Liposuction Cosmetic Surgery

Liposuction surgery costs have remained steady at about $2,700 in the last couple of years. Is this popular procedure worth the money? It may seem like “everyone is having it done” but not everyone has this type of money to put on the table. If you are considering liposuction make sure to include a thorough analysis of what the procedure will cost and how you are going to pay for it.

Cost estimates are based on 2005 and 2004 data supplied by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). This information is for the average liposuction price as surveyed by this organization. Something to note, is that information was broken out for the first time for the ultrasound assisted liposuction versus the suction assisted. The difference is almost $300, making the ultrasound assisted procedure more expensive.

Questions to Ask Before You Choose a Surgeon:

1) What exactly am I having done?

Liposuction surgery costs highly depend on the specifics of what is being done. These specifics include:

*the number of areas treated
*the amount of fat to be removed from the areas
*the part of the body that is being treated
*the amount of fat that is to be removed during the surgery
*sex of the individual male versus female
*procedure duration(can be driven by all the above factors)

2) Does your surgeon have a liposuction price list (as seen above with ultrasound assisted liposuction procedures, costs can vary)?

”How much does liposuction cost?” is one of the most frequently asked questions during the exploration process for most prospective patients, if your surgeon doesn’t have this information readily available you should be a little wary.

3) Are the prices reasonable or do they seem way off of the averages provided by organizations like the ASAPS?

Keep in mind that liposuction surgery costs also can depend on the individual doctor that you are being treated by. This is why it is important to research many doctors before deciding on one. You should not limit yourself geographically if the price savings is worth it and the surgeon has a good reputation. The ASAPS notes that their average liposuction price is a national average, so geographical differences will occur. The liposuction fee can also vary by facility. Where the procedure is performed can be important, procedures can take place in a hospital, freestanding surgicenters and office-based. Bottom line, your choice of individual doctor plays a large role in determining liposuction surgery costs.

4) What is included in the price?

The liposuction fee may not not include other surgical costs such as anesthesia and follow up costs like prescription drugs. Other patient charges that the doctor may include are for the compression garment that is worn after the surgery, antibiotics that might be prescribed, and for blood tests that need to be done.

In conclusion you can see that how much your liposuction surgery costs depend on how much research your do before picking your surgeon. Some doctors may give you a discount if the liposuction is being performed on more than one body part. Liposuction surgery costs are not covered by health insurance because it is considered a cosmetic surgery. Due to the high demand for cosmetic procedures though, there are many ways that you can pay for liposuction surgery costs. You should ask your doctor if he has a payment plan. You should also look into financing your liposuction surgery costs. There are many resources to help with your decision, make sure you consider them before just plopping the cost onto your credit card where the interest rates might not be as competitive.

People may sometimes be more worried over liposuction prices rather than the procedure itself. You should seriously consider your finances first if you are intent on undergoing liposuction.

Liposuction Cost

In truth, it is not very feasible to come up with a definite amount for liposuction costs. This is because the liposuction costs depend on various individual factors and may therefore differ from one individual to another. On the average, people spend around $2,500 for liposuction. A reasonable price however may be anywhere from $1,500-$8,000. It has not been unheard of however to have procedures that cost as much as $12,000-20,000.

Different parts of the body, their sizes as well as the volume of fat on these areas also affect the liposuction costs. Usually, the upper abdomen and the breasts are the most costly parts for liposuction. The lower abdomen, thighs, calves and arms may fetch lower prices. Some surgeons may also charge higher fees for sensitive areas like the face.

Compared to women, men are charged higher fees. Men generally have tougher, more fibrous fats because of their biological structures. They also have a wider body area than females.

Another factor that can affect liposuction costs is your surgeon’s skill and qualifications. A more established and experienced surgeon on the field would only be expected to charge higher fees. A different fee may also be requested for the anesthesiologist or other surgeon assistants. A doctor may choose to offer a package deal for the entire procedure especially if you have to return for succeeding sessions.

Liposuction costs are also affected by type of equipment, type of procedure, type of anesthesia, kind of facility, lab tests and compression garments.

Thinking of the Cost

The more you know about liposuction costs, the more aware you will become of just how feasible the liposuction procedure is for you. You can search the internet for liposuction price tables or ask directly from your doctor. A good idea would be to list down all the possible factors that may affect price and ask your doctor how much he charges for each. Be careful. Not all doctors may be able to give you the exact pricing details and you may just be stuck with an unmentioned item later. Be detailed in inquiring about liposuction costs.

Bargains and Packages

Price packages can be expected from doctors for various reasons. However, you should be suspicious if the price plunges too low from the average cost. Cheap prices most often reflect the quality of service that your doctor is also willing to perform. If you are intent on having the procedure then be prepared to spend. Your safety and health is not something you should bargain over.

Insurance

Undergoing liposuction can be a big risk on your part. Because it is not classified under medical surgery or under procedures for medical conditions, liposuction is not covered in health insurance. Some insurance policies however may allow the coverage of liposuction if it is necessary for a known medical condition.

People may sometimes be more worried over liposuction prices rather than the procedure itself. You should seriously consider your finances first if you are intent on undergoing liposuction.

There are several factors that determine the price of liposuction surgery. Learn about common considerations that effect the price of liposuction surgery in this free video from a professional plastic surgeon. Expert: David J. Levens Contact: www.drlevens.com Bio: Dr. David Levens is a practicing plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon in Coral Springs, Fla. He has been included in Miami Metro Magazine’s annual lists of “Best Doctors in South Florida”. Filmmaker: Paul Muller