[OSSG-MiniGastricBypass] Long distance surgery...

[Guest guest]

> I would be very careful about getting an operation where support is

that far away, as a matter of fact I couldnt even imagine it.... I

want my surgeon as close as possible if I have complications...no

exceptions. I couldnt imagine buying a car in Peru let alone letting

having someone from that far away chop up my innards!

>

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> Markham Lee

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While your point is certainly well taken and understandable I

believe there is another side to health care say in Costa Rica

etc... you cannot beat the price, and honestly I have 1st hand

experience. Had plastic surgery done there with the direction and

expertise of our dear & quite frankly you cannot beat

the 'attention' given by the doctors and caregivers... it was an

amazing experience and I will be going again to 'finish' other

areas.

The main reason I researched so much and made this choice

obviously was the price initally, which is over the top amazingly

unbeatable. In fact while I was there I had much work done on my

teeth with a dentist who was more than knowledgable and the most

gentle than anyone I've ever had in the states. When I walked into

his office I thought I was in a museum - it was quite the latest

technology to say the least. That's not to say there are not

wonderful - more than wonderful I'd go as far to say docs/dentists

here in the states, but the prices have made elective surgery

impossible for most of us working class.

I guess my point here is yes, I could have run into major problems

away from 'home' and been in trouble, however I know more than a few

people who have had major problems in our own country with much dis-

satisfaction with response from a health/care-giver. Unfortunately

some have died that I even know of. I work in a hospital by the

way and I am very very (VERY) aware of the 'stuff' that happens on a

daily basis. Not to throw scary statements here but come on we are

all doing these surgeries by faith and trusting 'someone' to take

care of us. I for one would go back in a heartbeath and will as I've

mentioned. It was a wonderful experience. In fact my ob doc. here

in the states told me last year when I got my annual pap that my

tummy tuck was gorgeous and that he has not seen too many better. It

is healing so beautifully (his words, but I agree 100%). I do not

consider myself only a lucky one in this area.. while I was there I

met so many 'others' from the states here that I've kept in touch

with who are more than pleased and in fact planning on returning for

additional work.

And yes, they are doing a type of mgb (not sure how 'close') it is

as I have not researched that, but, they are doing this for close to

half the price as our price... so I think upping the price and

giving less personal service is (IMHO) a negative for CLOS. Just my

2 cents of course. We have to all go with our 'gut' because in my

many years of life it will not usually lead us astray!

Said all that to say I just think it is a very very personal

choice and should be researched and prayed about in your own heart.

Barbara, 3/25/03 DrR. (THANK YOU DR. R)