trying to have band removed

[ilovemypuppieslots 0]

I am wanting my band removed and I am having a hard time finding a

doctor that will do a band removal. I live near kansas city. also any ideas

on the cost?? please help. I have had the band since Nov 2004 and it was great in the beginning but about a year in, it just causes me to get sick if I eat something wrong, but does not help with the weight any longer... I want it out...

Edited September 28, 2008 by ilovemypuppieslots

[losingjusme 12]

sorry you're having issues, have you contacted your original surgeon?

[Nanook 2]

Sorry not familiar with your area but I'm having mine out this Friday with the same surgeon and the same insurance and it took no time at all to get approved. Hope things go as smoothly for you, Nancy.:biggrin:

[Daisalana 33]

For cost, I've seen from $1,500-$4,000 in posts.

I would call your original surgeon, if they can't do it (I don't see why not though), maybe they can refer you. Or ask your GP if they know of a band doctor to refer you to.

[ilovemypuppieslots 0]

I had mine done in Mexico and I would rather stay here and have it done, but I will go back if I have to...

sorry you're having issues, have you contacted your original surgeon?

[ilovemypuppieslots 0]

thank you, that helps knowing what it could cost.... i just hope it is simalar here in kansas city

[ilovemypuppieslots 0]

now a doctor here says he can do the remaoval surgery. but his fee alone is $5300 not including the clinic fee.. wow what do I do, I could buy a car for that...

[Daisalana 33]

Call some more places? :thumbup: Call cities around you, that are within driving. If it saves a few thousand, it's worth a couple of hours.

[BandedWrong 0]

I am having my band removed this week because of all kinds of problems I have had with it. I was scared to go back to my original surgeon but I was told by several different types of doctors that MOST surgeons are very reluctant to touch the work of another surgeon, especially if you have had problems. Your best bet is to go back to the original surgeon even if you have to travel to do it. If you haven't been real negative with him, (like yelling, screaming blaming, threatening) he should give you no problem removing it. I am also told that most insurance companies will cover band removal with no problem. This may not be what you want to hear, but I do hope it helps. May God guide you in the right direction. - Blessings!

[Nanook 2]

With hospital costs and surgeon fees my costs were closer to $10,000. But if you're self pay possibly you could get the costs lowered. Good luck Nancy.

[strikeuptheband 16]

Not sure of the cost, but my doc is Dr Pitt in Columbia, just a few hours away for you. Sorry it isn't working for you. I was really impressed with him and Boone County Hospital. The nurse coordinator's name is Sylvia. She could probably give you some information if you call her. See my sig below... and good luck.