If you cash pay the surgery can you still get the irs deduction if you have the sleeve done outside the u.s.??

I do not know that answer. The government will give you a tax break on any out of pocket medical bills. They do not ask where it was at. You need to keep all of your expenses. They do require proof of surgery.

It appears that you can, although your tax professional would be able to confirm. You also would be able to include expenses associated with travel for the surgery. You can look at the IRS website, publication 502 outlines all if this. I do know that 2013 brought a change that raises the threshold before you can claim...used to be for out-of-pocket expenses in excess of 7.5% of your AGI, now it is 10%.

I was a cash pay (though stateside) and am excitedly collecting receipts for all of my expenses this year to maximize my deduction.

what are you claiming for stateside if you don't mind me asking?

what are you claiming for stateside if you don't mind me asking?

I'm happy to answer, but not sure I understand what you are asking...ate you asking how much my surgery was as a cash pay?

as in the cost of the surgery and what other expenses?

My surgeon's "all-inclusive" package was $18,500 and included everything related to surgery except pre-op blood work and upper GI...think those cost me $200 total. I also had a hiatal hernia repaired during surgery that wasn't covered in sleeve package, and that cost $500

I hope you get a lot back

I hope you get a lot back

Me too! Would be such a nice change at tax time :-)