How Much Does Partial Removal of Lung Cost?
Also known as: Partial removal of lung (CPT 32480)
Surgical removal of part of a lung (lobectomy).
The total estimated cost of Partial Removal of Lung (CPT 32480) is $4,713 to $8,837, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $1,403.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Partial Removal of Lung
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Under general anesthesia, the surgeon removes one lobe of the lung, either through a large incision or using VATS (small incisions with a camera). Chest tubes drain fluid and air.
How Long Does It Take?
2-4 hours
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Lung cancer, large lung nodule, severe lung infection limited to one lobe, bronchiectasis
How to Prepare
Stop smoking well before surgery. Fast before surgery. Hospital stay is typically 3-7 days. Breathing exercises and walking are crucial for recovery.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Partial removal of lung
How to Reduce Your Cost for Partial removal of lung
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (41.99) x CF ($33.40) = $1,402
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Partial removal of lung cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Partial removal of lung is $1,403. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Partial removal of lung cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Partial removal of lung can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Partial removal of lung?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Partial removal of lung when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.