The Truth about Liposuction Costs

Plastic surgery is rarely cheap and liposuction costs are no exception. Prices will vary due to the numerous factors involved. Liposuction costs are usually comprised of the following:

• surgical fee
• non-surgical fee
• anesthesiologist fee

Some surgical centers will quote a global fee, while the quotes of others will only represent the surgical fee. Therefore, it is important when inquiring about costs that you determine whether the quoted price is global or only surgical. Outlined below are the main points to consider before making a decision regarding liposuction surgery.

The Surgeon's Time and Effort

The most significant factor affecting the cost of liposuction is the location and number of areas to be treated. Fatty parts of the body such as the thighs require less time and effort on the surgeon's part, whereas the neck or ankles call for much more delicate and time-consuming surgery. Liposuction costs can start at around $2,000 for buttocks or arms, and a minimum of $3,500 for breasts or abdomen.

Size and Sex of Patient

Liposuction costs also vary according to the amount of fat to be removed. In other words, liposuction on the abdomen of an overweight person will cost more than that of a small or average-sized individual. Also, some sources say that prices can be slightly higher for men due to a higher presence of fibrous fat.

Operating Room and Anesthesiologist Fees

If general anesthetic is required for your surgery, costs will include a fee for the anesthesiologist, as well as a certain amount going towards the surgery facility and equipment to be used during the procedure.

Preoperative and Postoperative Fees

Usually included in liposuction costs are laboratory fees for the prescribed preoperative blood tests. Prescription medication may also be needed after surgery and should be considered as well.

When a surgeon quotes you a price, ask for a written estimate. Be wary of surgeons whose quoted prices seem ridiculously low or exorbitantly high. For more specific details on liposuction estimates, check out the table at Smart Plastic Surgery.com and inform yourself on all the factors involved in liposuction costs.

Melanie Pitre writes articles for the website Tummy Tucks - www.tummy-tucks.com.