StacieM

lol so true. And to think I didn't quite finish law school (only one semester). How is it looking for the LA area for a fill center?

Ok I am getting a little nervous... I am awaiting insurance denial or approval right now, but I did just have left shoulder surgery just a month ago. I am not sure how much more pain I can take though.... so I am hoping that some others can make me feel a little more sure about this pain/problem....

I think (0r fear) my insurance will do the same to me. At first I thought I will do whatever my insurance decides, but I am too scared to have the plumbing rearranged (as you call it). So as we speak I am setting up self pay just in case. I just want to get it done and over with. On with my journey to a healthier me!

Keith... congrats on your decision. I too am just waiting for insurance approval, and actually am supposed to get a call around 1pm today with some information. I am not holding my hopes too high so looking at all my self pay options. Good luck to you and do all your research.

Smat, I would think LA would be "the area" why is it so hard here?

Ok so I am posting to a post a year ago but hoping someone see's this who knows about Dr. Owens. I was looking to his office to do the surgery, but at $17,000 vs $8500 I would rather see Dr. Ortiz (plus he's done so much more). But since he is 10 minutes from me (Dr Owens that is) I would love to see him for fills (after my first one by Dr. Ortiz.) Someone posted that he charges $250 a fill, is that still true and is that under fluro? Has anyone see Dr. Owens? How do you like him? Thanks!

Lab Rat... congrats on getting close to your goal, that's awesome. I only hope I can be as successful. I will check out your doctor.

Thanks Smatyas... I prefer not to cross the border and wait in line...(smiles) I am not even having procedure done until then...

Do you know how much Dr. Paya charges in self pay cases?

So Smat... is there going to be one in Torrance? I live there and would prefer to not worry about traveling far...

Wow she was banded at 72.... thats great! How has she done with the healing? I figure if she can heal I have to right?

YoungNy... I am waiting for insurance to deny or approve my surgery, but right now I am convinced I will do it either way. I just had shoulder surgery 4 weeks ago (today) and am facing knee surgery. Those two surgeries according to my doctor is more dangerous. Neither are reversible and are more complicated that the lap band placement. Now hopefully with the Lap Band and weight loss I won't need the knee surgery. I am only 33 and worry about the long term as well, like you, but know that there will be no long term if my health doesn't change here and fast. And I hate to say this, but sometimes you/we have to do things our family don't agree with. They should still love you no matter what. After it is done and you are healthier they will be happy with your choice... I wish you luck, don't give up the idea, do all of your research, be informed and make an educated decision. My prayers are with you!

I didn't know that there was a connection to TJ with COC... I first looked into them but at $17000 cash I started looking to MX. I would appreciate any information you or anyone else has on this connection. Do you know if they will do fills here for Mx patients? I have the main office for Coastal 10 minutes from me which makes fills much easier... thanks

Question for you.. .I am in the South Bay and looking at Dr. Ortiz as well. What have you decided about fills? Do you know of a doctor around that will do your fills locally?