Obesity affects over 40% of adults in America. Obesity is defined as having a BMI of 30 or more.

For severe obesity, diet and exercise alone are sometimes not enough. Therefore, bariatric surgery is often recommended.

What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is surgical procedure that makes changes to the digestive system and allows the patient to lose weight. Bariatric surgery is also referred to as Metabolic surgery because the procedures actually impact the physiology of the digestive system and change the metabolism of caloric and non caloric nutrients as they are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Some bariatric surgeries make the stomach smaller while others change the small intestine. This is an option for people with severe obesity who have not been able to lose weight or keep from gaining back any weight that has been lost. Bariatric surgery can help improve many of the medical conditions related to obesity like Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and more.

Does It Work?

On average, people who undergo bariatric surgery lose 15-39% of their starting weight. This depends on the type of surgery you have. However, no type of surgery is guaranteed to produce and maintain weight loss. Some people may not lose as much as they hoped, and others may gain back a portion of the weight lost. There are several factors that affect weight regain.

Although it helps you to consume fewer calories, bariatric surgery does not replace healthy habits. Choosing healthy foods and drinks, along with regular physical activity will help you to lose more weight and keep it off long term.

Cost of Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery costs between $15,000-$25,000 on average. This will vary based on which type of surgery you have and whether there are any complications. Your cost will also depend on where you live, and what your insurance provider will pay.

Some Medicaid and Medicare programs cover the three common types of bariatric surgery. This includes gastric bypass, gastric band, and gastric sleeve surgery. You do have to meet certain criteria and have a doctor’s recommendation, however.

Some plans may require that you use an approved surgeon and facilities, and others may require proof that you were unable to lose weight by completing a nonsurgical weight-loss program. You can speak to your insurance provider to obtain more information.