Should I get Lap-Band in Mexico?

sweetsue · 08-16-2006, 07:00 AM

Hello,
As I learn more by reading all these posts and doing research into Lap Band I am giving serious consideration to having it done. I don't think my cigna insurance will cover the procedure because I have a bmi of 39 and no co-morbidities. I'm a 44 yr old female who lives in central Connecticut. Because I'd need to pay for it myself, I'm considering having the procedure done in Mexico. Perhaps with Dr Ortiz, he seems to have a good reputation. Anyone know of any place that would do fills in CT? Also, if there were complications and I needed a medical attention, would I be turned away by local bariatric doctors? It would be re-assuring if I could get some after-care in Connecticut. Can anyone offer me any advice? Thank you!
Susan

Dianechef · 08-16-2006, 10:51 AM

Hi Susan!
I live in AZ & wouldn't have a clue about who you could get fills from in CT, but I just wanted you to know that I had my surgery my Dr. Ortiz & it was wonderful!!!! Do a search on fillcentersusa.com & you might find a place near you. Good luck!

missy4gordon · 08-16-2006, 11:02 AM

Hi Susan,
I also had my surgery in Mexico. I had a really good experience there, but have come to find out that the aftercare is what could make or break your success. I have to travel 4-5 hours to the closest place that will give me fills, when I first had this done I thought that would be no problem, but with gas prices, never any time to go, and life just getting in the way.....it has not been a success for me as I have only been able to make the trip 2 times in a year....with each time giving me no restriction. Moral of my story is MAKE SURE TO FIND AFTERCARE YOU CAN ACCESS EASILY!!! Good luck!!

disclaimer: Sorry, when I posted I wasn't aware this was in the Connecticut thread!! I am from North Dakota, not even close!! Sorry!!!

**Elisabethsew** · 08-16-2006, 11:13 AM

Because of aftercare issues, I decided not to go to Mexico and had my surgery in the States. I was originally denied by insurance but fought the decision and won. All my post-op care was covered free for 90 days and fills cost me just the insurance co-pay.

Do your homework before you make a decision. Check with your insurance to see if they will cover the surgery and check out what MDs in your area charge for self-pay patients.

mki12 · 08-21-2006, 11:25 AM

Hi

Have you called Dr. guiliani and Dr. Barba office yet. They are at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford. I would check with them to see if they will do your aftercare.

Mary

sweetsue · 08-21-2006, 10:07 PM

I called Dr. Barba (on vacation) but the office people say yes he will do it for $150 cash. I did not know about Dr. Guiliani but I will try to call him too.

donamarie · 11-26-2006, 12:52 PM

Dr. Tishler at Hartford Hosp did my surgery on the 8th of November. Perhaps you could call him. Any other Connecticut bandsters out there? It would be nice to hear from people in my own state.

donamarie