self pay

Hi, im wondering what the normal length of time is between initial visit with surgeon and surgery date is when you are a self pay..and what kind of tests are done before surgery..thanks Nicki

My initial consult was 1/29 and surgery is 5/6. I had an EGD, respiratory clearance, cardiac stress test, and two nutritional classes. This was all followed by a preop appointment at the hospital for lab work and chest X-ray. I also had a preop exam at the surgeon's office. I am now enjoying a 3 week liquid preop diet.  Everything except the cardiac stress test and protein shakes was included in the cost. The stress test was ordered due to family history. I had a mini stress test at the surgeons office but my surgeon wanted me to have clearance by a cardiologist. And, this was called "fast-track."  Good luck!

I met surgeon late oct, egd middle of nov, able to have surgery beginning of dec but I chose to wait until dec 27 th......

can I also ask what the total cost was?

I went to Mexico for my surgery, and could have had it in a couple of weeks if I chose to.  I waited 3 months so I could save some money up for it.

Jane

I remember it being about two months from information session to surgery.  I had to get a clearance from my GP, an EKG, a chest x-ray, and a psych eval.  I also had to attend an educational class.  My VSG was around $18K in 2009 and I financed about half of that with Care Credit.  Paid it off after three years.  Best money I've ever spent.

From the day I walked in his office until the day I hit the operating table was 3 weeks. Total cost was $11,200. 

I think it depends on what your surgeon requires, but generally it is far faster than us insured folks given you likely will not be required to complete a 6 month supervised diet.

I contacted the Center for Surgical Weight Loss at Lake Norman 2/23/14.  I was so impressed with them...even spoke to the doctor on the phone that morning to ask questions....that I went ahead and scheduled my surgery for 5/1/14.  They could have done it sooner...I needed that much time.  I live 7 hours away so I had my nutrition/psych/and review with the nurse by phone over several appointments.  Then I did 2 weeks on Optifast to shrink the liver right before the surgery. Finally, I had the pre-op tests whi*****luded labs, EKG, and Upper GI the morning before the surgery.  I am 5 days post op now and doing fantastic! I am happy to answer any other questions you may have.

Hi, I am a self pay patient and your group is at the top of my short list.  I would love to talk to your privately especially because you like I had to travel...I'm probably 11 hours away. Really would love to talk...I have no idea how to private message you...if you reply here and are willing I'll post my email...Thanks, Elizabeth