Gallbladder removal is one of the most shoppable surgical procedures. It is almost always elective once symptoms are managed, takes about an hour, and can be performed safely at an ambulatory surgery center. Facility fees in Tampa range from $3,000 to $18,000.
Laparoscopic vs. open surgery
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (CPT 47562) is the standard minimally invasive approach. Open cholecystectomy (CPT 47600) is reserved for complicated cases and costs significantly more.
Almost all elective gallbladder removals are performed laparoscopically. If your surgeon mentioned the possibility of converting to open surgery, that is a clinical conversation, not a billing one. But it is worth understanding that your bill would change significantly if conversion occurs.
Ambulatory surgery centers are the right setting for most patients
Healthy patients having elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy are excellent candidates for ambulatory surgery centers. ASCs perform this procedure routinely and charge 40 to 60% less than hospital outpatient departments.
Ask your surgeon if they operate at an ASC. Most general surgeons do. The recovery is the same regardless of setting.
Providers who bill separately
Your surgeon bills a professional fee. The facility bills the fee shown here. The anesthesiologist bills separately.
For a laparoscopic gallbladder removal, a surgical assistant is not always required. If one is used, they bill separately. Confirm whether an assistant is planned and whether they are in-network.