Question:
Should I have to pay hospital fees for a plastic surgery revision?

I have used the same surgeon for my belt lipectomy and my lipo. After my last surgery, the lipo, I developed a "lump" on my hip, and a smaller "lump" on my thigh. The thigh one developed about three days post-op, and the hip one developed about three months post-op. The surgeon tried to aspirate them, but found no fluid. He scheduled me for "touch-up" work on Thursday - additional lipo. He is not charging me, but the surgical facility is going to charge me $400.00. Have those of you who have had "touch-up" work paid for the additional fees? And, has anyone had these lumps?    — raye (posted on March 15, 2005)

March 15, 2005
I in my humble opinion think, but I may be wrong - that you will have to pay the medical facility. It is not their fault that you need more work. BUT, complain to the doctor about the $400 fee that you will be charged and see if you can get him to cover that also. Heck, give it a try it is worth the shot.
   — ChristineB

March 15, 2005
Unfortunately, the hospital fees are your responsibility. The doctor shouldn't charge you for any additional work that he has to do. But, that's not to say that he won't bill your insurance company anyway -- then not charge you for the difference. Unfortunately I've seen that happen. So watch your insurance statements carefully..
   — Brenda D.

March 20, 2005
Hi. What Brenda says is the standard for most PS. I disclose verbally and confirm in writing my touch-up policies before surgery. Often, patients will be undergoing a Stage 2 procedure (arms, breast, or inner thighs) so I try and get touch ups done then. I have found large fatty tumors (lipomas) in weigh loss patients that sometimes stay behind and dont shrink with the weight loss...once we do a lift it exposes them under the new, tight skin. Raye, maybe this is what you have ? MIGHT be an insurance issue if your PS thinks that's the case. (PS I got your email but am responding here! JL)
   — DrL