Lap Band Cost and Insurance

The most common question patients ask us about Lap Band® is: how much does it cost? The answer will depend on your situation, details regarding your surgery, and your health insurance plan.

Many options exist for covering the cost of Lap Band surgery, such as insurance, Medicare and procedure financing plans like CareCredit.

Health Plans and Insurance Coverage

The cost of Lap Band® procedures is often covered by Medicare or private insurance (PPO or HMO). The surgery may be fully covered or partly covered. Before surgery, the doctor must find that Lap Band® is medically necessary for you. If you qualify, we can check if your insurance plan offers coverage. Insurance plans vary in their requirements for patients to qualify for the Lap Band procedure.

Fortunately, more than 80 percent of Lap Band® surgeries are partly reimbursed or fully reimbursed by insurance, according to Allergan, maker of the Lap Band®. Complete our Lap Band healthcare insurance verification form to see if you're covered.

Financing Your Lap Band® Procedure

If your insurance company declines coverage of your Lap Band® procedure, we have financing options to consider. In addition to Visa and Mastercard, we can help you apply for a flexible payment plan through CareCredit® or another provider.

What Contributes to the Cost of Lap Band Surgery?

It’s important to understand the different fees that are included (or not included) in the cost of your Lap Band procedure. When you get a quote, consider the following details:

1. The Bariatric Surgeon

The importance of choosing the right Lap Band surgeon cannot be overstated. Know that a surgeon with experience and the right credentials may have a slightly higher fee than one who does not. For safety, take your time when choosing a surgeon. Inquire about the surgeon’s credentials and ask to see testimonials from previous patients.

2. Facility Fees

The quality of the surgical facility is very important. Your surgeon should operate in a facility that is clean, modern and accredited by the proper authorities.

3. Anesthesia

Lap Band surgery requires the assistance of a qualified Anesthesiologist who can safely administer general anesthesia. When viewing a quote for Lap Band surgery, make sure that anesthesia is included in the cost.

4. Tests, Lab Fees and X-Ray Fees

Various tests are necessary for a safe Lap Band procedure. Before surgery, the doctor may order assessments such as chest X rays, blood tests, chest X-rays, upper endoscopy, EKG, and an echocardiogram. You may also be checked for obesity-related medical conditions like sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, or diabetes.

5. Filling and Adjusting the Gastric Band

The gastric band is an adjustable device. As your stomach gets smaller, you will need to return for post-operative adjustments in order to maintain progress with weight loss. The first year typically includes seven or eight of these brief procedures.

6. Weight Loss Counseling and Support Groups

Weight loss is more than a physical transformation. After bariatric surgery, patients benefit from psychological support, nutrition counseling and an appropriate exercise routine. Read about our weight loss surgery support groups.

How Much Does Obesity Cost?

You're probably fully aware of the rising cost of healthcare in America. With extra weight, you're likely to spend even more. Studies show that obesity increases a person's long-term healthcare and medication costs significantly.

Consider healthcare expenses such as:

• Prescriptions and over-the-counter medications
• Visits to doctors, specialists and physical therapy
• Ongoing traditional weight loss programs

You may be able to avoid these costs by choosing the Lap Band® to reduce your body weight.

For More Information

We know that getting answers to your health insurance questions can be a real challenge. The staff at Surgical Arts of Inland Empire can help. Contact us to learn more about Lap Band® insurance verification, costs, or financing.