Had my 1st PS consultation......

OK...I have to ask how in the world you got insurance to pay for your tt. I am terrified to even ask or pursue it because the plastic surgeon I talked with said they seldom see anything covered, even if one has a hernia like I do. All I know is that I am miserable with the hanging skin and infections in my belly button...but I certainly can't afford $17,000 to have a new belly and boobs.

I remember reading on OH - there were some websites and examples of insurance letters ( to try and get it covered) somewhere- could be worth a look...
I've heard that some insurance companies will cover a panniculectomy (sp?) if you can show documentation from your dr of the rashes and infections that the excess skin is causing.
Mine isn't bad enough that I get a rash or anything like that- mine just looks like crap!!!
Holly

Suz- My insurance paid for part of my body lift, too.  I had an infection under there that I had documented for several years, and they deemed it medically necessary to remove to flap of skin and fat on my stomach.  You never know! 

Thanks Everyone for your input -
I am looking in to other Drs. , my next consult is in Oct. ( I'm leaving on another Hong Kong business trip this weekend and will be gone about 10 days.) I can't believe the $$ difference  compared to everyone else. It does include hosp, Dr, and anthes....but still it is high. I'm not in a real hurry either, I would'nt be able to have it done till next year - since I would need to use vacation time for recovery. This way I have time to search it through.
Thanks again -
Marta

Marta- definitely keep looking.  Mine included all three of those things as well.  I double checked to make sure I wasn't off base, and for my arms, breast lift  and augmentation with silcon implants it was $12800 for all services total.