Gastric Sleeve Surgery in US and 20 Popular People Had The Surgery

In the United States, where obesity rates continue to climb, Gastric Sleeve Surgery has emerged as a beacon of hope for many struggling with weight-loss and its associated health challenges. But beyond the promising potential lies a crucial question: what is the cost of this life-changing procedure? In this article, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in the US, dissecting the factors that influence its price tag, unraveling the complexities of insurance coverage, and empowering you with resources to navigate this crucial decision.

Whether you’re actively considering the surgery or simply seeking information, join us as we delve into the financial realities of Gastric Sleeve Surgery in the US, equipping you with knowledge to make informed choices for your health and well-being.

What is Gastric Sleeve Surgery?

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy or vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), is a type of weight-loss surgery that involves removing a large portion of the stomach. It’s the most commonly performed bariatric surgery in the US and worldwide.

How it works:

• During the surgery, approximately 75-85% of the stomach is removed along the greater curvature, leaving a banana-shaped sleeve.
• This reduces the stomach’s volume, leading to several effects:
  • Feeling full sooner: With less space, smaller portions trigger fullness signals to the brain, leading to reduced calorie intake.
  • Reduced production of hunger hormones: The removed portion of the stomach produces ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger. Removing it helps suppress appetite.
  • Changes in gut hormones: VSG alters the levels of other gut hormones that regulate blood sugar and metabolism, further contributing to weight loss.

Potential benefits:

• Significant and sustained weight loss (average of 50-90 pounds)
• Improved health outcomes for obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and heart disease
• Improved quality of life and self-esteem

Things to consider:

• It’s a major surgery with potential risks and complications.
• It’s not a quick fix and requires lifelong commitment to healthy lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise.
• It’s not suitable for everyone. Eligibility depends on various factors like body mass index (BMI), health conditions, and psychological readiness.

For further details, you can also check CDC Losing Weight website.

List of the Celebrities in USA Who Had Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Many celebrities has gastric sleeve surgery and many of them are happy with their new look and trying to keep their form. Here is the list of the popular people who underwent gastric sleeve surgery and the weight loss they had after the surgery:

Name of the Celebrity	Weight Loss (lb)
Sharon Osbourne	130
Rosie O’Donnell	50
Al Roker	150
Melissa McCarthy	75
Christina Aguilera	40
Kelly Osbourne	40
Chaz Bono	80
Carnie Wilson	150
La Toya Jackson	70
Raven-Symoné	80
Drew Carey	90
Oprah Winfrey	65
Jorge Cruise	100
Mario Lopez	40
Michael Moore	100
Valerie Bertinelli	50
Jordin Sparks	50

Here are some articles in our blog mentioning the process of weight-loss of the celebrities:

• Trisha Yearwood Weight-Loss Surgery
• The Life-changing Experience Of Lizzo’s Weight Loss Surgery

Does Insurance Cover Gastric Sleeve Surgery in US?

Whether insurance covers gastric sleeve surgery in the US depends on various factors, including:

Your specific insurance plan: Many major insurance companies offer partial coverage for gastric sleeve surgery, but there will likely be out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, coinsurance, and copays. Medicare may also cover it under certain criteria.

Your medical history: Insurance companies typically require you to meet specific medical criteria to qualify for coverage. This usually involves having a BMI of 40 or more, or a BMI of 35 with significant obesity-related health conditions like sleep apnea or type 2 diabetes.

Your program’s requirements: Some insurance plans require you to participate in a supervised weight loss program before surgery and demonstrate sustained attempts to lose weight through non-surgical methods.

The surgeon and facility: Choose a surgeon and facility in-network with your insurance to maximize coverage and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

It’s crucial to contact your insurance provider directly to determine your specific coverage for gastric sleeve surgery. They can give you detailed information about what’s covered, potential costs, and any requirements you need to meet.

Cost of The Gastric Sleeve Surgery in US

Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, has become a popular weight-loss option for many Americans struggling with obesity and its related health risks. However, the allure of potential health improvements often comes intertwined with a major question: how much does it cost? Navigating the complex world of bariatric surgery costs can feel overwhelming, so let’s delve into the factors that influence the price tag and provide you with resources to make informed decisions.

Without Insurance: A Steep Climb

The sticker shock can be significant. Uninsured patients can expect an average cost of $17,000 to $26,000, with a range extending from $10,000 to a staggering $30,000+. This wide range reflects the varying costs associated with:

• Surgeon’s fees: Expertise and experience play a role, with fees ranging from $5,000 to $15,000+.
• Hospital facility fees: The type of facility and its location significantly impact costs, typically falling between $5,000 and $10,000+.
• Anesthesia fees: Administering anesthesia adds another layer of cost, usually $1,000 to $3,000+.
• Pre-operative assessments: Tests and consultations before surgery can push the bill up by $500 to $2,000+.

Insurance: A Glimmer of Hope, But Not a Guarantee

While many insurance plans offer partial coverage for gastric sleeve surgery, out-of-pocket expenses are still likely. The extent of coverage depends on your specific plan and can involve:

• Deductible: The amount you pay before insurance kicks in.
• Coinsurance: A percentage of the covered costs you’re responsible for.
• Copay: A fixed fee for covered services.
• Program requirements: Some plans require participation in weight-loss programs or meeting specific BMI thresholds before approving coverage.

Remember: Contact your insurance provider directly to understand your specific coverage details and estimated out-of-pocket costs.

Beyond the Numbers: Financing Options

If the cost seems daunting, explore financing options:

• Patient financing programs: Offered by some hospitals or surgeons, these plans allow you to spread the cost over time with interest.
• Medical loans: Consider personal loans specifically designed for medical expenses, but be mindful of interest rates and repayment terms.
• CrowdFundMe: While unconventional, crowdfunding platforms can help raise funds from family and friends.