Bariatric Surgery Statistics shows that bariatric surgery, otherwise known as weight loss surgery, is the most effective obesity treatment there is.
Key Take Aways:
- Bariatric surgery reduces the risk of heart disease by 83%.
- Bariatric surgery was performed 243,000 in 2022. With additional 10,000-20,000 performing in Mexico.
- Bariatric surgery is incredible safe with morbidity at just 0.2% for laparoscopic gastric sleeve, and less than 0.1% for gastric sleeve surgery.
- Average cost of bariatric surgery is $20,000 without insurance or $7,000 with insurance.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data in 2016, more than one-third (36.5%) of U.S. adults are obese (“Adult Obesity Facts | Overweight & Obesity | CDC,” 2016).
The WHO data showed that about 13% of the entire world populations were obese as at 2014. The prevalence of obesity has been rising due to the interaction between our genetic make-up and environment. The environmental factors are majorly our dietary habit and sedentary lifestyle. Increased industrialization and digitization has led to machines replacing humans in most energy-demanding activities.
Morbid obesity (BMI>40) in most cases do not respond significantly to dietary modification, and most other obese individuals desire a significant reduction in weight and resolution of associated comorbid conditions. Thus, bariatric (weight loss) surgery is being used as solutions for these set of people.
Obesity it Rising
As the prevalence of obesity is rising, there is also a proportionate increase in the number of people undergoing weight loss surgeries. Therefore it is not a surprise that the weight loss industry is fast-growing by the day.
The data revealed that between 2013 and 2016, the average body mass index (BMI) of patients who had bariatric surgeries was 49.1 kg/m2 with a mean weight of 136.4 kg, which is double the ideal weight for height.
Approximately 76% of these patients were females, and most patients have an average of 3-4 obesity-associated comorbid conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, apnea, arthritis, polycystic ovarian syndrome, dyslipidemia, etc. the average length of hospital stay after the surgery was 2-3 days with a survival rate of 99.95%.
According to an estimate published by Northwestern Medicine researchers at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions, a vast majority of American adults will be obese or overweight, while more than half will suffer from diabetes or other co-morbidities. The rate of obesity and overweight continues to grow at an alarming rate, with experts believing that obesity projections globally are worse than terrorism threats in the future.
To help address the challenges of obesity and its associated health risks, bariatric surgery is considered one of the most effective ways to achieve sustainable results. Owing to the amazing weight loss results that bariatric surgery delivers; its popularity has been rising at a rapid pace. According to a study, the global popularity of bariatrics as a weight-loss treatment procedure is projected to grow at a rate of 10% year-over-year.
An Overview of Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery, commonly referred to as metabolic or weight-loss surgery, includes a range of procedures designed to modify the digestive system for effective weight loss. This medical intervention becomes a viable option when conventional methods such as diet and exercise prove ineffective, or when an individual’s health is severely impacted by excess weight.
Various weight-loss techniques implemented during these procedures are strategically aimed at limiting food intake, altering the body’s capacity to absorb fat and calories, or combining both approaches for optimal results.
The following are the most common types of bariatric surgery:
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
- This widely adopted procedure involves the creation of a small pouch from the stomach, resulting in reduced food intake per sitting.
- Irreversible in nature, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass also diminishes the absorption of fat and calories, contributing to sustained weight loss.
Sleeve Gastrectomy
- In this approach, approximately 80% of the stomach is surgically removed, leaving a slender, tube-like pouch.
- The reduced stomach capacity limits food intake, and the surgery also prompts a decline in the production of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for regulating appetite.
- Learn more about statistics on gastric sleeve surgery.
Biliopancreatic Diversion
- Biliopancreatic diversion initiates with a sleeve gastrectomy, where a significant portion of the stomach is removed.
- The procedure involves rerouting the small intestine to reduce calorie absorption, reinforcing weight loss efforts.
Single-Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy (SADI-S)
- Similar to Biliopancreatic diversion, the SADI-S procedure unfolds in two stages, beginning with a sleeve gastrectomy.
- This innovative approach modifies the digestive process, promoting weight loss by restricting food intake and altering nutrient absorption.
According to insights from Infographic Bee, nearly two-thirds, or 65%, of all bariatric surgeries conducted worldwide are gastric sleeve procedures. On the contrary, around 17% of individuals dissatisfied with the outcomes of their initial bariatric surgery opt for revisional procedures.
Bariatric surgery may be considered as a viable option based on specific criteria:
- Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or higher, classified as extreme obesity.
- Those with a BMI ranging from 35 to 39.9, categorized as obese, provided they are also experiencing significant weight-related health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea.
- In certain instances, individuals with a BMI between 30 and 34 may qualify for select types of weight-loss surgery if they are also contending with serious weight-related health problems.
