Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Heart Bypass Surgery (CABG) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Single Bypass (CABG x1) | $50,000 – $100,000 | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Double Bypass (CABG x2) | $60,000 – $130,000 | $6,000 – $18,000 |
| Triple Bypass (CABG x3) | $80,000 – $170,000 | $8,000 – $22,000 |
| Quadruple Bypass (CABG x4) | $100,000 – $200,000 | $10,000 – $25,000 |
CPT/ADA Code: 33533
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Medically necessary — covered after deductible; may hit out-of-pocket maximum
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Heart bypass surgery costs $50,000 to $200,000 without insurance depending on the number of bypasses and length of hospital stay.
Hospital stay is 5-7 days. Full recovery takes 6-12 weeks. Cardiac rehabilitation is recommended for 3 months.
Yes, CABG is always covered as medically necessary. Most patients reach their out-of-pocket maximum, limiting total costs.