Finding out what tummy tuck surgery costs is one of the most important considerations for many patients. This procedure isn’t cheap, but it can still be affordable depending on what type of payment plan you arrange. Most plastic surgeons either offer financing or can point you toward a credit company that offers loans specifically for cosmetic surgery procedures. Since abdominoplasty is done for aesthetic purposes rather than medical necessity, it isn’t covered by health insurance. So, rather than paying a copay or a percentage of the costs, you’ll be expected to foot the entire bill. The total may range from as low as $3,000 for a mini tummy tuck to more than $15,000 for a complex abdominoplasty. Most tummy tuck prices fall somewhere in the middle of that range. Here’s a rundown of the bills you can expect to pay:
Tummy Tuck Surgery Costs for Surgeon’s Fee
This is usually the most expensive charge related to your treatment. The surgeon’s fee may range from $5000-6,000 or more. The cost may be lower for a less-time-consuming “mini” tummy tuck. If you have additional cosmetic treatments (such as a breast lift or liposuction) at the same time as your abdominoplasty, the surgeon’s fee can be substantially higher. Surgeons’ fees tend to vary by geographic region and based on the individual surgeon’s level of experience and the demand for his or her services.
Tummy Tuck Surgery Costs for Surgical Center or Hospital Fees
You can expect to pay well over $1,000 to the facility where your surgeon performs your abdominoplasty. If you have an overnight stay, the cost may double or triple. If you don’t have assistance at home and need to spend a longer portion of your post-op period in a recovery room, the price goes up even more. Beside a per-day fee, you may be charged for incidental items or services provided during your recovery. Hospitals may be more expensive than plastic surgery centers, but this is not always the case. Always ask for an itemized bill to make sure you are being charged correctly.
Tummy Tuck Surgery Costs for Anesthesiologist Services
Your anesthesiologist may charge a “hospital visit” fee for attending your surgery and a per hour rate to cover the length of the surgery. Or, you may be charged a flat rate for the anesthesia and related services. That’s something you’ll want to find out in advance. This charge may range from $500-2,000.
Additional Tummy Tuck Surgery Costs
Besides the three main charges listed above, you will need to pay for:
- Lab fees for tests done to check your health prior to the operation
- Medications prescribed for pain or infection prevention
- Dressings and compression garment for post-op period
These charges can easily add up to another $1,000. There are also many other things that people don’t think to factor into tummy tuck prices. These include:
- The cost of time taken off work (even if you’re using vacation days, these still have a dollar value)
- The cost of purchasing special foods, clothing and other comfort items you may need to get through the recovery period
- Travel and accommodation costs if your chosen surgeon is not local to your area
- The potential cost of revision surgery to get the results you want
- Medical treatment to address any complications
Remember that any health complications arising from your abdominoplasty will probably not be covered by your insurance – even if the treatment is medically necessary. This means it is well worth your while to pick a plastic surgeon based on experience and skill rather than just looking for the lowest possible price. That decision could save you a bundle in the long run!