Outcomes of Bariatric Surgery: Weight Loss Statistics
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases supported an observational LABS study, aiming to investigate the potential risks and advantages associated with specific categories of weight-loss (bariatric) procedures in adults. This comprehensive study explored interventions such as gastric banding and both open and laparoscopic gastric bypass surgeries.
One crucial aspect to highlight is the success rate of bariatric procedures, standing at an impressive 85% over a span of 5 years. Beyond substantial weight loss, bariatric surgery plays an important role in enhancing overall quality of life.
Results after 30 days post-bariatric surgery
Following the first 30 days post-bariatric surgery, the LABS analysis reveals noteworthy findings regarding patient outcomes:
Mortality Rates
Mortality rates post-bariatric surgery were notably low, with only 2.1% of individuals undergoing open gastric bypass and a mere 0.2% of those opting for laparoscopic gastric bypass experiencing mortality. Importantly, no fatalities were reported among participants who underwent gastric band surgery.
Pre-existing Conditions and Complication Risk
Those with a medical history of deep vein blood clots or sleep apnea were identified to have an elevated risk of complications post-surgery. This underscores the importance of conducting comprehensive preoperative evaluations and tailoring risk assessment to individual patients.
Results after 7 years post-bariatric surgery
Weight Loss Achievements
Following gastric bypass surgery, participants experienced a noteworthy reduction, averaging 28.4% of their initial body weight. Laparoscopic gastric band surgery also demonstrated significant effectiveness, resulting in an average weight loss of 14.9%. A substantial portion of participants successfully maintained their weight loss over the examined period.
Post-Surgery Weight Trends
Seven years post-surgery, participants who underwent gastric bypass experienced a modest weight regain, averaging 3.9%. Similarly, those opting for gastric band surgery displayed an even more minimal regain, averaging 1.4%.
Metabolic Impact
Gastric bypass and gastric band surgeries exhibited positive effects on metabolic health. Instances of high cholesterol decreased in both cases. Gastric bypass surgery, in particular, showcased a decrease in the prevalence of diabetes and high blood pressure, with limited occurrences of diabetes recurrence over time.
Enhanced Quality of Life
The positive impact of bariatric surgery extended beyond weight-related metrics. Pain and physical function improvements were observed, indicating a broader enhancement in the overall well-being of participants.
Gastric Sleeve Dynamics
While the gastric sleeve has become the most common bariatric surgery, it was less observed during the LABS study period. Consequently, outcomes for gastric sleeve surgeries are not incorporated in the reported results, highlighting the need for ongoing research to further evaluate this increasingly popular procedure.
Rising Prevalence of Gastric Sleeve
The data published by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric surgery in July 2016, the total number of bariatric surgery done in the US in the year 2011 was 158,000 with the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) forming the most commonly performed bariatric surgery (36.7%). Gastric band and gastric sleeve came second and third respectively (34.5% and 17.8%). Only 6% of these patients had revision surgery done.
Average Bariatric Surgeries Performed Yearly: 196,000
Due to a rising prevalence of obesity, the figure rose to 196,000 in 2015, with gastric sleeve surgery being the most commonly performed bariatric surgery in that year (51.7%). Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) and the gastric band were second and third respectively (23.1% and 5.7%). The percentage of those who had revision surgeries in the year 2015, however, rose to more than double the value for 2011(13.6% vs. 6%).
- Gastric Sleeve 51.7% Excess Weight Loss (EWL)
- Gastric Bypass 23.1% Excess Weight Loss (EWL)
- Gastric Banding 5.7% Excess Weight Loss (EWL)
In terms of Excess Weight Loss (EWL) among the 3 most common bariatric surgeries, the United Kingdom National Bariatric Surgery Registry (NBSR) report showed that those who had Roux-en-Y gastric bypass operation had the greatest degree of EWL (55-70%). This was followed by patients who had gastric sleeve surgery (55-60%) and the least was recorded after gastric banding (45-55%). This excess weight loss was found to be sustained for up 2years of follow up.
In each type of the 3 bariatric surgeries above, the excess weight loss in men were less than those of women. No clear explanation for this observation, however, it may be due to interaction between many factors. It was also observed that patients with a BMI 50 kg m2. It is therefore important to offer bariatric surgery to the obese individual before the BMI gets to 50kgm2 in other to achieve optimal excess weight loss.
