Does a Tummy Tuck Revision Cost Less Than the Initial Tummy Tuck?

 

The cost of revisional surgery
varies from practice to practice and is dependent upon a multitude of
variables.  Each situation is
unique and for this reason it’s difficult to have precise
rules.

In most cases surgeons try to be
reasonable and help patients whenever possible.  It’s not unusual for surgeons to waive their surgeon’s fee
and charge only for the facility and anesthesia.  It’s important to discuss these issues pre-operatively to
minimize confusion in the post-operative period.

It is hard to say without a proper exam and/or review of the operative note.  Cost often depends on the amount of revision to be done, and how much time is spent in the O.R.  For revisional surgery, the surgeon often does not have control over some costs, (O.R. fees, Anesthesia fees, supplies, etc:). This is usually passed on to the patient.  Most surgeons will charge some fee for revision surgery.  This can be variable.   Best to discuss this with your surgeon.  Delineate your expectations and together your should be able to come up with a plan.           

Thank you for your post.In considering the cost of a Tummy Tuck, you should look at the components of the cost:1. Surgeons Fee. This is usually the greatest part of the overall cost and can vary immensly from location to location (just like the cost of living varies in each location) as well as in the same location, it can vary from surgeon to surgeon. Usually, a surgeon commanding a higher price is very experienced and has very good results reliably, and is very busy due to the above.2. Anesthesia Fee. This can vary depending on if a board certified MD anesthesiologist is used, vs. a nurse anesthetist, vs. a non-certified nurse, vs. only local anesthesia (an awake procedure). Obviously, the further you go down the line, the cheaper the price. You do get what you pay for.3. Facility Fee. This can vary if it is a a state/medicare certified facility, vs. the back of a doc's office.4. Accessories. This includes things like a pain pump, Exparol injections (72 hour long lasting numbing), garments, tissue glues, etc. These are not necessary for a great result, just add to the comfort of a result.As with anything in life, buyer beware of risks of cutting corners in surgery.Real Self has average costs of every operations in your location that you can peruse before seeing a surgeon, but keep in mind that the above quality can change from office to office. Choose a surgeon that you are very comfortable with and is board certified.In general, a revision costs less than the original tummy tuck, but this depends on the extent of the revision and what is being done.Best Wishes,Pablo Prichard, MD

If the surgeon that performed the initial tummy tuck is the one that will be doing the revision, then most likely the revision tummy tuck will cost less. If the surgeon that performed the procedure agrees that he could have provided you with better results, and agrees to a revision then the costs involved are usually the anesthesia costs, and operating room costs. This is the scenario where you have the revision with the same surgeon. Now, if you we not happy with the results that your PS provided and which to find another surgeon. The new plastic surgeon will charge you full pricing for the tummy tuck.

Each office has a different set of policies on pricing. Usually it is more cost effective with the original surgeon as he has a motivation to keep you happy.