If you are obese, meaning you have a body mass index of over 30, you may be considering weight loss surgery. Depending on your preferences and medical history, you may opt for gastric bypass, gastric banding or a gastric sleeve. The prices for these surgeries vary greatly depending on the specifics of your surgery and the surgeon you use. Regardless of the type of surgery you have, your options for paying for the surgery are the same.
Insurance Coverage
In some cases, insurance companies will cover all or part of the cost of having weight loss surgery. Many require you to prove that you are suffering from obesity-related conditions like heart disease or sleep apnea that will be corrected or more manageable after the surgery. Most insurance companies also require you to try other methods of weight loss, such as medications, before coverage for weight loss surgery is approved. Your doctor will have to work with the insurance company to get authorization for the surgery before you will be able to have it. You will still have to pay co-pays if they are required by your insurance.
Cash Payment
If you don't have insurance or if your insurance won't cover the cost of weight loss surgery, you can pay cash for the surgery. The amount you have to pay depends on the surgery you have and the fees for your surgeon. University of California, San Diego, notes that the average charge for gastric banding is $17,500 and laparoscopic gastric bypass averages $22,500. This includes surgeon fees, hospital or clinic fees, anesthesia and limited pre- and post-operative appointments.
Payment Plans
Some bariatric surgeons offer payment plans. The specifics of the plans varies from one surgeon to another. Some surgeons will perform the surgery once you have paid a portion of the cost, while others require the entire balance to be paid in full before performing the surgery. The interest rate and initial down payment will also vary. Another financing option that allows you to make payments is to take out a personal loan to pay for the surgery.
Other Considerations
In addition to paying for the surgery itself, you have to be prepared to pay for medications you need afterward. While your prescription plan may cover part of the cost, you may have a co-payment. If you don't have prescription coverage, you will also have to pay cash for the medications. In some cases, you will have to pay for a dietitian or nutritionist, as well as a trainer or therapist, to work on your exercise habits. If you work, you will have to take time off, so you will also have to figure out how you will pay your regular bills and surgery-related costs during your recovery.
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