Understand the fees before you plan.

Start with an individual quote

Ask about the consultation fee when arranging your appointment. A surgical estimate follows assessment of the proposed treatment; a general website figure cannot account for every patient’s circumstances.

Check how long the estimate remains valid and whether it could change if the treatment plan changes. Do not assume that one quoted amount includes every provider or every stage of care.

Understand the components

• Surgeon’s professional fee: ask which consultations and planned reviews are included.
• Anaesthetist’s fee: clarify whether this is quoted and invoiced separately.
• Hospital or day-facility fees: ask about theatre, accommodation and any applicable excess.
• Other possible costs: ask whether garments, medicines, tests or additional appointments are included.

Medicare and private health cover

Do not assume a rebate or insurance benefit applies. Eligibility depends on the procedure and relevant criteria, and hospital cover depends on your policy and the proposed admission.

If an item number is relevant, ask your surgeon’s rooms for the proposed details and confirm potential benefits directly with Medicare and your health fund. Ask your insurer about exclusions, waiting periods, excesses and out-of-pocket costs. A referral alone does not establish rebate eligibility.

Questions before payment

• What is included, and which services are billed separately?
• What payment dates apply, and what are the cancellation or postponement terms?
• What happens financially if my medical circumstances or treatment plan change?
• What costs may apply if complications, readmission or further surgery occur?
• Who should I contact if the estimate is unclear?

Read the financial terms alongside your clinical information. Cosmetic surgery consent and cooling-off requirements must also be completed before a deposit is paid; see our consent guide for the sequence.

Fee questions