What Is Included in a Full Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Plan in Thailand?

What Is Included in a Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Package in Thailand

Thailand has earned a reputation as a global capital for medical tourism, particularly for body contouring procedures like the "Lipoabdominoplasty"—the powerful combination of a tummy tuck and liposuction. For many, the appeal lies not just in the lower cost, but in the all-inclusive nature of the packages that turn a major surgery into a managed recovery vacation.

However, navigating the details of these packages can be confusing. Does the price include the hotel? What about the compression garments? Are there hidden costs for medication? Understanding exactly what is included is the first step to planning a safe and successful transformation.

In this guide, we will break down every component of a standard full tummy tuck and liposuction plan in Thailand, from the moment you land at the airport to your final check-up before flying home.

What is typically included in the surgical cost?

When you see a quote for surgery, it almost always covers the medical essentials. This includes the fee for your board-certified plastic surgeon and the entire surgical team. Crucially, it covers the cost of general anesthesia, which is standard for a full tummy tuck, and the fees for the anesthesiologist who monitors you throughout the operation.

It also includes the use of the operating theater and all standard surgical supplies (sutures, dressings, etc.). Most reputable hospitals in Bangkok and Phuket use JCI-accredited facilities, meaning the safety standards mirror those in the West.

Is the hospital stay included in the package?

Unlike in some Western countries where tummy tucks are increasingly outpatient, Thai packages prioritize safety by including a hospital admission. You should expect to stay 1 to 3 nights in the hospital depending on the extent of the liposuction and muscle repair.

During this time, you will likely be in a private room with 24-hour nursing care. This allows the medical team to manage your pain IV drips, monitor your blood pressure, and handle surgical drains before you move to a hotel.

Are pre-operative tests part of the price?

Your safety is paramount, so a battery of tests is required before you can be cleared for surgery. Most comprehensive packages will include a "Standard Surgical Panel": complete blood count (CBC), electrolyte check, coagulation profile, EKG (heart check), and sometimes a chest X-ray (especially for smokers or patients over 40).

However, if you have a specific medical condition (like thyroid issues or high blood pressure) that requires clearance from a specialist, those additional consultations and tests will likely be billed separately.

Does the plan cover accommodation?

This is the biggest variable. If you book through a medical tourism agency, your package likely includes 10-14 days in a specialized recovery hotel or resort. These hotels are often equipped with adjustable beds and staff who are used to seeing post-op patients.

If you book directly with a hospital, the quote usually covers only the medical side (surgery + hospital nights). You would then be responsible for booking your own hotel for the remainder of your recovery in Thailand. Always clarify this before paying a deposit.

What is the cost of a full Tummy Tuck and Liposuction in Thailand?

Combining procedures (Lipoabdominoplasty) is more cost-effective than doing them separately because you save on anesthesia and facility fees. Below is a breakdown of typical costs.

Procedure Type	Average Cost (USD)	Includes
Standard Tummy Tuck + Lipo (Abdomen)	$5,500 - $7,000	Surgery, 2 nights hospital, standard tests, anesthesia.
Extended Tummy Tuck + Lipo 360	$7,500 - $9,500	Surgery (flanks/back), 3 nights hospital, VASER upgrade.
Mommy Makeover (Tummy + Lipo + Breast)	$10,000 - $14,000	Full combo surgery, often 14 days hotel included.
Australia/USA Equivalent	$18,000 - $25,000+	Usually surgery only (no hospital stay or hotel).

Note: Prices vary by surgeon experience and hospital prestige. "Lipo 360" refers to liposuction of the entire midsection (abdomen, waist, and back).

Are medications and compression garments included?

You won't be sent back to your hotel empty-handed. Hospitals provide a standard discharge pack containing antibiotics to prevent infection, analgesics (painkillers) for comfort, and supplies for dressing changes. Most importantly, you will be fitted with a medical-grade compression garment (faja) immediately after surgery.

