LapBand Removal

Question
I had a LapBand installed in June 2007 and have lost 50 pounds.  I have been miserable since December 2007 with consistent stomach issues.  I can only eat limited foods, have attempted fills only to have them taken out shortly there after, gone to the Dr 3 times to have fluid removed due to excruciating pain and now have had a metallic taste in my mouth for 3 weeks.  

I paid for the surgery out of my pocket, $16,500.00 and my Dr has said that in order to remove the band, it will cost me another $16,500.00.  Is it to be expected that I will pay for the removal when I am experiencing such pain?

Answer
Nicole,
I'm sorry to hear about your difficult situation.

There is no set pattern for how a surgeon handles the financial side of subsequent surgery when a patient paid out of pocket at the beginning.  There is some cost (facility, anesthesiologist) that your surgeon has no control over.  Even so, if it is straight Band removal then it seems a bit much to pay the same rate.

Best of luck,
Dr JP

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