How much does gastric sleeve surgery cost?

Key Points

• Gastric sleeve surgery costs in the United States typically range from $15,000 to $38,000.
• Costs can vary by state and surgery setting (inpatient versus outpatient).
• Insurance coverage often requires a BMI of 40 or higher (or BMI ≥ 35 with obesity-related conditions), documented medical necessity, and other factors.

Gastric sleeve surgery is one of several weight loss surgery options available today. Let's look at what gastric sleeve surgery actually costs and what factors influence these costs.

From insurance coverage to long-term expenses, the financial aspects are an important part of your decision-making process.

What is gastric sleeve surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also called sleeve gastrectomy, is a type of bariatric surgery that helps with weight loss by reducing the size of the stomach. In most cases, sleeve gastrectomy is performed using minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy or robotic surgery.

During this weight loss surgery procedure, a surgeon removes about 75-80% of the stomach, leaving a smaller, tube-shaped section. Think of this as giving your stomach a new, smaller shape—about the size of a banana. By removing most of your stomach, your appetite decreases, and you end up eating less food.

"The decision to undergo gastric sleeve surgery needs some deliberation," explains Gia Eapen, MD. "While the procedure has positive outcomes for those struggling with obesity, success requires a lifelong commitment to lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise. Discuss your options, concerns, and expectations with your healthcare team."

Factors affecting the cost of gastric sleeve surgery

According to CareCredit, a healthcare financing company, the cost of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) typically averages around $19,459. However, the actual price can vary quite a bit - ranging from $15,067 to $37,103.

Let's break down what can potentially affect the cost of your gastric sleeve surgery.

Location

Your location can make a big difference—just like housing prices, medical costs can vary a lot depending on which state or city you live in. For example, having surgery in New York City might cost more than in a smaller town in Texas or the Midwest.

Surgeon experience

Your surgeon's experience and expertise can also influence the price. Think of it like any professional service—more experienced surgeons can often charge higher fees, but they bring years of specialized knowledge to your care.

Inpatient vs outpatient procedure

If your doctor recommends staying overnight at the hospital (inpatient care), the cost of surgery may be higher than if you’re able to go home the same day (outpatient care). The average cost of an inpatient bariatric procedure was $32,868. Outpatient surgery was less expensive at $22,675 (about 31% lower cost).

However, slightly less than 15% of bariatric surgeries are outpatient procedures. Your healthcare provider will offer recommendations based on your personal health factors, risk profile, and other concerns.

Length of stay

The length of your hospital stay can also affect the final bill. While most people go home after 1-2 days, if you need to stay longer for any reason, this will increase the cost.

Insurance plan

Insurance coverage is probably the biggest factor that affects what you'll actually pay out of pocket. Every health plan is different. Some might cover most of the costs, while others might cover only a portion or none at all.

Gastric sleeve surgery cost breakdown

When thinking about gastric sleeve surgery, remember that the total cost involves more than just the surgery itself. Think of it like preparing for a journey; there are things you need to do before, during, and after.

"The financial aspect of bariatric surgery can feel overwhelming," explains Eapen, MD. "It's important to thoroughly understand all costs—from pre-surgery requirements to the procedure itself and post-surgery care. These expenses can vary based on the individual and insurance coverage. And if you know what costs are covered, you will be able to plan accordingly. It’s best to reach out to your insurance provider early to understand your coverage and estimate out-of-pocket expenses."

Pre-surgery requirements

Before your surgery, you'll need several check-ups to make sure you're ready. This typically includes meeting with different healthcare providers who will evaluate your physical health and mental well-being and discuss your nutrition needs. These appointments help you prepare for long-term success after gastric sleeve.

• Medical evaluations
• Psychological assessment
• Nutritional counseling
• Required weight management programs
• Laboratory tests

Direct medical costs

The actual cost of surgery involves different parts. In most cases, you will be paying for your surgeon's expertise, the anesthesia team that keeps you comfortable during the procedure, and the hospital where you'll have your surgery and recover.

• Surgeon's fees
• Anesthesia
• Hospital facility fees
• Pre-operative testing
• Initial consultations

Post-surgery expenses

After your procedure, you'll have regular check-ups with your medical team, need daily vitamins and supplements, and might need some additional medical care to ensure everything's healing properly.

• Follow-up appointments
• Vitamin and mineral supplements
• Dietary modifications

You will have to follow a bariatric diet to help you recover from surgery. The good news is that many health plans cover the cost of a bariatric dietitian.

Are you eligible for gastric sleeve surgery (sleeve gastrectomy)?

