What to do about surgery on a 9 year old's lip? In office or at surgery center?

Question

Two months ago my 9 year old daughter had surgery to remove a pyogenic granuloma from her lip. It came back and the doctor tried freezing it and also tried topical ointments, all to no avail. Now our only option is to cut it out and stitch the lip, which may cause scarring. :( Anyway, I had to pay A LOT of money out of my pocket for the first surgery since the plastic surgeon does not pre-authorize for insurance. I am STILL waiting for reimbursement from my insurance company. The doctor has not charged me for any of the work since then, and he wants to do the next procedure in the office, so he can complete it free of charge ( if we go to the surgery center, we'll have to pay the same amount we paid the first time). But, the dr. cannot put my daughter under in the office, and she's very afraid to have the surgery done while she's awake. I, too, would prefer that the dr. do the 45 minute procedure at the surgery center...I think he'd do a more careful job if she's under anesthesia. If she's awake, she will be fussing and stressing the whole time.

What should I do? Have the dr. do the surgery in the office so it won't cost me any money? Or elect to have him do the procedure at the surgery center, which will cost me almost $1000 but make my daughter much more comfortable? What would you do?

Answer 1

surgery center

Answer 2

Honestly, I would go the more expensive route.  Yes it may be more money at the present and seem a little much, but if the treatment scars (which you said is possible) you are going to be spending more money on treatments to correct the scars (that or your daughter may be upset about it in the meantime).  

Not only that, but I can't imagine having a granuloma removed without anesthisia  is a very comfortable thing (even if they numbed the area).  

Spend the money, your daughter is worth it.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

if it were me, I would pay the near $1000.

Why? Because any negative medical sessions young in life, almost ensure when our kids are older that they will not seek medical attention or have necessary surgeries as easily.

Also, at her age its going to be harder for her to stay still. Which in my opinion, doesn't make it safe to only have a local done.

Do what you feel is best and don't let anyone pressure you to either direction. You know your daughter best.

Good luck!