Military perk: free cosmetic surgery

Karen Schaler writes about free cosmetic surgery for members of the United States armed forces in the July 26 issue of the The New Yorker.

[P]ersonnel in all four branches of the military and members of their immediate families can get face-lifts, nose jobs, breast enlargements, liposuction, or any other kind of elective cosmetic alteration, at taxpayer expense. (For breast enlargements, patients must supply their own implants.)

Posted on July 22, 2004 at 3:11PM

Updated at 1:42PM

Permalink

Comments [170]

170 Comments

Emily Brown on August 2, 2004 at 11:57 AM wrote: #

i just wanted some info on the way to go about getting some cosmetic surgery

Ashley on August 3, 2004 at 10:47 AM wrote: #

I would like some info on how to go about getting free surgery, my husband is in the military.

Tammy Rose on August 6, 2004 at 5:53 AM wrote: #

I wanted to know how to get the process started for getting the free plastic surgery. My husband is stationed at Ft. Campbell, so they do the procedures at every military installation? Who do I ned to contact?

Shannon Aweau on August 6, 2004 at 4:14 PM wrote: #

My husband is in the military and I would like to know how I would go about getting free cosmetic sugery.

Betty on August 6, 2004 at 6:11 PM wrote: #

Please send me more information on the free cosmetic surgery and the locations/physicians who offer this to military families and who I need to contact. Thanks so much for your help.

Melissa on August 18, 2004 at 9:29 PM wrote: #

please send me an email on how to get on the list and in what states the procedures are offered in. Thanks,

katreen on August 27, 2004 at 8:11 AM wrote: #

Hello. My name is Katreen Hardt, I'm a freelance journalist, and I'm currently working on a story for an upcoming issue of British Glamour magazine. The piece is about women in the military who have received free plastic surgery. I'm trying to find young women (20s/30s) who will go on the record and say that they've had breast enhancements/face lifts/nose jobs/lipo etc, and who are also happy to be photographed for the magazine. Should you know of anyone who fits the above description, I'd appreciate it if you could put them in touch with me. Thanks and I look forward to hearing from you. Best, Katreen Hardt Email: katreenh@hotmail.com

Talacia on September 4, 2004 at 5:40 AM wrote: #

I am in the military and I want to use my free surgery what do i need to do

Dianne on September 4, 2004 at 8:02 PM wrote: #

I brought this article to my doctor on base. I was told that under some conditions and with the right wording this can be done for family members. I was also informed that it is done more for people who live on or near a military base that has a teaching hospital. It is used to gain experience for the soldiers. That piece of information was scary. I do not want a doctor that is just learning.

leon lesueur on October 6, 2004 at 7:07 AM wrote: #

Hello, I am active duty Marine Corps and would like information on how to go about getting free liposcution. Thank you for your help.

Jackie on November 3, 2004 at 9:27 AM wrote: #

Please send me a list of the military facility that will do the free surgery. My husband is in Iraq now, I would like some surgery done before he comes back. Please send the list. Thanks

toya on November 4, 2004 at 10:51 AM wrote: #

hey im active duty airforce and i wanted a list of the military facilites that provide free plastic surgery

Felicia on November 17, 2004 at 9:51 AM wrote: #

I am intrested in getting liposuction through the military. What is the procedure and what would be my first step to do this. Also could you send me a list of military posts that offer the procedure. Thanks in advance

Elnora on November 18, 2004 at 10:35 AM wrote: #

I am active in the military and was told that HQ was not allowing cosmetic surgery any longer as of OCT 1,2004. Is this true and if not, how do I go about getting it. I have been turned down by several military facilities staying its not available except for medical issues.

Valencia on November 19, 2004 at 4:36 PM wrote: #

I was active duty now im considered a vet. Im also married to an active duty soldier how do I go about getting the free surgery?