The analysis of a study done by the ASMBS which involved about 60,000 patients who had bariatric surgeries, showed that the overall average risk of dying as a consequence of bariatric surgery was 0.13%
The analysis of a study done by the ASMBS which involved about 60,000 patients who had bariatric surgeries, showed that the overall average risk of dying as a consequence of bariatric surgery was 0.13% (approximately 1 out of every 1,000 patients who undergo bariatric surgery will die). This, when compared with the risk of death from other surgeries, is significantly low. Also associated comorbid conditions such as hypertension and its likely complications and diabetes mellitus cause more deaths than bariatric surgery. Thus, bariatric surgery, by causing resolution/improvement in the comorbid conditions will reduce the overall risk of dying from obesity.
Percentage of Bariatric Procedures Performed: Quick Statistics
In the U.S. itself, an estimated 278,000 bariatric surgeries were performed in the year 2019, and this is expected to rise to an average of 297,000 in 2020.
Interestingly, over 6,000 to 8,500 bariatric surgeries were performed in Mexico itself in 2019. And this number clearly indicates that Mexico is one of the top destinations for high-quality and affordable bariatric surgery. The primary reason why Mexico is a popular choice for bariatrics is its remarkably low cost of surgery. Additionally, they have some of the best institutions and bariatric surgeons who are globally acclaimed for their quality of service and amazing weight loss results.
Of all types of bariatric surgeries, gastric sleeve is the most widely performed surgery. According to Infographic Bee, gastric sleeve represents almost 65% of all bariatric surgeries performed worldwide. On the other hand, 17% of all patients who are not happy with their bariatric surgery results undergo revisional surgeries.
Another study was conducted to evaluate the long-term results of the lap-band bariatric procedure in 3227 patients, most in their 40’s. The average BMI during the study was 43%. Between 1994-2011, these 3227 individuals were treated with a laparoscopic adjustable gastric band and were followed for a minimum of 10 years. Most of these patients demonstrated a 41% weight loss at 15 years and 62% at 16 years.
The below chart by ASMBS represents an estimate of bariatric surgery numbers from 2011-2018:
| 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018* | |
| Total | 1,58,000 | 1,73,000 | 1,79,000 | 1,93,000 | 1,96,000 | 2,16,000 | 2,28,000 | 2,52,000 |
| Sleeve | 17.80% | 33.00% | 42.10% | 51.70% | 53.60% | 58.10% | 59.40% | 61.40% |
| RYGB | 36.70% | 37.50% | 34.20% | 26.80% | 23.00% | 18.70% | 17.80% | 17.00% |
| Band | 35.40% | 20.20% | 14.00% | 9.50% | 5.70% | 3.40% | 2.70% | 1.10% |
| BPD-DS | 0.90% | 1.00% | 1.00% | 0.40% | 0.60% | 0.60% | 0.70% | 0.80% |
| Revision | 6.00% | 6.00% | 6.00% | 11.50% | 13.60% | 14.00% | 14.10% | 15.40% |
| Other | 3.20% | 2.30% | 2.70% | 0.10% | 3.20% | 2.60% | 2.50% | 2.30% |
| Balloons | — | — | — | — | 0.30% | 2.60% | 2.80% | 2.00% |
Benefits of Bariatric Surgery – Important Facts to Know
Are you struggling hard to lose weight? Have you tried every weight loss measure but with no results? Bariatric surgery performed by a certified surgeon may help achieve your weight loss goals. During the surgery, changes are made to the digestive system or the stomach is made smaller so that you eat and drink less, or feel fuller sooner. With proper diet and weight loss maintenance, bariatric surgery has been proven to deliver effective results.
And if you are apprehensive about getting a bariatric surgery done, it is important to note that the success rate of bariatrics is 85% after 5 years. The risk of death is also negligible, less than 13%. Bariatric surgery not only contributes to significant weight loss but also results in improved quality of life with the mortality rate being reduced by 85%.
Bariatric Surgery and Disease Prevention
Bariatric surgery holds remarkable improvements in contributing to disease prevention and overall health enhancement.
Cardiovascular Health
Following weight loss surgery, the risk of heart disease is visibly reduced by an impressive 83%. This positive outcome is attributed to the comprehensive impact of bariatric surgery on conditions that often lead to heart disease. Notably, the surgery resolves high cholesterol in 80% of cases, high blood pressure in 70% of cases, and improves Type 2 diabetes in 90% of cases.
Hypertension Management
Within just six months post-surgery, over 70% of individuals previously reliant on medication to control high blood pressure achieve normal blood pressure readings without medication, underscoring the effectiveness of bariatric interventions in managing hypertension.
Respiratory Benefits
Weight loss surgery swiftly alleviates shortness of breath, a common concern among individuals with obesity. The initial months following surgery witness a significant improvement in breathing difficulties, with sleep apnea resolved in 74-98% of cases and asthma improved or resolved in 82% of cases. This transformation enables the unimpeded circulation of oxygen throughout the body, fostering energy, cellular regeneration, and bolstering the immune system.
