Bariatric surgery, also known as metabolic surgery, stands as the most effective and durable intervention for severe obesity. It facilitates significant weight loss and improves, prevents, or resolves numerous related health issues, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, sleep apnea, and certain cancers. Studies suggest that bariatric surgery can reduce a patient’s risk of premature death by 30-50%. Furthermore, bariatric surgery is considered as safe or even safer than common surgeries like gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and knee replacement. A key question many people have is, “How Much Is Bariatric Surgery?” Let’s delve into the costs, effectiveness, and other important factors.
Effectiveness of Bariatric Surgery
Patients typically experience the most significant weight loss within 1-2 years following bariatric surgery, accompanied by substantial improvements in obesity-related conditions.
- Patients may lose up to 60% of their excess weight six months post-surgery and 77% within the first year.
- On average, patients maintain 50% of their excess weight loss five years after the procedure.
- A significant number of bariatric surgery patients with diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obstructive sleep apnea achieve remission from these obesity-related diseases.
| Condition/Disease | Remission Rate |
|---|---|
| Type 2 Diabetes | 92% |
| Hypertension | 75% |
| Obstructive Sleep Apnea | 96% |
| Dyslipidemia | 76% |
| Cardiovascular Disease | 58% |
Safety and Risks of Bariatric Surgery
For many patients, the risks associated with severe obesity outweigh the risks of metabolic/bariatric surgery. The mortality risk linked to bariatric surgery is approximately 0.1%, and the overall probability of major complications is about 4%.
Economics of Bariatric Surgery: How Much Does it Really Cost?
The average cost of bariatric surgery typically ranges from $17,000 to $26,000. This figure can vary depending on the type of procedure, the location of the surgery, and the specific healthcare provider. While the upfront cost might seem significant, it’s important to consider the long-term economic benefits.
Because of the reduction or elimination of obesity-related conditions and their associated treatment costs:
- Estimates suggest that third-party payers (insurance companies) can recover bariatric surgery costs within 2 to 4 years.
- Healthcare costs are reduced by 29% within five years of bariatric surgery.
Bariatric Surgery Trends: Procedure Numbers (2011-2019)
The prevalence of bariatric surgery has seen significant growth over the years. Here’s a glimpse into the estimated numbers of bariatric procedures performed between 2011 and 2019:
| 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019* | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOTAL | 158,000 | 173,000 | 179,000 | 193,000 | 196,000 | 216,000 | 228,000 | 252,000 | 256,000 |
| RYGB | 36.7% | 37.5% | 34.2% | 26.8% | 23.1% | 18.7% | 17.8% | 17.0% | 17.8% |
| Band | 35.4% | 20.2% | 14% | 9.5% | 5.7% | 3.4% | 2.7% | 1.1% | 0.9% |
| Sleeve | 17.8% | 33% | 42.1% | 51.7% | 53.6% | 58.1% | 59.4% | 61.4% | 59.4% |
| BPD/DS | 0.9% | 1% | 1% | 0.4% | 0.6% | 0.6% | 0.7% | 0.8% | 0.9% |
| Revisions | 6% | 6% | 6% | 11.5% | 13.6% | 14.0% | 14.1% | 15.4% | 16.7% |
| Other | 3.2% | 2.3% | 2.7% | 0.1% | 3.2% | 2.6% | 2.5% | 2.3% | 2.4% |
| Balloons | 0.03% | 2.6% | 2.8% | 2.0% | 1.8% |
The ASMBS total bariatric procedure numbers are based on the best estimate from available data (BOLD, ACS/MBSAQIP, National Inpatient Sample Data, and outpatient estimations).
*New methodology for estimating outpatient procedures done at non-accredited centers.
Common ASMBS Approved Bariatric Procedures
Several types of bariatric procedures are approved by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). Each has its own set of benefits and risks. Understanding these procedures is crucial when considering “how much is bariatric surgery,” as the type of surgery significantly influences the overall cost.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
This procedure reduces the stomach to the size of a walnut and attaches it to the middle of the small intestine, bypassing a section of the small intestine (duodenum and jejunum) and limiting calorie absorption. Risks include allergic reactions to medicines, blood clots, bleeding, breathing problems, heart attack, stroke, and infection.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
The stomach is divided and stapled vertically, removing more than 85% of it. This creates a tube or banana-shaped pouch, restricting the amount of food that can be consumed and absorbed. Risks include gastritis, heartburn, stomach ulcers, injury to the stomach, intestines, or other organs during surgery, leakage from the staple line, poor nutrition, scarring, and vomiting.
Gastric Banding
An adjustable silicone band filled with saline is wrapped around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pouch that restricts food intake. Risks include band erosion, band slippage, gastritis, heartburn, stomach ulcers, infection, injury to organs during surgery, poor nutrition, and scarring.
Duodenal Switch
The majority of the most stretchable portion of the stomach is permanently removed, and roughly two-thirds to three-quarters of the upper small intestines are bypassed.
Intragastric Balloon
Saline-filled silicone balloons are temporarily placed in the stomach, limiting the amount of food one can eat.
Conclusion: Is Bariatric Surgery Worth the Cost?
While the initial cost of bariatric surgery may seem substantial, the long-term health and economic benefits often outweigh the investment. Beyond the weight loss, bariatric surgery can lead to significant improvements in obesity-related conditions, reducing the need for costly medications and treatments. Considering the potential for a longer, healthier life, understanding “how much is bariatric surgery” is just the first step in a potentially life-changing journey.
