Chilean Fonasa users can access subsidized abdominoplasty via Bono PAD

In Chile, Fonasa offers a specialized benefit known as the 'Bono PAD Abdomen Flácido' to reduce the cost of abdominoplasty procedures for members in health insurance tiers B, C, and D. While the total cost of the surgery is approximately $3,583,580, the benefit reduces the copayment to $1,791,790. Additionally, Fonasa provides a loan covering 85% of that copayment, which can be repaid through salary deductions, potentially leaving the patient with an out-of-pocket cost of approximately $268,770 at the time of surgery.

To qualify for this benefit, patients must meet specific health criteria, including a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 30 if younger than 55, or under 25 if between 25 and 56. They must also have an abdominal fold hanging at least 5 cm below the inguinal fold.

Separately, medical experts are warning against the seasonal rush for aesthetic surgeries ahead of the summer. With an estimated 43,000 aesthetic procedures performed in Chile in 2024, plastic surgeon Brian Frick advises patients not to rush operations solely to meet vacation timelines, noting that recovery speeds vary and post-operative care is critical for successful results.