Hello everyone. I have been jumping through hoops since June to have lapband. From the beginning, at the seminar, I really liked the idea of VSG. But my insurance only covers the band or RNY, so VSG was just not an option. My surgeon does VSG, but doesn't accept private pay for it.

So I began doing my homework regarding the band and on 11/17/09 everything was sent to insurance for approval. Today is 12/9 and I haven't heard anything. I'm almost hoping they deny. Because..... on another internet site, there was a message that mentioned that a surgeon was having an "end of year" sale for self pay patients for VSG for $11,999. The cheapest I had found in Iowa was $17,000, but that was 5 hours away. Anyway, I will attend the seminar in Kansas City on 12/21 and if they approve me for VSG, I'll pay for it. KC is 2 hours from home. There will be some more preliminary things I will be required to do (that my Iowa surgeon and insurance didn't require). But I'm willing to do whatever it takes.

Are there many long-term VSGers on here? Anyone else have their surgery in Kansas City?

What about other Iowans?

I'm excited and going to learn as much as I can in a short period of time.

Wanda :biggrin0:

Hi there! I live in Iowa. :biggrin0: (It's SO cold right now!) Just curious, where were you originally planning to have surgery? My surgeon is in Davenport, Dr. Christophersen.

Stay warm!!!

I just wanted to wish you luck on your weight loss journey! That's very exciting that it seems to be coming together for you.

My insurance doesn't cover and WLS... I am going to Mexico!

Hi there! I live in Iowa. :001_smile: (It's SO cold right now!) Just curious, where were you originally planning to have surgery? My surgeon is in Davenport, Dr. Christophersen.

Stay warm!!!

Hi Midwestern girl. I have been going to Des Moines Bariatrics. The $17,000 quote was from Genesis in Davenport. We live in southwest Iowa, so a pretty long drive for numerous appointments. Kansas City is only 2 hours away. Actually, Des Moines is also 2 hours away.

Where do you live?

I just wanted to wish you luck on your weight loss journey! That's very exciting that it seems to be coming together for you.

Thank you DeeDee. You have done great! Congratulations!