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Level 1
January 24, 2026
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Does plastic surgery count under medical expenses?

  • January 24, 2026
  • 1 reply
  • 44 views
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Best answer by DoninGA

Expert Reviewed

IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses - https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdf

 

Generally, you can't include in medical expenses the amount you pay for cosmetic surgery. This includes any
procedure that is directed at improving the patient's appearance and doesn't meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease.  You generally can't include in medical expenses the amount you pay for procedures such as face lifts, hair transplants, hair removal (electrolysis), and liposuction.


You can include in medical expenses the amount you pay for cosmetic surgery if it is necessary to improve a deformity arising from, or directly related to, a congenital abnormality, a personal injury resulting from an accident or trauma, or a disfiguring disease.

1 reply

DoninGA
Level 15
DoninGALevel 15Answer
Level 15
January 24, 2026

Expert Reviewed

IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses - https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p502.pdf

 

Generally, you can't include in medical expenses the amount you pay for cosmetic surgery. This includes any
procedure that is directed at improving the patient's appearance and doesn't meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease.  You generally can't include in medical expenses the amount you pay for procedures such as face lifts, hair transplants, hair removal (electrolysis), and liposuction.


You can include in medical expenses the amount you pay for cosmetic surgery if it is necessary to improve a deformity arising from, or directly related to, a congenital abnormality, a personal injury resulting from an accident or trauma, or a disfiguring disease.