Theresa on November 21, 2004 at 9:08 AM wrote: #

I am in the military and I would like a nose job. How do I go about having it done? I heard it's only available at bases with certain medical facilities. Any info would help.

valerie on November 23, 2004 at 4:02 PM wrote: #

Hello, my name is Valerie. My husband is in the Marine Corps and I would like to know who I need to call to get surgery.

katie on December 2, 2004 at 9:06 AM wrote: #

i was wondering how i go about inquirering about free plastic surgery offered through the military thanks katie

duane campbell on December 10, 2004 at 3:19 AM wrote: #

who do I call for free military cosmetic surgery

Jennie O on January 3, 2005 at 1:29 PM wrote: #

I was just wondering on how you go about getting this? My husband is in the military and I would love to have some cosmetic surgery. Thank you for your time. Jennie

Cass Smith on January 4, 2005 at 6:30 PM wrote: #

Can I get some info on the military cosmetic surgery.

Melissa on February 4, 2005 at 7:25 AM wrote: #

Hi my husband is in the Navy and I would like to know how to get cosmetic surgery for free.

Katrina Hills on February 12, 2005 at 7:57 PM wrote: #

Hi, My Husband Is A Marine Stationed In Camp Pendleton,CA N I Would Like To Know How To Go About Getting A Breast Lift, Who Would I Need To Talk To? How Much Exactly Am I Looking To Pay For This Precedure?

eve on February 15, 2005 at 12:55 PM wrote: #

I'm a 36yr old female, active duty and looking for info on who to contact to get a facelift. Pls help. stonerer@2mawcp.usmc.mil

Karen on February 25, 2005 at 12:50 PM wrote: #

Hi, Karen! I am AD USAF. I would love to know the bases that provide these surgeries. And the cost of the implants. Any information would be of great help. Thanks!

Katy on February 26, 2005 at 4:28 PM wrote: #

Please send information on how to get started and who to talk to about plastic surgery. Thank you.

AmySt.Clair on March 14, 2005 at 10:46 AM wrote: #

my husband is in the Navy and I wanted to know how to go about getting the free plastic surgery? Do you have to go to a certain doctor?

Daniel on March 23, 2005 at 1:32 PM wrote: #

I was just wondering on how you go about getting this? My husband is in the military and I would love to have some cosmetic surgery. Thank you for your time. Please send me more information on the free cosmetic surgery and the locations/physicians who offer this to military families and who I need to contact. Thanks so much for your help. EVA

Crystal Rios on April 6, 2005 at 12:10 AM wrote: #

Hi. I was also wondering about how to get cosmetic surgery. I am stationed in Hawaii and I was told they do offer cosmetic surgery here through the military but I have no idea who to contact. Any iformation would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much.

Kristin on April 7, 2005 at 6:40 PM wrote: #

My husband is in the army, and he is going to Korea in September, and we would like for me to be able to get free cosmetic surgery. How would I go about doing this, and what army bases are doing these things?

Tammy on April 8, 2005 at 9:42 PM wrote: #

Hi, My husband is in the Air Force & I was wondering how to go about getting info on free cosmetic surgery, what bases are doing this, what doctors/surgeons etc. I would like some more info on this, please. Thank you

Parker on April 11, 2005 at 2:04 PM wrote: #

Hi! Thank you for responding. I too, would like to know what doctors/surgeons are dointg the plastic surgery. My husband is active duty, Army. Thank you.

Jen on April 13, 2005 at 10:07 AM wrote: #

I want some more information on free plastic surgery. My husband is in the reserves and I would like to know where there are participating facilities and a list of doctors or some kind of contact information. Have there been any bad experiences with these doctors? Also, are there any hidden fees. Just curious.

Flores on April 17, 2005 at 1:50 PM wrote: #

Im in the military and would like to find out what i have to do to get the free surgery.

ANR on April 18, 2005 at 12:49 PM wrote: #

I am an active duty military station here in NY, wishing to know if I am qualified to get a free surgery. I have this big burned scar on my leg. I just need to go back in wearing shorts and sandals during summer.

