How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost?

There are many joys that come with pregnancy and childbirth; however, many women often find it difficult to regain their pre-pregnancy figure. Other people, both men and women, who have worked hard to lose excess weight are frequently left with loose skin around their midsection. They gain all of the benefits of weight loss, improved health, looking better in clothing, improved physical fitness, self esteem, etc. but unfortunately, this also results in loose, wrinkled, or droopy skin, which is why many individuals turn to cosmetic surgery, commonly tummy tuck surgery ("abdominoplasty"), to regain their tight skin, flat belly, and slim figure.

When considering this procedure, one of the many variables that patients ask about is cost. Based on many criteria, the final fee will vary from patient to patient. When consulting Maryland plastic surgeon Dr. Markmann, he will discuss with them what their goals are, then thoroughly examine them to determine what needs to be done to achieve these goals. This will help in creating a personalized treatment plan to meet each patient's needs.

There are four basic types of tummy tucks offered at Dr. Markmann's practice - the mini, standard, extended, and circumferential. A mini tummy tuck (approximately one to two hours to complete) focuses on the area below the belly button, tightening the muscles and removing any excess skin, usually leaving a relatively short scar along the pubic hair line. A standard abdominoplasty (three to three and a half hours to perform) targets the areas of loose skin both above and below the navel; the muscles are tightened and loose skin is removed. An incision is made along the lower abdomen, usually from hipbone to hipbone, during a standard tummy tuck. Those who have an abundance of skin in the lateral waist line may be better suited for an extended tummy tuck (up to four hours in surgery), which can remove excess skin from the abdomen and lateral waistline. The scar for an extended tummy tuck extends past the hip bones and further towards the back. If a patient has loose skin all around the torso, frequently seen in massive weight loss patients, Dr. Markmann will remove skin all of the way around the waistline, tightening the remaining skin. This leaves a scar across the front and back of the midsection and is called a circumferential tummy tuck. Depending on the size of the patient, this requires from six to up to eight hours to complete.

Typically, a mini or standard abdominoplasty may run between $2,000 and $4,000; the standard and extended techniques can cost $6,000 to $8,000. A circumferential tummy tuck will typically cost between $10,000 and 12,000. The amount of muscle tightening, skin to be removed, anticipated time spent in the operating room, and the anesthesiologist fee are all considered when providing patients with an estimated cost. However, should Dr. Markmann require more time during the surgery than estimated, the hospital or surgical center may bill the patient for the additional time. If the surgery is completed in a shorter time than anticipated, the facility may reimburse the patient for the unused time. In addition, many patients wish to combine liposuction ("lipoplasty") with their tummy tuck surgery to further slim their waistline or other areas and must take the added cost into consideration. Again, this will be based on each patient's specific needs and desires.

Further information regarding tummy tuck surgery can be obtained during an appointment with Dr. Markmann at his Maryland practice. Prospective patients may call (410) 465-3600 to schedule a consultation.