Why is it so unaffordable to do Gastric Balloon placement/removals in the United States?

Question

An advancement in weight loss that can very well help millions of obese patients. Insurance does not cover it but yet it is priced above the means of normal income people. The procedure is considered minor and invasive. There is little to no anesthesia involved yet doctors and bariatric clinics in the U.S. are charging well up to $10,000 in certain states. WHY?? What makes this procedure so expensive?

Allison Barrett, MD · Answer

I agree that the fee seems high. Unfortunately, without insurance coverage, the fees will likely remain as such. The balloon itself costs around $3000. Add to that the fees for the surgeon to place and remove the balloon, the fees for the anesthesiologist to sedate you for the procedure, and visits with the doctor and nutritionist during the balloon placement period -- and it all adds up!

Mark Pleatman, MD (retired) · Answer

First off, let me say that gastric balloon is not an "advancement."  Balloons were available many years ago and were taken off the market because of complications.  The new balloons are maybe a bit safer, but still a bad idea.  The balloon needs to be removed in 6 months, after which the lost weight will be regained!  Just like after stopping a diet.Now, to your question.  The procedure requires endoscopy.  It also requires sedation, utilizing the services of an anesthesiologist.  Even if the procedure is done at an outpatient endoscopy center, the endoscopy will cost several thousand dollars.  Multiply that times two for the procedure to remove the balloon.  Add in the $2500 cost of the balloon, and the fee of the doctor who puts in the balloon, removes it, and takes care of you while you have it in you, and you can see why the cost ends up close to $10,000.  (Around here it is $7500).  Why not just get a sleeve gastrectomy for $11000 and be done with it?  :)

Why is it so unaffordable to do Gastric Balloon placement/removals in the United States?

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Why is it so unaffordable to do Gastric Balloon placement/removals in the United States?

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.