Mary Perdue on April 24, 2005 at 10:55 AM wrote: #

I would like some info on who to get in touch with for the free cosmetic surgery. Please get back to me at mperdue1669@earthlink.net. Mary Perdue

stephanie on April 25, 2005 at 3:02 PM wrote: #

I also need info about the free plastic surgery if possible. Any information at all would help. thanks

Nia on May 15, 2005 at 5:33 AM wrote: #

I am currently serving in the US Army overseas and wanted to know where I can get more information about receiving the free plastic surgery posted on your site. Anything you can provide for me will be very benifical. Thankn you.

Mila on May 22, 2005 at 9:46 AM wrote: #

I'm very interested in finding out what to do to start this process and if there are any special requirements. Please send me any information regaurding military cosmetic surgery. Thanks!

SPC beardslee on May 30, 2005 at 9:00 AM wrote: #

How do I quaulify for cosmetic surgery. I am in the army at Ft hood texas I weigh 250lbs. Meds are making me gain I need to lose .Anyone please help.

Krista on May 31, 2005 at 10:16 AM wrote: #

Hello my husband is also active military serving in Iraq and I woud like to know where I can go to get free surgery and how I go about it. Thank you!

katie rose on June 2, 2005 at 8:01 PM wrote: #

My husband is in the Marines. I want to get breast augmentation done can you send me the information i need to do so. thankyou

amparo on June 11, 2005 at 12:25 PM wrote: #

Is this still available. I want to have a child when he gets back from S Korea.

Brandi on June 12, 2005 at 6:20 PM wrote: #

I am currently serving in the US Air Force in Nevada and wanted to know where I can get more information about receiving the free plastic surgery (Breast Augmentation) posted on your site.And also if possile information about the cost of implants and where to get them. Anything you can provide for me will be very appreciated. Thank you.

Amanda Parker on June 15, 2005 at 12:01 PM wrote: #

I'm in the US Army and I'm trying to find out more about the breast augmentation and where would I need to go to go get the implants from. Also I need to know what military hospitals are doing the surgery and what I need to do to get this surgery. Thanks you.

Taylor S. on June 17, 2005 at 6:09 PM wrote: #

Hi there, just wondering if you could pass along any contact information as to how I would go about getting this done please? I don't mind traveling so anywhere in Oregon-ish would work. Thank you!

Ashley Barta on June 21, 2005 at 5:36 PM wrote: #

I too was wondering how one would go about doing this. My husband is in iraq now. I would really love info on how to do this. Thank you

Thane Lindholm II on June 28, 2005 at 12:31 PM wrote: #

I am a marine stationed at Camp Pendleton, and was wondering? While reading all of the requests for plastic surgery I don't see why it is such a big problem for me to have braces in the Marine Corps. I am at the point of spending my own money to complete this task, but if there are ways around this please let me know. Thank You.

Wendy on July 15, 2005 at 12:08 PM wrote: #

Would you please let me know some more info on this? I live in Northeastern FL. Thank you.

Kim Legg on July 19, 2005 at 10:22 AM wrote: #

Please send me any info you have on free cosmetic surgery. Thank you.

Chrissy on July 20, 2005 at 11:44 AM wrote: #

I wanted to know how you can get the free cosmetic surgery. My husband is active duty, and I didn't know where to start. Thanks

Carolyn on July 28, 2005 at 7:07 PM wrote: #

I'm an active duty member stationed at Eglin AFB. I would like to know if you could provide me with numbers and states of bases that do tummy tucks for free. Thanks for your time.

Carol Gallaway on August 3, 2005 at 10:59 AM wrote: #

I would like to find out about the free plastic surgery through the military. My husband is retired and we live in Fort Knox KY.

lacie on August 13, 2005 at 10:46 PM wrote: #

i also would like some information about who to get on the list for plastic surgery.

