How much does it cost to get the lap band?

The LAP-BAND® System generally costs anywhere between $9,000 and $18,000. Pricing varies between weight loss clinics, based on factors such as demand, insurance coverage and location. Insurance companies may help cover the cost of bariatric procedures, including the LAP-BAND®.

Considering this, does insurance cover lap band surgery cost?

Today most insurance companies that cover weight loss surgery will cover gastric bands, laparoscopic gastric bypass, and gastric sleeve surgery. Only a few years ago the lap band procedure was considered experimental and not covered by most insurance companies.

Also to know, how can I get my insurance to pay for weight loss surgery?

Getting Your Insurance to Pay for Weight Loss Surgery

Most major insurance companies will require: Proof that surgery or medical intervention is medically necessary. Your surgeon can help provide your medical history and documentation of your weight-related health problems.

Do I qualify for lapband surgery?

Generally, candidates for LAGB have a body mass index over 40 kg/m2, or are more than 45 kilograms over their ideal body weight. LAGB can be performed on a person with a BMI of 35-40 kg/m2 if there are problematic medical conditions that are weight-related, such as high blood pressure (hypertension) or diabetes.

How many years does a lap band last?

A: Gastric bands do not last forever. A gastric band that deteriorates can kill or seriously harm a patient if it is not removed. Researchers at the European School of Laparoscopic Surgery studied patients with gastric banding devices for 12 years.

Is a lap band permanent?

Many patients wonder if after they get down to their goal weight, they can have their LAP-BAND® removed. The LAP-BAND® is meant to remain in place indefinitely. We know that once the band is removed, patients no longer feel satisfied with small portions, and often times start eating larger meals again.

Which is better lap band or sleeve?

The lap band is recommended by the Food and Drug Administration as a possible weight loss solution for people with body mass index as low as 30 in some cases. Sleeve gastrectomy, on the other hand, is usually reserved for patients whose BMI are significantly higher.

What is the safest weight loss surgery?

What is the safest form of bariatric surgery?

Gastric Banding. This the simplest and safest procedure of the bariatric surgeries.
Sleeve Gastrectomy. This is a relatively safe and simple surgery for morbidly obese people who have other health complications.
Gastric Bypass. This surgery enables swift weight loss that continues up to 2 years.
Duodenal Switch.

How do you get approved for lap band?

Generally, candidates for LAGB have a body mass index over 40 kg/m2, or are more than 45 kilograms over their ideal body weight. LAGB can be performed on a person with a BMI of 35-40 kg/m2 if there are problematic medical conditions that are weight-related, such as high blood pressure (hypertension) or diabetes.

What is the cheapest surgery to lose weight?

Gastric Banding: Cheaper Weight Loss Surgery? June 28, 2011 (San Diego) -- In people with diabetes, gastric banding is associated with fewer complications and lower costs over the long run than gastric bypass, the most commonly performed surgery for obesity in the U.S., researchers say.

How much weight do you lose with lap band?

It is possible to get down to your ideal weight following gastric banding. Most patients lose about half of their excess weight following gastric banding, and they lose it slowly and steadily, about one to two pounds per week.

How much do you have to be overweight to get the lap band?

The system was first approved by the FDA in 2001 for severely obese adults: those with a BMI of 35 with at least one severe comorbid condition; a BMI of 40; or those who are at least 100 lb overweight. Allergan estimates that more than 300,000 people worldwide have the Lap-Band. The surgery can cost $12,000 to $20,000.

What is the diet after lap band surgery?

Follow Your Diet Carefully

You will need to make sure you are getting enough protein, vitamins, and minerals while you are losing weight quickly. Eating mostly protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help your body get the nutrients it needs. Protein may be the most important of these foods.

How quickly do you lose weight with a gastric band?

At six months, you'll have lost a lot of weight. If you've had gastric bypass surgery, you will have lost about 30% to 40% of excess body weight. With gastric banding surgery, you lose 1 to 2 pounds a week -- so by six months, you'll have lost 25 to 50 pounds.

How Much Does Medicare pay for lap band surgery?

If you have Original Medicare and meet the criteria for coverage, Medicare insurance will cover 80 percent of the cost of your lap band surgery. You are responsible for the remaining 20 percent as well as your deductibles for Original Medicare Parts A and B.

What is the success rate of lap band surgery?

Secondly, success rates in long-term studies it has been shown that with exercise and a healthy diet can aid in the success of treatment. Often 70% of those who do have the surgery do not manage to lose excessive amounts of weight, regain weight, and have the lapband removed after ten years of the initial surgery.

Can you drink alcohol after lap band surgery?

Avoid alcohol for the first six months after bariatric surgery. When you get permission to start drinking alcohol again, avoid carbonated beverages and sugary drink mixers. Remember that after surgery, even small amounts of alcohol can cause intoxication and low blood sugar.

Do any weight loss pills actually work?

Takeaway. When it comes to the best weight loss pills, it appears there is no magic bullet. Although some of the diet pills and supplements mentioned above may contribute to weight loss, the amounts are usually modest. Caffeine, green tea extract, and orlistat appear to have the most research to back up their claims.

Does Blue Shield cover lap band?

Blue Cross and Blue Shield will cover your LAP-BAND Surgery as long as you meet your BCBS insurance plan's requirements for bariatric surgery.

How can I get free weight loss surgery?

Another option for free weight-loss surgery is to apply for charity care. If you fall within the bounds of the federal poverty level you may qualify for charity care for weight-loss surgery at one of your local hospitals. Currently, the options for charity care are limited, but there are a few.

How do you know if you qualify for weight loss surgery?

To be eligible for weight-loss surgery, you must meet the following requirements: Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or have a BMI between 35 and 40 and an obesity-related condition, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or severe sleep apnea.