Possible Self Pay?

I probably will go with Dr Aguilar in Mexico, or with my current surgeon, Dr Richardson. His rate is 22K but I hear employees of our same hospital get a break of 50% if we cash pay (THAT makes it well worth it staying there until the money comes in March)... so I dunno yet. Kat

i wouldn't go to mexico, the other route sounds much better. rhonda

Normally I wouldn't consider mexico either (training quality of staff, cleanness, etc)... but the doc I mentioned above, was trained at a hospital I used to work at in San Diego The down side being that his staff speaks very little English... that worries me... SO if I can get roughly the same cost, and still use my surgeon, I'm THRILLED. Kat

Yes Dr Aguirre trained in Mexico for 14 years and he did my Surgery Jan 25th 2005. I will recommend Him to anyone who is considering having WLS and is self paying. The astrosphere in Mexico is so relaxing and I really enjoyed my days of recovery after surgery. Dr Aguirre's staff speaks very well Engli**** is some of the nurses at the Hospital, however I really had no problems trying to communicate, also I might add that I felt like I got better care there then what I would have gotten here in the US. I am not sure of the cost these days when I had my surgery it was just over $10,000 so I am sure it has gone up a little. Tracy

I'm glad you know the surgeon, because I've seen some folks come back from mexico, and it wasn't pretty// But Im not sure who the surgeon was there.. I also worry about after care.. good luck, we're here for you!!! rhonda

Kat you've got mail. This is the best thing you will ever do for yourself. I am 59 and have lost 56lbs since Nov. 28, 2005. I feel like a new person already. I look forward to meeting you one day. Smiles, Jan ps.I don't know any reason NOT to have surgery. You are more valuable than a car. So, just get a loan for your new ride, your body.

i have to self pay and decided not to go on with it two years ago when I first got interested and found out my insurance never pays. I am now going to have surgery for sure just not sure is RNY or DS. Since I am paying i do have choices. I wish I would have done it two years ago I would be slim and would have done 2 less years damage to my poor knees. I just think of it as buying a car. I;ll drive my old one a few more years. Two years ago i weighed 270 now 350. The group I use in Covington has a cash pay price for RNY $18,500. That is for hospital and everything. Good luck with your decision it is a hard one--I made the wrong decision and am now making the right decision for me.betty

Hi Kat, lurking on the Louisiana board and saw this post. I have to agree, I was self-pay and it was and still is the BEST money I've ever spent....it is absolutely worth every penny. I can't think of any cons right now, I've had no complications and wish I'd of done this 5 years ago. My anniversary is on the 21st, and I'm below my surgeon's goal...what else can I ask for...it's been amazing. Wishing you the best lady....keep the faith, you are in my prayers. Hugs, Dana