Introduction
There are many factors contributing to whether you should or should not undergo liposuction. Maybe, you are considering the surgery because diet and exercise isn’t enough. Perhaps, you are considering the surgery because you are aware of how much it will positively improve your self-esteem. However, one constant inhibitor that pervades every person’s mind is this: can I afford liposuction? Unfortunately, the cost is a barrier that stops many from pursuing surgery that can cause so much of a positive influence on their life. Here are some facts, figures, and tips to keep in mind when considering your surgery’s potential cost.
Health Insurance
One of the first and most obvious steps when considering payment for cosmetic surgery is your health insurance provider. This is also one of the most variable aspects: everyone is going to have a different experience and background with their health insurance. Factors such as your health insurance company, your health insurance plan, and your desired procedure will all affect the cost.
An important component to consider is whether the surgery is cosmetic or reconstructive in nature and whether it is essential to improving your quality of life and body function. Although liposuction tends to be categorized as cosmetic surgery, some arguments could be made for its necessity. Consider the following circumstances:
- If you are receiving liposuction in the breast region to lessen back pain, then the surgery will improve your quality of life.
- If you have documented psychiatric evaluations that prove that your weight is affecting your quality of life, then an argument can be made for the surgery’s necessity.
Despite the specificity of these circumstances, they prove that there are always exceptions to every rule.
Average Cost Per Area
The area in which liposuction is performed affects the cost of the procedure. Although every treatment differs and every patient will have a different experience, these are some essential facts and figures to remember:
The more expensive body parts tend to include the breast region and the abdomen, for both genders. While the least expensive body parts tend to cover the back (for women only) and the buttocks. On average, male liposuction tends to be more costly than female liposuction because male fat tends to be more difficult to remove.
How to Calculate Cost
It is important to note that when calculating the cost of liposuction, you are not just calculating the value of the procedure. You are also calculating the cost of the anesthesiologist’s services, operating room fees, preoperative laboratory feels, and medical expenses for the recovery period.
Other variables that affect cost are the surgeon’s experience, the amount and effort required of the surgeon, your physical location, and the size of fat you want removed. Imagine, a more skilled and experienced surgeon will most likely charge more than someone who has just received their medical license. Further, if you are trying to remove a large amount of fat from your body, the procedure will cost more than if you were aiming only to lose a small amount.
What Should You Do
The most important thing to remember is to have an open line of communication with your doctor. If you are candid with your doctor and what you expect to achieve from the surgery, there will be no surprises. You should be able to ask your doctor for a holistic estimate of the procedure, and you should communicate any fears or wants regarding the surgery. If your doctor is unclear on the cost of expenses, you should find someone you should trust. Calculating the operation cost can only be achieved if your doctor is honest and open with you.