Real Procedural Costs of Bariatric Surgery in India

What is Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is one of the most preferred weight-loss surgeries that help people lose weight when all other methods have failed. It involves altering your digestive system. The surgery is of four types:

• Open or laparoscopic gastric bypass
• Sleeve Gastrectomy
• Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding
• The Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

The procedure reduces the stomach size which subsequently reduces the food intake, helping the person lose weight.

When is Bariatric Surgery Needed?

Lifestyle changes and other factors have contributed to several people dealing with obesity. This surgery is usually done as a last resort when all other methods including diet and exercise have failed.

Morbidly obese patients with co-morbidities like diabetes, hypertension, abnormal cholesterol levels, joint aches, sleep apnea etc. can consider this option if every other method to control weight fails.

What is the Cost of Bariatric Surgery in India?

The cost of getting weight loss surgery done in India varies from city to city. As per the India Laparoscopic Surgery Site, the surgery may cost anywhere between Rs. 2.5 lakhs, going as high as Rs. 5.6 lakh. Take a look at the cost of bariatric surgery across different metro and non-metro cities in India.

Cost in Metro Cities

Cost in Non-Metro Cities

Factors Affecting the Cost of Bariatric Surgery in India

• Type of hospital (Government or Private)
• Whether paid using an insurance or self-paid
• Patient's age
• Approach or type of surgery used
• Post-surgery complications
• Qualification of the surgeon
• Surgeon Fee
• Overall health & fitness of the patient
• Room category opted

Is Bariatric Surgery Affordable?

The cost of bariatric surgery is very high abroad, especially in western countries, often costing anywhere between USD 14,000 and 25,000.

In India, it can cost lakhs and is often an expensive affair when other necessary factors such as the type of surgery, surgeon's fee, anesthesia, and other costs are included. The equipment and technology used in this surgery costs around Rs. 1.75 lakh.

While the cost of surgery is lower than abroad, it is still very high for the average Indian household which may be a huge burden on the already suffering patient. In such a case, it becomes important to have a financial backup for such emergencies.

This is where the question arises — does health insurance in India cover bariatric surgery?

Is Bariatric Surgery Covered by Health Insurance?

As per the IRDAI's guideline, bariatric or weight loss surgery has been included under medical insurance cover since October 2019. This coverage is provided by several health insurance companies in India through several family floaters as well as critical illness policies.

The coverage depends on the threats and co-morbidities faced by the insured and can be availed only if it is medically necessary. The waiting period for a bariatric surgery ranged from 2 - to 4 years depending on the insurer and can't be used for cosmetic purposes.

Wrapping it Up,

Medical costs of any surgery don’t end immediately; post-surgical needs and lifestyle often require a lot of financial and mental support from others. In case you are worried about your loved one going through this procedure, don’t forget to buy health insurance covering bariatric surgery. This will save a lot of expenses and additional costs.