Liposuction is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that removes fat from areas like the thighs, abdomen, hips, arms, chin, neck, and back. The cost of liposuction depends on several factors, including the number of areas being treated, the technique used, geographic location, and qualifications of the surgeon.
Average cost of liposuction
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of liposuction in 2022 was:
- $3,518 for one area of the body
- $4,795 for two to three areas
- $6,639 for four to five areas
So the more body areas that are treated, the higher the cost. For example, liposuction of the abdomen may range from $2,000 to $5,000. While liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, and back could range from $3,500 to $8,000.
Factors that influence liposuction costs
Several factors can affect the overall price of liposuction:
The surgeon’s fee
The surgeon’s fee makes up the largest portion of the total liposuction cost. Board-certified plastic surgeons generally charge higher fees than cosmetic surgeons. On average, surgeon’s fees range from $2,000 to $4,000 per treatment area.
Extent of treatment
The more body areas being treated, the greater the liposuction costs. Treating additional areas typically adds $500-$2,000 per area to the total price.
Liposuction technique
The technique used also impacts costs. Advanced methods like laser, ultrasound, and power-assisted liposuction have more specialized equipment and training, so they typically cost more than traditional tumescent liposuction.
| Liposuction Technique | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Tumescent Liposuction | $2,000 – $4,000 per area |
| Power-Assisted Liposuction | $3,500 – $5,500 per area |
| Laser Liposuction | $4,500 – $8,000 per area |
| Ultrasound Liposuction | $4,000 – $10,000 per area |
The surgeon’s expertise and qualifications
Highly experienced board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in liposuction tend to charge higher fees. Their expertise allows them to command rates of $3,000 or more per treatment area.
Geographic location
Liposuction costs can vary significantly based on where you live. According to nationwide plastic surgery statistics, the average liposuction price is:
- California – $7,525
- New York – $6,750
- Texas – $5,125
- Florida – $4,375
In general, liposuction tends to cost more in metropolitan areas than rural areas.
Type of facility
Having liposuction performed in a hospital operating room or accredited outpatient surgery center tends to be more expensive than having it done in a private surgical suite. Hospital and surgery center fees can add $700-$1,000 or more to the total cost.
Factors that affect individual liposuction prices
Since every patient and every body is different, your individual liposuction price may be higher or lower than average based on your specific situation.
Amount of fat to be removed
The more fat that needs to be removed, the longer the procedure time and the higher the cost. Large volume liposuction of six liters or more fat will take longer and therefore be pricier.
Body areas being treated
Liposuction of certain body areas take more time and effort for the surgeon. Complex zones like the back, flanks, chest, shoulders, and neck can cost up to twice as much as easier areas like the arms, thighs or abdomen.
Secondary procedures
Many patients opt to have additional procedures done at the same time as liposuction to enhance results, like a tummy tuck, breast lift, Botox or fillers. Any secondary procedures added will increase the total price.
Cost factors beyond the surgery fee
There are many other potential costs beyond the surgeon’s fee when budgeting for your liposuction procedure. These include:
- Anesthesia fees – Depending on whether general anesthesia or local anesthesia is used, anesthesia fees typically range from $600-$2,000.
- OR or facility fees – Operating room or accredited surgical center fees often start around $700 but can be $2,000+.
- Post-op garments – Special compression garments worn after surgery typically cost $75-$200.
- Medications – Antibiotics and pain medications needed for recovery may cost $200 or more.
- Medical tests – Lab screening and other pre-op tests can be several hundred dollars.
When budgeting make sure to factor in all potential costs, not just the surgeon’s fee. Your total liposuction costs can easily be $1,000 to $3,000 more than the initial quote.
Liposuction cost payment options
Since liposuction is considered cosmetic, it will not be covered by medical insurance plans. However, there are various financing options to help patients afford treatment, including:
- Cash payment – Patients pay the full amount upfront and may receive a discount of 5-10% off the total price.
- Credit cards – Many practices let you finance all or part of the cost on a credit card, often interest-free for 6-12 months.
- Personal loan – Taking out a personal loan from your bank or credit union is an option. Compare interest rates and repayment terms.
- Plastic surgery financing – Specialized financing companies like CareCredit offer promotional periods like no upfront costs or 0% APR for several months.
The right payment method for you depends on your budget and current finances. Discuss the options with your surgeon’s financial coordinator.
How to reduce your liposuction costs
Here are some tips on how to make liposuction more affordable:
- Stick to just the areas that bother you most rather than doing full body liposuction.
- Ask what techniques they offer and choose regular tumescent liposuction rather than advanced methods like laser or ultrasound.
- Go for treatments during the fall/winter off-season rather than peak summer season.
- Choose a well-qualified cosmetic surgeon rather than a board-certified plastic surgeon.
- Have the procedure done at a certified office-based surgical suite rather than a hospital.
- Use a flexible spending account (FSA) pre-tax dollars to pay for it.
Saving up or setting aside a little from each paycheck can help you pay for liposuction out-of-pocket. Just make sure to choose an experienced, reputable surgeon, even if they are more affordable.
Liposuction costs covered by insurance
In general, liposuction is considered an elective cosmetic procedure, rather than a medical necessity, so insurance companies will not cover regular liposuction costs. But, some rare exceptions include:
Revisions after weight loss surgery
If liposuction is done to correct or improve results after bariatric surgery for obesity, insurance may pay a portion, depending on the policy.
Treatment of lipomas
Insurers sometimes cover liposuction to remove untreated lipomas (benign fatty tumors). A doctor would need to document symptoms and that the tumors pose a health risk.
Correction of medical conditions
In some cases where excess fat or lipomas cause health problems and discomfort, insurers may pay for some of the liposuction costs, but this generally requires pre-authorization and appeals.
Does Medicare cover liposuction?
No, original Medicare does not cover liposuction for cosmetic purposes. It is only considered medically necessary in rare situations like the treatment of lipedema or Dercum’s disease, a painful condition causing fatty tumor growths.
Does Medicaid cover liposuction?
Medicaid coverage for liposuction varies by state but is extremely limited. Some Medicaid programs may cover it only when it is determined to be “medically necessary” due to illness or trauma.
Choosing an affordable liposuction surgeon
You want an experienced surgeon you can trust, but also an affordable cost. Here are some tips for choosing quality liposuction care on a budget:
- Ask your general doctor for recommendations so you can pre-screen surgeons.
- Search surgeon websites for pricing information and patient reviews.
- Arrange consultations and compare the styles, experience, and costs.
- Ask what’s included – some surgeons price bundled packages.
- Confirm the surgeon is board-certified in plastic surgery.
- Check before and after photos to see their liposuction skill.
An affordable surgeon with top credentials, satisfied patients, and a competitive price can provide you with great results without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Liposuction costs typically range from $3,000 to $8,000 total, depending on the number of areas treated, the surgeon fees, the technique used, and several other factors. While not generally covered by health insurance, plastic surgery financing can make liposuction more affordable. With an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, you can get quality results and reduce costs by customizing your treatment plan.