Question:
Can you claim plastic surgery as a tax deduction?

If so, how do you go about it and what documentation do you need. I'm planning on financing the surgery with a cosmetic plan loan. Can you deduct the total loan amt that year or can you only deduct amt of payments/interest paid each year. My surgeries will be self pay and anything that would help out would be great    — Dana D. (posted on October 9, 2004)

October 9, 2004
You must have a letter of medical necessity from your physician or surgeon before this can be claimed on your taxes. I did use some of the expenses from WLS on my taxes for that year. They came off all in one lump sum. Good Luck!!
   — Theresa A

October 9, 2004
I don't have an answer for you but I was trying to get more info about you and went to your profile--it has never been updated! Your profile is a very valuable resource for other members when answering a question and also to get to know you. Good luck with the ps. Joy
   — gerardlovesjoy

October 10, 2004
That is too big of a deduction to not ask a professional.
   — RebeccaP

October 10, 2004
Yes, you can, as long as it is deemed medically necessary by a surgeon. I'm a little worried about having to pay out of pocket too. You can go to the IRS website and do a search to find out more information. The info. on there put my mind at ease, at least. Good luck
   — christied

October 11, 2004
It must be medically necessary and it depends upon the cost vs. your income. I believe the total medical costs have to be above a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income. It doesn't count if it's below that percentage. Best to check with a tax expert to find the best means of filing it.
   — Cathy S.

October 11, 2004
If you have flex spending through your work you could claim it that way.
   — Debbie F.

October 11, 2004
My medical spending plan at work specifically excludes cosmetic surgery. I agree with the others on consulting a tax advisor on this.
   — Yolanda J.

October 11, 2004
You can use your flexible spending plan at work. I've used it twice before. The only thing you need is a letter of medical necessity from the doctor - even if your insurance company says the surgery is cosmetic. You can also claim this on your taxes as well if the Plastic Surgeon deems it to be reconstructive medically necessary surgery (if you don't have a flexible spending account).
   — Patty H.

March 21, 2006
Yes you can. If you are self employed, or employed and have a side business, you can set up a 105 plan and deduct ALL your health care expenses. google HRA 105 or 105 plans and you will find companies who help you with the paperwork. This bypasses the requirement that your medical expenses exceed a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income. Even a small amount of self-emploed income will allow you to qualift and it counts towards your employed income as well as your business income.
   — mrwmd

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