subject: Just How Expensive Is Liposuction? [print this page] Since most liposuction procedures are elective surgeries, insurance companies are generally unwilling to foot the bill. As such, potential patients are curious as to how expensive liposuction can be. While costs vary greatly, this article explains a few of the variables that influence the cost of liposuction as well as the details on pricing structures and financing.
The number one factor that determines the cost of a given liposuction surgery is the time and effort of the surgeon. Things like operating on multiple areas, the obesity of the patient, and the difficulty of the surgery cost the physician more time, and hence, the patient more money. According to www.liposuction.com, the most costly areas of the body to have liposuction on are the abdomen and the breasts. Larger areas of the body tend to be more pricey.
Potential patients should balance the price against the experience and expertise of the surgeon. Reputable surgeons are in higher demand and can therefore charge more, whereas inexperienced doctors or doctors who have have unsatisfied patients may lower prices to attract new customers. Another factor that can potentially influence the price of liposuction is the cost of living in the area. Potential patients should do their homework when considering a surgeon to make sure he or she has a good track record and a good reputation. Review many before and after photos of previous patients and ask for recommendations from family or friends. In many cases, you get what you pay for.
Each surgeon uses a different pricing structure, but most fall into two camps: global and itemized. Surgeons who perform liposuction in their own outpatient facilities can control their costs better, and are therefore more likely to wrap all the fees (surgical fees, anesthesia fees, operating room fees, etc.) into one lump sum. Surgeons who operate in hospitals are less able to control costs such as the anestheseologist fees and operating room fees, so these doctors often itemize each cost on the bill.
When calling for a quote, be sure to specify whether the quoted price is for an all-inclusive package or just the surgical fee. Cosmetic surgeons know that the insurance companies do not cover their services, so many offer financing options. Many external lenders, such as Image Financing, CosmetiCredit, and CareCredit, offer financing for patients who wish to have liposuction or other elective surgeries.
Regardless of the procedure's price tag, patients should be well educated on the surgeon, the procedure, and what the quoted price includes before making any firm decisions.
