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How much does lap band surgery cost in Canada?

Author

Matthew Martinez

Updated on March 06, 2026

How much does lap band surgery cost in Canada?

On average the cost of bariatric surgery can be $15 000–$20 000 Canadian dollars, depending on the procedure, and the disposable staplers/cartridges needed for either a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy cost $2500–$3000.

Similarly, how much does lap band cost in Canada?

The flat cost for your procedure is $16,000.

Likewise, do I qualify for weight loss surgery Canada? Surgery is usually only recommended for morbidly obese people with a body mass index (BMI) of at least 40. It might also be recommended for obese individuals with a BMI over 35 if those individuals suffer from at least one other medical problem related to obesity (heart disease, diabetes, breathing problems).

Correspondingly, is weight loss surgery covered by insurance in Canada?

Currently, both the Gastric Sleeve and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass procedures are covered in almost all of Canada by provincial healthcare insurance plans. Some provinces may cover LAP-BAND surgery, but the wait lists can be very long (2 to 15 years).

How much does lap band cost with insurance?

The LAP-BAND® System generally costs anywhere between $9,000 and $18,000. Pricing varies between weight loss clinics, based on factors such as demand, insurance coverage and location. Insurance companies may help cover the cost of bariatric procedures, including the LAP-BAND®.

What is the safest weight loss surgery?

A sleeve gastrectomy is a simpler operation that gives them a lower-risk way to lose weight. If needed, once they've lost weight and their health has improved -- usually after 12 to 18 months -- they can have a second surgery, such as gastric bypass.

How much weight will I lose with lap band?

It is possible to get down to your ideal weight following gastric banding. Most patients lose about half of their excess weight following gastric banding, and they lose it slowly and steadily, about one to two pounds per week.

Is lap band covered by OHIP?

OHIP/Régie cover the medical portion of each visit. The Lap Band adjustment procedure itself is not covered by health care.

How safe is lap band surgery?

One of the risks of gastric band surgery is that weight loss after surgery can increase the risk of sudden death from cardiac arrhythmias. Research also shows that the Lap-Band can deteriorate or causes a perforation in the gastro-intestinal tract, where acids and fecal matter can leak into the abdomen.

Is there a class action on lap band surgery?

Drug and medical device maker Allergan Inc. will pay $3.5 million to resolve whistleblower allegations that it knowingly sold defective LAP-BAND surgical gastric bands to healthcare providers, the Department of Justice said.

Who qualifies for bariatric surgery in Ontario?

Patients must meet the following criteria to be eligible for surgery: BMI of greater than 35 with co-morbidities or, A BMI greater than 40. Be motivated and willing to make eating and lifestyle changes.

How much does gastric balloon cost in Canada?

The $8,000 treatment, offered under the Canadian brand name Jump6, involves the insertion of a gastric balloon into the stomach via a tube through the esophagus. The balloon is then inflated with water and left in place for six months.

How much is surgery in Canada?

An hour of operating room time costs $397.05 in a U.S. hospital, compared with $313.76 in Canada. One day in a surgical bed costs $561.53 in the United States and $360.10 in Canada.

How do I know if my insurance cover weight loss surgery?

"In the vast majority of cases, insurance covers bariatric surgery. Contact your insurance carrier to determine if elective bariatric surgery is a covered benefit through your plan," he said. "And if your case is denied by insurance, there is an appeals process."

Who is eligible for weight loss surgery?

Bariatric surgery is usually offered to people who are very obese (with a body mass index over 40), or people with a body mass index over 35 who have other serious health problems like diabetes or heart disease. You could consider bariatric surgery, but only after trying alternatives.

How long is the waiting list for bariatric surgery?

In practical terms, you're probably going to wait two or three years just to be seen in one of their clinics and another period of waiting a year or two just to get on their waiting list.

Does OHIP cover weight loss surgery?

Ontario publicly funds sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass. Both these procedures are more invasive, and are irreversible. Intensive follow up is needed for patients who undergo these procedures. However, evidence shows that these procedures have better long-term patient outcomes than adjustable gastric banding.

Do I qualify for bariatric surgery quiz?

A BMI range of 18-24.9 is considered optimal. Morbid obesity is defined as a BMI score of 40 or more. You typically qualify for bariatric surgery if you have a BMI of 35-39, with specific significant health problems like Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea or high blood pressure.

How do I qualify for weight loss surgery in Ontario?

Eligibility:
  • 18 years of age and older.
  • BMI greater than or equal to 40.
  • BMI greater than or equal to 35 but less than 40. With at least one of the following comorbidities (as determined by your physician): Coronary heart disease. Type II Diabetes mellitus. Hypertension. Diagnosed sleep apnea.

