=o) Anybody, everybody POST if you
can make it.
Take care all,
Amy in South Jordan, Utah

http://www.lap-band.com:7778/lapband2/locator.jsp
Sylvia
Dr. Kuri

Yes, Dr. Verboonen should be out soon, if not already. His sentence
was nine months, and he went to jail in the second half of January,
which would mean he'd be out soon.
Dr. Ponce de Leon has been practicing all along, as far as I know.
I don't know anyone personally who has had surgery with them. I've
heard both good and bad about results of those who've posted on this
and other boards. Personally, I wouldn't go there, but I'll simply
counsel everyone that they should do lots of research, and that they
should NOT go by price alone. Saving a thousand bucks on surgery
could be a very bad decision.
dan
Sunday, October 17, 2004, 11:09:26 AM, you wrote:
m
m
m
m
m
m
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

There is a list of all known ones in the files section on this
website. Check it out. There are ones in Chicago and elsewhere that
are "sort of close" to you, and maybe others even closer.
dan
Monday, October 18, 2004, 8:31:09 PM, you wrote:
p
p
p
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/209/199 Age 61

Just wanted to clarify that the OSCB Group - Original Southern
California Bandsters - has been around over 4 years and it is NOT
just a Kuri group. Yes the majority of members are Kuri patients,
but those are just the statistics in Southern California. However,
ALL bandsters are welcome, no matter WHO their surgeon is! We have
many patients banded by other doctors than Dr. Kuri, including Dr.
Ortiz, Dr. Lopez, US Doctors and Dr. Frering in France. We do not
discriminate who your surgeon is. All patients are welcome and
encouraged to participate!
There are many experienced and successful bandsters on OSCB. We also
have many pre-bandsters still doing their homework. If you live
anywhere in Southern California, you are more than welcome to join!
We actually have members all over the country who come to TJ for
their fills or have family members in southern California and just
come to visit. The link to join is:

Hi
I am down to choosing one doctor and although I think I have made my
decision, I am still not certain there are doctors who will do the
fills/unfills for me. I have been on Michigan bandsters (where I
live) and people who are in the Michigan area still go down to
Mexico to get their fill because they have a hard time finding a
doctor who will do the fills/unfills for them since they didn't
operate on them originally.
I have not called around to any yet, but do have a list of doctors
in certain states. I know it would be more money and time to go to
Mexico each time for a fill and I would do it if I had to, but would
prefer to find one a little closer.
Anyone know any docs who do the fills/unfills for patients they have
not operated on? I know they will charge a fee that's fine. Any in
Michigan or the Great Lakes area?
Patti

Dear Debby,
Thanks so much for responding to my e-mail. How exciting to find someone in
Ohio. Please e-mail me at Debby614@.... I have my date and will tell
you all about what I have been through. You can really help me by telling if
you have had any problem getting your fills after you had your lapband done in
Mexico. Where you treated indifferently because of going to Mexico. Let me
know because this is one of my greatest concerns. Hope we can talk soon.
Debby

Thanks Dan! You have been very helpful in answering my questions!
I appreciate it!!
Patti;)