If you’ve been researching online for information about the cost of tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty), you’ve probably noticed that the price range is fairly wide. That’s because several factors influence the cost of a tummy tuck. In this blog post, I’ll address why getting an accurate price for your abdominoplasty (and other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures) requires a consultation with a plastic surgeon. But we can offer you some insights, and educate you on what variables affect the cost of a tummy tuck.
What Affects the Cost of a Tummy Tuck?
According to the most recent data available from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average cost of a tummy tuck is $7,215. That could be somewhat misleading because it does not include anesthesia costs, operating room or aftercare facilities, prescriptions, or other related expenses. While the surgeon’s fee is typically the biggest component of your overall tummy tuck price tag, your total is influenced by many factors.
Your surgeon’s fee: Surgeons’ fees vary depending on the surgeon’s training and experience and the demand in their market. Surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) complete years of rigorous training explicitly devoted 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 geographic location of a plastic surgery practice: Plastic surgery costs tend to be higher in affluent areas and in areas where demand is high. In most of Alabama, you can expect to pay less for tummy tuck surgery than you would in major metropolitan areas like Atlanta or Miami where the cost of living is higher and the market for plastic surgery is strong. In areas where there are few providers, those providers may charge a premium. Even within a state, the cost of cosmetic surgery and nonsurgical treatments can vary significantly.
Who administers your anesthesia: Tummy tuck patients are placed 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.
The extent of the procedure: All tummy tucks are not created equal. I customize my approach after consulting with a patient and performing a physical exam. Techniques used for a tummy tuck include a mini tummy tuck, a traditional tummy tuck, a reverse tummy tuck, an extended tummy tuck, or a circumferential body lift (which is often performed after significant weight loss).
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How Does the Tummy Tuck Technique Affect Cost?
Mini tummy tuck vs. full tummy tuck: a mini tummy tuck is an abridged version of the traditional (or full) tummy tuck that addresses the lower abdomen alone. It does not repair diastasis recti, and the patient is under anesthesia for a shorter time (and, in select cases, can be performed using twilight anesthesia). This procedure is typically less expensive than a full tummy tuck due to its limited nature; however, only a small percentage of individuals are good candidates.
Traditional tummy tuck vs. extended tummy tuck: At the other end of the spectrum, an extended tummy tuck will be cost more than a full tummy tuck because of its more extensive nature. Using a longer incision, it treats the flanks and hips as well.
Liposuction and tummy tuck cost: Liposuction can create a more sculpted, smooth appearance and help patients achieve a more defined shape when paired with a tummy tuck. Liposuction would be an additional cost to your surgery and is typically priced based on the number and size of areas to be treated (such as the flanks, abdomen, and back). Learn more about cost and the difference between these procedures in our related blog post.
What Else Is Included in the Cost of a Tummy Tuck?
When trying to ascertain the total price of your tummy tuck, make sure you factor in the following items:
- Hospital or operating room fees
- Aftercare facility, if applicable
- Medical tests
- Post-surgery products like compression garments or scar care
- Prescriptions
If you don’t have paid time off from your job, you may also want to account for lost wages during your recovery period.
Will Insurance Cover a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is considered an elective procedure and is unlikely to be covered by health insurance. At my practice, we also provide cosmetic surgery patients with an insurance policy through CosmetAssure® that covers any additional surgery or medical treatment needed within 30 days of your tummy tuck.
What Are My Tummy Tuck Financing Options?
Many plastic surgeons offer patient financing plans to help make aesthetic surgery accessible to more people. CareCredit®, which is available through our practice, offers attractive payment plans for qualified patients.
Getting an Accurate Tummy Tuck Price
Although researching averages and calling to inquire about prices can give you a ballpark figure of what your procedure may cost, it will ultimately come down to your consultation. Your plastic surgeon will need to evaluate your skin quality, your abdominal muscles, and discuss your cosmetic goals with you in person so that they can create a personalized treatment plan for your needs.
They will base the cost of the procedure on the technique that will give you the best results, how extensive the procedure will be (such as whether they need to repair your abdominal muscles or treat an umbilical hernia), and whether you are opting to add liposuction or additional procedures to your surgery. A personalized consultation is the only way to get a truly personalized quote.
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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