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| Typical costs: | - Costs for liposuction vary widely, with a national average of $2,223, according to The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
- Patients in the northeastern and western regions of the country can expect to pay up to 10 percent more than the national average, while patients in other areas might pay as much as 8 percent less, according to Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Statistics.
- Other factors that influence cost include: the doctor's level of experience, the patient's size and the number of body parts being treated. Liposuction.com offers a chart of typical cost ranges for various body parts. Liposuction on the arms tends to cost less at $1,500 and up, while liposuction on the entire abdomen or breasts usually starts at about $3,000. Liposuction costs rise for patients more than 30 percent over ideal body weight and for males, because their body fat is more fibrous.
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| What should be included: | - Web MD provides a description of common liposuction procedures.
- Two newer liposuction techniques have made the procedure safer with better results. In tumescent liposuction, the surgeon uses a local anesthetic, then injects an anesthetic saline solution into the fat deposits, making them easier to remove. In ultrasonic liposuction, which usually costs slightly more because additional equipment is needed, the surgeon uses sound waves to melt the fat before siphoning it out.
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| Additional costs: | - Pre-operative laboratory tests.
- Operating room fee of $600 to $1,200 if the procedure is done in a hospital; anesthesiologist fee of $500 to $1,000 if general anesthesia is used; and pay for nurses and other surgical staff.
- Special garments worn after surgery to reduce swelling and aid healing, which can cost between $50 and $200.
- Post-surgical therapies, such as massage, which some doctors prescribe.
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| Discounts: | - Many plastic surgeons offer a reduced rate when they perform liposuction on multiple body parts at one time.
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| Shopping for liposuction: | - Tip: Make sure the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. The surgeon also should have privileges to perform plastic surgery at an accredited hospital, even if the surgery is not taking place there. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery offers a surgeon referral service.
- Tip: To make sure you're happy with the end result, first show your doctor photos of the results you hope to achieve. Next, get a total cost estimate in writing before you schedule surgery. And finally, thoroughly discuss possible complications, which can include infection, nerve problems, and even death, with your surgeon.
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Material on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult your physician or pharmacist regarding medications or medical procedures.
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Article updated November 2006 |
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