Cosmetic and plastic surgery use the latest and state of the art technology. Surgeons use gadgets and technology that we sometimes cannot understand. Imagine the quality and precision of the tools they use to slice skin for grafting or hair transplantation finely – they cost a lot of money. The cost of plastic surgery would typically include the initial consultation, cost of implants, surgeon’s fees, hospitalization costs, anesthesia, lab fees, medication, follow-up visits, and post-surgery clothing.

If it is a simple procedure that can be done in a doctor’s office without the need for anesthesia, then costs reduce considerably. Very few procedures are today covered by health insurance, and hence you should understand the financial costs. Some of the most expensive procedures based on national averages for 2020 are as follows.

1. Body lift
   The national average of a body lift is around $15,300. Body lift is a surgery that lifts and ties loose skin from all over your body – breasts, chest, abdomen, arms, thigh, hips, back, and knees. People who have had drastic weight loss, older people, and women after multiple pregnancies opt for such procedures. Incisions are made through the body to remove the fat and skin. After it is completed, the incisions are closed again. It needs good post-operative care, as there could be pain. You would also need special gowns that you have to wear for two to three weeks and follow up visits for at least two years. All this pushes it to be the most expensive plastic surgery.
2. Facelift
   The average cost of a facelift has been worked out to be around $12,000. A big chunk would be the fees, as you need surgeons experienced with the highest ratings and board-certified. The fear of choosing an inexperienced surgeon to work on one’s face is real. The total expense of a facelift depends on the type of surgery. You can choose from minimally invasive to regular and full surgery, and it can be done in different parts of the face. The cost of anesthesia is pretty high, and the cost varies based on where you live or get the surgery done. Since it is an elective procedure, facelift costs are not covered by health insurance.
3. Tummy tuck
   The average cost of a tummy tuck procedure is about $8,200. It is a procedure that makes the tummy flatter and smaller. Surgeons not only remove the fat through the incisions; they make them also remove the skin. The procedure is done under general anesthesia. You will need special dressings and will need to wear a special compression binder. Surgical drains will also be placed for a couple of weeks. Recovery time is about two months and will also require multiple follow up weeks after that.
4. Breast reduction
   Large breasts can lead to back and neck pain. It can cause rashes, and many isolate themselves as they become very conscious of their size. A surgeon removes the excess fat, tissue, and skin to the extent that breast size pits your overall height and weight. An average breast reduction will cost you about $7,500. It will be covered by insurance only if a doctor has recommended it to improve your overall health. If it is elective surgery, it will not be covered by insurance.