Medical Expenses

[Brenda11]

I had liposuction in 2019.  Can I claim this as a medical expense? $8,925.00

[MaryK4 · Accepted solution]

In most cases, liposuction is considered Cosmetic surgery.  Per the IRS:

"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."