How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost On Average?

Many women may want to consider going for a tummy tuck after having a baby. This is because despite having lost the weight that was gained during their pregnancy, the unsightly stretch marks and saggy skin remain.

A tummy tuck is a procedure otherwise known as an Abdominoplasty. This procedure is used to tighten and sculpt the contours of the abdominal wall. Last year, just in the USA alone, the number of tummy tuck procedures done came to more than 150,000.

The lowest tummy tuck price you will find in the USA is about $3,000. The average cost of a tummy tuck is about $4,500. The most expensive tummy tuck costs are likely to be associated with states such as New York and Florida, possibly costing as high as $10,000.

Tummy tuck costs are very rarely, if ever covered by a person’s medical insurance. The reason for this is quite simply that medical insurance companies regard the tummy tuck as a cosmetic procedure and not a medical necessity.

The items on a quote for a tummy tuck generally include doctor’s fees, anesthesia and facility fees. The surgeon’s fee will command the largest part of any tummy tuck surgery costs.  The cost of a tummy tuck depends on a variety of factors – these can include such things as the age of the patient, their weight and the state of their health. Things can get tricky if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Your surgeon may need to hire a specialist anesthetist who could cost at least $700, or use expensive drugs for the procedure.

The type of facility the surgery is being performed in will also have a bearing on the cost. For instance, if your surgery is scheduled to take place at a hospital, there will be costs pertaining to the use of the operating room and the recovery room. You can also expect to have to pay more for a surgeon who is well qualified and has a good reputation in this field of cosmetic surgery.

Other factors which could also affect the cost is the degree of complexity of the procedure. If the procedure turns out to be complex, it will obviously require more time and cost more money.

No one can guarantee the outcome of a tummy tuck procedure. If any complications should arise during your surgery you may be required to stay overnight in hospital. The severity of the complications will determine your length of stay in the hospital, as well as the medical care you need. These will in turn have an impact on the overall cost. When you are working out the costing for your tummy tuck, be sure to factor in the cost of further treatment which you may require after the actual operation.

Before making arrangements to undergo a tummy tuck, get your surgeon to explain to you the benefits and risks, the technique or procedure involved, and how much is the cost allocated to each cost component. Ask if there are any additional charges after the surgery for things such as pain relief medication, dressings, as well as any special compression garments that need to be worn. Make sure you are aware of all fees that will be chargeable before your surgery to allow yourself to allocate your budget accordingly.

Pre-op and post-op consultations are generally covered in your surgeon’s fee. Be sure to confirm that it is likewise in your own case to avoid facing an unexpected bill later.

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  4. How Much Does A Rhinoplasty Cost?
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Cosmetic Surgery Tips

2 Comments

Orange County Plastic Surgeon  on January 22nd, 2010

If you’re just starting to consider this type of surgery, here’s a tip that may help in your research:

One of the financing companies we work with (www.carecredit.com) offers a simple online tool to calculate monthly payments for surgery loans. Enter the amount and click the “Calculate” button:

http://carecredit.com/payment_calculator/index.html

To health and happiness!

CosmetiCare
Newport Beach, CA

cosmetic surgery tips  on January 22nd, 2010

Thanks for the tip!

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