Cost of Gastric Bypass

The decision to have gastric bypass surgery is a life-changing one. But, it's also an expensive one. Many insurance companies are starting to cover the surgery, recognizing that obesity is a serious health risk. However, qualified candidates usually have to be 100 pounds overweight and able to prove previous attempts to lose weight. If you have made the commitment and decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery, you should plan out how you'll handle the financial burden beforehand.

Cost

• Gastric bypass ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 depending on the doctor, practice and location. Schedule a consultation with doctors who perform the surgery and ask them what they charge.

Financing

• Many doctors will allow you to finance your gastric bypass surgery. There are plans that allow you to pay it off in anywhere from three months to 60 months, with interest.

Insurance

• Insurance companies are beginning to cover surgeries that treat morbid obesity, however, it depends on the plan. Aetna, for instance, requires two years of documented medical history of morbid obesity, whereas some Blue Cross plans require a psychiatric evaluation and compliance letter from the patient.

Post-Operative Costs

• There are costs to consider after gastric bypass surgery, because you're living a new lifestyle. Behavior changes will require a gym membership, the purchase of healthy foods and new clothes as weight loss occurs.

Considerations

• Don't choose your gastric bypass surgeon based on what he charges for the procedure. In order to assure you get an experienced surgeon, ask for references, go to a consultation and view proof of his work and use this information to make your determination.