When you’ve worked hard to achieve your weight loss goals, board-certified Philadelphia plastic surgeon David Bottger, MD understands the frustration of being left with the presence of excess, hanging skin. After major weight loss, the skin has usually been stretched to the point where proper contraction around a patient’s slimmer body contours is no longer possible. This is why many patients in Philadelphia and beyond turn to a comprehensive treatment plan known as a body lift to get rid of their loose, excess skin and finally achieve the physique they’ve always desired.
Body lifting surgery combines multiple procedures to smooth, tighten, and define areas affected by redundant skin accumulation. The classic body lift, which is sometimes referred to as a belt lipectomy, typically combines a tummy tuck with a flank and buttock lift, creating a 360 degree contour improvement. As a multi-step treatment plan designed to address more than one region, cost is an important factor for most patients who are considering a body lift. Below, Dr. Bottger provides a detailed outline of what they can expect from body lift costs before their personal consultation — where each patient will receive a personalized quote based on their unique needs and goals.
How Much Does a Body Lift Cost in Philadelphia?
There is no fixed price for a body lift, as the procedure is highly customized for each person; however, the combination procedure generally starts at $23,450 at our Philadelphia practice. This includes all standard expenses associated with body contouring surgery, such as the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia fee, facility costs, lab fees, etc. Whereas some plastic surgeons only publish the surgeon’s fee in isolation, Dr. Bottger believes patients should receive an accurate and transparent understanding of their total costs. Many patients appreciate how much more affordable aesthetic surgery is in Philadelphia compared to more expensive parts of the country, such as Miami, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, San Diego, and New York City.
A body lift is also an investment into lifelong confidence, as this transformative surgical plan is known for permanent, lasting results. While weight instability in the future may change the body contours, those who maintain a stable weight generally enjoy the effects of their body lift for the rest of their lives. In general, it’s up to you to weigh the risks and costs of surgery against the potential benefits.
What Factors Affect the Total Costs of a Body Lift?
An accurate cost estimate can only be determined after a thorough in-person consultation and physical evaluation. That said, several variables influence the total cost of a body lift, including:
- The type of body lift performed (lower body lift, upper body procedures, etc.)
- The complexity of your treatment plan
- The procedures you decide to undergo
- The extent of your skin laxity
- Anesthesia, surgical facility costs, and associated fees
Beyond the surgery itself, patients should also factor in related expenses — including pre-operative testing, compression garments, prescription medications, and time away from work during recovery. Depending on the treatments incorporated into your body lift, your procedures may be combined into one surgery or staged over time, which can also affect the overall financial commitment.
Is a Body Lift Covered By Insurance?
In most cases, a body lift is considered cosmetic and is not covered by health insurance. Insurance companies generally classify body contouring surgeries as elective because they are performed to improve appearance rather than to treat a medical condition.
Can I Afford a Body Lift?
Since a body lift represents a significant investment, many patients explore plastic surgery financing to make their procedures more accessible. Rather than paying the full cost upfront, financing allows qualified patients to spread payments over time, making it easier to budget for surgery while focusing on recovery and results.
One commonly used option for approved applicants is CareCredit®, a healthcare financing program that can be used for cosmetic procedures. CareCredit® may offer promotional financing plans that allow patients to pay for their procedure in monthly installments, depending on eligibility and terms at the time of application. This flexibility can help patients move forward with their body lift when the timing is right for their physical and emotional goals, rather than delaying treatment solely due to cost concerns.
Dr. Bottger is passionate about helping men and women achieve a more confident quality of life through post-weight loss body lifting surgery. Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Bottger today to talk about your concerns in a consultation or to learn more about our aesthetic services.