Minimally Invasive, Reversible Lap Band Bariatric Surgery Is A Sound Alternative To Gastric Bypass

Riverside, CA - In the US, gastric bypass surgery for weight loss comes with a hefty price tag of between $47,000 and $69,000 - and that doesn't include the physical and emotional toll from complications that often results from this invasive surgery. That's why an increasing number of obese Americans are heading south, and instead opting for laparoscopic Lap Band surgery performed in Mexico.

Just as medical tourism is booming throughout the world, with consumers seeking lower cost - but not lower care - alternatives to US medicine, patients are flocking to Mexico for the USDA approved Lap Band surgery.

"Doctors in Mexico have been performing this non-invasive surgery for years with outstanding results," said Claudette Tapocik, co-author of the book, "Say Goodbye to Obesity" (Trafford Publishing, 2006, ISBN 141207052X, $19.99). "Because the Lap Band is removable, adjustable, and does not permanently alter the anatomy, it provides an option for patients who might not otherwise consider surgery for the treatment of obesity."

Lap Band surgery typically lasts about 45 minutes, includes a shorter hospital stay than that required by gastric bypass surgery, and has no effect on the absorption of nutrients.

"These advantages, combined with the recognized efficacy of the surgery, spurred us to provide consumers with all the information they need to make a sound decision about bariatric surgery," said Tapocik.

"Say Goodbye to Obesity" is written by Tapocik and Marie Alkire, Ph.D., both of whom have had Lap Band surgery. Their experiences form the narrative of the book, which is an easy to read explanation of the weight loss surgery process. "We take a comprehensive look at researching the decision to have weight loss surgery, where to look for information, how to locate a certified bariatric surgeon, how to prepare for the insurance approval or the costs associated with private payment, and what to expect after you have had the surgery," said Tapocik.

SOURCE: Media PR Group