How much is a sleeve surgery?

“The surgery for a sleeve gastrectomy is about $17,500 and for bypass it's about $27,000.” The good news: the price hurdle is often one that patients can overcome on their way to healthier lifestyles because more and more, insurers are willing to cover the surgeries — especially when employers demand coverage.

How much does weight loss surgery cost in Canada?

On average the cost of bariatric surgery can be $15 000–$20 000 Canadian dollars, depending on the procedure, and the disposable staplers/cartridges needed for either a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy cost $2500–$3000.

Can a tummy tuck be covered by OHIP?

Tummy tuck

While abdominoplasty procedures are not covered by OHIP, a panniculectomy may be covered, depending on the situation. The surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fatty tissue will be covered but its coverage depends on the case and if it's medically necessary.

How long do you stay in hospital after bariatric surgery?

Patients spend an average of two to five days in the hospital following bariatric surgery, or longer if complications develop. Patients who undergo laparoscopic bariatric surgery usually have a shorter hospital stay. When you return to your hospital room after surgery, you will be closely monitored by your nurses.

Which is better gastric sleeve or bypass?

Gastric sleeve pros

You can lose up to 65 percent of your excess body weight. It's a one-step procedure so there's a lower risk of complications. The recovery is faster compared with gastric bypass. There are fewer issues with absorbing nutrients and vitamins.

How can I lose weight fast?

Here are 9 more tips to lose weight faster:
  1. Eat a high protein breakfast.
  2. Avoid sugary drinks and fruit juice.
  3. Drink water before meals.
  4. Choose weight-loss-friendly foods.
  5. Eat soluble fiber.
  6. Drink coffee or tea.
  7. Base your diet on whole foods.
  8. Eat slowly.

Who is not a candidate for bariatric surgery?

Those who are mentally ill or have other risk factors may not be recommended for bariatric surgery. In order to qualify for bariatric surgery, a patient has to have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 plus comorbidity, or a BMI over 40.

Can I get a stomach sleeve?

In general, sleeve gastrectomy surgery could be an option for you if: Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher (extreme obesity). Your BMI is 35 to 39.9 (obesity), and you have a serious weight-related health problem, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or severe sleep apnea.

What is a bariatric sleeve?

Sleeve gastrectomy is a surgical procedure that induces weight loss by restricting food intake. With this procedure, which is usually performed laparoscopically, the surgeon removes approximately 75 percent of the stomach. This results in the stomach taking on the shape of a tube or "sleeve" which holds much less food.

Does insurance pay for lap band?

Insurance is typically the best way to go when you are considering weight loss surgery. However, many procedures are not covered by insurance. Today gastric sleeves, laparoscopic gastric bypass and lap gastric bands are typically covered by most major insurance companies.

Does Medicare pay for lap band surgery?

LAP-BAND, gastric bypass, and gastric sleeve procedures are covered by Medicare if your designated Medicare doctor decides that you meet certain criteria relevant to obesity. Medicare will cover the procedure if you: Have a BMI (body mass index) equal to or greater than 35.

How much does lap band surgery cost out of pocket?

For non-insured patients, you are looking at approximately $20,000. This covers everything. Of this $3500 is payable four to six weeks prior to surgery. The out-of-pocket costs may be taken from superannuation funds if required.

How do you qualify for gastric band?

Guidelines to qualify for gastric bypass surgery
  1. Efforts to lose weight with diet and exercise have been unsuccessful.
  2. Your body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher.
  3. Your BMI is 35 or more and you have a serious weight-related health problem, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or severe sleep apnea.

Can you finance lap band surgery?

According to Bariatric Surgery Source, one common source of financing is a secured medical loan. A secured medical loan is a loan you guarantee with collateral, such as your home or car. Depending on the value of your collateral, you can borrow up to the full cost of your procedure.

What are the side effects of lap band surgery?

Side effects of a lap band surgery include nausea and vomiting, ulceration at the band site, esophageal reflux (indigestion), weight regain, and dehydration.

How can I get my insurance to pay for weight loss surgery?

Getting Your Insurance to Pay for Weight Loss Surgery

Most major insurance companies will require: Proof that surgery or medical intervention is medically necessary. Your surgeon can help provide your medical history and documentation of your weight-related health problems.

How do you eat after lap band surgery?

You will eat only liquid or pureed food for 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery. You will slowly add in soft foods, and then regular foods. When you start eating solid foods again, you will feel full very quickly. Just a few bites of solid food will fill you up.

How fat do you have to be for a gastric band?

You usually have to meet certain criteria to be considered for gastric band surgery. These include: having a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or more, or between 35 and 40 with a health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure. having tried all other treatment options first, such as dieting and exercise.