Losing weight is an achievement, but sagging skin is one of the natural results that people witness while navigating their weight-loss journey. To address this, people either stick to their natural weight loss training regimen or go for skin removal surgery for faster, visible results.
However, before opting for a skin removal surgery, it is imperative to understand its cost structure and the type of surgeries available. In this blog, we navigate the different cost options and help you understand the basic related cost removal surgery.
What Is Skin Removal Surgery?
Skin removal surgery, medically termed body contouring is a surgical procedure performed to remove excess skin and, sometimes, fat from particular areas of the body. It is commonly pursued by individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, either through bariatric surgery or lifestyle changes. Such weight loss can lead to excess skin that often fails to retract into the body's new shape. This surgery is designed to address that issue.
The skin removal procedure is tailored to individual needs, targeting areas such as:
- Abdomen: Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty)
- Arms: Arm lift (Brachioplasty)
- Thighs: Thigh lift (Thighplasty)
- Buttocks: Buttock lift (Gluteal lift)
In detail, the process involves the removal of excess skin and tightening the remaining skin to align with the body's newly defined contours. Generally, these surgeries can take between 3 to 5 hours (time varies depending on customer needs and goals).
| Here's a surprising statistic: In just a single year, 46,577 total body contouring procedures were carried out following massive weight loss. |
What you need to know about paying for plastic surgery with bad credit
Types Of Skin Removal Surgery
Skin removal surgery procedure is not one-size-fits-all. Broadly speaking, there are eight types of skin removal surgery. The type that suits you best will depend entirely on your target area and your cosmetic surgeon's recommendation.
Let's briefly explore the types of skin removal surgery, their target areas for removing excess skin, and the average time each procedure takes.
| Types | Target Area | Timeline (Surgery Duration) |
|---|---|---|
| Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) | Abdomen | 2-5 hours |
| Panniculectomy | Lower abdomen | 2-5 hours |
| Brachioplasty | Arms (Upper arm area) | 2-3 hours |
| Thighplasty | Thighs (Inner thighs) | 2-3 hours |
| Mastopexy (Breast Lift) | Breasts | 3-5 hours |
| Torsoplasty | Torso area, chest, and back | 3-6 hours |
| Lower Body Lift | Abdomen, buttocks, waist, hips, and thighs | 5-8 hours |
| Rhytidectomy (Facelift) | Face, mainly neck | 2-6 hours |
| Did you know that the percentage of women undergoing skin removal surgery is significantly higher than that of men? |
How Much Does Skin Removal Surgery Cost?
Skin removal surgery costs somewhere between $4,000-$27,000. However, the cost may vary depending on factors such as the surgeon’s experience, location, and surgery type.
It is also vital to note that the costs associated with skin removal surgery may not be affordable for a large percentage of individuals, and insurance coverage for this procedure is uncommon. But payment plan options and pay-over-time alternatives can help you afford the high costs without having to break your bank.
That said let’s further delve deeper into some of the factors that affect skin removal surgery costs.
What Are The Factors That Impact Skin Removal Surgery Cost
1. Type Of Surgery
The specific procedure you choose will greatly impact the cost. Common procedures like abdominoplasty and brachioplasty are generally cheaper compared to more extensive surgeries like panniculectomy and others. Consider consulting with your surgeon for proper guidance.
2. Surgeon's Experience
Highly experienced and renowned surgeons tend to charge higher fees for their expertise. However, it's essential to prioritize a skilled surgeon to ensure your safety and achieve the best possible results.
3. Geographic Location
The cost of surgery can vary based on the region or city. Generally, urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living tend to have higher surgical fees. It's also because of the increased competition in certain areas.
4. Facility Fees
The choice of surgical facility, like a hospital or clinic, impacts overall expenses. Hospitals tend to be more expensive than outpatient surgical centers.
What Is The Cost Of Skin Removal Surgery By Types
| Types Of Skin Removal Surgery | Avg Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) | $7,000 - $8,000 |
| Panniculectomy | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Brachioplasty | $5,000 - $7,000 |
| Thighplasty | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Mastopexy (Breast Lift) | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Torsoplasty | $9,000 - $18,000 |
| Lower Body Lift | $7,500 - $10,000 |
These surgeries also include additional costs, like:
- Anesthesia fees
- Hospital or surgical facility costs
- Medical tests
- Post-surgery garments
- Prescriptions for medication
- Surgeon's fee
Find out how flexible payment plans can help you pay for skin removal surgery.
Schedule a DemoDoes Insurance Cover Skin Removal Surgery?
