self pay

Looking for anyone that had to self pay Estimated cost, any complications, etc. Thanks

After my insurance said NO --- I did self pay.  I live in the Charlotte area, the hospital cost was $17,000 the surgeron was $8,400 with the bits here and there all in all around $ 30,000 . I personally have no regrets it is like buying a new car instead I have a new me, and I would not change it for nothing.  I had a WONDERFUL skilled doctor ( Melkonian ) had no complications at all , recovery was perfect. I know not everyone has as easy time as I did but if you follow directions you have a good chance with all the knowledge the surgerons have today with gastric by pass. Good Luck  signed: Poor as a Church Mouse BUT wearing a size 10 LOL

Thanks for your reply. I have been denied twice so I am looking at paying for it myself. Hearing from you has made me feel a lot better. Thanks.

Suzy- I choose LapBand before BCBS was approving it and I was on the cusp with my BMI and no co-morbids. I self paid- used Dr Bauman in Concord and would do it again in a skinny minute !!! BEST money I ever spent! I think total mine ran about $16,000 for Dr Bauman, the hospital and anesthia folks. I have had NO PROBLEMS and I am 8 months post op today and 64 lbs lighter. I feel incredible!!! It is worth doing- it has probably added 20 yrs to my life! I wish I had done it 5 yrs ago. Good luck and please stay in touch! Sheila

Suz, I am down over 170 pounds since March 06 . There are some things good about self pay, one is the surgery ( well my RNY ) was 100 percent tax deductable, every thing medical was used for the year, since I had such a large amount for my by pass I was able to add ALL my medical expensives in like normal doctor visits, medications, even mileage was allowed, so keep close track of all your out of pocket cost make copies of all your checks and keep a list on your computer of everything you do for the surgery. ALSO when you are self you do not have to do all the hoop jumping the insurance makes you do . Now not say ing I would not have prefered to have it paid for BUT you gotta look on the bright side of everything.  I was told IF there had been complications most insurances would pay for stepped up care and really I worried myself sick over having a problem knowing IF something went wrong I would be in trouble BUT THANK THE LORD all was well. If I may suggest , learn all you can about Gastric By pass ( for me RNY was the best choice ) find a wonderful doctor tell him/her all about yourself and be honest do what you are told to do, buy Weight Loss For Dummies book...  I don't know where you live but, I would highly recommend Melkonian or Lowe at Carolina Surgical , also Dr Baucom I have heard great stuff about.. there are several I have heard good stuff about, these the most. Good Luck, I am always around if you have any questions. Good Luck and GO FOR IT