How far out do they book surgeries in MX?

[jane_vsg_ayla]

I have been researching going to mexico but havent thought about a date yet. Well, I am unexpectedly going to be near San Diego anyway soon, and since it is so close I thought I could combine trips and save airfare. I hadnt decided on a surgeon even yet, so not sure this is reasonable. How long is the wait for an average appt? I.e. if I decided on a surgeon today, what would be the soonest I could expect to get a date set?

I know it depends on doctors too and all, and I have sent a few email requests so they will get back to me. Just joined this forum (finally after months of reading it!), though, and anxious to know if this could actually happen! I am definitely considering Dr Kelly first, then Alvarez or Acevez... THose seem to be the ones I keep coming back to. Dr. Kelly mainly on cost and reputation, Alvaraz and Acevez on stellar reputation. I know people have commented all over the place on here about these guys, but honestly its very overwhelming and I lose track of which comments were about which doctors!

Any encouragement? How far out did you schedule your surgery? Thanks everyone!!

[tammy73]

I had my surgery with dr Alvarez on November 8/10 and I couldn't be happier with my results. i have just reached my 8 month mark and I have went for 255 to 162. I am now less than 20 pounds away from my goal weight. Dr Alvarez is an amazing man who truly cares about his patience. I would not trade my experience that I had with Dr Alvarez and his wonderful team in order to save a few thousand dollars. I have seen a lot of pics of people who have had surgery with other surgeons and they have drainage tubes, brusing, exterenal staples and basically look like they have been through hell and back, you will not have this with Dr Alvarez. If I can answer any questions for you please let me know. I would be glad to help. Tam

[Tammy64]

I just have been sleeved a short period of time..5/26 with Dr. Kellly. My experience was wonderful. I fully recommend Dr. Kelly and his staff to anyone thinging of traveling to Tijuanna to have this done. I booked my surgery in Feb. 2011; but I understand that if you have all your paperwork in order you can schedule pretty fast. They do a pre-op diet and you have to allow for that. I think the length of the diet will depend on your BMI. Be sure to tell them Tammy sent you......

[jane_vsg_ayla]

Can I ask how much it cost you? I am trying not to think of money first, but you know... it matters! I narrowed it down to these three because I have heard and read enough about them that I think I would be comfortable with any of them, so now it is on to consider cost, convenience, timing, etc.

[Tammy64]

Surgery $5300.00 Airfare for two $500.00 Hotel $144.00 Additional food/expenses $100.00

[bobbybeegood]

I booked with Dr Almanaz almost 8 months in advance but changed the date to June so both my self & my daughter could go at the same time.. Haven't had the sleeve yet (9 days to go!) but every interaction I've had with them so far has been outstanding. I have heard of a few ppl getting their booking just a few weeks time, so I would guess it just would depend on their openings. I assume that you would be self pay, so that negates a lot of the pre-work that insurance companys require & depending on your BMI, the pre-op diet would be anywhere from 2 wks to as little as 3 days. good luck on whatever & whoever you choose! ;-) OBTW, Dr Almanaz is only 4500$ if that is a consideration & he is highly recommended on this board as well ;-)

[jane_vsg_ayla]

That sounds perfect... I didnt realize that some people had stitches that had to be removed until now.. Did you have them?

[jane_vsg_ayla]

I talked with the office today, and I believe I have decided on Dr. Kelly! A ton of research and testimonials, and a lower price helped too. I dont think I will have any regrets! Anyway, just diving in and trying to schedule it for 2 weeks from now! I think I will be camped out on this forum for a bit Thanks for taking the time to answer me!

[Tammy64]

Good luck Judie...I know you will like Dr. Ramos-Kelly and his staff. They were very professional.

[jane_vsg_ayla]

Thanks Tammy! Liquid diet starts tomorrow. Getting more and more excited!

[Tammy64]

I know you are excited, just remember take it easy that first day, but as soon as you feel like walking go ahead and start. The walking helps to expell the gas used during the surgery itself. I feel like that was the worse part for me. I wish you lots of luck on your new adventure...looking forward to hearing from you when you return.

[Gmaddaleno]

I am really excited about getting the sleeve and would like to use Dr. Kelly. I heard a lot of comments about contacting his office directly, but I haven't found out how. I have only seen his name and contact info. through broker sites. Any info. would be GREATLY appreciated.

[Tammy64]

WLS....ask for Trish. I'll look for number....try 619-955-6771..Tell them Tammy from Athens, TX sent you.

[Gmaddaleno]

Thanks!! I will call on Monday and I will DEF. let them know who ref. me. I am sure they LOVE to know how great people think they are!