Hi Stacy,
I did a lot of research before being banded on May 26, 2006 by Dr. Ariel Ortiz in Tijuana, Mexico. Yes, the cost was much less, however I was totally self-pay and could not afford the cost here in the U.S. Dr. Ortiz, Dr. Martinez and the entire staff were Wonderful! I would recommend them to anyone who was seriously considering LB surgery. Just be sure this is what you want to do. The more research I did on the Lap Band, the more I knew it would be right for me - I did not want the Gastric Bypass as I didn't feel I could live with the "discomforts & restrictions, which are definitely different from the Lap Band.
I have my first fill scheduled for July 7th and am looking forward to it.
Good Luck to you in your decision.
Linda M
