In 21st century America, health care has become a divisive topic affecting nearly every citizen. The rhetoric of politicians obscures the reality that even the best medical care in the world may be too costly for those who need it the most. People suffering from extreme obesity may benefit from surgical procedures that are not covered by insurance, influencing some to choose bariatric surgery in Mexico.
When a strictly controlled diet and exercise regimen do not result in weight loss, the problem can become a threat to life. Many people diagnosed with clinical obesity have tried nearly every diet and exercise plan without good results, and strong motivations or rewards prove ineffective. Because modern culture places a premium on being thin, obese people suffer psychologically as well as physically.
The physical problems associated with extreme overweight include type-2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and associated cardiac problems, and even gastroesophageal reflux. Most surgical procedures to encourage weight loss are specifically designed to restrict the digestive tract. Some reduce stomach size using elastic bands, while others remove a portion of the lower tract to block absorption of calories.
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.
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.
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.
When a strictly controlled diet and exercise regimen do not result in weight loss, the problem can become a threat to life. Many people diagnosed with clinical obesity have tried nearly every diet and exercise plan without good results, and strong motivations or rewards prove ineffective. Because modern culture places a premium on being thin, obese people suffer psychologically as well as physically.
The physical problems associated with extreme overweight include type-2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and associated cardiac problems, and even gastroesophageal reflux. Most surgical procedures to encourage weight loss are specifically designed to restrict the digestive tract. Some reduce stomach size using elastic bands, while others remove a portion of the lower tract to block absorption of calories.
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.
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.
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.
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