A gastric balloon is a non-surgical procedure that reduces the cost of bariatric care to help you achieve your weight loss goals. Gastric balloons are one of the most cost-effective bariatric procedures on the market. Let’s break down the cost of a gastric balloon and compare it to the cost of other weight-loss surgeries.
How Much Does A Gastric Balloon Cost?
Gastric balloons are the cheapest bariatric procedure currently available. The cost of getting a gastric balloon tends to be half the cost of alternatives like gastric bypasses or gastric sleeves, which can cost up to $35.000. Unlike the Spatz3 balloon, these procedures require surgery, which increases the risks and costs of your weight-loss intervention.
As of March 2025, the average price of a gastric balloon in the United States is approximately $8.000, with prices typically ranging between $6.000 to $9.000. However, only your clinic will be able to determine the exact price of your gastric balloon, as many factors need to be examined. Prices can vary based on these factors. Some of these include:
- health-related factors;
- the services offered by the clinic;
- other elements, on which we’ll expand below.
Long-term savings benefits of gastric balloons
The gastric balloon has many long-term savings benefits. Although the initial cost may seem daunting, the money that the procedure helps you save in the long run is astounding. The gastric balloon helps with weight loss and weight maintenance. You will save yourself from having costs associated with weight and obesity in later life.
If you’d like to get a quote for your gastric balloon, get in touch with our representatives or with one of the bariatric clinics in your area.
What Factors Affect the Price of a Gastric Balloon?
Clinic location
The price of your gastric balloon depends on where you are located. Price ranges can vary throughout the states. Some states have a higher cost of living and generally expensive market prices for medical procedures. Clinics located in these regions will likely have a higher price.
Doctor’s expertise and experience
Doctors who are highly skilled in the field of weight loss procedures are going to charge more for their services. In particular, those with many years of experience tend to charge a higher fee.
Type
There are different types of gastric balloons for weight loss. The standard procedure on the market is the non-adjustable gastric balloon. There is also 1 adjustable option available, the Spatz3. The cost of these weight loss balloons is usually quite similar. However, there is variation in the performance of the balloon and weight loss results. It is proven that the adjustable gastric balloon has better weight loss success rates.
Procedure (what is included)
Depending on which clinic you decide to proceed with, the weight loss balloon price will differ based on what is included in the procedure. Typical gastric balloon procedures, from start to finish, will include:
- Consultation,
- medical screening tests,
- insertion of the balloon,
- post-procedure check-up,
- and ultimately, the removal of the balloon.
Usually, if you opt for a Spatz3 balloon, you can expect your journey to be similar to what is described here.
Other medical evaluations/tests
Patients may undergo some extra medical tests or assessments. These can include blood tests, x-rays, an ECG, etc. Some patients may experience side effects that require prescription medications or further tests. Depending on your clinic and insurance, this can result in additional costs.
What’s Covered in the Cost of a Gastric Balloon?
The cost of your gastric balloon usually covers:
- the initial consultation;
- the procedure itself;
- follow-ups at the clinic;
- the removal of the balloon;
- some additional costs, such as pre- and post-procedure evaluations, some prescription drugs, or visits to the clinic in the event of complications.
Does Insurance Cover Gastric Balloon Surgery?
Weight loss procedures like gastric balloons are usually considered an “elective” treatment option for obesity. Therefore, health insurance providers don’t tend to cover the procedure, even if they are FDA-approved.
However, depending on your Body Mass Index (BMI) and any weight-related health issues you have, you may be eligible to have your gastric balloon covered by your insurance provider, even if it is only partially.
We recommend you call your insurance company and discuss gastric balloon coverage. Here is some contact information for the top health insurance providers in the US.
UnitedHealth Group (UnitedHealthcare)
To get in contact with UnitedHealth, you can call the number that’s on your member ID. Or visit the UnitedHealth website today to learn more about coverage options.
Elevance Health (Anthem)
Call the Elevances general question line at 800-331-1476 (TTY: 711). Discover more coverage options today on the Elevance Health website.
Aetna (CVS Health)
If you have any questions, you can call Aetna on their general questions line at 1-800-872-3862 (TTY: 711). Or call the number that is placed on your member ID card. Understand more about Aetna’s healthcare plans today.
Humana
Get in contact with Humana today. Find out more information on their contact page. Again, you can also find a contact number on your member ID card.
What Are My Options If Insurance Doesn’t Cover the Gastric Balloon Procedure?
It can be a stressful financial situation for you if your insurance cannot cover the gastric balloon procedure. When the insurance refuses to pay, a common option is to finance the gastric balloon procedure with the help of a clinic or a financial institution. Many clinics offer flexible payment plans so that you can spread costs out over a long period. You can also take a look at Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). You may be able to use funds from these accounts to help pay for your gastric balloon.
How Does the Cost of a Gastric Balloon Compare to Other Bariatric Procedures?
There are several forms of bariatric care available for weight loss. Each procedure has its own advantages, risks and suitability depending on an individual’s health condition. The most common options on the market include gastric bypass and gastric sleeve, among others.
To understand what each option entails, we can compare the prices, success rates and recovery times. Some surgical procedures offer significant weight loss, but they also come with higher costs and longer recovery times. Non-surgical options like the gastric balloon provide a non-invasive weight loss alternative at a more affordable price.
Gastric bypass
A gastric bypass operation involves the creation of a small pouch on the upper part of your stomach that is then connected directly to the small intestine. It is an invasive surgery that will leave you with a longer recovery time. Like any surgery, the gastric bypass comes with its risks. However, the short-term weight loss benefits have been proven time and time again.
Gastric sleeve
Gastric sleeve surgery involves the removal of 70-80% of your stomach. It is a permanent alteration of the stomach. While its success in achieving weight loss is evident, it can lead to potential complications with your digestive system.
We would advise that you do your research on this surgery before making any permanent changes to your body and spending a fortune. When comparing gastric sleeve with gastric balloon, you should always consult a medical professional and choose the best path for you.
| Factor | Average Cost Range | Success Rates | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gastric Balloon | $6,000-$9,000 | 84% | 4–5 days |
| Gastric Bypass | $15,000-$35,000 | 90% | 3–5 weeks |
| Gastric Sleeve | $20,000-$25,000 | 85% | 4–6 weeks |
The Spatz3 Weight Loss Balloon, The Best Option Value For Money
The Spatz3 adjustable gastric balloon is the best cost-effective weight loss solution.
With its unique design, the Spatz3 can be adjusted to both reduce or increase balloon volume. This is beneficial when you are suffering from any potential side effects, or you’ve reached a plateau in your weight loss. The flexibility of the weight loss balloon ensures that you achieve the best weight loss results possible. This is evident in its weight loss success rates. With an 84% success rate, the Spatz3 is the best gastric balloon on the market.
Over 70.000 patients worldwide have trusted the Spatz3 to help them achieve their weight loss goals. What are you waiting for? Get in contact with us today!