Tip: While one garment is included, you will need to wear it 24/7 for weeks. It is highly advisable to purchase a second one (usually $50-$100 extra) so you can wash one while wearing the other.

What type of liposuction is included in the plan?

Be careful with the fine print here. A basic "Tummy Tuck + Lipo" package often defaults to standard suction-assisted liposuction. If you want VASER Liposuction (which uses ultrasound to break down fat and is gentler on tissue) or "High Definition" etching, you often have to pay an upgrade fee.

This upgrade is often worth it for smoother results and slightly faster recovery, so ask your surgeon specifically: "Is this quote for VASER or traditional liposuction?"

Are airport transfers and transportation covered?

To minimize stress, Thai clinics almost always provide chauffeur services. A driver will meet you at the arrivals hall (often at Suvarnabhumi or Phuket International Airport) and take you to your hotel or the hospital. This service also typically covers the trips you'll need to make for your follow-up appointments during your stay.

This is a huge benefit, as navigating Bangkok traffic with a fresh surgical incision is not something you want to do in a standard taxi.

Is post-operative nursing care included at the hotel?

This feature varies by package tier. High-end "recovery packages" include a nurse visiting your hotel room daily to change dressings, check drains, and monitor your vitals. This is incredibly convenient as it limits how much you have to move around.

In standard packages, you will likely be expected to travel back to the clinic (using the provided transport) for these checks every 2-3 days. If you are traveling alone, the in-room nursing add-on is highly recommended.

Does the plan include meals?

While you are an inpatient at the hospital, all meals are included (and Thai hospitals are famous for having surprisingly good, menu-style food). Once you discharge to your hotel, you are on your own for food.

However, many recovery hotels offer room service with "post-surgery friendly" menus (low sodium to reduce swelling, high protein for healing). Budgeting an extra $15-$25 per day for food delivery or room service is a smart move.

Are follow-up appointments included?

You won't pay extra to see your doctor after surgery. The surgical package covers all necessary follow-ups while you are in the country. This typically involves 2-3 visits: one for drain removal (usually day 3-5), one for a general wound check (day 7-10), and a final "fit to fly" assessment.

Some clinics also offer free virtual consultations for up to 6 months post-op once you are back home, ensuring you have support if you have questions about your scar healing later on.

What happens if complications arise?

This is the most critical "exclusion" to be aware of. While minor touch-ups might be free, if you develop a complication that requires a return to the operating room or an extended hospital stay (like a hematoma or infection), you will be billed for it unless you have insurance.

Standard travel insurance will not cover this. You must purchase Medical Complication Insurance (specific to medical tourism) before you travel. This costs relatively little (often $100-$200) but can save you thousands if things don't go exactly to plan.

Are flights included in the package?

"All-inclusive" in medical tourism usually refers to the "Ground Package" (surgery, hotel, transport). It rarely includes your international flights. You need to book these yourself.

Pro Tip: Book a flexible ticket. Recovery varies, and if your surgeon recommends staying 2 extra days because a drain is outputting too much fluid, you want the ability to change your flight without a massive penalty.

Is physical therapy or lymphatic massage included?

After liposuction, lymphatic drainage massage is often recommended to reduce swelling and prevent lumpiness. While some premium packages might toss in a complimentary session at the hospital's wellness center, it is usually an extra service.

If you want a full course of massages (e.g., every other day), you should budget extra for this. Thai hospitals often have excellent physical therapy departments that offer this service at a reasonable rate.

What documents are provided for my return?

Documentation is key for a smooth trip home. Your surgeon will provide a "Fit to Fly" certificate, which airlines often require for passengers who have recently had surgery. You will also get a full medical report in English detailing exactly what was done, which you can give to your doctor back home.

Some clinics also provide a "implant ID card" if any implants were used (though not applicable for standard tummy tucks), and a receipt for insurance or tax purposes.

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