I have been researching with different doctors in Alabama too. One doctor is Bessemer charges around $13,000. You can have your friend call them and ask for a packet and they will send your friend all the information including pricing based on how much your insurance covers. I have Atena and they only cover 80%. With is doctor I have to pay $800 out of pocket to him. There website is Surgery South L.L.C., Birmingham Alabama - Thoracic, Endocrine, Breast & Abdominal Surgery. Good Luck to your friend.