It is not uncommon for women to stare into the mirror and re-evaluate their appearance, in fact- its human nature to want to look better.It is only fair to want to take steps to improve our happiness, which is driven primarily by our confidence and feeling of wellbeing.
Plastic Surgeryvs Cosmetic surgery
While both plastic and cosmetic surgery include improving a patient’s body, the goals for patient outcomes are different.
Plastic Surgeryis commonly referred to as ‘reconstructive’ surgery; it is dedicated to correcting abnormalities caused by congenital disabilities, health conditions or accidents. The abnormalities can be aesthetic or functional and sometimes both.
All procedures, techniques, and principles of cosmetic surgery are driven by the focus on enhancing the patient’s appearance. Because the patient is choosing to have the surgery to improve aesthetic appeal, symmetry, and proportion, it is known as an ‘elective’ surgery.The scope of procedures includes:
- Facelift
- Eyelift
- Chemical Peel
- Dermabrasion
- Wrinkle reduction
- Ear correction
- Nose surgery
- Facial implants
- Lip enhancement
- Liposuction
- Tummy tuck
- Breast reduction
- Breast enlargement
Costs of surgery
Fees for Plastic Surgery, both plastic and cosmetic will vary based on the type of surgery being performed and overall complexity of the operation. Others factors to budget for include location of surgery, the surgeon, the kind of anaesthetics administered and pre and post operation costs.
Possible side effects or complications can also occur during and after surgery which may result in extra costs to aid in the recovery process.Before surgery, your surgeon should provide you with an estimated list of costs. Factors to consider include:
- Preliminary consultation
- Pre-surgical office visits
- Surgeon’s fee
- Implants
- Hospital fees
- Anesthesiologist
- Post-operative garments
- Recovery kit
- Follow-up visits
Financing your surgery
When it comes to financing your surgery, there are multiple options available depending on the specific type of surgery you’re having.
Private Health insurance
Health insurance will only cover cosmetic surgery procedures if they are considered medically necessary to maintain your health. Medically necessary procedures such as these may be covered:
- Breast prostheses implants after breast cancer
- Breast cancer removal surgery
- Skin grafts
- Liposuction in the case of obesity or morbid obesity
As cosmetic surgeries are considered elective, these may not be covered or may not be entirely covered, this includes:
- Rhinoplasty (nose job)
- Breast augmentation or reduction
- Liposuction in non-medically necessary cases
It is essential to review your health insurance policy as different types of cover provide different benefits. Check with your health fund and a medical professional to determine exactly what you can be covered for.
Access superannuation for Plastic Surgery (AUS)
The Australian government has released a new initiative called SuperCare. The initiative allows you early access to your superannuation funds to pay for your plastic surgery.
SuperCare assists the application for funding with many surgical procedures including reconstructive surgery to correct or repair defects and deformities following trauma, cancer, accidents, burns, and scars. The plastic surgery is directed and indicated by the surgeon of choice.
Medical Tourism
Some Australians opt to go overseas for plastic surgery as it can be seen as more affordable. This carries considerable risk associated with any procedure undertaken as practices may not be as hygienic or safe. Thus, an understanding of the risks involved with ‘medical tourism’ should be known before deciding to go abroad as they are not just physical but can be emotional too. For information on risks and the un-regulated operations that occur overseas click here.
Final Word
Like any form of surgery, both plastic and cosmetic surgery carries a level of risk to the patient. Thus it is vital to choose a fully qualified and trained plastic surgeon. This will ensure you are receiving a full explanation of anticipated results and are in the safest hands with your surgery.