Question about LAP-BAND® cost?

Rhonda39 · 12-04-2007, 11:52 PM

Hello everyone,

I've been going back and forth with my insurance company about having
the band done. They have agreed to do it, but my insurance changed this
month. The new insurance doesn't cover this procedure. I was wondering
if anyone could give me an estimate on how much this procedure was in
Mexico? I'm trying to save some money not, but it's very difficult being
a single mom.

Thank you for any information that you can provide.

Rhonda

**Kat817** · 12-05-2007, 12:32 AM

I was banded a year and a half ago in Mexicali MX by Dr. Alberto Aceves, and I paid $7,740.00. That was all inclusive, the only thing extra I paid was for 1/2 of my air fare, they paid the other half. It covered my surgeon, the hospital stay, anesthesia, all labs done prior to surgery, EKG, X ray. My motel the night before, and transportation to and from San Diego.
They also helped me to arrange more local aftercare. Although that price does include fills---I have used the Dr. they set me up with here, simply for convenience.

I loved the Dr. and the staff. Was a great experience, would do it again in a heartbeat! I have recommended him to several local people who have gone on to be banded.

Good Luck in your research, I know how frustrating fighting the insurance battle can be!

Kat

WASaBubbleButt · 12-05-2007, 01:06 AM

I was also banded by Dr. Aceves in Mexicali. It was $7800, I paid my own airfare.

Wouldn't change a thing.

Typically banding is about $8K give or take $500 from the better surgeons. Some are cheaper, but you get what you pay for.

DonHoll1 · 12-05-2007, 04:47 AM

I paid 8000 in Mexico and that was with the airfare. Everything included. Was very happy with the doctor. Donna

LadyTrisha · 12-05-2007, 01:13 PM

Hi,
My insurance company won't pay for the LAP-BAND® either so I know its a HUGE step to take when you're paying that bill yourself.

My friend and I are going to Dr. Aceves at the end of this month - $7800 for each of us. There's no way, even with our equity line, I could pay out over $16,000 that it is here.

Good luck,

BansterNYC · 12-05-2007, 01:22 PM

$8500 for Dr. Ortiz in Mexico.
ObesityControlCenter.com

Lynn_Marie · 12-05-2007, 01:25 PM

I paid $7,700 and my airfare to Monterey, Mexico to have surgery done by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez. There were four of us who went down together and had LAP-BAND® surgery, so that price reflects a small discount.
:)

Rhonda39 · 12-05-2007, 09:24 PM

Thank you all so much! This really helps with the decision factor. I'm praying it all works out.

Thank you once again!

Rhonda

AlysonRR · 12-06-2007, 12:50 AM

One thing I considered was whether insurance would cover any subsequent treatment/surgery if there were complications, now or later. I investigated, and they will not pay for any treatment of band-related complications. The daughter of an acquaintance of mine had to have her self-pay band removed due to erosion and infection and she ended up with over $100K of debt.

The surgeon I chose costs more for self-pay ($17K) than others I've seen, particularly Mexican surgeons. But he is local to me, the cost includes all fills, AND he will cover the costs of any complications. That, to me, was worth the extra money.

Good luck making your decision -
Alyson

cherylw · 12-06-2007, 12:57 AM

I had mine done Nov 14, 2007 in the states... Aurora, CO. Dr Kirshenbaum was absolutey wonderful, as well as his staff, the beautiful hospital (parker) and their staff. The total cost was $9,950 + air/hotel. I was afraid to go out of the country as I don't know what laws govern them, so the thousand or two I paid over Mexico was worth the piece of mind for me.

Pierre_340 · 12-06-2007, 01:11 AM

well it cost me 5000$, that just to pay for the band. My insurance cover's it so really..it didn't cost a penny..lol but im in canada..I know in the state's it's not the same.

Freebird · 12-06-2007, 01:16 AM

I have been approved for surgery and the hospital called me today to let me know that my co-pay is due when I sign in at the hospital the day of the surgery. She said "the cost for the hospital alone, not the doctors or anesthesiologist is $25,000.00. The doctors bills will come separately." Are we being ripped off or what??????????

Thank goodness for insurance. My co-pay is $100.00.