Many people know weight loss surgery can change their health and quality of life. What they worry about most is cost. The truth is, bariatric surgery often saves money over time by reducing future medication, disease care, and emergency visits. With insurance, self-pay, and flexible financing, treatment is more accessible than ever before.
1. Cost of Weight Loss Surgery, Special Houston Pricing vs Nationwide Averages
Special Pricing in Houston (All-Inclusive for Medical Services Only)
At Houston Surgical Weight Loss, patients can take advantage of a limited-time all-inclusive gastric sleeve price starting at $6,999. This special pricing covers your surgeon fees, hospital facility fees, anesthesia, pre-operative labs, and post-operative follow-ups for up to one year — all performed by Dr. Irfan Wadiwala, DO, a fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon known for excellent outcomes in metabolic health and weight loss surgery.
Patients traveling from within or outside Texas often choose Houston for experienced surgical care at a significantly lower cost than the national average. While accommodations, transportation, and hotel arrangements are available with guidance from our team, these travel-related expenses are not included in the surgical package pricing and are paid separately by the patient. (Pricing listed is a starting estimate and may increase depending on medical complexity, additional tests, or individual needs.)
Nationwide Average Bariatric Surgery Costs in the USA
Across the United States, the average cost of weight loss surgery is considerably higher than in Houston. On average:
◉ Gastric Sleeve: $14,000 to $23,000
◉ Gastric Bypass: $20,000 to $30,000
◉ Gastric Band: $9,000 to $15,000
◉ Gastric Balloon: $6,000 to $10,000
These prices typically include professional services such as:
◉ Hospital or surgical center fees
◉ Anesthesia and surgical team fees
◉ Pre-op labs, X-ray, and EKG
◉ Medication needs
◉ Post-op follow-ups
However, costs vary widely by state, the medical facility, surgeon expertise, and insurance coverage. Many patients seek transparent pricing and high-quality care at a more affordable rate, which is why Houston has become a trusted bariatric destination for people nationwide.
2. Insurance Coverage and Eligibility
Most private insurance plans and Medicare cover bariatric surgery if the following apply:
◉ BMI 40 or higher
◉ BMI 35 or higher with diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea
◉ Medically documented attempts at weight loss
◉ Psychological and nutritional evaluations
Approval is typically handled by the bariatric care team to guide you through the process efficiently.
3. Self-Pay Pricing and Special Discounts
For patients without insurance or those wanting a faster path to surgery, self-pay is affordable and simple.
Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy — Starting at $6,999* (all-inclusive)
Best Option:
◉ Self-Pay Special: $6,999*
Payable by cashier’s check or money order to WIFUMAM PA
Includes:
◉ Physician fees
◉ Hospital fees
◉ Anesthesia
◉ Lab testing
◉ Dietitian support
◉ One-year follow-up care
◉ $1,000 hospital rebate included
This option is ideal for local and nationwide patients who want fast scheduling.
4. Financing and Monthly Payment Options
For patients who prefer to pay over time, flexible financing makes bariatric surgery achievable.
2nd Option:
◉ Financing Package: $8,999* (all-inclusive)
Includes:
◉ Physician
◉ Hospital facility
◉ Anesthesia
◉ Lab testing
◉ Dietitian nutrition counseling
◉ Surgical assistant
◉ One-year follow-up care
Accepted payment methods:
◉ Visa
◉ MasterCard
◉ Discover
◉ American Express
Medical financing programs available:
◉ CareCredit
◉ Prosper Healthcare Lending
◉ United Medical Credit
Monthly payments vary based on approval but are often very affordable, helping patients move forward without delay.
*Prices based on current promotional offerings, subject to eligibility and may change.
5. Additional Pre and Post-Op Costs
While most costs are included in bundled self-pay and insurance-based packages, some services may require separate charges based on your medical needs. These items ensure that the procedure is safe and tailored specifically to your health situation.
Examples include:
◉ Sleep Study and CPAP Evaluation
For patients who snore or have sleep apnea symptoms, a sleep study may be required to ensure safe anesthesia and breathing during recovery.
◉ Specialized Lab Work and Imaging
Individuals with diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, or thyroid disorders may need additional testing to verify that surgery is appropriate and optimized for their condition.
◉ Prescription Medications and Supplements
After surgery, most patients require bariatric-specific vitamins to support long-term nutrition and prevent deficiencies. Medication adjustments may also be necessary if blood pressure, diabetes, or reflux improves rapidly.
◉ Psychological and Nutritional Evaluations
Some insurance plans require behavioral and dietary assessments to help ensure readiness for a major lifestyle transition.
◉ Follow-Up Imaging or Endoscopy
Rarely, if acid reflux or anatomical changes need closer monitoring, additional studies may be recommended for patient safety and comfort.
These services are ordered only when medically needed, and your care team discusses all costs in advance. One of the most important parts of our process is transparency. That is why during your consultation, you receive a complete written cost estimate, so there are no financial surprises before or after surgery.
Bariatric care teams are committed to making sure every patient feels supported, informed, and empowered from day one through full recovery.
6. Why Bariatric Surgery Saves Money Long-Term
Patients often save thousands each year after surgery due to:
◉ Reduced diabetes or hypertension medications
◉ Eliminated CPAP equipment for sleep apnea
◉ Fewer doctor visits and hospitalizations
Studies show bariatric surgery pays for itself within 2–4 years through better health and fewer medical emergencies.
7. Nationwide Patient Support + Telehealth
Many bariatric patients travel to expert centers for advanced care, trusted results, and more affordable pricing. With virtual consultations, patients can complete evaluations and pre-surgery requirements from home before visiting Houston for their procedure.
For those traveling from across the United States, our team provides concierge support to make the experience smooth and stress-free, including:
◉ Assistance with flight planning and arrival scheduling
◉ Hotel accommodation arrangements near the surgical center
◉ Coordinated airport pickup and ground transportation
◉ Guidance for a comfortable same-day discharge or short stay
◉ Ongoing post-operative telehealth follow-ups once patients return home
This dedicated nationwide support allows patients to focus on healing and their health goals, while our team handles the logistics. Many individuals find Houston to be a convenient destination because of accessible travel routes, excellent medical standards, and personalized patient care. Whether local or out-of-state, you receive the same high level of surgical attention and long-term support.
8. Final Thoughts
Cost should not hold anyone back from improving their health and longevity. With insurance coverage, discounted self-pay, and flexible financing, patients across the USA can take control of their future.
The first step is benefits verification or a self-pay consultation to determine the best option for your needs and budget.
A healthier and more confident life can start today.
9. FAQs
How much does gastric sleeve cost with self-pay?
Special pricing may start around $7,999* with all fees included.
Do insurance companies pay for weight loss surgery?
Yes, most provide full or partial coverage if medical criteria are met.
Is financing available?
Yes, with monthly payments available through CareCredit and others.
Does this include hospital fees?
Yes, both self-pay and financed packages include hospital and anesthesia.
10. Disclaimer
Pricing and financing options are based on current program offerings and may vary. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Coverage decisions and approvals depend on individual insurance plans and medical evaluation.
