Another Newby! Self Payer

ParaGirl · July 16, 2007

Hi, I am from Georgia and have struggled for so many years with overweight. I have tried everything more than twice to lose it!

Today is my consult with Dr. Bagnato of Albany, Georgia. I could lose 100 pounds and be at a comfy weight. My problem is that I have no medical conditions related to being fat so I am going to be self-pay for this at the tune of $17,400. It is a lot of money, but my hubby and I discussed it and it is the choice we have made.

My husband is a wonderful person, I know my weight bothers him, but he has never tried to shame me over it. I have gained approx. 50 pounds since we met 4 1/2 years ago.

I would invite anyone to tell me their experiences, any advice, just anything they can share to let me know what to expect from this surgery.

Thanks.

SElaine · July 16, 2007

Hi Paragirl! Welcome to LBT!

I, too, am a self-pay bander. My insurance doesn't cover any weight related procedures. Frustrating, isn't it?

I was banded on May 21 of this year. It has been less than two months and I am feeling great. I am down 50 pounds from what I weighed in at on my first appt. I would do it again in a heartbeat. It's not easy, but seeing the progress I've made this far keeps me motivated.

Good luck to you! I hope all goes well for you today!

beachgirl · July 16, 2007

Good luck to you. It will be worth every penny. I too was self pay.

I pay Anthem BC/BS 700.00 per month for insurance for hubby and me and they wouldn[t pay a dime. I went to Mexico and had the most world reknown surgeon who'd done over 7000 and the biggest, nicest hospital and wonderful aftercare and wouldn't change a thing. You will be so proud you did this. I was only out 8500.00 but it's still the best thing I ever did for myself. I will be thinking about you and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

mistyone · July 16, 2007

Many of us self payers here have gone to Mexico for surgery. As long as you do your homework, you can find a really good doctor there and have surgery at less than half that price.

little shirl · July 17, 2007

I had a great experince in Mexicali Mexico, Dr Aceves checked on me and three others (who was banded the same day) twice a day after the surgrey, everyone spoked English, and the hospital was very clean. You should check him out. I will be going back for my fills. Before the surgery they e-mail me viedos to watch. and I could e-mail questions before and after and they answer me. Great customer service.

Little Shirl

juliegeraci · July 17, 2007

Welcome to lapband talk forum. I love being banded. My weight loss is just average at 50 lbs this year. The band is simply a tool. Don't expect rapid weight loss. Some bandsters lose really fast but you may be average like me. Just follow the rules, exercise and enjoy being banded.

toniteach · July 17, 2007

I could have written your post, only I've gained 100 pounds since meeting my husband 8 years ago. :confused: We decided to finance the surgery here in the US and the aftercare is included (free fills). I know it's a hard decision....hard to let go of all that money, but it will be worth it to "have your life back!"

Good luck,

Toni