The LapBand surgery is a popular weight loss surgery in the United States. After all, what is not ideal about a reversible surgery that allows for adjustment without going under the knife? For many, the LapBand is the perfect way to lose weight, until they hear about the costs.

So, how can you pay for the LapBand?

Cash. Due to the cost of LapBand surgery, many believe that cash is the best way to pay. Technically speaking it is, but cash payment come in a number of different formats, including debit cards and checks. On average, the LapBand procedure costs $15,000 to $20,000 in the United States. Actual cash is advised against. That is not money you want to be carrying around town.

Check. A check is recommended as payment for the LapBand surgery. All healthcare professionals should accept checks as a method of payment. They are easy to write and provide you with a second receipt for your payment. Due to the convenience of debit cards, many consumers do not carry checkbooks anymore. If that is the case, be sure to bring yours on the day of your surgery.

Debit card. As previously stated, many consumers now use debit cards to access their checking accounts. This is an easy and relatively safe way to pay for the LapBand surgery. First, check with your financial institution. It is not uncommon for banks to impose daily limits on their debit cards, especially those that will be processed as credit. For that reason, speak to your bank and have this limit temporarily lifted ahead of time.

Credit card. If you are unable to come up with the $15,000 to $20,000 that is required to undergo LapBand surgery, you may opt for credit card payment. Many hospitals and surgical centers accept credit cards as payments. Verify that your card is accepted ahead of time. Then, be sure to make your monthly payments on time. With interest and late fees, it is easy for a $15,000 dollar procedure to double in costs.

Payment plan. If you have a solid credit score, your LapBand surgeon may be willing to work with you. They can do so in the form of a payment plan. Unless a dire situation, payment plans are not usually discussed by the surgeon. So, if you need a payment plan, ask. If a payment plan is not available with the surgeon of your choice, take the time to save money or later approach the surgeon with a significant down payment and then inquire about monthly payment plans.

Personal loan. As previously stated, a good credit score is required to get a payment plan directly through a LapBand surgeon. If you have a solid credit rating, inquire about personal loans at your local financial institutions. A stable job and a good credit rating may qualify you for a personal loan. You will be charged interest, but a financial institution may be willing to extend the term of your loan. You may have more time to make repayment than with setting up a payment plan.

When undergoing the LapBand procedure, the above mentioned payment options are your most common options. To reduce the amount you have to pay for surgery:

Examine your insurance coverage. If are covered by health insurance, speak to a company representative. In some instances, LapBand is covered. This is typically in cases where health related medical conditions, such as diabetes, can be eliminated or in cases of morbid obesity. If LapBand is listed as a procedure covered on occasion, but you are still denied, speak to your surgeon. He or she can work with your insurance provider.

Ask about cash discounts. If you are not insured or if your medical insurance does not cover the LapBand surgery, inquire about cash discounts. They are commonly offered by small or independent healthcare centers. Although small in size, the discount can still reduce the cost of weight loss surgery.

Find a LapBand surgeon with affordable rates. As previously stated, the LapBand surgery averages between $15,000 and $20,000 in the United States. This is not an affordable surgery by any means, but you can look for affordable or reduced rates. Of course, you want to pay as little as possible, but remember quality and safety. Choose a Board Certified Surgeon who has experience inserting the LapBand with success.

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Those who suffer from severe or morbid obesity often opt for the LapBand surgery. With surgery, an adjustable gastric band, known as the LapBand, is used to reduce stomach size. This can assist with weight loss. Although deemed a successful and relatively safe way to lose weight, there are risk and complications.

When researching the LapBand system, you will see safety as an advantage. Yes, this is true. With that said, it is important to remember that the LapBand procedure is a surgery. Although no stomach stapling is involved, like with traditional gastric bypass surgeries, there are still risks. All surgical procedures, no matter how large or small, carry some dangers.

Unfortunately, those who suffer from obesity are more likely to experience surgery related complications. This seems like a lose lose situation. You are obese. After all, that is why you are seeking weight loss surgery. It is important to follow all doctor recommendations and choose a quality and certified surgeon. When you do so, your risks of LapBand complications are drastically reduced.

In terms of complications, most occur in the days or weeks following surgery. One complication or side effect of the LapBand system is regurgitation. This is caused by the blockage of food. Luckily, it is easy to avoid. Take small bites, wait before eating a second bite, eat slowly, chew food, and stop eating when full. These steps can reduce the risk of regurgitation; however, it may be due to surgical complications. If regurgitation occurs, no matter what steps you take, speak to your doctor. Your LapBand may be too tight.

Another complication of LapBand surgery is band slippage. Slippage is rare, but it can occur. In most cases, you will notice pain and discomfort. You may even find it difficult to sallow liquids, let alone eat food. As previously stated, slippage of the LapBand is rare, but contact your doctor immediately if you feel it may be an issue. If not treated, complete obstruction can occur.

Acid reflux is another common side effect of the LapBand system. Acid reflux leads to the production and buildup of acid in the stomach. The most common sign is heartburn. Although many individuals experience bouts of heartburn, including those who havent had surgery, acid reflux should not be ignored. It is a sign that your band may need adjusting.

Although not necessarily considered a dangerous complication, no weight loss is a complication of surgery. It has to do with band positioning. It is common for adjustments to be made following surgery. If you are not experiencing the weight loss anticipated by your surgeon, speak to him or her. An adjustment to the LapBand is needed. Luckily, this should not involve surgery. A thin needed and saline is used for LapBand adjustments.

As previously stated, LapBand adjustments are common. For that reason, they are not technically considered a risk or complication. Each patients weight loss needs vary and changes overtime. For that reason, expect to have your band adjusted. Do not fret when it is suggested.

As a recap, all surgical procedures have some form of risk and complication. With that said, you may take comfort in knowing that many studies have shown the LapBand is a relatively safe weight loss surgery. The risk of morality, minor and major complications is lower than with alternatives.

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