I just attended my first seminar in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago, and was told the self-pay cost was $16,500. Yikes!!! Does anyone know of other lap band clinics in the Chicago area, or Northern Illinois area, where the self-pay price is cheaper?

I know it's a lot cheaper in Mexico, but I'm a little leary about going that route. I'd rather stay close to home. Why is it so darn expensive? Do you think the self-pay price will come down as doctors compete more for the business?

Anyway, I'd love to find a doctor here in the Chicago area who's self-pay option is more reasonable. Please let me know if you know of anyone. I'd even go as far as Bloomington IL, Decalb, or even Rockford, if it was a more reasonable price.

Im going with the Lakeshore Laparoscopic Bariatric Center. I am also a self pay patient. The price here is only $14,500 all inclusive plus free fills for a year and $100 after that! It is located at 7200 N. Western Ave. at the corner of Western and Toughy in Chicago! The number is 1877.6.LAPBAND or 773.465.SLIM

I just thought I would let you know, I am from Southern Wisconsin area. I have been fighting with insurance for years and I am finally going to Denver Co to have the lap band surgery with Dr Kirshenbaum. Cost is 9950 and he has all excellant reviews, board certified and jhaco certified surgery center (those were important to me!!) Plane tickets cost around 450 and I will have all my fills locally. I know there is a place down toward you that does fills for only 75.00 which would be excellant but a little too far for me.