I am a self pay in Texas because my insurance does not cover any WLS. My surgeon is Dr. John Mason in Bryan, Texas. Even with selfpay there were tests that I had to clear in order for Dr. Mason to agree to my surgery. They were EKG, chest xray, blood work and psych evaluation. Dr. Mason works out of St. Joseph's Hospital and they do offer a "selfpay" discount. When all said and done with tests, surgery and hospital costs I will be out of pocket approximately $12,000.00. I started this journey back in January and will be having surgery on May 22, which is my choice. Surgery could have been a lot sooner if it would have been more convenient for me to done so.
If anyone in this area is looking for a great surgeon, I highly reccomend Dr. Mason. On me personally he has performed 2 breast biopsies, Double mastectomy (I am a 4 year BC survivor, woohoo!) and gallbladder removal. All of which were without incident and I breezed through with flying colors and believe that it was because of his excellent surgical skills and passion for his patients.