This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Kaplan M.D., M.P.H
A tummy tuck also called a tummy tuck abdominoplasty is a common cosmetic surgery available to both men and women. The surgery consists of removing excess skin and excess fat from the abdomen. As with most cosmetic procedures, insurance rarely covers the cost, forcing you to pay out of pocket if you want the surgery. In this guide we will discuss the average cost of a tummy tuck. We will help you figure out how much you should expect to pay.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Surgery Cost? $8,923
The average cost of a tummy tuck can vary by quite a large margin–typically ranging anywhere from $4,000 to $20,000–depending on a few different factors. Dr.Jonathon Kaplan of Pacific Heights Plastic Surgery, says more specifically that a tummy tuck will cost about $8,923.69 on average.
The biggest factor in your tummy tuck cost is based on the kind of tummy tuck you have. There are three main kinds of tummy tucks–mini, full, or extended. The one you choose is determined by the size of the area covered. Also, sometimes it’s required to tighten, reshape, or repair muscle in addition to addressing excess skin to get the look the patient wants. In those cases, and others, it can cost more.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons says that in 2019, on average, tummy tucks cost $6,092. However, it seems that the figure is an average for the plastic surgeon’s fees alone. They caution that there are additional costs that aren’t included in that average but will be included in your final tummy tuck procedure cost.
What is Included in Tummy Tuck Costs?
In addition to the surgeon’s fees, there may be several other fees included in your final cost. One of the fees that can be the most expensive is for anesthesia. Anesthesia can cost anywhere from $425 to $3,500 depending on the kind of anesthesia you get–general or local–and how much you need based on the length of the tummy tuck procedure and your weight. You’ll also be charged for using the facility where it’s done, the tests required, any medication you may need for recovery, and other tools or items used in your care which may include bandages and sterile garments.
Is a Tummy Tuck Covered by Insurance?
Typically, insurance companies do not cover cosmetic surgeries such as tummy tucks and rhinoplastys. They usually regard them as purely cosmetic procedures, and they rarely cover anything that could be considered plastic surgery. There are some instances when an insurance company might consider a tummy tuck surgery medically necessary in which case they may partially or completely cover the procedure. The most common reason an insurance company would consider a tummy tuck surgery to be medically necessary would be if the need arose during a weight loss program. In the case of rapid weight loss, especially after a bariatric procedure, there may be a medical need to address the skin and abdominal muscles with a tummy tuck in which case they may cover it. Every insurance company defines medical necessity differently so it will vary.
Tummy Tuck Surgery Cost by State
Where you have the surgery done will also affect the cost. Not only do individual plastic surgeons have different prices based on their training and level of skill, but the geographic location will also play a part in the price. Cities and densely populated areas tend to cost more, often due to the plastic surgeons’ overhead costs and cost of living for that area. To find out the general price range in your specific area, use the Healthcare Blue Book. Here are some example cities and average prices to see how it varies.
- Houston: $9,425
- Miami: $6,025
- Atlanta: $8,450
- Chicago: $9,325
- Los Angeles: $8,725
What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is a smaller, less extensive version of the traditional tummy tuck procedure. It focuses solely on the area below the navel to remove fat and excess skin and tighten the remaining skin. It’s called a mini tummy tuck because traditional tummy tucks deal with the skin, fat, and abdominal muscles in the upper and lower abdomen while the mini exclusively concentrates on the lower. Alternatively, there are also extended tummy tucks that also address the sides and back. A board-certified plastic surgeon can help you decide which is best for you.
How Much Does a Mini Tummy Tuck Cost?
A mini tummy tuck surgery tends to be less expensive as it is less involved and simpler to perform. On average, depending on the factors listed above, you can usually expect to pay between $4,000 and $5,000 for a mini tummy tuck procedure. Depending on the amount of weight loss, excess skin, and other factors this may be a better option. When you find a board-certified plastic surgeon, they can tell you if you’re a good candidate or if you need a more comprehensive tummy tuck surgery.
Keep in Mind
It’s important to remember that plastic surgery is very individualized. You may have specific needs that change the options and the costs. It’s also vital that you find a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon who can address your medical needs. Safety and the right training increase your odds of a positive outcome.