Is it normal to be charged separately for a trunk lift and tummy tuck?

Question

I had my consultation for a mommy makeover and left with a quote for a trunk lift, tummy tuck and lipo. Won’t do breast lift and augmentation at the same time. I’m ok with that but I was wondering if it’s normal to get charged separately for a trunk lift and tummy tuck? I was under the impression the tummy tuck is included in a trunk lift being that it’s 360. The first surgery with the lift would be over $20,000 and the second with the breast would be over $10,000. Should I get a second opinion?

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

In some cases, a trunk lift and a tummy tuck can refer to different procedures, targeting specific areas of the abdomen or trunk. However, it's essential to clarify terminologies and understand what each procedure entails in the context of your surgical plan.

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, typically addresses excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen. It involves tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess skin to create a flatter and more toned appearance.

A trunk lift might refer to a more extensive procedure that addresses the entire midsection, including the abdomen, flanks, and lower back. This procedure could involve additional incisions and more extensive tissue removal compared to a traditional tummy tuck.

It's not uncommon for surgeons to tailor procedures to meet individual needs, and in some cases, combining procedures like a tummy tuck with additional work on the trunk might incur separate charges. The breakdown of costs can include surgeon's fees, anesthesia, facility fees, and any additional procedures performed.

Always make sure to discuss the details of your surgical plan, including the specific procedures, costs, and any potential separate charges, with your plastic surgeon during the consultation. Understanding the breakdown of fees and what each procedure encompasses will help you make an informed decision regarding your surgical options.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question!
You are having two separate surgeries, so they will be charged separately. This is not unusual at all. Reach out to your surgeon with your concerns to help ease your mind. Best of luck!

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

A circumferential lift or trunk lift involves a tummy tuck and a posterior lift, so it will definitely cost more than just a tummy tuck.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  This is a question best left to your surgeon's office to answer as the treatments should be easy to understand.  A tummy tuck typically references the anterior abdomen alone while a body lift or back lift would likely be the "trunk" lift. These are two separate procedures.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear amyb81,
the cost of surgery depends on a lot of factors (type of surgery, number of treated areas, anesthesia fee, surgeon, facility fee, city, etc.). It would be best to visit or call plastic surgery offices and ask for a price.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Eric Maiorino, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck is only the removal and tightening of the skin on the belly or abdomen and doesn't typically include the back which is what it sounds like the extra charge is for. Some offices group their prices separately to make it easier to see a cost breakdown but in doing so make it more confusing. I always recommend to my patients to seek a second opinion to make sure they like the plan that we've come up with, the rapport between us is good, and the price makes sense for them.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I would encourage you to speak with the surgeon as to what is included in each of the prices that were given.  It is always a good idea to go to a few consultations with board certified plastic surgeons when considering surgery.  This way you will learn more about what is recommended and you can evaluate and select the surgeon with whom you feel most comfortable.

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!In our practice, we call a 360 degree body lift ( abdominoplasty and buttock lift) a "beltectomy". If only the buttocks and outer thighs are lifted, we call it a "buttock lift"....I do not quite understand "trunk lift"?The differences in terminology from practice to practice muddy the waters. Ask your plastic surgeon to break it down for you.Best wishes...

Is it normal to be charged separately for a trunk lift and tummy tuck?

Answers (8)

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