Updated 15th April 2021
Labiaplasty can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $9,000 depending on whether you are eligible for the Medicare rebate. If you are eligible for the rebate then your private health insurance policy (depending on your coverage) should also be able to cover some of the hospital costs. To find out if your private health insurance fund will reimburse you for part of your labiaplasty costs, quote them the Medicare item number 35534 to find out the details.
Depending on your surgeon, the cost of the procedure will vary. It is important to note that the cost of the procedure should not be the determining factor in who you choose to perform your labiaplasty. This decision comes down to a number of important factors and to help you choose the correct surgeon for you, we have put together a list of factors you should consider when researching surgeons in our frequently asked questions about labiaplasty page: How do I choose the right surgeon to perform my labiaplasty?.
So how much does labiaplasty cost in Melbourne?
A range of factors determines how much the procedure will be for each individual. Some surgeons do not offer the Medicare rebate due to the changes that were implemented under the Medicare rebate system and the item number for labiaplasty, which was 35533 now 35534. These changes occurred on November 1st, 2014 (see our Medicare rebate system explained here – link to rebate page)
For example Dr. Jane Paterson one of Melbourne’s most revered labiaplasty surgeons does offer the Medicare rebate, to be eligible, your surgeon must apply to the Department of Human Services with medical proof that labiaplasty is needed for medical reasons and not just cosmetic. Dr. Jane Paterson will only take consultations if you already have a referral from your doctor, these consultations cost $150, with $72 back from Medicare.
Dr. Jane Patersons fees for surgery are $4,970 with a rebate of $262. If you have private health insurance, depending on the type of coverage you have it could cover your operating theatre and stay expenses at hospital, which could add up to $2000.
On the other hand some surgeons do not charge for a consultation at all but do not offer the Medicare rebate due to the changes implemented by Medicare late last year. These changes deem claiming labiaplasty on Medicare as very difficult without sufficient medical evidence to prove that this type of procedure is needed for medical reasons.
Each clinic and their pricing are different. It is recommended that you research at least 3 surgeons who have a vast experience with labiaplasty.
Will Medicare cover some of the cost?
If the Medicare rebate is not available with the surgeon you are interested in then private health insurers will not cover any of the hospital fees. The full price out of pocket could be from $3,500 to $9,000 plus. The average fee for labiaplasty in Victoria without the Medicare rebate is $5,500. The items you will be paying for are the consultation (if these fees are applicable), surgeon’s fee, theatre fee, anesthetist’s fee plus pre and post op reviews. All these detailed prices should be available to you upon request of appointment and/or your first consultation.