Question:
Cosmetic Surgery Financing

I am ready for some plastic surgery on my upper arms. I found a doctor, but he does not accept credit cards. So financing options such as CareCredit are not acceptable forms of payment. I need a check, preferably a check that I can deposit into my own account and then pay cash for the procedure. I have a good credit score but applying makes me nervous because if I am not satisfied with the interest rate (preferably 0% for at least 18 months) well then I'm going to continue my search, but I don't want to open a bunch of credit card accounts or have my credit score checked multiple times... Can anyone help?!?    — LauraMarie (posted on August 7, 2010)

August 10, 2010
Having your credit score looked at won't affect your credit. However, applying for a lot credit cards will. So, go to your bank and see what they offer or take some money out of your 401K if you have one. They have plans were you can take money out to pay medical bills (hardship plan, they call it) , which this would be a medical bill. It has to be for the exact amount, which it would be. You will have to pay fees for it, but at least you don't run up credit card amounts. The money can then be taken out of your paycheck and paid over some time. The percentage rate might not be what you expect but at least you would be able to get surgery. Keep in mind also, you can't take out your whole 401k, they allow for me, as example I am able to take out half of what I have in mine. Hope this gives you some ideas as to what you can do.
   — Kristy

August 15, 2010
As you are checking, look at different surgeons, several surgeons don't offer financing but they work with financial groups that finance only medical procedures... interest rates are usually low. You might even talk with your bariatrics surgeon's office... they might know of a group that finances medical procedures. Best of luck.
   — Kathleen O.