Most insurance providers have specific criteria for covering gastric sleeve surgery. Generally, coverage requires a BMI of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 with obesity-related conditions. You'll also need to document previous weight management attempts and obtain various medical evaluations.

Common insurance requirements

• BMI: BMI ≥ 40, or BMI ≥ 35 with obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Prior weight loss attempts: A paper trail that shows you were unable to lose weight through other means.
• Medical necessity documentation that includes existing health issues caused by excess weight.
• A psychological evaluation to address any mental health conditions that might make it hard for you to have surgery or follow the steps after surgery.
• Nutritional counseling that is highly personalized for your needs. For example, you may need a low-calorie diet to shrink your liver before surgery, learn about the bariatric diet after surgery and other changes.

"Familiarize yourself with your insurance plan," notes Eapen, MD. Each insurance provider has different requirements and coverage levels that need careful review."

How to pay for bariatric surgery without insurance

When insurance doesn't cover the full cost of surgery, you could explore some alternative financing options.

Health Savings Account (HSA)

If you have been contributing to a Health Savings Account (HSA), this can help you use pre-tax dollars to cover bariatric surgery costs. HSAs are available to those with high-deductible health plans. The money you contribute rolls over year after year, allowing you to build up savings specifically for medical expenses like bariatric surgery.

Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Flexible Spending Account (FSA) is another pre-tax option to cover healthcare costs. Unlike HSAs, FSAs typically have a "use it or lose it" policy, meaning you must spend the funds within the plan year, though some employers offer a grace period or allow you to carry over a small amount.

Medical financing plans

Many hospitals offer payment programs. Also, some healthcare credit cards can offer specialized financing for medical procedures.

Personal loans

Exploring personal loans could be a potentially viable option to finance the procedure, as some lenders may offer flexible terms for medical expenses.

Long-term considerations for gastric sleeve

When planning for gastric sleeve surgery, it's important to look beyond the initial procedure costs. Your journey to better health involves ongoing investments in your well-being, and being prepared for these helps you plan more effectively.

For example, following a proper bariatric diet is crucial for your success after surgery. Many people work with bariatric nutritionist dietitians for ongoing nutritional counseling—a service that's often covered by insurance when deemed medically necessary. Understanding which follow-up services your insurance covers can help you budget more effectively.

"The long-term success of any weight loss surgery depends heavily on proper follow-up care," says Eapen, MD. "Regular monitoring, nutritional guidance, and appropriate supplementation are not extras—they're essential components of the overall treatment plan."

Final thoughts

Being clear about gastric sleeve surgery costs helps you plan effectively for this significant healthcare decision. Consider these steps:

1. Check your insurance coverage details
2. Get a complete cost breakdown from your provider
3. Explore financing options if needed
4. Plan for recovery time and support
5. Prepare for long-term lifestyle changes

Remember to discuss all your questions and concerns with your healthcare team. They can provide specific guidance based on your individual situation and help you understand if gastric sleeve surgery might be appropriate for your health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What supplements do you need after gastric sleeve surgery?

After gastric sleeve surgery, your healthcare team may recommend specific supplements based on your individual needs. These typically can include a high-quality multivitamin, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, and iron.

How much weight can I lose after gastric sleeve surgery?

On average, you could lose 60-70% of your excess weight within the first two years. Your individual results may vary based on different factors, including your starting weight, eating habits, exercise routine, health conditions, and compliance with post-surgery guidelines.

Your healthcare team will help you set realistic weight loss goals based on your specific situation. To understand how much weight loss you can expect, reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

What happens if I gain weight after gastric sleeve surgery?

While the gastric sleeve helps restrict food intake, maintaining weight loss requires following recommended dietary guidelines and exercise plans. If you experience weight gain, work with your healthcare team or a bariatric nutritionist to identify and address the underlying causes.

Is gastric sleeve surgery reversible?

Gastric sleeve surgery cannot be reversed; it is considered a permanent procedure.

What should I expect when recovering from gastric sleeve recovery?

The initial hospital stay is typically 2-3 days, followed by a recovery period at home. Allow yourself about a month to feel fully like yourself again and resume work at your usual capacity.

Recovery timelines can vary from person to person, so it’s important to consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and expectations.

To lose weight and keep it off after gastric sleeve weight loss surgery, talk to a bariatric dietitian.

The views expressed by authors and contributors of such content are not endorsed or approved by Fay and are intended for informational purposes only. The content is reviewed by Fay only to confirm educational value and audience interest. You are encouraged to discuss any questions that you may have about your health with a healthcare provider.