Revision from Lapband to Sleeve done in Mexico, Help!

[MsMook1979]

Hello all,

I am considering having my band taking out with the sleeve done right after, long story. I have been checking out a few doctors in Mexico but have not narrowed anything down until I learn more about the doctors in Mexico. My question is: One doc thinks I should have band taken out and then come back 5 months later to have sleeve done for $9700. The other doc said I can have band and sleeve done in one procedure for $5000. I am thinking cost effective more than anything but I want to go with safety first. Any info on any docs in Mexico would be helpful. Any info on lapband to sleeve revisions done in one or two procedure would be helpful as well.
Thx in advance.

[PATSYGILLIGAN]

I dont know if the 2 procedures is better or not but I do know that Dr. Almanza does it in one procedure and I think he is a very good Dr. There have been 6 in my family that has had him do the sleeved this year and we are all thrilled with our outcome and the care we received while in Mexico.

[MsMook1979]

Wow 6 ppl. That is great news to hear. He is the one doc I am considering who does it in one procedure. I am just curious at to how I am going to come up with the money and airfare too, lol. I just submitted all my info to them and hope I am approved for financing. I didn't think it was going to come this quick. Anything else you can tell me of the experience with him and his facility would be very helpful. Are you in the US and how did you find a doc here in the US who is willing to take you after having surgery with another doc? A few docs here told me they would not do my revision if another doc did it.

[Dr_Alvarez]

Hi. I saw your question and could help to pitch in with some info. Hope this helps you understand why one recommends doing it in one step and one in two steps.
VSG Q&A's: Converting from Lapband to Gastric Sleeve - YouTube

Best wishes!
Dr. Alvarez

[MsMook1979]

Great! Thank you, I am looking at it now.

[Intellimed]

For instance, why should you change or remove your Lapband ? Is it erosionated, weightloss failure, Other ?. Usually the first scenario demands a stepforward approuch and in Many instances the Band removal couldbe done endoscopically (by mouth and no overnight hospital) and the sleeve is schedule 6 to 8 weeks later. If the case is that Lapband prostesis has no complications all inclsusive surgery is feaseball and Safe. Just one advice, the cost of a sleeve expendables items is around $ 3500.00 US Dlls. So it's posible that your Second option doctor it's recomending a gastric plication sleeve instead of subtotal vertical sleeve gastrectomy which should be more expensive. Intellimed is host at centro medico costamed at Cozumel & Centro Medico de Colima.

[foxy]

I am dealing with an awesome surgery team in Mexico. Call me and i can fill you in. Toll Free @ 1-855-830-6869
Thanks Sharon

[yankegal]

Hey there! welcome to the sleeve forum! I had surgery done from Dr. Kelly and had heard of one patient there that I spoke with that had exactly what you are wanting done, and she had it done all at one time. so do your research before deciding. I have info on Dr kelly if you need it you can message me. good luck

[MsMook1979]

Thx Sharon, I sent my info to you this morning. I was approved but waiting on financial status now.

[MsMook1979]

Thx Yankegal, that would be wonderful if you could send me some info.

[Teresa H]

A friend of mine Charity had her lapband removed and the sleeve at the same time and she is doing great!

[MsMook1979]

Thx Teresa!

[Charity]

I had surgery in Mexico with Dr. Almanza on November 18th. Previously, I had a band that slipped and required removal. When I was there, another girl had the exact surgery that you're wanting. SHe's doing great post-op. He took out all of the scar tissue from the first surgery along with the band, so she's got a nice, clean sleeve. Her procedure took a little longer (2 hours intead of 1), but she's very happy!

My experience with Dr. Almanza and the Jeruselem Clinic was GREAT (with the exception of one nurse). The facility was clean and the staff was professional. I am a nurse, and I felt 100% at ease with the entire experience.

[MsMook1979]

Great! Thx Charity! I am leaning more towards Dr. Almanza more for various reasons.

[airbabes]

I am seeing a bariatrics doctor in Dallas Tx. I am having my band removed and sleeved at the same time.. There is no way I would have one surgery and then go back for another. They are right there and they can do both at the same time..Surgery is not pleasant not to mention costly.. Recovery is not pleasant.. I have heard great things about Mexico but I am insurance approved and can do this in my area.. when you read the posts there seems to be more surgeries in Mexico, as long as you research your options and seek out others and there success stories you should be fine.