Top Hospitals for Bariatric Surgery in San Diego
- Scripps Health
Reputation: Scripps is accredited as a Comprehensive Center for bariatric surgery by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP), reflecting high safety and success standards.
Experience: Their surgeons have performed over 20,000 bariatric surgeries, consistently achieving low complication rates and high success rates.
Techniques: Offers the latest minimally invasive (laparoscopic) procedures, which result in less pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery.
Support: Provides comprehensive pre- and post-surgery support, including lifestyle coaching and support groups.
Affordability: Scripps is a trusted provider for Kaiser Permanente members and offers both insurance-based and self-pay options. Patients report that Scripps is transparent about costs and offers guidance for those seeking affordable solutions.
- Olde Del Mar Surgical
Reputation: Led by Dr. Sunil Bhoyrul, this clinic is known for a complication rate of just 1%, well below the national average of 5%.
Techniques: Specializes in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures, including gastric sleeve, gastric bypass, and SADI duodenal switch.
Patient Experience: Patients praise the supportive, patient-centric approach and the expertise of the surgical and aftercare team. Many report significant health improvements and a smooth recovery process.
Affordability: Offers competitive pricing and transparent cost breakdowns. Many patients find their rates reasonable, especially considering the advanced technology and low complication rates.
- Wittgrove Bariatric Center
Reputation: Dr. Alan Wittgrove is a pioneer in laparoscopic gastric bypass and has performed over 11,000 bariatric surgeries since 1987.
Patient Feedback: Patients consistently describe Dr. Wittgrove and his staff as warm, knowledgeable, and supportive, with excellent aftercare and support group access.
Techniques: Focuses on minimally invasive procedures, contributing to faster recovery and fewer complications.
Affordability: While specific prices are not always listed, many patients mention that the center helps with insurance and offers clear guidance on self-pay options.
- UC San Diego Health – Bariatric and Metabolic Institute
Reputation: UCSD Health offers a multidisciplinary team and advanced minimally invasive and robotic procedures.
Support: Known for thorough pre- and post-operative care, including education, nutrition counseling, and support groups.
Affordability: UCSD works with most insurance plans and offers assistance with financing for self-pay patients.
Cost Overview and Affordability
Typical Range: Bariatric surgery in San Diego generally costs $12,000–$25,000 for self-pay patients, depending on the procedure (gastric sleeve, bypass, etc.) and hospital. Some centers may offer package deals or discounts for self-pay and medical tourism patients.
Insurance: Many insurance plans cover bariatric surgery if you meet medical criteria. All major centers in San Diego assist with insurance verification and pre-authorization.
Financing: Most hospitals and clinics offer financing plans or payment arrangements for uninsured or underinsured patients.
Patient Experiences
Health Outcomes: Patients frequently report dramatic improvements in diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, and mobility after surgery at Scripps, Olde Del Mar Surgical, and Wittgrove Bariatric Center.
Support: Across all top centers, patients praise the ongoing support, education, and follow-up care, which are critical for long-term success.
Satisfaction: Many patients describe their experiences as life-changing, with significant weight loss and improved quality of life. Complication rates are low, especially at Scripps and Olde Del Mar Surgical.
