Why People Choose Bariatric Surgery In Mexico

By Paulette Mason


Health care has become one of the most controversial and divisive political topics in America. Politicians spout inflammatory rhetoric, ignoring the fact that those needing high-quality medical procedures the most may not be able to afford them, even with insurance. Carriers are reluctant to cover weight-loss procedures for severely obese individuals, resulting in many choosing bariatric surgery in Mexico.

A weight-loss procedure is indicated when excess pounds cannot be dropped by a strict diet regimen and exercise, and becomes life-threatening. For those diagnosed as clinically obese, normal weight loss methods simply have not worked, no matter how great the motivation or reward. In a culture obsessed by physical appearance, these individuals pay the price both physically and psychologically.

Clinical obesity can cause dangerously high blood pressure, type-2 diabetes, heart problems, sleep apnea, and gastroesophageal reflux. Weight loss operations are designed to radically alter the digestive system, restricting the amount of food that can comfortably be eaten and absorbed. Some are designed to restrict the size of the stomach, while more invasive methods remove parts of the digestive tract to block caloric absorption.

The majority of people in the United States today carry excess poundage, but never attain a body mass index registering 40, considered clinically obese. Those falling into that category may still not be good prospects for surgery. Even people with medical coverage are required to follow a verifiable diet and exercise program prior to approval. The process can take months, and after making that effort success is not a guaranteed result.

In addition to standard surgical warnings for any invasive procedure, these surgeries also carry the risk of post-operative digestive trauma. Ingested food may pass too rapidly into the lower intestine, resulting in nausea, painful cramping, and other related symptoms. In severe cases, further corrective measures may be necessary, increasing total costs. Because these and related complications are not uncommon, many insurers consistently deny coverage.

Faced with paying the entire amount personally, many people choose less expensive options in Mexico, where similar procedures cost half as much, but are still a significant amount. Those seriously considering taking this course of action must decide whether savings matter more than local care. Pre-surgical testing is a requirement, and may need to be completed prior to leaving. More than one trip may be necessary.

Patients should perform a thorough background check on the prospective surgeon, and must also decide whether to seek post-operative care at home. Follow-up medical care is especially crucial after weight-loss procedures in order to maintain reasonable nutrition and health levels during the lengthy period of weigh loss. Any installed band must meet United States standards, or will not be treated.

Those seriously considering this course of treatment should speak with current providers before making a final decision. There are hundreds of positive accounts, but just as many anecdotal stories regarding serious, unanticipated complications occurring far from home. While cost is important, it should not be the only consideration, and prospective patients should thoroughly understand the potential physical and financial risks.




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