What Is the Cost of Bariatric Surgery? Insurance & Self-Pay Options Explained

How Much Does Bariatric Surgery Cost? A Complete Guide for Patients Near La Grange, Naperville & Oak Brook

One of the most common questions patients ask when exploring weight loss surgery is:
“How much does bariatric surgery cost—and will my insurance cover it?”

At University of Chicago | AdventHealth LaGrange Hospital, Dr. Jihad Kudsi, Medical Director of Bariatric Surgery, helps patients from Naperville, Oak Brook, Downers Grove, and across Chicago’s western suburbs understand their options for coverage, self-pay, and financial planning.

Average Cost of Bariatric Surgery in Illinois

💲 Sleeve Gastrectomy (VSG):

• Self-pay: $15,000–$18,000

💲 Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y):

• Self-pay: $18,000–$25,000

💲 SIPS / SADI-S (Duodenal Switch):

• Self-pay: $20,000–$28,000

These estimates include hospital, anesthesia, surgeon, and follow-up care.

Does Insurance Cover Bariatric Surgery?

✅ Yes—most insurance plans do cover bariatric surgery, including:

• Sleeve gastrectomy
• Gastric bypass
• SIPS/SADI-S

Coverage criteria typically include:

• BMI ≥ 35, or
• BMI ≥ 30 with weight-related conditionslike:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• High blood pressure
• PCOS

Most plans also require:

• A supervised medical weight loss program
• A psychological evaluation
• Nutrition counseling

Our team will walk you through the pre-authorization and documentation process to make it as smooth as possible.

Common Insurance Providers That Cover Surgery

We regularly work with:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Aetna
• Cigna
• UnitedHealthcare
• Medicare (in eligible cases)

Most of these cover all three major surgeries—including SIPS.

What If I Don't Have Insurance or Don’t Want to Wait?

We offer transparent self-pay packages that include:

• Surgery
• Anesthesia
• Post-op care
• Bariatric support program

We also offer payment plan options for those who qualify.

Additional Expenses to Plan For

Even with insurance or self-pay packages, consider budgeting for:

• Pre-op labs and testing
• Vitamins and supplements
• Long-term follow-ups

We’ll give you a full breakdown at your first visit so there are no surprises.

Is It Worth the Investment?

Yes—bariatric surgery not only improves quality of life but often saves money long-term by reducing or eliminating the need for diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure medications.

Considering Weight Loss Surgery in the Western Suburbs?

Book your consultation with Dr. Kudsi at UChicago | AdventHealth LaGrange Hospital to learn more about coverage, costs, and which procedure is right for you.