Tirsa Morales on August 23, 2005 at 11:48 AM wrote: #

Please send me more information on the free cosmetic surgery and the locations/physicians who offer this to military families and who I need to contact. I need a tummytuck and I need some information.Thanks so much.

AUTUMN on August 24, 2005 at 8:59 AM wrote: #

please send me info. my husband is active and would like info too. thank you!

armylatina on August 26, 2005 at 1:32 PM wrote: #

Hey all, I had it done, yes, the Army did my breast aug, and tummy tuck just earlier this month and I am active duty Military. I know everyone wants it done, but unfortunately it is all who you know. Because priority is going to soldiers coming from iraq with serious cosmetic injuries. As for it being at taxpayers expense? Not really, I pay those taxes too, and to be perfectly honest, our doctors (plastic surgeons) need to be well educated, skilled and learned in their profession. So why not help out the service members, wifes and husbands who would be willing to volunteer for this? Easy decision? No, pay for it...or not pay for it? Sometimes you get what you pay for...it is sort of like asking yourself whether or not you want to be a guinea pig. I have to have a fix on my breast done right now because it wasn't done properly but it is getting fixed.

stephanie on August 28, 2005 at 6:58 AM wrote: #

My husband is in the military and i wanted to know how to go about getting free breast implants

Danielle Wilson on September 8, 2005 at 10:27 AM wrote: #

I am a wife of a marine who is currently in Iraq at this time. I would like to have more info on who or where i can go to get cosmetic surgery. What people i need to talk to and so on. Thank You.

Angela on September 9, 2005 at 2:05 PM wrote: #

Just wanted some information about the procedure for receiving plastic surgery thru the military. My husband is active duty army.

Lisa on September 9, 2005 at 2:22 PM wrote: #

I served 8 years in the Army reserves. I am a tax payer and would like free cosmetic surgery, please let me know how I may go about and get this?

Jamie McClain on September 11, 2005 at 12:26 AM wrote: #

Hi, I am married to a Marine and would like some information on who to contact about getting breast implants around Camp Pendleton, CA. Thank you very much.

Chad on September 11, 2005 at 12:28 AM wrote: #

I am active duty Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton and need to have plastic surgery on my nipples. Could you please send me some info on how I can go about doing this? Thanks

Amanda on September 11, 2005 at 4:22 PM wrote: #

I was wondering if you can please send me some free info on how to get free breast augmentation and lipo?

Patti Smith on September 12, 2005 at 1:15 PM wrote: #

I would like to know how I can find out what Military Installations offer Cosmetic surgery. Thanks SFC Smith

judith on September 16, 2005 at 2:59 PM wrote: #

I'm in the Army and I'm trying to find out more about the breast augmentation and liposuction and where would I need to go to go get the implants from. Also I need to know what military hospitals are doing the surgery and what I need to do to get this surgery. Thanks you.

Pamela Lambeth on September 20, 2005 at 5:08 PM wrote: #

Please send me information regarding the steps I need to take in order to be accepted as a plastic surgeon patient with free benefits. Thank you so much.

Brenda Forrest on September 27, 2005 at 12:31 AM wrote: #

How do I sign up for the free plastic surgeries?

Ariel on September 28, 2005 at 2:53 PM wrote: #

I am newly married to an army officer. Can you please send me info on how and where I can inquire about the free plastic surgery and do they also offer free cosmetic dentisry as well?

krystal on October 17, 2005 at 11:26 PM wrote: #

I would like more information

shawn dalrymple on October 25, 2005 at 5:22 PM wrote: #

I am stationed at Fort Bragg and have been thinking of lipo because my command is on me. How do I find out about free surgery.

