Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) Cost : What You Need to Know

If you are seeking a minimally invasive weight loss procedure, an Endoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy (ESG) may be the ideal choice for you.

This relatively new procedure is widely lauded throughout the medical community for not only its ability to reduce the size of the stomach but also for the fact that it does not require surgery (an incision through the skin).

As a leading weight loss clinic, Healthy Weight Australia understands that the cost of an ESG can be an important factor in your decision.

In this article, we will break down exactly what an ESG is, what you can expect to pay in Australia for an ESG, factors that influence ESG cost, along with any other notable information that you can take into account before deciding whether or not an ESG is right for you.

What is Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty?

An ESG, also often referred to as the ‘Accordion Procedure’, is a popular and minimally invasive weight loss procedure.

A camera is first inserted into your throat, known as an endoscope, before the stitching portion commences.

What differentiates an ESG from other similar procedures, such as a Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy, is that it involves stitching (endoscopic suturing) instead of the surgical method that involves the removal of a part of the stomach.

The suturing makes the stomach fold into a smaller sleeve, similar to how an accordion operates.

This reduces the overall volume of your stomach and helps reshape it. In the aftermath you’ll find that you can eat less food, and often you feel fuller faster.

In 12 months, you can expect an excess weight loss of up to 48%*.

*Weight loss results vary from person to person

Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty at Healthy Weight Australia

At Healthy Weight Australia (HWA), our all-inclusive program covers the procedure, hospital stay, and anaesthesia costs.

Combined with our Complete Care Program, including follow-ups with bariatric physicians and allied health practitioners, we help you stay aligned with your health goals.

If you feel you need further support, speak to our friendly team of professionals about our other programs, which include additional consultations with our specialists and allied health team.

You can find out more about HWA’s Endoscopic Sleeve 12 Month Program here.

How Much Does Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty Cost?

There is no set rate for an ESG in Australia, and it instead varies significantly from clinic to clinic.

In Australia, the average cost of an ESG 12-month program is around $18,500 in NSW and $19,800 in QLD (but these costs don’t necessarily have the same inclusions).

At HWA, we can help you to manage the cost of an ESG with payment plan options, and for some patients, there is also the opportunity to use superannuation to cover the costs.

If you wish to discuss the costs surrounding ESG further, you can contact our helpful team on 0478 088 669 or email us at admin@healthyweightaustralia.com.au.

Factors That Influence ESG Cost

Numerous factors can have a hand in determining the price of an ESG program.

Some of the most common include geographic location, the hospital, the medical team’s expertise, and what is included in the program.

1. Location of the Practice :

Depending on the state, region, city, or town that you reside in, all play a factor in the final cost of an ESG.

You can typically expect to pay more in metropolitan areas due to a higher cost of living.

2. The Type of Medical Facility (Hospital) :

If you get your ESG at a private hospital or a higher-end medical centre, then it typically has higher overhead costs compared to those of a public hospital or medical facility.

3. The Experience of the Surgeon :

Highly experienced and specialised surgeons can often charge higher fees for an ESG due to their proven track record and skills.

4. Specific Health Conditions :

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as type 2 diabetes or hypertension, this can add to the total cost of the procedure.

Mainly as a result of needing additional screenings, longer operating times, and potential extended hospital stays.

5. What’s Included in the Package :

Operators such as HWA offer an all-inclusive ESG package.

This ensures a more predictable, bundled cost, instead of each service being charged separately, which can make the final total more ambiguous.

When comparing prices, be sure you check what is included in the program.

Is ESG Covered by Insurance?

Unfortunately, in most cases, Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) is not covered by insurance due to it being considered a cosmetic procedure instead of medically necessary.

This mainly comes down to ESG being a newer and minimally invasive weight loss procedure.

As there continue to be more successful ESG procedures and the track record of the procedure speaks for itself, insurance companies may need to act, but right now, as it remains newer, patients will remain mostly not covered.

Financing and Payment Options for ESG?

At HWA, we understand the financial burdens many Australians face and instead offer a range of finance options for our patients.

We recommend speaking to Pantheon Financial Services for flexible financing options.

This allows you to focus on your goals instead of worrying about medical expenses.

For some patients, they may be eligible to access superannuation for specific procedures.

If you need help with applying for an early release of super, we recommend Supercare.

They facilitate the application process, getting your superannuation released early on your behalf. However, not everyone may be able to access this.

You can contact our team here to discuss all of our available payment options for patients seeking an ESG.

Cost Comparison : ESG vs. Other Weight Loss Procedures

Below is a helpful table so you can see the price comparison between ESG and other common weight loss procedures in Australia.

This helps to present an estimate of the general medical landscape.

Tips to Reduce the Cost of ESG

• Compare the total costs of a variety of different programs in Australia. There is often a variety of extra hidden fees in the fine print, so always remember to look closely.
• Ask a practice about bundled or fixed-priced packages. This helps to reduce unexpected add-ons and improve overall budgeting.
• Time your procedure strategically. Ask around and specifically see if there are any lower-cost dates or programs available.
• Ask the clinic what financing providers they work with, and what the service rates typically are.
• Look at all the Australian providers available before you consider anything overseas. A local provider typically takes into account a structured long-term support plan that prevents costly issues later on.
• See if any ancillary services, such as GP visits, dietitian/psychology sessions, or blood tests and imaging, can be covered by private health insurance.

Why Choose Healthy Weight Australia?

Healthy Weight Australia is the nation’s leading weight loss clinic.

Our team is made up of the finest physicians, surgeons and allied health professionals across Australia. We are passionate about working with you to create a program that aligns perfectly with your personal goals.

Our team leverages their diverse range of expertise and extensive field experience to guide you on your weight management journey.

We know that no single method fits every patient, so we tailor our approach to meet every patient’s individual needs.

If you are ready to start your weight loss journey, click here or call us on 0478 088 669.