One of the latest trends in weight loss surgery seems to be going abroad to save money. Mexico, for example, appears to be a popular destination for surgery with the LAP-BAND® System. We blogged about LAP-BAND surgery in Mexico previously, so I won’t belabor that same point. I only offer the following advice.
Regardless of where you decide to go for bariatric weight-loss surgery (LAP-BAND or otherwise), you should put the skill and experience of the surgeon above the cost of the procedure. I mean seriously, let’s keep our priorities straight here. This is you health and well-being we are talking about. Do you really want to bargain shop with those things on the line?
Case in point, I stumbled across a website today (that prompted this blog post) that was using price positioning techniques you’d recognize from a used car commercial. It proclaimed in big bold letters: “Lap Band Surgery … Starting at $7,250!” Of course, to obtain information from this website you have to agree to a legal form that says you will hold the owner harmless in the event of surgery problems. Really? Just to request info? Now that’s scary.
I think you see my point. I do not recommend for or against weight loss surgery. I do not recommend the U.S. over Mexico or vice-versa. We are neutral here, as you know. I’m simply recommending that you use common sense and good judgment when choosing a bariatric surgery provider, and that you put experience over price. After all, this isn’t a Hyundai you’re buying.
Related article: Going Abroad for Bariatric Surgery