Suzanne Jobe on October 26, 2005 at 6:44 AM wrote: #

I am a vet and my husband is currently on active duty in the marine corps. I was trying to find out what I need to do in order to recieve a tummy tuck from the military and if that would be free or if I would have to pay. Please email me on the steps I need to take to get the done.. Thank you. My email is suzsavric@aol.com

Natacha Delince on October 27, 2005 at 3:17 AM wrote: #

Hello, I wanted to know if there was any regulation that governed plastic surgery in the military. I would like to know the process and exactly what kind of surgeries that are performed. Can you please tell me the proceedure and process. Thanks!

alexis on October 27, 2005 at 8:09 AM wrote: #

Hi, I would like information about how I can get free cosmetic surgery. I am looking for information about breast lifts, liposuction, etc. My husbnad is active duty in the Navy. We are in the Virginia area. Please send me information ASAP. My e-mail is mscricket00@msn.com can you let me know if there are any military hospitals are doing the surgery where and when. thanks

Cortney HaWhatyes on October 27, 2005 at 10:10 PM wrote: #

I am in the US Army and am interested in getting info on getting breast augmentation. What do I need to do?

Amy Peterson on November 1, 2005 at 8:21 PM wrote: #

My husband is an active duty member. We would like to receive more info on the free military surgery, for breast augmentations.

Celenease on November 7, 2005 at 7:41 AM wrote: #

My husband is active duty air national guard. We are in the Maryland/Virginia/D.C. area. I am looking for information on liposuction and tummy tucks. Please let me know if there are any military hospitals in my area doing the surgery and when and where.

Misty on November 9, 2005 at 10:16 AM wrote: #

Hello, I would like to recieve some info on free cosmetic surgery thru the military. thank you

jill sacco on November 10, 2005 at 8:02 AM wrote: #

I am also interested in having breast implants, are dependents eligible? where can I find out more information? thanks jill sacco

Nicole Hatfield on November 17, 2005 at 4:50 PM wrote: #

My husband is stationed in Iraq until next October, I would love for him to come home to a knock out. We are both 21 yrs old and have a 2 yr. old son. He is the pride an joy of our lives, but the pregnancy has left all of my body saggy. It has also made my face look older than I really am, I always look tired. We don't have the money avalible to us to allow me to pay for this on my own, and my credit isn't that great were I could get a loan. I was woundering if anyone knew where I could find a good plastic surgeon willing to do the work pro bono. I appreciate it.

melissa on November 18, 2005 at 9:33 AM wrote: #

I would like to receive some information on free military cosmetic surgery. Thank-you

monnlight on November 21, 2005 at 11:56 AM wrote: #

can you please email me a list of where I can get cosmetic surgery done free. My husband is active airforce stationed in Florida Eglin AFB Thanks

Cecil on November 23, 2005 at 9:55 AM wrote: #

I've heard from the news last night 11/22/05, about the perks (free cosmetic surgery) for immediate family member of any person in military. I am interested and I would like to get some information about this offer. My husband is in a navy and he is still in active duty. Thank you!

jennifer on November 23, 2005 at 3:19 PM wrote: #

I am a military wife. My husband is still in active duty. We live closest to the Port Hueneme Naval base is there any of these services offered near us. If not where in California are these services offered and how do I sign up?

Kristy Heckman on November 25, 2005 at 12:38 AM wrote: #

I live in California and am willing to travel to receive cosmetic surgery. I have encountered a few road blocks because my local Med center is closed for all elective plastic surgery. Can you please provide with info on how to get help.

Tracey on November 27, 2005 at 9:24 AM wrote: #

Hi, my husbabd is in iraq right now and was wondering who I can contact to get free plastic surgery. We live in Kansas. Any info would be great. Thank you

Kelley on December 1, 2005 at 7:06 PM wrote: #

I would like to know how to go about gettin the free breast enlargements, my husband is in the Marines and we have heard about this but dont know how to go about getting it.

Lottie on December 4, 2005 at 12:14 AM wrote: #

I was trying to find out more information about the free breast augmentation. My husband is currently in Afganistan.

