Bariatric Surgery

Understanding Your Bariatric Bill: A Line-by-Line Breakdown

August 15, 2025

Category: Bariatric Surgery

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Have you felt that weight-loss decision weighing on your mind, what will it cost? We understand how confusing surgery pricing can feel, whether it is on the Gold Coast or anywhere else in Australia. You deserve transparency and clarity before committing. We guide you through each part of the bariatric surgery cost on the Gold Coast, so you feel informed and confident.

What Makes Up Your Bariatric Surgery Costs on the Gold Coast?

We break down your gastric sleeve cost into three main line items:

  • Surgeon’s fee
  • Anaesthetist’s fee
  • Hospital (theatre) fee

Insured Patients: Lower Upfront Cost With Rebates

For insured patients on the Gold Coast:

  • You pay from $7,050 upfront, covering surgical, anaesthetist and hospital charges.
  • Afterwards, you can claim a private health fund rebate and Medicare benefits.

We base this estimate on comparable private practice pricing in Queensland, where insured patients typically pay $3,500 – $6,000 out-of-pocket after rebate. Our figures align with local market norms while offering superior care and expertise that is far above the norms.

Uninsured Patients: Upfront Full Cost, Then Medicare Rebate

For self‑funded patients:

  • You pay from $18,000 upfront before Medicare rebates.
  • After surgery, you may claim a Medicare rebate (approx. $663 for sleeve item number 31575) to help offset part of the cost. 

This reflects the cost structures seen in Brisbane and Gold Coast private hospitals, where uninsured surgical packages start around $18,000 – $20,000 up to $23,000 depending on service inclusions.

What Affects Your Actual Cost?

  1. Hospital stay length: Most patients stay 1–2 nights. Additional nights raise bed fees (~AUD 1,300/night).
  2. Anaesthetist and assistant surgeon fees: Typically $1,500–$1,800 for uninsured, lower gap if insured (~$500).
  3. Pre- and post-operative support: Appointments with dietitians, pathology, psychology – some of these attract extra costs, though many can be partially rebated by Medicare or private health cover.

Why Trust Dr Puhalla

We operate from Pacific Private Clinic in Southport, performing surgery at Gold Coast Private Hospital and Pindara Private Hospital. Dr Harald Puhalla brings over 20 years’ experience in bariatric care. Our local patients benefit from both world-class surgical standards and cost clarity, right here in Queensland.

Ready to understand your bariatric surgery cost?

Book a consultation on the Gold Coast today.

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