Just as there is a lot that goes into a liposuction procedure, a lot goes into calculating the price of liposuction. The following is an overview of how cosmetic surgeons calculate their fees.

The price of liposuction is usually calculated in a variety of ways. Some cosmetic surgeons quote fees based on the amount of time required to perform the procedure. Other cosmetic surgeons quote their fees based on how much fat needs to be removed from your body.

In addition to your surgeon's time and skills, there are usually other costs associated with performing the liposuction procedure, including the fee for the surgery center, nursing fees, lab fees, post-surgery supplies, and sometimes fees related to anesthesia. It is not uncommon for cosmetic surgery staff to quote only the cosmetic surgeon's fee. So when obtaining a quote, be sure to ask if the price quoted to you includes everything. If not, ask for the additional fees so that you know what the total cost of having your procedure performed will be.

When You Can't Afford the Price of Liposuction

Because cosmetic surgeons know that liposuction is not exactly cheap, many offer financing options through their office. So if you are strapped for funds, the following are some ways you can make the price of liposuction easier on your pocketbook.

• Credit Card. If you cannot pay cash up front, many cosmetic surgeons accept credit cards as a form of payment. So if you have a credit card with enough room to cover the price of liposuction, this may be your best option, as it will allow you to make affordable monthly payments.

• In-House Credit. Many surgeons offer financing through their own in-house credit plan. If your cosmetic surgeon's office does not have an in-house plan, he or she will usually offer financing option through an outside cosmetic surgery credit company and provide you with the necessary paperwork to apply for the funds you need. Many of these credit care packages offer loans that can be paid off over a period of 12 to 36 months.

Although the price of liposuction is an important factor when deciding whether or not such a procedure is right for you, it's even more important to find a surgeon with the necessary experience and skills, as well as excellent patient reputation. As for fees, your cosmetic surgeon and their staff should always be willing to openly discuss the price of liposuction. So if you ever feel like you're not getting the answers you need or being taken advantage of, you just might want to find a new cosmetic surgeon to perform your procedure.