Alleviation of Aches and Pains
The relief from the discomfort of hip, knee, foot, and lower back pain is rapid, commencing as early as the first month post-surgery. This relief is attributed to the reduction of inflammation and is further accentuated with continued weight loss. Each pound shed translates to the alleviation of six pounds of pressure on the knees, contributing to a significant improvement in overall mobility and a greater enthusiasm for an active lifestyle.
Improvements in Various Medical Conditions
Bariatric surgery brings about substantial improvements in a spectrum of medical conditions, including:
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Improved in 90% of cases
- Pseudotumor Cerebri: Resolved in 96% of cases
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): Resolved in 79-100% of cases
- Metabolic Syndrome: Resolved in 80% of cases
- Gout: Resolved in 77% of cases
- Venous Stasis Disease: Resolved in 95% of cases
- Migraines: Resolved in 57% of cases
- Depression: Resolved in 55% of cases
- Stress Urinary Incontinence: Resolved in 44-88% of cases
- Degenerative Joint Disease: Resolved in 41-76% of cases
Effectiveness and Safety of Bariatric Surgery in Mexico
As published in Science Direct, “bariatric surgery is the best method for treating obesity and its comorbidities.” To validate this, they performed a comprehensive analysis of the post-surgery outcomes in patients who underwent bariatrics at a high-volume hospital in Mexico. A total of 500 patients were studied where the mean BMI was 44.1 kg/m2 and patient age was 38 years. They also had comorbidities like diabetes, high blood pressure, and dyslipidemia.
During the study, sleeve gastrectomy surgery was performed in 13% of the patients, laparoscopic gastric bypass surgery was done in 85.8% of the patients, while revisional surgery was performed in 1% of the patients. The following were the results from the study:
- 9.8% of the patients had early complications while only 12.2% had late difficulties. No deaths were reported during this study at a bariatric surgery hospital in Mexico
- Laparoscopic gastric bypass was seen to deliver the greatest weight loss results in the patients at 12 months
- The percentage of total weight loss to excess weight loss at 12 and 24 months was 76.9% and 77.6% respectively
- An estimated 11.4% of the patients reported a failure in weight loss post-surgery
- In the patients having Type 2 diabetes, 21.8% reported improvements while 68.7% presented complete disease remission. 9.3% of the diabetic patients reported partial remission
Based on the study, experts at Science Direct suggest that bariatric surgery in a high-volume hospital center in Mexico is effective and safe. The conclusion is drawn based on the lower incidents of adverse effects, Type 2 diabetes control, and consequent weight loss results. However, to determine the final efficacy of bariatric procedures, it is important to perform long-term studies with a larger research population.
Bariatric Surgeries Statistics in the United Kingdom
According to the United Kingdom National Bariatric Surgery Registry (NBSR) report, about NHS patients that had bariatric surgery, published in February 2017, a total of 5,192 primary operations were done while about 336 revision surgeries were also performed in 2012/2013 financial year. These figures reduced to 5,056 and rose to 648 respectively in 2015/2016 fiscal year.
Bariatric Surgery Cost Statistics
Understanding the financial aspects of bariatric surgery is crucial for patients. Here, we uncover the statistics related to the costs of this transformative medical procedure:
Average Cost Without Insurance Coverage
When opting for bariatric surgery without insurance coverage, individuals can expect an average cost of $20,000 for the surgery. This financial commitment underscores the importance of financial planning for those considering this weight-loss surgery.
Average Cost With Insurance Coverage
For people with insurance coverage, the landscape of bariatric surgery costs shifts significantly. The average expense is notably reduced to $7,000, emphasizing the impact of insurance in making this transformative procedure more accessible.
International Perspective: Mexico Bariatric Surgery Costs
Exploring international options, particularly in Mexico, unveils a visible contrast in expenses. Bariatric surgery costs in Mexico are typically 1/3 to 1/4 of what one might expect to pay in the United States.
Cost of Bariatric Surgery Stats
Wondering what is the cost of bariatric surgery. These statistics will help you make an informed decision:
- The average cost of bariatric surgery without insurance coverage is $20,000
- With insurance coverage, the average cost of bariatric surgery is $7,000
- Mexico Bariatric Surgery Costs are typically 1/3 to 1/4 the costs you’d expect to pay in the US.
- In Mexico, the average cost of gastric sleeve is $4,500, which is considered significantly lower than anywhere in the U.S.
However, a striking fact is that almost 25% of the patients are denied insurance coverage 3 times before getting approved for bariatric surgery. This is one of the primary reasons why most people consider undergoing a bariatric procedure in Mexico.
The cost of bariatric surgery is most competitive in Mexico and the hospital centers also accept most insurance plans. So, you can be assured of a seamless experience with amazing weight loss results.
