Plastic Surgery - How Much Does It Cost?

Men and women across the country are considering certain plastic surgery procedures and wondering what they might cost. For some, money is no object. But for many prospective patients, they want to be sure they get their money’s worth and more. There are a number of variables that determine the pricing of elective cosmetic surgery. Some of the factors to take into consideration include the physician’s fee, the cost of anesthesia and the operating room, as well as any implant fees or costs for materials being used.

One of the biggest ways pricing for plastic surgery is determined is based on the type of procedure. More extensive and invasive procedures such as tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) and breast reduction for women can be very expensive, upwards of $5,000. Non-surgical procedures such as injectables, chemical peels and microdermabrasion may only be a few hundred dollars. These fees will vary depending on where you live in the country, how widely available that particular procedure is, and the experience of the surgeon performing the procedure. Generally speaking, if the surgeon has more experience and the procedure is not offered by other physicians in the area, it will usually cost more.

Another variable that determines the cost of plastic surgery is the area of the body that you would like to have operated on. National averages for liposuction across the country range from $4,000 to $10,000. The most expensive area to perform liposuction is the abdomen because it tends to be a bigger body area. If you want liposuction performed on the outer thigh, it is a much smaller area and may cost you half as much as a similar operation on the abdomen.

Lastly, another major factor that raises plastic surgery costs are overhead fees associated with the facilities and materials required for the operation. For example, if the procedure has to be performed under general anesthesia, it will cost more than a procedure that can be done with local anesthesia alone. If you need to book an operating room for several hours for an extensive or intricate procedure, it will cost more than shorter and simpler operations. Lastly, if the surgeon has extensive training and experience in a particular operation, he or she may choose to charge more. His or her experience is invaluable and is one of the biggest contributors to reduced side effects, risks, and increased satisfaction with both immediate and long-term results.

Suffice it to say, you get what you pay for when it comes to plastic surgery. It is well worth your time and money to do a little research into the procedure you desire before making any financial commitment. Finding a surgeon you like and trust may cost a little more, but will be well worth it in the long run. Don’t trust your new tummy or nose to just anyone. Make an investment in your physical appearance and be happy with the results for years to come.