Plastic surgery prices have dropped like a rock in the last two decades. Affordable plastic surgery is now within the financial grasp of most people. And because procedures are affordable, millions of people are trying to figure out how to get the best price from the best doctor in their area. It can be a daunting task, but with a little preparation anyone can find a good surgeon for the procedure they want at a price within their budget.

In general there are two types of plastic surgery: cosmetic and reconstructive. Insurance covers most reconstructive surgery, such as breast replacement after a mastectomy, or surgery for damage caused by an accident or fire. Cosmetic surgery is not covered by insurance. Most often cosmetic surgery is done to correct something the patient doesn't like about himself or herself. So consumers of cosmetic surgery want to be well informed when it comes to price and the surgeon's ability.

Because prices vary widely, it is important to do some homework. There is a difference between a surgeon who is licensed to perform plastic/cosmetic surgery and a board-certified plastic/cosmetic surgeon. As it turns out, any physician who is licensed to perform surgery can perform plastic/cosmetic surgery. Their rates are usually cheaper.However, they have not had the specialized training required to become board certified. So this may not be a savings you are willing to risk.

With this in mind, it is usually a good idea to shop around. Anyone considering plastic surgery for the first time should consult with several plastic surgeons. At the consultation, they should get a written estimate for the cost of the procedure, and what the fees cover. Do they, for instance, cover post-op and pre-op care? Candidates for plastic surgery should also determine the skill and training level of the surgeon. How many procedures similar to the one they are considering has the surgeon performed?

The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons reports that the most commonly requested plastic surgery procedures are: liposuction, breast augmentation, breast reduction, hair replacement, rhinoplasty (nose job), abdominoplasty (tummy-tuck) and eye-lid surgery.

A survey of board-certified plastic surgeons, revealed some average prices for the most commonly requested surgeries. They are as follows:

(1) Rhinoplasty (nose jobs), $4400.

(2) Abdominoplasty (tummy-tuck), $5250.

(3) Silicone breast implants, $3900.

(4) Breast reduction, $5500.

(5) Eyelid surgery, $3000.

(6) Eyelid surgery, $2950.

If the surgeon the consumer selects gives an estimate substantially higher or lower than the average, they need to find out why. Is it because post-op and pre-op care is not included? It is essential to know the reasons for the deviation, before they allow the surgery to proceed.

Tags: muscle building, success, hair loss