The surgery went well, but look out for the hidden costs

It was a mixed bag with Dr Marco. Everything went well with the surgery (abdominoplasty, diastasis recti) for which I’m thankful and that’s where Dr Marco’s skills come in. However, I’d problems with the lack of transparency in his billings. I was told in pre-op consultations that all post op visits would be included in the surgery fees. Not so. Upon learning that I’d insurance that covers the cost partially, they became chargeable. I’d intended to use part of my post-op insurance for physiotherapy so it was a nasty surprise when I learnt about the charges a week after surgery, hobbling in pain with drainage tubes sticking out of me. Also as a result of Covid that impacted global logistics and labour, the clinic ran out of compression garments in my size. I was then put into something too small (that constricted my breathing so much they my O2 levels fell to 92%!) and made to pay S$500 a piece! Financial counseling & signing of the contract was done on the day of surgery. But let’s face it, it is a little late in the day no? The hospital has been booked, you’ve fasted for 12hours and you’re all mentally prepared for the surgery - you certainly do not have a clear head to think about numbers or to read the fine print! Post op, I was also peeved that Dr Marco only gave me a silicon plug for my reconstructed belly button at the 6 month review. When asked if it was too late, Dr Marco’s reply was, “better late than never”. … look, I expected it to be given to me at the RIGHT TIME, not when it was too late. My belly button looks awful. My advice to anyone seeking Dr Marco. Put all your agreement in writing BEFORE the day of surgery. Find out how much incidentals cost - compression garments, silicon tapes, gel, post op visits etc. You can’t be too careful. It’s a pity because Dr Marco does seem to be reputable - but his back office operations are a tad shady. Ps. Dr Marco charges his silicon tape at 3-4x the price on Amazon. Outrageous.