If you are serious about losing weight but more conventional non-surgical methods keep failing, then our professional team suggests you take a look and consider weight loss surgery. It is the most effective and permanent way to lose weight, and there are several surgical options available, suitable for different needs and budgets, one of which will certainly fit you.
In this blog post, we will discuss themes like the cheapest weight loss surgery in the UK, the different types of procedures available, along with the cost of bariatric surgery in the UK, all so you could have a more informed idea as to which bariatric procedure may fit you and your goals.
For any further advice, we have a team and our Patient Coordinator ready to aid you with all concerns and questions.
What types of weight loss surgery are available in the UK?
If you're considering bariatric surgery in the UK, you have a few different options to choose from. The most common type is gastric bypass. Other types of weight loss surgery include procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding (AGB). The latter uses an elastic band to restrict how much food a person can eat, but can also be tricky and require several post-surgical adjustments.
When it comes to the cost of weight loss surgery in the UK, both the lengthy NHS waiting lines and the prices of bariatric procedures in private clinics make them unavailable to a lot of people sorely in need.
How the UK compares to your other options
Where can I find the cheapest weight loss surgery in the UK?
There is no single answer to this question, as the cost of weight loss surgery will vary depending on where you live and what type of surgery you choose.
However, some general tips that may help include searching for local hospitals or clinics that offer discounts on weight loss surgeries, speaking to your healthcare provider about options available in your area, and using online resources like costofweightlossuk.com to get an estimate for various weight loss procedures.
In general, though:
- Gastric sleeve surgery price in the UK - £12 000-13 000
- Gastric band surgery price in the UK £4000-8000
- Gastric bypass in the UK £9500-15 000
But, before heading back to the topic of cheap weight loss surgery in the UK and its availability, let us take a closer look at different bariatric procedures, along with their most common features, success rates and, of course, price range.
NB! Your surgeon will work with you to determine which type of weight loss surgery is best for your individual needs and goals.
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WHAT PATIENTS SAY ABOUT WEIGHT LOSS RIGA?
Gastric bypass surgery
In a gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach and connects it directly to the small intestine, bypassing part of the stomach and small intestine. This limits the amount of food you can eat and reduces the absorption of calories and nutrients.
If you're considering gastric bypass surgery in the UK, it's important to do your research and find a qualified and experienced surgeon who can guide you through the process. There are many factors to consider, including their qualifications and experience, as well as their approach to patient care. At reputable clinics in the UK, patients can typically expect a comprehensive evaluation and consultation to determine whether gastric bypass surgery is the right option for them.
How much is gastric bypass in the UK?
It varies, sometimes greatly, depending on the clinic’s/hospital’s location, reputation, local funding etc, but the cost of gastric bypass surgery in the UK is estimated to remain between £9,500 and 15,000 throughout the UK.
What about the cost of gastric bypass’ revision surgery in the UK?
After the initial weight loss procedure, bariatric surgery is sometimes revisited for revision to address, improve upon, reverse or convert the original procedure. Different variables (is it a minor correction? Does the procedure need to be reversed or conversed? Are there any complications?) influence both the revision surgery and the price, and need to be taken into consideration.
In general, though, the cost of gastric bypass’ revision surgery in the UK is as follows:
- Revision/conversion – due to the difficulties, the revision surgery tends to be both longer and more expensive, putting the price range anywhere between £12,500 - £18,000
Gastric sleeve surgery
Gastric sleeve surgery, also known as sleeve gastrectomy, is a popular weight loss procedure available in the UK. In a gastric sleeve surgery, the surgeon removes a substantial portion of the stomach, leaving a sleeve-shaped stomach that is about the size of a banana. This also limits the amount of food you can eat and reduces the production of the hunger hormone ghrelin.
How much does a gastric sleeve cost in the UK?
The cost of a gastric sleeve in the UK may vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's fee, hospital charges, and other related expenses. Unfortunately, even the cheapest gastric sleeve surgery in the UK is anything but cheap – or affordable to most people who need it.
The cost of gastric sleeve surgery in the UK ranks between £12 000-13 000 and while one may find numbers lower and out of the average, it is also important to factor in the costs of pre-operative tests and post-operative care which may not be included by default. It is recommended to speak with a qualified surgeon to discuss the cost of the procedure and available financing options.
Gastric band surgery
Gastric band surgery is a popular weight loss solution in the UK that has helped many people achieve their goal of leading a healthier and happier life. In an adjustable gastric banding surgery, the surgeon places an inflatable band around the upper part of the stomach and tightens it to create a smaller stomach pouch. This procedure is reversible and can be adjusted as needed for weight loss.
How much does a gastric band cost in the UK?
The cost of gastric band surgery in the UK along with the procedure’s less invasive nature has been making it the most popular weight loss surgery for years. However, the tide is turning, due to the number of adjustments needed post-procedure and revision surgeries to turn the gastric band over into something more permanent and needing less aftercare, such as gastric sleeve or bypass.
The cheapest gastric band in the UK can be found at £4000 but bear in mind that with the possible adjustments and such, this might not be the final price.
CONNECT WITH PATIENTS PRE AND POST BARIATRIC SURGERY BY JOINING OUR FACEBOOK GROUP
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Join GroupCan I have my weight loss surgery via the NHS?
Patients who want to have weight loss surgery on the NHS can expect to pay nothing for the procedure. However, they must meet one of two criteria: have a BMI of 40 or above OR they must have a BMI of 35+ and any serious obesity-induced illness.
To be eligible for surgery, you will need to provide evidence that you have tried other methods of losing weight unsuccessfully and are willing to undergo a long-term evaluation after treatment.
BMI, though helpful, is not the only condition that needs to be met to qualify for surgery such as this. After months of assessments and meetings with specialists, if everything goes according to plan, the actual wait begins.
Are there any other free options for bariatric surgery available in the UK?
If your health allows you to wait around and take the possible extra risks, and your GP agrees, you may consider participating in a clinical trial.
What is a clinical trial?
Designed to provide accurate results and access to the latest treatments, clinical trials are studies in which patients consent to undergo new therapies while being closely supervised by medical professionals. In bariatric surgery, clinical trials usually serve as a treatment approach.
Are there free weight loss surgery clinical trials available in the UK?
Every now and then – yes. To learn more, speak to your GP and keep an eye on https://bepartofresearch.nihr.ac.uk/ page. However, do pay in mind that while these trials are free or even funded for participants, the risks are much higher than during a usual bariatric surgery, there are definite terms to qualify, and it is impossible to measure when and if another suitable project will occur.
What to do if I have any questions or concerns?
If you're considering weight loss surgery, it's important to have a clear understanding of the procedure and what to expect. The first two most important things are:
- Discuss your goals with your surgeon. They will discuss all aspects of the surgery with you before the big decision, including potential risks and benefits.
- Learn as much about the surgery as possible. This includes reading research papers on the subject, talking to other patients who have had the same surgery, and consulting with an expert (such as a nutritionist or personal trainer).
- Reach out to our Patient Coordinator
Summary
In this blog, we discussed the cheapest weight loss surgery in the UK, both via NHS and with a look into private weight loss surgery prices. We hope that by reading this you will be able to make an informed decision about which option is best for you.
