The topic of health care continues to be a divisive subject in America. The harsh rhetoric popular with some politicians ignores the fact that high-quality weight-loss surgery in the United States is beyond the financial reach of many citizens, even those with medical insurance. Those afflicted with life-threatening weight gain often benefit greatly from these procedures, causing a growing number to select 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.

Left untreated, this condition results in heart problems, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, type-2 diabetes, gastroespohageal reflux, and other symptoms. Surgical weight loss procedures restrict the amount of food that can be eaten comfortably by restructuring the digestive tract, either temporarily or permanently. Some methods temporarily reduce stomach size using elastic bands, while others remove portions of the intestine to reduce absorption.

Many people today carry extra weight, but do not reach a body mass index of 40, which corresponds to extreme obesity. Those who do fit the parameters still may not be good candidates for surgery. Medical screening requires people to make verifiable changes in their daily habits, including eating right and exercising daily, before approval. Reaching a desired weight is a long process, and an operation does not guarantee success.

Besides the usual risks of undergoing invasive procedures involving anesthesia, there are common side effects to be considered. Food may move too rapidly into the intestine, resulting in painful cramping and debilitating nausea. When severe, additional procedures may be needed, further increasing overall costs. Because of these possible additional expenses, insurance providers commonly reject coverage.

Patients facing refusal may choose to travel south of the United States border, where costs for the initial surgery are about half as much. People considering this option must determine whether saving money trumps having a local physician. Pre-surgical testing is required, and may have to be completed prior to leaving. Travel must be coordinated, and more than one trip may be necessary.

When choosing a surgeon a background check should be completed, and patients must decide whether to return to Mexico for required post-surgical checkups, or to seek that treatment at home. Follow-up care is always important, but becomes especially necessary when overall levels of health and nutrition must be closely monitored. Devices implanted for lap-band procedures must meet U. S. Standards, or will not be qualify for treatment.

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.