What to look for when considering liposuction costs

The decision to have liposuction is a deeply personal one. When diet and exercise fail to produce the ideal body contours, many men and women seek the help of a liposuction procedure. Liposuction is one of the top cosmetic surgery procedures in the country and it has been for quite some time. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2018 alone, over a quarter of a million Americans opted for liposuction.

When considering liposuction, a main concern for many is the cost of the procedure. It may be tempting to look for a cheap deal, but without doing the proper research, that cheap deal could leave you with poor results at best and could even damage your health or risk your life.

When considering the price of liposuction, it's important to understand and weigh your options before choosing where to have your procedure performed.

How much does liposuction cost?

For liposuction, the national average surgeon's fee is $3,518 per treatment area. Surgeon's fees are based on their experience, the type of procedure used, the size of the area being treated and the geographic location. But a surgeon's fee is just one part of the total you will pay for your procedure. Keep in mind that there are other aspects involved in liposuction surgery that may involve additional charges. These can include:

• Anesthesia
• Hospital or surgical facility costs
• Medical tests
• Post-surgery garments
• Prescriptions for medication

What affects liposuction costs?

Liposuction may seem like a big investment, but there are several reasons why the procedure costs what it does. Let's discuss a few of the main factors that make up these liposuction costs.

• Location. Like most services, areas with higher costs of living will have higher price points than areas with lower costs of living. Typically, you will find more experienced and highly skilled plastic surgeons in the bigger cities, but that does not mean that you can't find a good surgeon if you live in a less concentrated area.
• Fees. Fees pertain to the costs of pre- and post-operative screening and necessities. All reputable plastic surgeons require medical tests and labs before your procedure to ensure you are in good health. This will also help minimize potential risks. Other fees include anesthesia costs, prescriptions, and medical supplies for aftercare such as pads and compression garments. All are necessary to maximize your recovery and results.
• Facility costs. Hospitals charge a fee when your plastic surgeon uses their facility. If the plastic surgeon you are considering has his or her own independent surgical facility, the facility fees may be lower. Make sure to do your research and verify that the facility where your liposuction will be performed has the proper accreditation for your safety.
• Technology. There are many techniques and technologies that can be used to address excess fat, and plastic surgeons may differ on which ones they use. Depending on your aesthetic goals and your plastic surgeon's expert advice, the type of lipo technique and tools used could affect the price.
• Treatment area. Liposuction is tailored to the unique needs of each patient. The amount of fat needing to be removed and the size of the area being treated will play a significant role in establishing the cost of your procedure.

Ways you can save

How can you get the best price without skimping on quality and safety? Here are some suggestions to make liposuction surgery more budget friendly.

• Comparison shop. When you are considering having liposuction, I recommend doing your research and scheduling a consultation with at least two potential surgeons. Look at average prices per region as well as the specific area where you'll have your procedure performed. Scheduling several consultations will give you a more accurate price range.
• Sign up for specials. Many practices offer incentives and special pricing for specific procedures. In many cases, these specials are focused on nonsurgical treatments, but surgical specials may be on offer during certain times of the year.
• Consider special financing. Frequently, the practice you choose will have one or more financing options available. This can help break up your fee into reasonable monthly payments.
• Bundle procedures. If you plan to have procedures in addition to liposuction, such as a tummy tuck or breast enhancement, it can be more cost-effective in the long run to bundle. The price, in the beginning, may be higher, but the one-time surgery can significantly cut down on the overall costs.

A word of caution

Remember that even though you are looking for a reasonable price range for liposuction, price is just one of the many variables to consider. Always choose a qualified, experienced board-certified plastic surgeon who uses an accredited surgical facility and works with a well-trained support team. Liposuction can provide long-lasting results and help you achieve a body you want. Make sure your health and safety are at the forefront when considering the cost of liposuction.