Hi all! About to have my final appointment with the doctor before setting the surgery date. I talked to the pt advocate this morning about what it would cost to have a revision (in case something happened) or to clear up an infection (like a port infection). She said it would be about $6000 for the surgeon! I also asked if I would have to pay up front (I am self pay) before anything was done. She said that I would most likely have to pay up front.

So, here are my questions: 1) If I get an infection, isn't it wrong that I have to pay up front before they will fix it?, 2) What does it typically cost someone to have a revision?, 3) If you have a gastric sleeve instead, will your insurance cover any costs associated with problems after it?, 4) so if I end up needing to get re-banded - do I have to pay another huge chunk of money up front to do it?!?!

Also, right as I was getting ready to hang up the phone, she went over what my out-of-pocket costs for the band were. She mentioned all the doctors fees, facility fees etc, but then said that it would cover post care for up to three months. Originally, I was told it was a year! Was I hallucinating?!?! Is 3 months normal?

I was feeling so much better about my decision, now I'm back to wondering what the heck I am doing!

HELP!:frown:

My original surgery was covered by insurance but about 5 months out my port became infected and had to come out. I was told that I would have to wait to have a new port put in - which meant I risked not being covered by insurance. So I asked what it would cost - $1,000. The doctor said that port replacements are much faster, easier to do. He said he would be in there 15 mins and I swear he was. Thankfully was still covered so it mattered less.

I find it had to believe that any medical professional would not treat you for an infected port because you didnt pay upfront. You might have to pay upfront to have it put back in, but you can die from an untreated infection.

As far as normal - I have seen people on here fills covered for 3 months - some for 6 and some for a year. Much like the pre op and post op diet - most of it is set by your doctor and not any governing standards body.

I would discuss you concerns with the doc, and ask him how he has dealt with follow up issues with other self pays.

The pre op testing, and hurdles are the worst part - don't let it side track you, unless you are really looking for an out. The benefits are so worth it!