Tummy tuck cost abroad: how to compare quotes without guessing

A tummy tuck is not one standard operation. The NHS describes two types, a partial one and a full one, and MedlinePlus adds that the surgery can range from a mini procedure to a more extensive one. The surgery may or may not include tightening the abdominal muscles, removing tissue from the sides or combining with liposuction. Two quotes for a tummy tuck can therefore describe two different operations.

Tummy Tuck Dublin, Tummy Tuck Birmingham — price and consultation.

Before you look at money, ask the clinic to name the operation in writing. The NHS explains the difference between the two types:

• Partial. One large cut across the lower tummy; excess fat and skin below the belly button are removed.
• Full. A longer cut above the pubic area and a second cut around the belly button, with realignment of the abdominal muscles and a new opening for the belly button.

More on this topic: Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), Mini Tummy Tuck, Lipoabdominoplasty, Tummy Tuck for Patients from Accra, Tummy Tuck in Aba.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) states that the average fee it publishes is only part of the total price. It does not include anaesthesia, operating room facilities or other related expenses. Items that may be added to the surgeon's fee are anaesthesia, hospital or surgical facility costs, medical tests, post-surgery garments and prescription medication. Use these as the rows of your comparison.

Operating time and hospital stay change the cost of the facility. The NHS says a tummy tuck takes 2 to 5 hours, MedlinePlus gives 2 to 6 hours and the hospital stay is usually a few nights. A quote that assumes a very short operation or no hospital stay for a full tummy tuck deserves a question. Ask what is included if recovery in hospital takes longer than planned, and who decides.

The NHS lists possible complications of a tummy tuck, among them wounds failing to heal, a collection of fluid, haematoma, numbness and bulges under the skin, and it states that some people do not get the result they wanted and may need another operation. The ASPS notes that most health insurance plans do not cover tummy tuck surgery or its complications. Ask the clinic:

• who pays for the treatment of a complication;

A tummy tuck needs a longer stay than many other operations. The NHS advises not flying for 7 to 10 days after a tummy tuck, because air travel and major surgery increase the risk of blood clots. The NHS also says someone must stay with you for the first 24 hours after you leave the hospital, and that you cannot drive for a few weeks. When you compare, add flights, local travel, the days you will stay in the country and time off work.

Whatever the clinic and the country, be careful if you notice:

• a price quoted without any assessment of your body;
• no clear statement of which type of tummy tuck is planned;
• no named surgeon, or no way to speak to one before you pay;
• pressure to pay a deposit quickly;
• surgery sold as part of a holiday package.

The NHS also suggests two consultations with the surgeon before any surgery, which gives you time to reflect.

At City Medical Centre the price of a tummy tuck is given after a free consultation (online is possible) and fixed in the contract. The surgeon first assesses your skin, muscles and goals, chooses the type of operation and then names the price, so that the figure describes your operation and not an average case.

City Medical Centre works with international patients. The first consultation is free and can be held online. Send photos of your abdomen from the front and side, and your questions, by Telegram. A personal coordinator stays with you from the first message to the end of recovery. Read more about the operation on our tummy tuck page.