Hi all,

I am in the research stage and am seriously considering lap band but I have a few questions:

1. I have limited time off from work and would like to have the surgery discreetly. I was informed that I could potentially have the surgery on Friday and return to work the following Tuesday. Is that possible?

2. What are the average costs? I've seen it vary a bit.

3. Can I qualify if my BMI is 37? I don't have diabetes, high cholesterol etc. (I do tend to throw out my back often. Would that help me qualify?)

4. Is the surgery tax deductible?

Thanks!

Kins

Kins:

I can't speak for everyone. But concerning a couple of your questions,

1. You could possibly return to work like you said (I did) but you should at least let your supervisor know what you are planning to do because it is likely you won't be 100% for a few days. If you're sensitive you could just say you are having a minor surgery of a personal nature. Everyone responds to surgery differently so it is difficult to guess.

2. Mine cost $15k in Oklahoma

3. I was a self-pay so I'm not sure about the insurance issues.

4. I do not believe the surgery is tax deductible. However, if you have a generous close relative, they can "gift" you the surgery with no tax consequences. Check with your tax advisor concerning this procedure or visit irs.gov and search for gift or inheritance taxes.

Hope this helps.

1. I have limited time off from work and would like to have the surgery discreetly. I was informed that I could potentially have the surgery on Friday and return to work the following Tuesday. Is that possible?

YES, it is possible

2. What are the average costs? I've seen it vary a bit.

Hmmm...average would be a low of 7k and a high of 20k...so that would be an average of 13k.

3. Can I qualify if my BMI is 37? I don't have diabetes, high cholesterol etc. (I do tend to throw out my back often. Would that help me qualify?)

Yes, you qualify w/ a BMI of 37. If you want someone else to pay for it, you will have to see what they require such as insurance company.

4. Is the surgery tax deductible?

Definitely! Just follow the guidelines from the IRS.

Good luck!

1. I have limited time off from work and would like to have the surgery discreetly. I was informed that I could potentially have the surgery on Friday and return to work the following Tuesday. Is that possible?

Had my surgery on THursday (Friday and saturday official day off) sunday was back to work

2. What are the average costs? I've seen it vary a bit.

Paid 6 K (live in the gulf)

3. Can I qualify if my BMI is 37? I don't have diabetes, high cholesterol etc. (I do tend to throw out my back often. Would that help me qualify?)

Yup you can!

4. Is the surgery tax deductible?

I am Not in the states