How Much Does ORBERA® Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

The ORBERA® weight loss balloon is a relatively new non-surgical option for people with a BMI ranging from 30 to 40.  This is an FDA approved and is considered to be the #1 weight loss ballon in the entire world, according to the manufacturer’s official website.

This soft silicone balloon is inserted into the stomach via an endoscopy and is then filled with a saline solution, which will create the full feeling, even after consuming a smaller meal.

The balloon will remain inside the stomach for up to six months and will then be removed.

If paired with a healthy diet and lifestyle, the ORBERA® balloon, according to medical professionals, is a wonderful choice for those who do not qualify for the traditional weight loss surgery.

On average, patients should expect to lose anywhere from 30 to 50 pounds.

How much does the ORBERA® gastric balloon cost?

The cost of the ORBERA® gastric balloon will greatly depend on your geographical location, the facility where it is being performed and the surgeon you choose.  From our research, the geographical location and facility do play a rather big role as the higher cost of living areas will be up to 50 percent higher than a rural area.   The same can be said about those who have the procedure done in a hospital setting as this will be the costliest option. With this being said, the average cost can range anywhere from as little as $7,100 to as much as $14,900 for the entire procedure.

According to Isaac Raijman, MD, a Houston Gastroenterologist on RealSelf.com, he claimed the cost for the ORBERA® balloon can range anywhere from $8,000 to $13,000, and the higher prices are usually for procedures that are performed in a hospital setting.  If the procedure were performed within an independent endoscopic center or ambulatory surgical center, then the cost will be much less.  However, even though the prices may be higher, he warns this doesn’t mean the procedure will be more effective than that of one performed in an independent center.  At the end of his question, he stated his center would charge $7,500 for the procedure.

With the estimates noted above, this should include the placement, the removal about six months in the future, the anesthesia used during the procedure, the cost of the balloon, surgeon’s fees, lab work and the cost of the facility/hospital fees.  However, this isn’t guaranteed as all centers will have its own billing practices.  It is always best to know exactly what you will be responsible for before the procedure even begins.

Do you qualify?

The ORBERA® balloon is intended for adult patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 to 40 and for those who have attempted conservative weight loss solutions.  Data from ORBERA®, which was collected from a U.S. clinical trial did show the average person lost 3.1 times the weight as compared to someone who simply dieted and exercised in the six months.

The procedure process

During the procedure, the ORBERA® balloon is placed inside your stomach, while being sedated, via a thin tube that’s inserted through the mouth, and no incisions will be made.  Once the balloon is in place, it will then be filled with saline.  The entire procedure takes about 20 minutes and almost all patients will be able to go home the same day.  In six months, after the initial procedure, you will then be asked to come back to the office so the balloon can be removed.  To remove it, the process is similar to the placement but simply in reverse.  Again, you will be sedated and will be able to go home the same day.  The removal process, just like the placement, will take about 20 to 30 minutes as well.

What are the extra costs?

Pre-operative tests, such as blood work and/or an x-ray, may not be included in the estimates above and need to be budgeted for separately.

Tips to know

ORBERA® has more than 20 years of experience, and according to the company, more than 220,000 stomach balloons have been placed.

RealSelf.com, at this time, has more than 75+ ORBERA® before and after pictures.

How can I save money?

As mentioned, an outpatient center will always be cheaper than a hospital setting.  If at all possible, try your best to find a provider who is willing to work at an independent center to save on costs.

Seeing the ORBERA® balloon is relatively new, there’s a good chance it won’t be covered by health insurance, even though it is approved by the FDA.  According to a few answers, we did find online, many doctors claim their patients paid cash.


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