LapBand Surgery - Obesity Message Board

KimberlyV · 09-07-2004, 10:30 AM

I am looking for anyone who has had or knows someone who has had LapBand Surgery. What are your experiences and would you recommend LapBand? Thank you!
Kim

vadonka · 09-12-2004, 04:47 PM

Hi this is my first time on this board. but the reason I came is to find out the same information. I've been looking up information online and I keep running into the problem of having to go to Mexico for the procedure. They say you can have all the tests done in the US but there are no physicians that do the procedure here. At least thats what the websites are saying. It also seems very costly...over $10,000 at the least for the tests and procedure. The procedure seems much better than Gastric bypass surgery, but it is hard to find out a lot and get stories on it because, at least from what I read, its all done outside of the US. I know thats not much information and you probably already know this if you've been searching online, but Im also curious to get a personal story from someone. Hopefully we'll hear from someone soon.

jess301 · 09-16-2004, 10:44 PM

there are plenty of band surgeons in the states--the reason so many people go to mexico is the cost. if you dont have insurance, or have insurance that won't cover the surgery, the price of self pay in the states can be pretty rough--between 14-22 grand. in mexico it ranges from 7-10 grand--much cheaper when paying out of pocket. also, many of the docs in mexico are more experienced than those in the states--just have to check their credentials carefully.

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but good call, much better choice than bypass--less risky.

interlogis · 09-17-2004, 11:04 AM

I know quite a bit about both ways gastric bypass vs lapband. If I had my choice, I would not do the lapband. You dont have the history on lapband that you do on bypass. As long as you have the surgery done at a large facility with one of the lowest complication rates in the country, you will be fine. Like St. Vincent in Cleveland OH has done over 4000 with one of the lowest comp rates in country. FYI. good luck.

dpratt · 09-17-2004, 05:08 PM

I, too, am searching for weightloss surgery info. Three women from my old church have had it done, and their results are absolutely amazing. I am turning 50 this November, and I am SICK and tired of yo-yo dieting, etc. only to end right back where I started ~ or worse. Oh would I go about finding out which facility has the highest success rate, lowest complication rate? Thanks.