Stressing about paying for surgery!!

So, I am a self-payer.  My surgery is set for July 9th with Dr. Washington in SC.  Great deal $8K all inclusive.  I feel that having this surgery is my last hope.  But, I am a single mom of a wonderful 6 yo and the non-profit I work for just  perm laid off 25 people.  My job is funded through a grant, so my position is safe until June 2013, and then I lose my job.

With many of my friends getting laid off, the cold hard truth hit me hard yesterday.  In about a year, I will be unemployed.  Am I crazy to be spending $8K during a time like this????  My plan is to pay half on cc and pay the other cash.  But, I am sooooo afraid now!!!  I should be hoarding all of my cash.  

I am really afraid of the future.   

I'm in the same boat but have to keep telling myself the investment is worth it for me and my family.  Where is Dr Washington located, I'm in SC and right now looking at Dr Hughes up in Lexington but it's $20,000 and I'm self pay.

Dr. Washington is located in Concord, SC and it was a special that I got in on.  I heard it's over now, but you could def call. 843-347-3900

I too was a self pay.  I did a lot of research before I decided no which surgeon to go with.  I actually went to Mexico to Dr. Alvarez and I had a great experience at half the cost in the US.  I know there are horror stories about going to Mexico but is is safe and the doctor is very, very good.  I would highly recommend him and his staff over any doctor here in the US for there treatment and bedside manor.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

 I am a self-payer as well.  I think you are the only one who can answer your question.  Questions you should ask yourself.  How is the job market in my area?  Should I start looking for a new job now?  After surgery?  Will I be able to find a job before next June 2013?  Just in case, is there anyone I can borrow money from in case of an emergency?  

Personally, I would pay the $4,000 out of pocket.  I believe you will have such new look on life that it will be easier to change jobs, look for a job or even move to a new area where there are jobs.  

Ultimately you have to decide what is the best for you and your family.

i don't know if this will be any consolation to you but i think you can write it off on your tax return under itemized deductions as medical expense.  AND you will save a lot of money on food.  I estimate that the VSG that i paid 7,000 for will pay for itself in 5 years based on the money i save from eating a lot less.

I was a self-pay as well, and spent a little under $10,000 for surgery and airfare to have mine.. and I had quit my job a few months prior! So... it was a little freaky, but my husband's job covers the basics- and we lived cheap to start with. We both came to the conclusion that it was the best thing to do to get surgery now hands down, period. Not only for my health, for future job prospects, everything. So, see it also as an investment in your future marketability, as it really is, as much as we'd love to say we are judged on our skills, we are most definitely judged on our appearance too.

Yes, you can deduct medical expenses- but only those that exceed 7.5% of your AGI. We hit that this year (keep ALL your receipts, every Rx, every Drs visit.) It doesn't give you a whole lot back, but it did reduce our tax load and give us a small return this year, where we normally pay the gov a bit.. so that helps. I don't see any savings in food, really. I think it's about even.. My husband and I both eat lower carb (me very low for now, him lower) and between meat, veggies, my protein supplements and health-stuff (even buying bulk protein powder) I think we are about even. I never kept a budget, but it seems to be that way, since I do the cooking and meal-planning, and finances. Now for one, yes- you may just see a reduced bill, if you supplement frugally. We do save a lot on entertainment as we cut eating out a great deal quite some time before surgery- for health reasons.. and now if we go out, it's cheaper for sure.

Hoard as much as you can, but get the surgery! If you don't have an on-paper budget, set one up so you can track and know how things are going for sure.. I should have done this! And it also will help you with the other needed expenses besides food such as replacing clothing as you shrink, drs visits and needed lab-work.. though, other than undies and sleep-wear, I have bought the majority of my wardrobe from thrift and consignment stores.

I was also self pay & did this with an unemployed DH. I know how you feel. Then I got laid off!!! I still do not regret the expense for a minute & I looked & felt much better on my interviews...good luck in your decision...

Deb

I too am a self pay.. half in cash and half on credit credit with Care credit.. and i have no regrets because I am worth it.

Thank you all for your support!  I know that I am worth it too and so is my daughter.  Debt...it never goes away!