The real cost of plastic surgery: How to budget for procedures and maintain your results
It's time to get real. A lot of Americans are feeling squeezed by the economy right now, with rising costs on everything from groceries to gas. It can feel like you have a lot less disposable income to work with. Often, one of the few things that help keep people positive during an economic downturn is small luxuries like a new haircut, neuromodulators, high-end skincare or plastic surgery. Increasingly, these luxuries may feel out of reach.
The spending guilt is also real. However, with some strategic planning and a better understanding of the real cost of plastic surgery, you can create a budget that lets you splurge now and then and extend the time between treatments, stretching your hard-earned dollar further.
Breaking the taboo
Let's start by breaking the taboo about discussing money. If you have a noninvasive or surgical plastic surgery procedure in mind, you need to break down the costs associated with that procedure and give yourself a realistic budget to work with. That doesn't happen unless you're honest about what you can afford and how you'll pay for the procedure you want.
Often, patients feel like talking about cost is off the table. Your plastic surgeon's office wants you to have a frank discussion about costs and affordability so they can help you create a plan that works for you, stays within budget and meets your aesthetic goals. They also want to help you understand the real cost of plastic surgery and what you can expect when the bill hits your mailbox.
First, do your homework to gain a basic understanding of the cost of the procedure you are interested in discussing with a plastic surgeon.
"You shouldn't, in my opinion, you should not be coming to a consult, especially if you're paying for it, without having a ballpark of what it's going to cost, but that varies from place to place," said Katerina Gallus, MD, FACS.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates that the average plastic surgeon's fee for a breast augmentation with implants is $4,875. This may get you in the ballpark, but prices can vary by region and surgeon, and the surgeon's fee is only part of the final bill.
A plastic surgeon's fees may be one thing, but you should explore whether there are any extra costs associated with facility fees, anesthesiologist fees or postoperative care. Your surgeon isn't the only one in the operating room. There is an entire team available to manage your care, and depending on the facility or the need for anesthesia, there may be additional fees you need to be aware of. Be sure to ask your surgeon about what is and is not included in their cost breakdown.
However, the sheet of paper with your cost breakdown is only part of the total financial picture. Many patients make the initial mistake of looking at the price tag and thinking, "Sure, I can afford this!" only to realize that costs they didn't factor in, like postsurgical garments or prescription costs, push the total over their budget.
Don't be afraid to ask what the surgical estimate covers and, more importantly, what it doesn't. Every office is different, and while some may provide a compression garment to wear home, others may not, meaning the cost of that postop garment will come out of your pocket.
"Patients should ask if the quote they receive covers all surgical costs," said Michele Shermak, MD. "They should ask if they will owe any money unexpectedly if, for example, the case takes longer than planned. They may also want to ask about any fees associated with revisions that might be desired in the future."
Dr. Gallus also tells patients not to forget to factor in "hidden costs" or financial factors that they may not think about. These costs are not directly tied to the surgery itself, but can add up to financial strain when not included in the big picture, such as time off from work, childcare or meal preparation during recovery.
"There are the costs that you don't factor in," said Dr. Gallus. How much time are you going to have to take off from work? Is somebody else going to take time off from work to help you? You know, do you need to board your dog or do you need to pay for extra childcare? Are you going to order your food during that time? Are you going to make it ahead? Are you not going to like the garments that are given to you at the surgery, and you're going to buy separate garments?"
An overall budget should include not only the cost of the procedure, but also the incidental costs that can add up during postop recovery. You should also give yourself a little wiggle room to help account for any unexpected expenses or issues.
Maintaining and extending your results
You saved, made a budget and got the procedure of your dreams! Now what? Get into the mindset that you have invested in yourself. Protecting that investment takes work. First and foremost, the best way to get optimal results and maintain your new look is to follow your doctor's postop instructions!
"One hundred percent listen to your surgeon," said Dr. Gallus. "That's usually what sets people back."
If your surgeon recommends wearing compression garments, it's probably best to wear them. If they want you to restrict strenuous activity or movement for a specific period, it's likely your best bet to listen. If they ask you to avoid certain medications, it's a good idea to follow their recommendations.
Going too hard, too fast can compromise results and may have you back in their office for revisions or repairs. Resuming specific medications too soon after surgery can also slow healing or lead to complications. These things compromise results and may mean you need to head back to the surgeon's office sooner than you would have if you had slowed down and put yourself first.
You also need to focus on skincare and scar management to protect your plastic surgery investment.
"Consistent and active scar management," said Dr. Shermak. "Sun protection for sun-exposed areas. And yes, skincare. Many plastic surgeons will make recommendations on this."
Both surgeons also advise making lifestyle changes that include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in exercise or activity as advised by your surgeons, following a skincare routine and, above all, committing to taking care of yourself.
"I always say it's like doing a deep clean or a cleaning at the dentist, but not brushing your teeth every day," said Dr. Gallus. "You're not going to do that. So, if the cleaning of your teeth at the dentist is the injectables or the laser or the surgery, then the daily brushing of your teeth is applying the right skincare and adding sunscreen."
Maintaining an overall healthy, active lifestyle is the best way to prolong your aesthetic results.
Another excellent way to maintain and extend the duration of your results? Give yourself some grace. You are not like any other patient out there. You may not need another dose of a neuromodulator in six months or another round of fillers in a year. Talk to your plastic surgeon about your overall goals and budget. By working together and giving your plastic surgeon a better understanding of your unique situation, you can both create a roadmap that sets expectations and helps you keep follow-up or additional procedures within your means.
Avoid the temptation to go cheap
There is always that temptation to "score a deal." While it may be great to snag a summer dress for half off, that is not the way you should shop for plastic surgery. These are real surgeries with real risks. During tough economic times, it's understandable that patients may be tempted to look for less expensive plastic surgery options, either overseas or through unlicensed or unregulated "clinics" or "spas." It's best to avoid cheap options when your health is at stake.
In the short term, it can seem like you are saving money, getting what you want and coming out ahead. In the long term, you risk your health, safety, financial stability and potentially your life. Surgery performed in unsanitary conditions, with untrained individuals or using untested or unregulated products can cause significant infections and complications.
Additionally, patients may not achieve the results they desire, resulting in a "botched" aesthetic. The time and costs associated with revision surgery to correct a complication or address an undesired outcome can be substantial, as these procedures are often more complex.
"Doing it right the first time will save time and money from unnecessary time off work or wound healing debacles that might have to be paid for out of pocket to another more reliable surgeon or medical provider," said Dr. Shermak. "Sometimes it could save your life, which you can't put a price on."
Dr. Gallus framed the situation like this: "Would you get on an airline if they didn't meet the same FAA standards that everybody else meets? You wouldn't, say, 'Oh, well, this airline's cheaper because the pilots, you know, aren't certified or the plane doesn't go through monthly inspections or all the things that it costs to run an airline.'"
As a patient, it is crucial to understand that you are paying for your plastic surgeon's education, skills and expertise. What seems like a larger upfront investment will actually cost you less in the long run and give you the opportunity to achieve the aesthetic results you want.
If you are worried about the costs associated with plastic surgery, talk to your surgeon about your financial options. There are several credit services available to patients that can help them spread the cost of surgery, instead of worrying about a single lump-sum payment. There may be minimally invasive options to explore, allowing a patient to save in the meantime.
You don't have to forgo your aesthetic desires because you are feeling the economic squeeze. You just need a strategic financial plan in place. Work with your plastic surgeon so you know exactly what you can afford and what you are getting for your investment.
To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.
