If you’ve been researching online for information about the cost of tummy tuck surgery, you’ve probably noticed that the price range is fairly wide. That’s because several factors influence the cost of a tummy tuck—whether you’re looking in Birmingham, Alabama, or elsewhere in the Southeast.
In this blog post, I’ll address why the specific cost of a tummy tuck (and other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures) can only be determined after you consult with a plastic surgeon.
What Affects the Cost of a Tummy Tuck?
According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average cost of a tummy tuck nationally in 2019 was $6,092. On the RealSelf website, the average cost is $8,275 based on reviews from more than 33,000 tummy tuck patients.
How much a tummy tuck costs is determined primarily by the following factors:
The geographic location of a plastic surgery practice: In Alabama, you can expect to pay less for tummy tuck surgery than you would in Atlanta or Miami, for example. Even within a state, the cost of cosmetic surgery and nonsurgical treatments will vary depending on the location.
Your surgeon’s fee: These fees fluctuate, depending on the surgeon’s training and experience. Surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) complete years of rigorous training devoted specifically to plastic surgery and will charge more than surgeons who haven’t completed the certification process. Tummy tuck patients should not cut corners when choosing a plastic surgeon. It’s a complicated procedure that requires exceptional skill to produce excellent results and prevent complications.
The extent of the procedure: All tummy tucks are not created equal. I customize the approach after consulting with a patient and performing a physical exam. Techniques used for a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, include a mini tummy tuck, a traditional tummy tuck, an extended tummy tuck, or a circumferential body lift (which is often performed after significant weight loss). Additionally, a tummy tuck may be combined with liposuction.
Who administers your anesthesia: Tummy tuck patients are under general anesthesia during surgery. A board-certified anesthesiologist charges higher fees than a nurse anesthetist, who is technically qualified to administer anesthesia but isn’t a medical doctor.
What Else Is Included in the Cost of a Tummy Tuck?
The total price of tummy tuck surgery also may include the following items:
- Hospital or operating room fees
- Medical tests
- Post-surgery compression garments
- Prescriptions for medication
Because health insurance plans rarely cover tummy tuck surgery or potential complications, plastic surgeons often offer patient financing plans to help make the procedure accessible to more people.
CareCredit®, which is available through our practice, offers attractive payment plans for qualified patients. We also provide cosmetic surgery patients with an insurance policy through CosmetAssure® that covers any additional surgery or medical treatment that’s needed within 30 days of your tummy tuck.
If you’re considering a tummy tuck and looking for a plastic surgery practice in Alabama, contact us using the online form to request a consultation. Or give us a call at (205) 933-9308 to schedule an appointment.
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