The term plastic surgery encompasses procedures that may be undertaken for reconstructive or cosmetic reasons. As with any surgery, there are specific costs involved that can vary significantly depending on the type of surgery and individual circumstances. Understanding the factors that influence pricing can assist patients in planning and discussing their options with a registered specialist plastic surgeon. We have put together this blog to outline factors that may affect the cost of plastic surgery in Melbourne in 2025, as well as typical inclusions and considerations for several procedures.
The following factors may influence the cost of surgery:
Patients often ask, “How much do breast implants cost in Melbourne?” Unfortunately, there is not one answer. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the brand, size/volume and the type of implant chosen, as well as the specifics of the procedure, including its complexity, incision approach and individual patient considerations.
Typically, costs will include the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia, hospital charges, the cost of the implants themselves, follow-up appointments and post-surgery garments such as post-surgery support bras.
It’s important to note that Breast Augmentation procedures are generally not covered by Medicare or private health insurance, as they are performed for aesthetic/cosmetic reasons rather than medical ones. That being said, coverage may be available if the surgery is deemed medically necessary. For example, in cases of breast reconstruction following cancer treatment, traumatic injury, or certain congenital conditions. In these cases, the procedure must meet Medicare’s eligibility criteria and be supported by a GP referral.
This means that for most patients, the cost of breast implants in Melbourne will need to be entirely self funded. Even in cases that are eligible for cover from Medicare and/or private health insurance patients will still have out of pocket costs.
As with Breast Augmentation surgery, Abdominoplasty/tummy tuck price in Melbourne also varies depending on several factors. These factors include;
Patients may be eligible for Medicare and private health insurance assistance if the procedure is being performed for medical reasons rather than purely cosmetic ones. For example, patients suffering from; functional impairments after significant weight loss, congenital abnormalities or trauma. In these cases, the procedure must meet Medicare’s eligibility criteria and be supported by a GP referral.
Patients that do not meet the criteria will need to pay for the procedure without financial assistance. Even with assistance from Medicare and/or private health insurance patients will still have out of pocket costs.
The cost of Liposuction in Melbourne typically depends on the number and size of areas being treated. Procedures involving multiple or larger areas tend to have higher costs due to increased surgical time and complexity.
Other factors that can influence the overall cost include;
Medicare generally does not cover Liposuction procedures as they are performed for cosmetic reasons. Coverage is only possible if the procedure is performed for reconstructive reasons or to treat certain medical conditions. In these cases it must meet the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) criteria.
Consultation fees for plastic surgery are not fixed and can vary between clinics. Payment arrangements also differ: some surgeons may deduct the consultation fee from the total surgical cost if you proceed with surgery, while others may charge it separately, either before or after the initial appointment.
For patients booking a consultation with Dr Gary Kode, the fee is $350 (including GST) and is payable at the time of booking.
Dr Gary Kode accepts payment via cash, EFTPOS, direct deposit, and all major credit cards. Some patients may explore financing options through independent medical finance providers. Dr Kode does not specifically recommend or condone these arrangements. Patients are also advised that accessing superannuation for surgery is subject to strict eligibility criteria and is not guaranteed.
It is the responsibility of each patient to carefully consider their personal financial situation and determine what is suitable and manageable. Some clinics may also offer structured payment plans that allow surgery costs to be paid in installments.
Understanding cosmetic surgery costs in 2025 is an important part of preparing for surgery. Before proceeding, patients should discuss the breakdown of the cost with their surgeon and determine whether or not they are eligible for a Medicare rebate or Private Health Insurance coverage.
Dr Gary Kode is an experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon, consulting in Melbourne and Launceston. He has over 35 years of experience and has performed over 30,000 surgeries throughout his career. He performs a wide range of face, body and breast procedures and provides patients with clear cost information and guidance to help them make an informed choice.