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The Average Cost of Penile Enlargement Surgery

Penile enlargement surgery (or phalloplasty) is a procedure to enhance the size of the penis in length, width or both. Surgery is the only permanent option for penis enlargement. According to the general information site the Plastic Surgery Portal, procedure costs vary widely. However, to date, there is no complete statistical information available to consumers. Personal caution, therefore, is necessary in choosing the right provider and acceptable cost.

  1. What Does the Surgery Involve?

    • In a penis-lengthening procedure, the ligaments that hold the penis in place are cut, then weights are used to increase the penis length. In penis-widening surgery, fat cells from the stomach area are withdrawn and transplanted to the penis.

    Why Do Phalloplasty Costs Vary?

    • Penile enlargement surgery is complicated and risky, and therefore few surgeons are qualified and experienced enough to perform the surgery, limiting choice and driving high costs. Post-surgery costs can vary depending on the recovery time of the patient and any complications. In addition to surgeon costs, other expenses include anesthetic provider costs, the potential need for follow-up surgery and the location and charges of the surgical center.

    U.S. Providers

    • In the United States, penile enlargement surgery is performed by specialist cosmetic surgeons. The profession is regulated by the American Association of Phalloplasty Surgeons (AAPS), of whom there are approximately 80 members. According to the Academy, over 75% of phalloplastic surgeries are performed by board-certified members of the AAPS.

    U.S. Surgical Costs

    • Phalloplasty surgeons are reluctant to specify prices without meeting a patient and reviewing the type of surgery desired, and assessing the complexity of the surgery in each individual case. However, according to the Plastic Surgery Portal, the average cost of surgery varies from $3,500 to $10,000.

    Non-U.S. Providers

    • Many non-U.S. surgery providers exist in countries as diverse as England, the Philippines and Thailand. Some claim to be members of the AAPS. However, once outside the U.S., there is no regulation of such providers, and medical tourists have no recourse in the event of complications.

    Insurance Coverage and Financing

    • As penile enlargement surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure, phalloplasty is not covered under medical insurance plans. Many surgeons offer financing options to patients, and each provider offers different terms and options. As such, research should be undertaken to determine the most reasonable cost.

    Further Information

    • Useful information regarding penile enlargement surgery techniques and risks are available through the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, which also provides an interactive surgeon finder guide.

      Disclaimer: The above information is not meant to be a substitute for proper medical assessment, and professional advice should always be sought.

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