Weight Loss Surgery Cost

Weight loss surgery encompasses various procedures which directly affect the stomach and consequently the appetite. The most common of these procedures are gastric band surgery, gastric bypass surgery and the use of a gastric balloon. In each case, the capacity of the stomach is reduced, meaning the patient feels fuller sooner and therefore reduces portion size.

Gastric band surgery

This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and can take up to an hour. You will be asked not to eat anything for 6 hours before the surgery, but may be able to sip water up to two hours beforehand. A small, flexible silicone band is fitted around a section of the stomach via keyhole surgery and connected to a ‘port’ which is positioned under the skin near to the ribs. The band creates a smaller pouch through which food passes through slowly, and is then absorbed normally by the lower part of the stomach. Prices for gastric band surgery range from £5000 to £8000, depending on individual practitioners.

Gastric bypass surgery

This procedure is also performed under general anaesthetic and can take up to three hours. Either using keyhole or open surgery, the stomach is divided using surgical staples thus creating a smaller stomach. The small intestine is then attached to this smaller stomach, shortening the digestive system. This not only makes the patient feel fuller quicker, but reduces the amount of calories absorbed through digestion. The cost of gastric bypass surgery can be up to £15000 as it is a much more complex procedure.

Gastric balloon

A gastric balloon is fitted under sedation and is therefore not technically classed as a surgical procedure. Being sedated means that the patient will be conscious but drowsy during the procedure and for a little while afterwards. A silicone balloon is usually fitted using an endoscope going through the mouth and down the oesophagus, and is then inflated with either air or saline. The balloon serves to fill up a portion of the stomach but is usually removed after 6 months, so is only a temporary measure. Hence, the cost is considerably less, usually around £3000 to £4000.

NHS funding

Weight loss surgery costs can be expensive, but there is the option of having surgery on the NHS. The guidelines are strict, and are typically reliant upon your Body Mass Index (BMI). However, if you are thinking about weight loss surgery, you should discuss your options with your GP. They will not only be able to inform you more fully of the procedures available, but will be able to refer you to a specialist if needed. Weight loss surgery should be viewed as a last resort and should not be treated as a quick solution to weight problems.