Tania on December 7, 2005 at 12:05 PM wrote: #

Jena on December 10, 2005 at 9:17 AM wrote: #

Hi. My husband is in the Marine Corps, and I wanted to know about getting free breast augmentation done. Can you please send me some information about it, we're not sure how to go about getting it done. Thanks :-)

Jennifer on December 10, 2005 at 9:41 AM wrote: #

My husband is in the service. I am interested in information about cosmetic surgery. Who do I contact?

adriane on December 12, 2005 at 11:42 AM wrote: #

Sir / Ma'am, I am AD Air Force, I am trying to get information on how to get liposuction. Thank you

Yevette on December 12, 2005 at 6:29 PM wrote: #

I'd like to get information regarding the free surgery via the military. I'm interested in a tummy tuck and a breast lift. My husband is retired Army.

Crystal on December 12, 2005 at 8:43 PM wrote: #

My husband is in the Military and I would like to know about cosmetic surgery and how to go about getting it done. Thanks

Cate Folan on December 13, 2005 at 1:25 AM wrote: #

I am stationed in Okinawa Japan, what should I do if I want to get cosmetic surgery?

jennifer on December 13, 2005 at 7:59 PM wrote: #

My husband is active duty in the U.S Army and we are stationed at fort gordon,ga. I would like to know what can I do to get the free plastic surgery and what bases do they offer it?

Leslie Fowler on December 19, 2005 at 11:25 AM wrote: #

Husband return from Iraq with 3rd deg. burns covering 56% of his body due to an IED. Any info on free plastic surgery would be much appreciated.

Erica on December 21, 2005 at 9:44 PM wrote: #

I am in the military and have been dealing with bulimia. I have thought a long time about how to fight it, and decided I would like to try a gastric bypass surgery. If there is any info. on who I need to contact and how, I would REALLY appreciate ANY help!

amanda on December 27, 2005 at 12:01 PM wrote: #

i'm in the army and i would like to know more about this free plastic surgery

Leilani on December 29, 2005 at 8:55 AM wrote: #

Hi, I'm 24 and a member of US Air Force, I've had two kids and because of that my breast size shrinks from 34C to 38A, I would love to get my breast size back. I can't wear most of my dress and feel uncomfortable wearing baithing suit. Please send me info how to get breast enlargement for free. Thanks!

cristina on December 29, 2005 at 2:18 PM wrote: #

I want liposuction and a tummy tuck. How do I go about geeting the process started? I am an active duty military member.

Denise on December 31, 2005 at 4:34 AM wrote: #

My husband is station in Germany and I would like to get (liposuction and a tummy tuck). I would like More information on liposuction and tummy tuck. Thanks

Louby Louis on January 3, 2006 at 10:57 AM wrote: #

My husband is in the Army and I would like to get free cosmetic surgery. How an I get started with the procedures?

Brenda O'Neil on January 3, 2006 at 1:52 PM wrote: #

Please give me any information on how to obtain free cosmetic surgury from the military. I already sent an email and i wrote my wrong email by accident. Sorry about that.

KMT on January 3, 2006 at 4:32 PM wrote: #

I am a military spouse and i paid for a breast lift and was talked into implants because i would loose all of my breast size.I had it done last year and my right implant never dropped. My husband was transfered from Ga.to Wa state where my surgeon was and i had to pay to fix the implant and also fly back and stay ther for 3 weeks for recovery.Had them redone november 1,05 Now both breasts because of scar tissue have thin skin under the breast and you can feel the implant through the skin and they are rippled and they are painful and my right nipple area is misshapen and ugly i cant get undressed in front of my husband and dont want to tell him about the pain because of all the money we have spent.Is there any way to find out about having this fixed through the military?? I have spent almost 9 thousand dollars as of today and i dont know what to do.HELP!!!!

