Losing weight can be challenging for many people even when they adhere to a diet and exercise plan. If obesity is not treated quickly, it may result in life-threatening situations. In certain cases, surgery is absolutely necessary from a medical standpoint. Bariatric surgery is a procedure to assist such individuals in losing weight. Evidence suggests that bariatric surgery, especially when combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle modifications after surgery, may reduce death rates for people with severe obesity. What’s more, health insurance covers bariatric surgery, relieving you from the financial problems you may face without it.
What is Bariatric Surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a collection of procedures done to alter the digestive tract to aid with weight loss. The surgical procedure used in bariatric surgery either restricts how much food you may eat or makes it harder for you to absorb the nutrients.
The surgery is divided into four types:
- Open or laparoscopic gastric bypass
- Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
- Sleeve Gastrectomy
- The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
What is the Cost of a Bariatric Surgery in India?
The total cost of the procedure varies greatly because many different aspects are taken into account while determining the ultimate price. The following are some of the most frequent causes of the difference in the cost of bariatric surgery in India:
The Kind of Operation Selected
As bariatric surgery involves numerous procedures, each procedure has a different price tag. After a thorough and in-depth analysis of your body type and needs, the precise surgical technique chosen may have a significant impact on the overall cost of your bariatric surgery. The complexity of an operation directly relates to its cost. The sleeve gastrectomy, which entails reshaping the stomach to resemble a tube, is frequently viewed as a financially sensible choice. Comparing this surgery to other bariatric operations will reveal that it is less expensive and less challenging.
The Choice of City (Metro/Non-metro)
In India, the cost of having weight loss surgery varies from city to city. According to the India Laparoscopic Surgery Site, the price of the procedure might range from INR 2.5 lakhs to INR 5 lakhs. Listed below are bariatric surgery prices in various metro and non-metro Indian cities.
| Metro Cities | Bariatric Surgery Cost |
| New Delhi | INR 2.4 to 4.7 lakhs |
| Mumbai | INR 3.35 to 4.47 lakhs |
| Kolkata | INR 2.6 to 5 lakhs |
| Chennai | INR 2.5 to 4.8 lakhs |
| Bangalore | INR 2.4 to 4 lakhs |
| Hyderabad | INR 2.5 to 4.85 lakhs |
| Ahmedabad | INR 2.65 to 5 lakhs |
| Non- Metro Cities | Bariatric Surgery Cost |
| Gurugram | INR 2.4 to 4.75 lakhs |
| Pune | INR 2.35 to 4.5 lakhs |
| Nagpur | INR 2.25 to 4.25 lakhs |
| Chandigarh | INR 2.5 to 4.85 lakhs |
| Jaipur | INR 2.55 to 3.95 lakhs |
| Noida | INR 2.4 to 4.75 lakhs |
| Panjim | INR 2.6 to 5 lakhs |
| Thiruvananthapuram | INR 2.65 to 5 lakhs |
What Factors Determine the Cost of Bariatric Surgery?
- Medical condition of the patient
- The hospital's type (Government or Private)
- Room category chosen
- Whether self-paid or through an insurance
- Age of the patient
- The type, procedure and technique of the surgery
- Any post-operative difficulties
- Credentials of the surgeon
- Surgeon Fee
Surgery is still quite expensive for the average Indian household, even if it is less expensive than abroad. This may be a huge burden for the patient who is already ill. It is crucial to have a financial safety net for unexpected expenses. Health insurance might very well be the answer.
Why do People from Outside India Choose to Have Bariatric Surgery?
India is the preferred location for overseas patients seeking bariatric surgery since the medical professionals here offer their patients the best and most comprehensive care. Additionally, many facilities in India are outfitted with the most up-to-date medical technology, making it easier and less expensive to do bariatric surgery here than in any other country.
Is Health Insurance Coverage for Bariatric Surgery Available?
Since October 2019, bariatric or weight loss surgery has been covered by health insurance, in accordance with the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) guidelines. Numerous health insurance providers in India offer both critical illness policies and family floaters that cover this coverage. The insurance depends on the risks and co-morbidities the insured is dealing with and is only used if it is medically required. Bariatric surgery has a 2–4 year waiting period and cannot be utilised for cosmetic reasons, depending on the insurer.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery is usually advised for those dealing with severe life-threatening issues and definitely not for cosmetic purposes. Just like any other surgery, it also comes with its own share of medical expenditures including pre and post-hospitalisation charges. This entails substantial emotional and financial support from others. It is better to have a good health insurance policy in place to reduce costs and other expenses significantly.
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