Cost of Facelift

Today, rejuvenating the face through plastic surgery is a popular choice. What is the average cost of a facelift? There are a number of different factors that determine the prices, which can vary greatly. Let's take a look at what they are:

Plastic Surgeon - Different doctors charge different prices. These fees are usually related to the area in which you reside. Popular metropolitan areas may be more. For example, plastic surgeons in Miami will cost more than Wisconsin cosmetic surgeons. However it is important to note that just because a doctor charges more does not mean they are better. In fact, many charge more simply because they can get away with it by devoting a lot of their marketing budget. Many of the best plastic surgeons for face lifts charge average prices in relation to their geographic regions. Often times you will find that the doctors that charge the most are not the best. The average surgeon fees for face lifts can run anywhere from $5,500 all the way to $20,000. Keep in mind that this is a long procedure (several hours) and those numbers are based on traditional facelifts, not mini facelifts, string facelifts, or other variations.

Anesthesia Fee - You will have to pay a separate fee to the anethesialogist. This fee can vary greatly, but will always be significantly less than the surgeon's fee. These specialists traditionaly charge by the hour, anywhere from $150 to $800, with the first hour costing significantly more (sometimes double). Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $8,000 for the average anethesialogist price.

Operating Room Fee - What is the average operating room fee for plastic surgery? This number can vary greatly too. If you are paying with cash, expect to pay anywhere from $1,200 to $7,000. However, just as hospital room stays tend to often involve crazy charges (such as $118 for a box of Kleenex), the operating room fees cosmetic surgeons charge sometimes can too. Be sure to look over your bill closely before paying to ensure there are no questionable costs. If you are not sure what something is, you can ask. You are also entitled by law to a detailed itemized list of the expenses, if you'd like.

Recovery Costs - One factor many forget to consider are the recovery costs. If you work, you will have to take time off for anywhere from several days to a couple weeks or more. There are also other special accommodations you may need to make, such as transportation to and from the surgical center. Other extras such as additional pillows for your bed, over the counter supplements, and prescriptions (such as sleep pills and pain pills) may be needed. Be sure to take all of these things into account when you are figuring costs.

The bottom line is that face lift prices can vary greatly, depending on these factors. You can expect to pay anywhere from $9,000 to $30,000 or more. This is no small purchase so be sure to research the procedure as well as your potential surgeons thoroughly before proceeding.