I wanted to share some useful information:

I flew to Thailand 2 months ago to get a hip replacement. My last trip to Thailand was a long time ago. People on this site helped me with vital travel tips, because by the time time I arrived, I was in a WHEELCHAIR - (yes my condition got exponentially worse). I only knew one quick way to get started: I checked into a $30 hotel (The Palace), near Bumgrungrad, and went down there. After a visit I learned the surgery was $20,000+ USD. I knew I was simply reconnoitering and getting information. He told me to go to his alma mater, Ramathipbodi Hospital, for a better deal. It took me about 10 days to get things lined up (major surgery) at Ramathibodi: a lot of waiting, tests, etc. No other Fahrangs AT ALL - fully Thai. It wasn't so bad. I adapt and learn.

The doctor told me I had to check in WITH A FRIEND (who had to say in my room for the whole stay) or it was not possible. Since I wasn't in Thailand to recreate, and I was damn-near crippled, it looked like an Apollo 13 moment: complete failure. I went down to a legitimate massage place on Sukhumvit Road and within two days, I had arranged to have a nice woman (52 years old) - agree to help me. The doctor at Ramathipodi had already told me I needed to stay in Thailand 3 months. So first trip was to Immigration. My friend totally helped me, and major surgery is a sure-bet extended visa. After about 10 days of hospital visits, everything worked out. I was was 'fast-tracked' at Ramathipbodi Premium because I am an American and can affort $200/day hospital stay for 3 DAYS... I never saw one foreigner in over 2 weeks, weird. Surgury/stay/surgeons/prosthesis/care was 10K USD... email with questions.

I have a life-lone friend in Thailand now, and maybe could be advice to you if you need information.

Thank you everyone -

Caleb - USA