Most health insurance plans do not cover skin removal surgery costs when it is purely cosmetic. However, in cases where the surgery is deemed medically necessary, insurance may offer some coverage. Health insurance may cover skin removal surgeries that address issues such as skin infections caused by trapped moisture in skin folds. It may also provide coverage when loose skin poses health risks or leads to chronic skin conditions such as infections or rashes.
Different insurance companies provide coverage only if you meet their specific guidelines. Some insurance companies cover weight loss surgery but do not cover cosmetic surgery. So, in these scenarios, one must consider alternative payment options.
Here is a real-life example of an individual who used a Credee, a payment plan solution offered by his surgeon to meet the high expense related to skin removal surgery.
| John's Journey from Weight Loss to Confidence With Flexible Payment Plans John, a 35-year-old IT professional, faced a health crisis due to significant weight gain during the extended work-from-home period. Motivated by health concerns, he successfully shed the weight but was left with sagging skin, affecting his confidence. The cost of skin removal surgery seemed out of his budget, especially with his poor credit score limiting his financial aid options. However, everything changed when he was introduced to Credee by a surgeon. Credee's flexible payment plans enabled John to meet the expenses of the surgery in the most practical ways. |
Alternative Ways To Finance The Procedure
1. Medical Financing:
Many healthcare providers offer flexible payment options with low or zero interest rates for elective procedures.
These plans allow you to spread the cost of the surgery over time, making it more budget-friendly.
2. Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA):
If eligible, you can use your HSA or FSA funds to cover skin removal surgery expenses, providing a tax-advantaged way to pay.
Check with your plan administrator for details on how to utilize these accounts for your medical needs.
3. Employer Assistance:
Check with your employer's HR department to inquire about any available financial assistance or benefits for medical procedures.
Some companies offer employee assistance programs that can help cover elective surgeries.
4. Nonprofit Organizations:
Some nonprofits offer financial assistance to individuals in need of specific medical procedures, including skin removal surgery.
Reach out to these organizations to explore potential sources of funding and support.
Skin removal surgery can be a significant investment in your health and confidence. While there are several traditional financing options available, a standout complementary solution where traditional financing does not work is the ‘Credee Payment Plan.’
| Here’s why: - Credee offers a simple and adaptable solution, allowing for customized payment plans to suit your financial needs. - Surgeons using Credee can provide quick approvals to patients, even to those with poor credit scores. - The payment processing system is transparent. This means the surgeons who wish to offer payment plan solutions do not have to worry about the fees hidden in the fine print. - Timely fulfilling monthly payments through Credee positively impacts the credit score. |
Final Thought
As we conclude, it's vital to remember that skin removal surgery is more than just a procedure; it's a step towards a renewed sense of self. For many, it's a desired solution to overcome challenges associated with saggy skin.
Remember, undergoing this surgery is the beginning of a new chapter in your life. Choosing the right financial support is crucial to ensuring a smooth journey. It's important to explore various factors that affect the cost and discuss them with your surgeon. Since it's not a one-day process and involves multiple sessions, each with different upfront costs, stay informed about all options and choose what suits you best.
FAQs
A. What Is The Full Body Skin Removal Surgery Cost In The USA?
$10,000 to $33,000. However, the cost may vary depending on the specific procedures required, the surgeon’s experience, and the place where you reside. Additional expenses for anesthesia, facility costs, and aftercare can also significantly increase the total cost.
B. Does Insurance Cover Skin Removal Surgery Costs?
Insurance companies do not cover cosmetic skin removal procedures. They typically cover weight loss procedures that are deemed necessary by the healthcare professional. This may include the relevant procedures required to alleviate health issues caused by accumulating skin.
C. What Is Excess Skin Removal Surgery?
Excess skin removal surgery, also known as body contouring surgery, is a procedure designed to remove excess skin and improve the shape and tone of the underlying tissue after significant weight loss or pregnancy. This surgery helps address issues such as sagging skin, which can occur when the skin loses elasticity and the underlying fat is reduced. Common types of excess skin removal surgeries include:
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall.
- Arm Lift (Brachioplasty): Removes excess skin and fat from the upper arms.
- Thigh Lift: Removes excess skin and fat from the thighs.
- Lower Body Lift: Combines a tummy tuck with a thigh and buttock lift to remove excess skin from the lower body.
- Breast Lift (Mastopexy): Removes excess skin and reshapes the breasts to a more youthful appearance.
- Facelift (Rhytidectomy): Removes excess facial skin to reduce sagging and improve facial contours.
