Q & A: Determining Surgical Fees
Posted February 25, 2019
The Question:
I want to have surgery. I have researched the procedure and understand the post-operative recovery period as well as my potential downtime. I have met with a few plastic surgeons and chose a board-certified plastic surgeon who I feel communicates well with me and understands my aesthetic goals. I like the office staff and feel special when I walk through the doors. Now, what about the cost of the procedure?
Our Answer:
After the initial consultation, the Patient Care Coordinator will sit with you and discuss potential dates that are available for surgery and answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding the procedure. This is also the time you will be given a quote for your surgery. The surgical fee may include any of the following:
- Surgeon’s Fee: The surgeon’s fee can reflect on the training, years of experience and expertise of a surgeon and can vary depending on board certifications as well as geographical location. This fee will also cover your follow up care and post-operative visits.
- Surgical Center or Hospital Fee: The location used for your surgery should be fully accredited and clean with properly trained staff.
- Anesthesia: A board-certified nurse anesthetist or anesthesiologist has a specific fee that is charged based on the amount of time needed for anesthesia and the qualifications of the provider.
- Aesthetic Devices such as implants will also be included in the surgical quote.
Insurance will cover most medically necessary conditions, but it will not typically cover elective procedures such as cosmetic surgery. If the surgery is a combination procedure that involves an insurance case, the cosmetic portion will be billed to the patient and paid for separately. Cosmetic procedures are typically paid for ‘out of pocket’ by using cash, check, credit cards or third-party providers such as Care Credit and Alphaeon. A deposit is typically required to reserve the surgical date and the remaining balance is paid prior to surgery.
Plastic surgery is an elective procedure that can be viewed as an investment in your physical, spiritual and emotional health. Although discussing the price can be uncomfortable, it is important to keep yourself informed about all aspects of the surgery, the cost as well as the details of the procedure.
Do you have more questions or feel ready to discuss a procedure with Dr. Antimarino? Give us a call at (844) 496-6647 or schedule a consultation to get started.
