LAP-BAND^® Surgery Outside the U.S.

Considering Having the LAP-BAND^® surgery outside the U.S.?

There has been a lot of press recently around “medical tourism,” which is another term for seeking medical care outside of the United States. The common perception is that there are potential cost savings and travel package deals with “medical tourism.” But when you consider the LAP-BAND^® System, it’s important to understand all aspects of the procedure, including the important follow-up, or post-surgical care and support from your surgeon. This is a long-term solution and requires regular follow-ups and adjustments of your LAP-BAND^®, something a doctor in another country will never be able to fulfill effectively.

Important facts that should weigh into your decision about having the LAP-BAND^® System surgery outside the U.S.:

1. The LAP-BAND^® System requires ongoing care and a relationship with your surgeon and their staff after you have your surgery. In fact, in the first year, you should expect to meet with your surgeon every 4-6 weeks for adjustments, support and medical care to monitor other medical conditions you may have prior to surgery. This care and follow up is essential for optimum outcomes and should play an important role in your decision where to have surgery. Many surgeons outside the U.S. may not offer the level of support and required care that you will need in the U.S. following surgery. And traveling outside of the country frequently for post-operative care is not realistic and would be challenging for many Americans.

2. It’s also important to understand your insurance coverage if you have surgery outside of the U.S. Surgery outside the U.S. is typically not covered by insurance. If you do not have insurance coverage and are looking for cash pay alternatives, there may be low-cost financing options available to you for surgery within the U.S.

3. The LAP-BAND^® System is a lifelong commitment. Consider how important near-term cost savings to you may be compared to how important excellent long-term care will be from a qualified U.S. surgeon close to home.

Get Informed

Considering LAP-BAND^® System surgery is a major life decision, so it’s important for you to get informed before you select your surgeon. Here are some other links to helpful information:

• The LAP-BAND^® System is affordable. Know your options, including filing an appeal to your insurance company, receiving a tax credit and low-cost financing options only available for LAP-BAND^® patients.
• Talk to your doctor about LAP-BAND^® System surgery and writing a letter of necessity to your insurance company.
• Learn about what to look for in a surgeon. Only LAP-BAND^® System certified surgeons are approved to perform the LAP-BAND^® System surgery.
• Finding a surgeon in your area is easy. You can search by location or by name.
• Once you have found a surgeon, make sure you get answers to any questions you may have about the LAP-BAND^® System.
• See why more patients and surgeons choose the LAP-BAND^® AP System for adjustable gastric banding surgery.

LAP-BAND AP^® System is Affordable

Why travel outside the U.S. for surgery when you can receive financing here in the U.S.? There are a number of flexible, low-cost financing options available to you. CareCredit^®, a leading patient financing program, has created low-interest payment plans for patients. CareCredit^® offers a variety of payment plans to offer you the flexibility to meet your needs. Talk to your surgeon about the best financing options for you.

LAP-BAND^® System surgery is only one part of your journey to successful weight loss. As a patient you will rely on the support of your surgeon, bariatric support staff, family and friends to help you in your new lifestyle. Having your surgery in the U.S. means you can count on:

• 9 years of U.S. safety and experience with LAP-BAND^® System surgery.
• Post-surgery support based on the LAP-BAND TOTAL CARE^® Program which provides clinical and operational best practices to your surgeon and their team intended to facilitate optimal patient outcomes. The Allergan TOTAL-CARE^® program is offered to LAP-BAND^® surgeons practicing in the U.S.
• Access to exclusive partnerships and nutrition, lifestyle and support tools with My LAP-BAND^® Journey.

By choosing LAP-BAND^® System surgery you are committing to changing your lifestyle, and you’ll need ongoing medical care and support as you progress through your weight loss journey. Having your surgery in the U.S., by certified LAP-BAND^® System surgeons gives you the peace of mind and comfort that you will receive the best possible care as you continue your weight loss journey.