Justine Smith on January 4, 2006 at 1:16 PM wrote: #

Hi I was wondering how to go about getting breast implants and what is the avg. cost? If you could please e-mail me.. thanks.

joshua george on January 4, 2006 at 3:53 PM wrote: #

My name is josh george im a corporal in the usmc and am very interested in getting my wife breast implants. I would really be grateful if you could email me a number are an email adddress where i could get more info.

Heather on January 4, 2006 at 10:27 PM wrote: #

I too am looking into a breast surgery. Can u help guide me in the right direction with approaching the military for assistants! I have three children and have grown to hate my body because of the ware my breast have had on me. More than anything I want to be happy with myself again. This is starting to come in between my husband and I because of my lack of confendence. He likes me the way I am but I hate it. I dont even want to look in a mirror anymore. Can u please help me? Thank u

Chrissie on January 8, 2006 at 11:03 PM wrote: #

Can you please tell me who I need to talk to about getting one of these free surgeries??....My husband is in the military, we are currently in Fort Leonard Wood, MO. Do they offer the surgeries here??

Jessica Stone on January 10, 2006 at 8:52 AM wrote: #

I am a Soldier in the National Guard, and I have been trying forever to get a breast reduction. I have serious back pain and when I run I either have to wear two or three bras which restricts my breathing, a really small bra which gives me blisters, or just one sports bra that fits properly, and then I bruise. I cant wear anything but sports bras because the straps on regular bras cut into my shoulders too bad. After a year of run around from the Army doctors (which took me from Cuba to New Jersey to Washington DC back to New Jersey and back to Cuba again, all on the tax payers dime) I was finally told this past summer that my breasts were an ounce too small to qualify for a reduction. I cant believe the military gives free breast implants but wont give me a reduction when I actually have valid medical problems that are hindering my performance as a Soldier. I am going to write to my congressmen.

Desiree on January 10, 2006 at 10:14 AM wrote: #

Active Duty: Route a special request chit up your chain. Check "other" in the 'reason for request' write "I respectfully request permission to recieve (rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, liposculpture) at _____hospital on (ddmmyy)" You will be declined if you are not within military regulation as far as fitess is concerned. You should have passed your last PRT. It would also help to have good numbers on your eval. The hospital will fax your convalescent leave info to your commant and you will get a certain amount of days to recoup depending on the procedure. Spouse/dependant: There will not be a chit because the command will not miss you for those leave days.You should go to the nearest military hospital with a cosmetic surgery office and schedule the cosultation. All I know is that Bethesda has one. If you have given birth while in dependant status, then you know you already know that all medical expense is free. :) As for the "guinea pig" comments, these are not true. These doctors (are also officeres) oftentimes join the military specifically to get their free surgeon education, and are looking forward to when they can practice cosmetic surgery as a civilian. Everybody knows thats where the real money is. They want to be able to put it on their resume that they have already been practicing cosmetic surgery for years.

Warren on January 11, 2006 at 3:43 PM wrote: #

Hi, I currently serving in the military and would like to get free plastic surgery. Could someone please give me the proper contact information so that I get free plastic surgery?

leslie on January 14, 2006 at 5:08 PM wrote: #

I was just wondering how to get a hold of someone who does the plastic surgery's for military families.

jessica fernandez on January 20, 2006 at 10:08 PM wrote: #

need more information as a spouse of a military husband. Regarding tummytuck,or liposuction.

brandie on January 21, 2006 at 5:27 PM wrote: #

Can you help me to get more information about this where is it done and how? Thanks

mondrea on January 21, 2006 at 5:44 PM wrote: #

i am a vetern tring to see how i can get free cosmetic surgey. if anybody knows how please drop me a line

Allison Thibeau on January 23, 2006 at 11:13 AM wrote: #

I am a military wife overseas with alot of health problems and just getting them taken care of is a big pain. Getting the free surgery is alot harder then it sounds. You have to meet alot of special requirements. Just to have the gastric bypass done you have to be at least 100 lbs over weight with one or more serious conditions. Also to have Lipo or tummy tuck there is a whole list of things they look for. I am looking into everything and I will write when I find it out.

