Cost of Lap Band Surgery
In the United States, the average cost of lap band surgery ranges from $15,000 to $25,000. This wide price range covers the approximate total of the banding procedure as well as pre-surgery testing, after-surgery care, and related expenses. There are many factors which affect the overall cost of the procedure, including geographical location, choice of surgeon, hospital or clinic fees, anesthesia fees, in-patient or out-patient care, and an individual’s overall health.
Cost of Pre-Surgery Testing for Lap Band Surgery
The pre-surgery tests are used to determine a person’s overall health and to establish a medical necessity for lap band surgery. Some of the more common pre-op lab tests are blood tests, electrocardiograph (EKG), chest X-rays, and screening for sleep apnea. A psychological evaluation is also a common requirement, especially if seeking coverage from an insurance company, to make sure a patient is mentally ready for the procedure.
If billed separately, lap band surgery pre-op tests total about $1000, but they are often included as part of a package price with hospitals or lap band providers. When comparing costs between lap band providers, factor in what pre-op tests are included in the package price and what expenses are billed separately.
After-Surgery Care for Banding Patients
The success of lap band surgery is greatly determined by the support and level of aftercare that a lap band patient receives after surgery. Successful aftercare includes an exercise program, diet and nutritional counseling, behavioral therapy, support groups, follow-up exams, and lap band fill appointments. The importance of aftercare cannot be emphasized enough and it should not be considered an optional expense. Although the lap band procedure is one of the most effective tools available to help an obese person lose weight, any type of weight loss surgery will not automatically make the pounds come off. Many lap band surgeons will include after-surgery care and exams into their lap band package price, while others will not. When comparing lap band providers, find out what type and amount of aftercare support is included.
Cost of Follow-Up Exams and Lap-Band Fills
When comparing the overall cost of lap band surgery between providers, it is important to consider the cost of follow-up exams and lap band adjustments, and to determine what expenses are included or not included in the quoted price.
Many lap band providers include one year of follow-up exams and lap band fills in their package price for lap band patients. During the exams, the doctor will check a patient’s health, monitor weight loss, answer questions, and perform an adjustment (lap band fill) if needed. A lap band patient should expect to see his or her surgeon at least three to four times for follow-up appointments during the first year. After the first one to two years after surgery, annual check-ups are all that are usually necessary.
Although the first year of fills are often included for patients, subsequent fills or fills for patients who have opted to pay for surgery and fills separately, cost about $100 to $300 each. The cost for a lap band fill is usually higher for patients who have had their surgery elsewhere, if the doctor accepts them as a new patient (some doctors will not see patients who have had their surgery elsewhere).
Choosing a Lap Band Surgeon: Cost vs. Experience
The choice of surgeon will affect the cost of lap band surgery, but it can also affect the outcome. A skilled and experienced bariatric surgeon will most likely cost more than a less experienced surgeon, but they also have less surgical complications. A bariatric surgeon with a wide range of surgical experience is also better prepared to handle any unusual situations that might occur on the operating table. When considering cost and comparing bariatric surgeons, take into account their experience and prior patient results when making your decision.
Cost of Lap Band Surgery in Mexico
Another alternative that has worked for many people in the United States has been to travel to another country for low-cost lap band surgery providers. One of the most popular destinations is Mexico where the cost is about $8,000 to $10,000. While the surgery related costs are less, it is important to consider other factors such as the cost of pre-op lab tests, travel time, travel expenses, the cost of follow-up care and fill appointments.
One of the most important factors affecting the outcome of Lap Band Surgery is the choice of bariatric surgeon. Before choosing your Lap Band provider, there are several key points you should consider and questions you should ask. As you are making a life-changing decision, one that will affect your health and lifestyle, you want to make sure that you are choosing the right medical professional to support you during the journey. Many of the questions you should ask a bariatric surgeon focus on experience and results. A bariatric surgeon should have sufficient experience and skill not only in general surgery but in implanting the Lap Band device. It is important to find out about the surgeon's experience and outcomes with previous patients.