Introduction: Liposuction is How Much?
Liposuction is how much? Well, it depends on the degree of excess fat and the scope of the surgery required to get you to your goals. The degree of excess fat is determined by your body mass index. Your body mass index describes how heavy you are and is based on your height and weight. We have converted the Body Mass Index to a more visualizable scale using male and female caricatures. These caricatures are scored between a 2 to a 10 as established by the High Definition Liposuction (HDL) Body Scale. Patients scoring a grade of 8 to 9 only require ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Patients scoring between a 7 to 8 will benefit from tightening their skin using Renuvion J plasma radiofrequency. Patients scoring a grade between 5 to 6 must consider a limited excision of skin as defined by a mini tummy tuck. Patients scoring a 4 to 5 will require a more aggressive skin excision as characterized by the modified abdominal skin resection. Patients scoring a grade of 3 to 2 will require a staged procedure with a full tummy tuck and then return for their liposuction.
How Much Does Liposuction Cost?
Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, with over 400,000 procedures performed in the U.S. every year [1]. This fat removal treatment can help sculpt a slimmer figure. But how much does liposuction cost? Prices can vary widely based on several factors.
The National Average Cost
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of liposuction in 2022 was $3,896 [2]. This is just the surgeon’s fee and does not include anesthesia, operating room facilities, or other expenses. When all costs are included, the total price nationwide averages around $6,500.
Some plastic surgeons charge as low as $2,000 while others charge over $15,000. So why such a broad range?
What Impacts the Cost of Liposuction?
Several key factors affect the total liposuction price:
Number of Areas Treated
The more body parts that undergo liposuction, the higher the cost. Treatment of one area like the abdomen costs less than multiple areas like the abdomen, flanks, and thighs.
Type of Liposuction
The traditional, suction-based technique is typically cheaper than advanced methods like laser, ultrasound, and radiofrequency lipo which require specialized equipment [3].
Surgeon’s Skill and Experience
Board-certified plastic surgeons with years of specialty training and a proven track record for safety and results often charge more for their expertise. Beware discount deals from non-specialists.
Geographic Location
Where you live impacts prices too. Large cities like New York and Los Angeles have among the highest average liposuction costs, while rural areas are generally cheaper [4].
The extent of Correction Needed
If you only need minimal fat removal to finetune problem spots, you’ll pay less than more extensive contouring of multiple body zones.
Ways to Reduce Your Liposuction Costs
Here are some tips to lower your price:
- Stick to just one or two treatment areas.
- Ask about tumescent liposuction which uses local anesthesia to reduce fees.
- Search for qualified surgeons who offer package deals.
- Opt to have multiple procedures during one OR visit.
- Consider financing options like loans and payment plans.
Is Liposuction Worth the Price?
While not inexpensive, many patients find the aesthetic improvements after liposuction to be worthwhile when performed by an expert. Recovery is relatively quick and the results are long-lasting with healthy lifestyle habits. Maintaining your post-lipo results still takes effort, but the investment can boost your confidence for years.
Conclusion: How much is liposuction?
The average cost of liposuction ranges between $2,000-$15,000 depending on your custom treatment plan. To achieve the contoured appearance you want, set a budget you can reasonably afford and find an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss options within your price range. With an expert’s help, you can determine if liposuction is a sound investment for fulfilling your cosmetic goals. We hope that this article answered your question “How much is liposuction?”
References
[1] Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank: Statistics 2022. Aesthetic Society. https://www.surgery.org/media/statistics
[2] Cosmetic Procedure Trends: Liposuction Up in 2022. American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/cosmetic-procedure-trends-liposuction-up-in-2022
[3] Karamanos E, Bernardin CR, Nanney LB, Ruff GL. Comparison of Laser-Assisted Liposuction With Suction-Assisted Liposuction. Dermatol Surg. 2019 Jul;45(7):905-913. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001800. PMID: 30873971.
[4] Cosmetic Surgery Pricing Report 2022. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Statistics/2022/cosmetic-plastic-surgery-statistics-full-report-2022.pdf
