Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure in which excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal area. People who have areas of fat and stomach skin that are resistant to diet and exercise often choose this surgery. There are many reasons why people opt for this type of cosmetic surgery, from increasing their self-confidence to improving their appearance.

In the past, these cosmetic procedures were often associated with only the rich and famous. Today, people from all income levels choose to have plastic surgery. While the costs of a tummy tuck can vary considerably, you should always consider potential expenses as well as your payment options before you opt for this procedure.

Average Costs of Tummy Tuck Surgery

Because each surgery is unique, the typical costs associated with a tummy tuck can vary a great deal. According to most estimates, the minimum costs of a tummy tuck range between $3,000 and $5,000. Your exact costs will depend largely on the amount of skin and fat that must be removed and the amount of sculpting that the surgeon must do to obtain a good result. Other factors that will influence the total cost of your tummy tuck include your geographic location, type of anesthesia used and the length of your stay after the surgery. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a tummy tuck in the year 2003 was approximately $4,460.

Insurance and Elective Surgery

Because a tummy tuck is considered an elective procedure, it is usually not covered by most insurance plans. In some cases, however, your insurance may cover associated medical costs such as medications, preliminary exams and follow-up appointments. Always check with your individual insurance provider to determine if any part of your tummy tuck surgery might be covered by insurance.

Payment Options

Once you have decided to have a tummy tuck, you then need to determine how you will pay for it. There are a number of different options available, but you will need to consider them carefully to determine which is right for your individual financial needs. Some cosmetic surgery centers offer their own financing solutions, while you will need to look for outside help in other cases.

The vast majority of plastic surgeons accept almost all major credit cards, but you will still be responsible for paying a substantial down payment before having the surgery. Loans are another option that frequently offers lower interest rates than other financing options. Your own budget and financial resources will determine which method you choose, so compare your options carefully before you decide.




By: Kendra Wagner