I had my surgery done here in the United States in New England by a Center of Excellence Hospital, one of the best around. This is the facility that patients who have gone elsewhere and are now having complications get sent.

Between pre-op visits, nutrition visits, cardiologist and psych appointments as well as a pre-op endoscopy, here are the costs:

Total billed by all medical agencies: $43,200

Total covered by insurance company: $23,000

Personal out of pocket costs: $9,500

I have a high-deductible health plan, requiring me to pay full costs out of pocket until $4500 is reached.

Interestingly, the cost of the surgery itself including surgeon, anesthesia and room stay for 2 days was right about $21,000. The surgeon himself billed $5000 but after insurance discount only was paid about $2200. Wow.

Overall, very pleased with my choice of surgeons and ultimately will not regret the money spent one little bit.

The best thing is that you are happy! We all make choices the best we can and I'm happy for you!