FSA and self pay -- need advice

I'm wondering if something would be possible ....

I'd like to do an initial self-pay via 3rd party financing when I get surgery in 2009.

Then...I am wondering if it would be possible in 2010, after I have set aside my FSA $ and receive my debit card in Januray, to then use that money to pay down the principal on the original financing for my surgery this year.

Whew! Has anyone else researched or had any experience with this?

Thanks!

Normally the way FSA's work is that you enroll in a plan....let's say for the 2010 plan.  You will only be reimbursed for claimsed INCURRED in that plan year.  So if you have your surgery in 2009 and have not yet entrolled in an FSA you will not be able to turn in those claims towards the 2010 plan....at least that is how my employer's FSA works.

Thanks, yes, that makes sense. Was just hopeful!

That's how mine works too.  It will not allow me to "roll over" FSA $ from one year to the next.  You use 'em or you lose 'em.