|  Weight loss surgery (also known as obesity, bariatric or gastric surgery) isn't for everyone but if you are a candidate, the results can be dramatic-even life-changing. Typically, to qualify for obesity surgery you must be overweight by 100 pounds (man) or 80 pounds (woman) with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40+.
Alternatively, weight loss surgery may be appropriate if you are 80 pounds overweight (BMI 30+) and have a serious obesity-related condition like type 2 diabetes or life-threatening cardio-pulmonary problems such as severe sleep apnea or obesity-related heart disease.
The decision to undergo weight loss surgery may be the most important and life-changing decision you ever make. Our goal at Health Travel Guides is to provide you with all of the information you need to make the best decision for you and your health.
It is a sad fact of the U.S. health care system that there are often significant financial barriers to receiving weight loss surgery. Costs can range between $17,000 and $70,000 depending on the experience of the surgeon, with the average cost between $20,000 - $35,000. Some insurance companies will cover part of this cost; many, however, do not. | |