chaligal

I am in the process of talking to doctors, etc. I have chose a doctor, and applied for financing. The doctor explained to me that 85% of overweight people who have this surgery have a hernia, and dont even know it. So, they suggested that I finance an extra $1500, just in case I need the repair. If not needed, then I can just get the money back. Maybe I am suspicious by nature, but couldnt the doctor just say I had a hernia? Who is there to keep them honest? How do I know I have one if there are no symptoms for most? Does this sound weird to anyone else? I love the doc I have chosen...done massive research...looked him up w/ the TX med board...looked him up on Obesityhelp.com...and, he only charges $9800 for the LapBand, ($11300 if I need the hernia repair, which is still around 2Grand less than almost every other doctor I have researched.) After reading this forum, it seems the hernia is common. My problem is, how do you know the doctor is not just saying you have one, and keeping the extra money? I mentioned to my doctor that no other docs had mentioned this. He said thats how they get you. They dont mention it prior, say they realized you have the hernia while in surgery, and HAVE to repair it or not do the lapband, and then stick you w/ the bill after all is said and done. My doc says he is upfront will all his patients-that this is a real possibility, and to be prepared for the fee and include it w/ the loan so you wont end up with a huge bill after surgery you were not expecting. Any thoughts on this? Sound legit? :cool2: