Before committing to bariatric surgery, patients often inquire about the VSG surgery cost without insurance. VSG is the most commonly performed weight loss surgery in the United States, with over 120,000 procedures in 2020. Therefore, it’s important for patients to take into account the financial aspect of the surgery, especially those without insurance providers.
To help you determine if VSG surgery is perfect for you, keep reading until the end to know how much this bariatric surgery will cost without insurance.
What is VSG surgery?
Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) is a surgical procedure that has been proven to be highly effective in treating obesity and alleviating other weight-related conditions. This procedure is also known as gastric sleeve or simply sleeve gastrectomy which aims to decrease the size of the stomach by around 75-80%.
By doing so, VSG restricts the amount of food that a person can consume, which in turn helps them to lose weight. Additionally, this procedure also helps to lower the levels of ghrelin, a hormone responsible for stimulating hunger. The reduction of ghrelin levels helps to reduce a person’s appetite, making it easier for them to stick to a healthy diet.
Overall, VSG is a highly effective weight loss surgery that can help individuals achieve their weight loss goals and improve their overall health and quality of life. Patients who undergo VSG typically shed up to 60% of their excess body weight or more when the treatment is combined with lifestyle changes.
Who are eligible for the gastric sleeve?
It is essential to understand that gastric sleeve surgery, along with other bariatric procedures, should not be considered a quick solution for weight loss. Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight requires a considerable commitment to lifestyle changes and continuous support from a healthcare team.
So, who qualifies for this surgery? If you’re considering this bariatric procedure, here are certain criteria you must meet in order to be eligible for VSG:
- age between 18 and 65
- BMI of 40 or higher
- BMI of 35 or higher, and who suffer from related conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea
- individuals who have attempted conventional weight loss methods with no success
- motivated to adopt sustainable dietary habits and increase physical activity for the long-term
What is the cost of VSG surgery without insurance?
Bariatric surgery in the United States can be quite expensive, with an average cost range of $17,000 to $26,000 for those without insurance. Specifically, gastric sleeve surgery can cost an average of $16,800, as reported by Obesity Coverage.
However, it’s worth noting that pricing can vary based on factors such as the bariatric facility’s location and the surgeon’s level of experience.
Can insurance cover sleeve gastrectomy?
The surgical costs of common bariatric procedures, such as gastric bypass, VSG, gastric banding, and duodenal switch, are typically covered by most insurance plans. Generally, patients with insurance can anticipate paying considerably less for bariatric surgery than those without coverage.
However, it is worth noting that out-of-pocket expenses are still likely, as not all insurance plans provide full coverage for the procedure. Some plans may necessitate that patients pay a certain percentage of the cost or fulfill a specific deductible before receiving coverage.
Conclusion
The cost of VSG surgery without insurance can be a significant factor for patients considering this weight loss procedure. However, it’s important to remember that VSG has been proven to be highly effective in treating obesity and alleviating weight-related conditions.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo VSG surgery should be based on your individual health needs and personal circumstances. It’s also recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if gastric sleeve is the right choice for you.