Which hospital is best for Bariatric Surgery in San Diego, California?

Surya

I am considering bariatric surgery for weight loss. I need suggestions for reputable and affordable hospitals in San Diego, California.
Does anyone know of a hospital with a good success rate for weight loss surgeries?

Mamali

Thank you for your question and for taking a proactive step toward better health. Bariatric surgery can be a powerful tool in achieving sustainable weight loss, especially when combined with long-term lifestyle changes and medical guidance.

In San Diego, several hospitals are recognized for excellence in bariatric care, offering advanced techniques, experienced surgical teams, and strong post-operative support systems. It's essential to choose a facility that not only fits your budget but also provides a comprehensive program for long-term success.

🏥 Top Reputable & Affordable Bariatric Surgery Centers in San Diego:

UC San Diego Health – Bariatric and Metabolic Institute
Designated as a Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) center.

Offers gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, and revisional surgeries.

Known for high success rates and a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, dietitians, psychologists, and exercise specialists.

Transparent cost estimates and financial counseling for self-pay patients.

Sharp Memorial Hospital – Weight Loss Surgery Program
Comprehensive bariatric program with minimally invasive options.

Experienced surgeons and integrated pre- and post-surgical support.

Offers support groups, nutritional counseling, and mobile app-based tracking tools.

Accepts a wide range of insurance plans and provides assistance for those without insurance.

Scripps Mercy Hospital – Bariatric Surgery Program
Accredited MBSAQIP center with a strong reputation for safety and patient outcomes.

Offers detailed surgical evaluations and personalized treatment plans.

Self-pay packages available, and some options may include bundled services.

💬 Patient Success Stories
Patients treated at these institutions have reported:

70–85% excess weight loss within 12–18 months

Improvement or resolution of related conditions like diabetes, sleep apnea, and hypertension

High satisfaction with ongoing support services

Amit

UC San Diego Health – Bariatric and Metabolic Institute
Why choose: UC San Diego Health is the region’s only academic medical center and a fully accredited MBSAQIP Comprehensive Center, meeting the highest standards for safety and quality.

Procedures: Offers minimally invasive gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and other advanced options using robotic and laparoscopic techniques for less pain and quicker recovery.

Support: Multidisciplinary team includes surgeons, dietitians, and health coaches. Patients receive ongoing follow-up and access to support groups.

Affordability: Accepts most insurance plans and offers financial counseling to help you understand costs and coverage.

Scripps Health – Bariatric Surgery Program
Why choose: Scripps is designated as a Comprehensive Center for bariatric surgery by the MBSAQIP and is trusted by Kaiser Permanente for its high standards and excellent outcomes.

Experience: Surgeons have performed over 20,000 bariatric surgeries, with complication rates well below national averages.

Techniques: Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) and revision surgeries available.

Support: Comprehensive aftercare, including support groups and lifestyle coaching.

Affordability: Accepts most insurance and offers cash-pay options for self-pay patients.

Sharp HealthCare
Why choose: Offers the latest technology, including robotic-assisted bariatric surgery, and is committed to excellent care and patient education.

Procedures: Vertical sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and SADI-S.

Support: Pre-op education, ongoing follow-up, and flexible self-pay options for those without insurance.

Olde Del Mar Surgical
Why choose: Led by award-winning, board-certified surgeons with a complication rate of only 1% (well below the national average).

Procedures: Offers gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and SADI duodenal switch, all minimally invasive.

Support: Patient-centered approach, online seminars, and comprehensive aftercare.

Affordability: Known for affordable options and transparent pricing.

Alvarado Hospital Medical Center
Why choose: One of the longest-running bariatric programs in the world, with a history of excellent patient outcomes.

Experience: Home to surgeons like Dr. Julie Ellner and Dr. Alan Wittgrove, pioneers in laparoscopic gastric bypass.

Support: Focus on attentive, detail-oriented care and robust aftercare programs.

Cost Overview
Insurance: Most major hospitals accept insurance and help with pre-authorization and paperwork.

Self-pay: Cash-pay packages are available, with prices often lower than national averages. Some clinics offer financing or payment plans.

Nearby options: Some patients choose reputable clinics just across the border in Tijuana for even more affordable care, but San Diego’s hospitals provide the highest standards of safety and follow-up.

Success Rates and Patient Experiences
San Diego’s top bariatric centers consistently report high success rates, low complication rates, and strong patient satisfaction.

Patients praise the thorough education, supportive staff, and ongoing follow-up care at centers like UC San Diego Health, Scripps, and Olde Del Mar Surgical.