Cosmetic surgery, also known as aesthetic surgery, is a sub-specialty of plastic surgery in which the principal purpose is to improve a person’s physical appearance. When deciding to have plastic surgery, people generally want their procedure done at the lowest price possible, especially in today’s economic climate. However, it is no secret that aesthetic surgery can be costly. The exact cost of having surgery varies depending on the specific procedure you want to be done.
Invasive surgeries such as breast augmentation cost more than non-surgical procedures like Botox. For you to acknowledge why so much money is required in this kind of plastic surgery, it is important to fully understand what you are paying. Below is a breakdown of some of the fees that make up the overall cost.
Surgeon Fees
A fairly large portion of the overall costs goes to surgeon fees. Basically, this is what they pay the surgeon for the work they do. The time taken on the procedure, the complexity of the surgery and technique used are some key factors taken into consideration when a cosmetic surgeon charges for their service. They also include consultation and examination fees when you carry on with the operation. However, different surgeons have different rates depending on their reputation and practice experiences.
Facility Fee
This fee comprises of a lot of elements. It includes the cost on the operating room, supplies and recovery fees. You need to pay for the space used whether it is in a hospital or a plastic surgery centre. Some locations are more expensive than others. Certified facilities, for example, have more personnel and keep expensive supplies in case of any emergencies. Therefore, they cost more compared to uncertified facilities. They also include dressing and surgical wear in this category.
Material Costs
Some invasive procedures require the use of implants like breast implants, dental implants or hip implants. Eventually, these implants must be accounted for in the total cost. These costs are usually high and make up for a huge portion of the overall cost.
Drugs and Anaesthesia
The anaesthesia fee is often overlooked by many. Pain management and infection control treatments are required depending on the type of cosmetic procedure done. Unlike other services, anaesthetists do not have a standard scale of fees. Anaesthetist’s services cost more if you require a trained anaesthetist over a nurse. Drug-related fees include analgesics for pain relief and antibiotics to treat infections. These are some of the costs that cannot be overlooked in aesthetic surgery.
Lab Fees
Pre-operative tests need to be taken before any medical operation is conducted. These include blood tests such as Complete Blood Counts (CBC), Chest X-ray, pregnancy test, electrocardiogram to check your heart among others. Most of these tests are required before the procedure their cost, however, varies depending on the type of test.
Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments are highly recommended by surgeons. During these meetings, they change dressings, recommend scar prevention and give a go-ahead for you to resume normal activities. Follow-up costs may or may not be included in your total costs. Some surgeons offer post-operation follow-up appointments at no additional fees while others charge for it.
There is no doubt about it, aesthetic surgery is expensive. If you want to have it done, you’ll have to save up for it and budget for all these costs. Remember, the more informed you are, the better the chances of getting a good deal. You can Find Out More about cosmetic surgery and its procedures here.
