Public Hospitals Spend €4.25 Million on Cosmetic Surgeries in 2024

In 2024, public hospitals in Ireland incurred costs of over €4.25 million on various cosmetic and plastic surgeries, marking an increase of nearly 17 percent from the previous year. A total of 744 patients underwent surgical procedures funded by the state over the course of the year, representing an uptick of 79 procedures compared to 2023.

The most notable procedure was liposuction, which was performed on 85 patients at a total cost of €831,864. This procedure, defined by the Health Service Executive (HSE) as one aimed at enhancing aesthetic appearance rather than addressing health issues, involves the removal of excess fat from targeted areas such as the abdomen and buttocks.

Detailed Breakdown of Surgical Procedures

Facelift and browlift surgeries accounted for 37 procedures, costing €207,518, nearly doubling the expenditure from the previous year. These surgeries aim to tighten sagging facial skin and underlying tissues, effectively reducing the appearance of wrinkles and loose skin, resulting in a more youthful look.

Breast augmentation procedures involved 57 patients at a total cost of €309,115. Additionally, 70 patients underwent various breast procedures—application, removal, or insertion—amounting to €250,486. Notably, breast reduction surgeries were conducted on 229 women, with costs nearing €2 million.

Other surgeries included ear repair for 37 patients, which cost €320,007, and rhinoplasty for another 37 patients, costing €207,518. Eyelid excisions were performed on 119 individuals, totaling €208,078.

The HSE indicates that determining the exact portion of these costs covered by taxpayers, private health insurers, or other funding sources is not feasible. The figures were released under freedom of information laws and pertain to both public and private patients.

The HSE clarified that surgeries funded for public patients are classified as plastic surgeries rather than cosmetic. These procedures are carried out solely for clinical reasons, based on diagnoses made by medical consultants. According to the HSE, plastic surgery is intended to correct disfigurements or restore functionality lost due to accidents, congenital defects, or disease treatment.

As public hospitals in Ireland navigate the balance between cosmetic and medically necessary procedures, these figures shed light on the growing demands for various surgical options among patients.