Belt Lipectomy $$? - ThinnerTimes - Gastric Bypass Forum, Lap Band Forum, and Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Forum

Chia · 11-16-2009, 04:36 PM

Hello all,

I met with a plastic surgeon today about removing my loose skin around my lower abdomen via a panniculectomy (sp?) due to lower back pain. After talking with him and taking several embarrassing (but necessary and legal) naked body pictures he actually recommended a belt lipectomy instead. It is a combination of pannus removal, abdominoplasty, liposuction (minimal) and skin tightening in front and back of the body.

The insurance lady at his office said that if insurance covered any of it it would only be the work in the front, but not the back. As a result, she broke down the prices if there was some coverage versus complete self-pay. She said that if insurance covered part of it, I'd be responsible for $2500. If insurance didn't cover anything, it would be $7,650 out the door.

Is that a good price for this surgery? I think it is not bad, but I'm new to plastics. Any tips?

Aleria · 11-20-2009, 01:44 PM

Hi sweetie,

I think the price sounds good - perhaps even too good, but it depends on what exactly you need to have done. I strongly recommend going to a few doctors for their opinion. I know it can be a little embarrassing at first to strip down and such, but it'll get easier - especially if you focus on the outcome.

Also...I'd recommend that you "work it backwards" with your insurance company. Before going to see any PS, go to your insurance company and find out which PS's they work with in your area and what the requirements are. Call back a few times and ask the same questions because you'll find that difference customer service reps will be more forthcoming with information. It shouldn't have to be this difficult - but it is. Remember, you are your own best advocate.

BTW, I checked a site for costs and this is what it said...

Costs

A belt lipectomy can cost $25,000 and above depending upon your geographical area, the clinic or doctor you choose and the amount of fat to be removed.

Good luck!

Chia · 11-27-2009, 09:28 PM

I live in the Midwest. The price listed was the cosmetic price. Apparently, the insurance price is $22,500.

I was referred to the PS by my PCP for back pain (not responding to muscle relaxants, PT, or exercise). The PS said that, in my case, it is probably due to the extent of the loose skin and location. He said I could have between 20-30lbs of skin to remove that is pulling on my lower back.

shiver · 11-27-2009, 10:23 PM

I have no idea if that is a good price or not. But it does sound low... Something else to think about is that is only the Dr.'s price. You still need to figure in the hospital stay, the anthologist, all meds, and another other visits. Just something to think about.

Chia · 11-28-2009, 12:42 AM

The quoted price included the doctor's fee, the hospital fee (for surgery time), the anesthesia/anesthetist fee, and an over night hospital stay ($400 for each additional day if longer than 1 day). That's what I meant by "out the door".

shiver · 11-28-2009, 08:28 AM

WOW, That is an amazing price then...