One of the top destinations for Lap-Band Surgery outside of the United States is Mexico, where the cost for the surgery is roughly $8,000 to $10,000.
LAP-BAND® Cost
The choice to undergo weight loss surgery is not only an important medical decision but a significant financial decision as well. The amount you pay will vary, there is not one "right" price for LAP-BAND® surgery. Many factors affect the total price, including the surgeon you choose, where you choose to have the surgery performed, and what fees are included or not included in the quoted price.
LAP-BAND® Price Comparison
When comparing prices, fees to consider are surgeon fees, hospital fees, anesthesia fees, pre-op lab and X-ray fees, travel expenses, follow-up appointments, and any other related expenses such as post-surgery behavior, exercise and diet counseling. Your best value is usually not found in the cheapest price but in the total quality of service that you'll receive for the total amount that you'll be paying.
LAP-BAND® Cost in the United States
In the United States, the cost of LAP-BAND® surgery is approximately $15,000 to $20,000. This amount usually includes all pre-op consultations, hospital fees, and post-operative follow-up appointments and adjustments.
LAP-BAND® Cost in Mexico
Many US patients are choosing to travel to other countries as they seek low-cost LAP-BAND® providers. One of the top destinations for LAP-BAND® surgery outside of the United States is Mexico, where the cost for the surgery is roughly $8,000 to $10,000. When traveling away from your home for surgery, it is important to consider travel time and related travel expenses for both the surgery and all recommended follow-up appointments.
Cost of Pre-op Tests and Exams
If your surgeon approves you for LAP-BAND® surgery after a consultation, you will then be required to undergo various pre-operative exams and lab tests before you are medically cleared for surgery. The necessary tests often include blood tests, electrocardiograph (EKG), chest X-rays, sleep apnea screening, and an echocardiogram. These costs are often included in the overall price, but can cost up to $1000 if billed separately.
Cost of Follow-Up Care and Band Adjustments
Follow-up care and band adjustments are an important part of the LAP-BAND® procedure. There are usually several follow-up appointments the first year and then once a year after the first year in order to monitor weight loss and adjust the band as needed. Many surgeons structure their prices to include some band adjustments for the first year. Some self-pay patients (without insurance coverage) opt to pay for the surgery separately and then pay for adjustments as needed. Adjustments for patients commonly range from about $100 to $300 each. Some surgeons may make adjustments for people who have had their surgery elsewhere, but the fees are usually quite a bit more than for their own patients.
