Photo: Pexels.com The NHS is often the first port of call for those in the UK struggling with persistent weight issues. However, although gastric surgeries are technically free for all UK citizens, the numbers admitted are strictly limited, with long waiting lists forcing many to seek out private clinics and fund the operations themselves.
So how much does weight loss surgery cost? Let’s take a look at the figures:
Average weight loss surgery costs
In the UK, weight loss surgery at a private clinic can be costly. The NHS website includes the average prices of having a procedure undertaken by a private clinic. The costs listed are as follows:
- gastric band – £4,000 to £8,000
- gastric bypass – £8,000 to £15,000
- gastric sleeve – £8,000 to £10,000
While there’s a good deal of variation in those prices (with certain procedures also being more popular than others), we can take a very broad average and come up with a figure of around £10,000.
It’s no wonder that with weight loss surgery costs being so high in the UK, many patients choose to travel to cheaper countries to have their operations.
So what is the cost of weight loss surgery outside of the UK? Weight loss surgery prices can vary enormously, but if we look at a popular European destination such as Riga, Latvia, the cost of a typical sleeve, band, or bypass procedure is £4,950.
That’s a lot cheaper than the UK and better value than many other popular destinations, especially once you consider the hidden costs that some people overlook.
The hidden costs of weight loss surgery
Weight loss surgery costs aren’t always as straightforward as they may appear. The £4,950 price of a weight loss operation in Riga Latvia includes all of the following essential extras, but it’s worth noting that clinics in many countries don’t include these things in their prices:
Airport, hotel, and hospital transfers
Transfers can quickly add up, especially if you're unwilling or unable to take public transport after surgery and opt for private taxis.
Single night hotel accommodation and a 4-day stay in hospital
Yes, you read that correctly. Some clinics can bill you for the nights spent in a bed before and after your operation, and many won't offer a free evening in a hotel when you arrive.
Gastroscopy, blood samples, X-rays, and medication
Another hidden cost that can quickly mount up. Scans, gastroscopy, X-rays, blood work, and other sundry items could seriously dent your budget if they aren't included in the up-front price.
A 5-year follow up and nutritional guidance
All professional clinics should offer a continuing care package with a sound nutritional plan and follow-up consultations. Just ensure that these important pieces of the puzzle are included in the initial quote.
Summing up
As you can see, the question "how much is weight loss surgery?" isn't always the easiest to answer. When it comes to weight loss surgery abroad, it's vital that you do your research and ensure that you've considered any hidden costs that could arise, choosing a clinic with an honest and open attitude to pricing.