Allison Thibeau on January 23, 2006 at 11:21 AM wrote: #

Just read the article that defined it all. Cosmetic surgery is only free for the active duty soldier. There is a nominal fee for active duty dependents and retirees. Sorry guys if we want it we have to at least pay for some of it. this was an article that I found on the DOD website. So it's pretty well set in stone. And even with active duty soldiers the surgery has to be approved by their command and they have to pay for the implants. thought you should know. IT's true what they say nothing good is ever free.

Jodie Kosnik on January 23, 2006 at 1:07 PM wrote: #

I live on Camp Pendelton, My husband in the USMC,I would like to know if they offer free plastic surgery here on base at the Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton.

megan on January 25, 2006 at 9:28 AM wrote: #

HI ive heard that they are offering free plastic surgery to the spouses of deployed soldiers. Is this true ? If so could you please send me info as to how I would go about it. Thank you

alisha on January 27, 2006 at 10:25 AM wrote: #

my husband is active duty marine on parris island. i was wondering how i could get free surgery,sence i had my daughter i have gained 100lb and it is becoming a health problem. i now wiegh 238lb

Grace Priebe on January 27, 2006 at 6:31 PM wrote: #

hello...my husband is active marine corps and i was wondering if u could send me some infomation on who to contact to get this free plastic surgery. Could u please send me some infomation about the qualifications and about what hospitals do it. We're stationed in Hawaii

nikki on January 27, 2006 at 8:00 PM wrote: #

Could i get more info on the free plastic surgery and the terms and conditions of it? Thanks!

AUTUMN on January 29, 2006 at 9:41 AM wrote: #

Chit? You say request a Chit? that must be Navy or something never heard of it in the Army. And I promise you ladies that if you are on active duty... it still ain't that easy, it's all about who who you know that knows somebody in a Plastic Surgery Dept. I got my surgery through someone who knew a person in plastic surgery. I had the Breast Aug and Tummy Tuck done and now I have to get one breast fixed because I have a double bubble (through no fault of my own, it should have been recommended that I have a lift and it was NOT recommended ) and now I will be left with a more noticable scar, that sucks. I say you are taking your chances with the Military Doctors, good thing is if they screw up, they are going to fix it. Point is ...if I could do it all over, I would have paid for the Breat Aug. Good luck ladies.

alisha on January 29, 2006 at 11:06 AM wrote: #

can some one please give me info on how and were to go to get some surgery done. alishalcf@yahoo.com

Tonya on January 30, 2006 at 2:08 PM wrote: #

My husband is in the Army and i am trying to find info on how to go about getting free breast implants if someone could email me to let me know if you have any ideas.

Sai on January 31, 2006 at 4:53 AM wrote: #

I need information of getting free cosmetic surgery my husband is in the military. Thank you. Sai

lorna espinal on February 2, 2006 at 8:34 AM wrote: #

i a 29 year old mother of 3 my husband is in the military and i would like to know how i can get free plastic surgery on my abdomen hips and thighs i will apreciate any help that you can give me thank you

K.Frank on February 2, 2006 at 9:15 AM wrote: #

I wanted to know how to get the process started for getting the free plastic surgery. My husband is stationed at NAS Oceana in Virginia, so they do the procedures at every military installation? Who do I ned to contact?ive heard that they are offering free plastic surgery to the spouses of deployed soldiers. Is this true ? If so could you please send me info as to how I would go about it. Thank you

Mandy Beasley on February 2, 2006 at 9:46 PM wrote: #

Hello I do not know where you are getting that it is free. I went to Brook Army Medical Center and had a consult with the plastic surgeon and they are charging me. The sergeant and his PA said that they couldnâ€™t just make it medically necessary. (I had a gastric by-pass and lost all of the weigh and was told that I would receive it for free because of the extra skin.) Tricare also said that I shouldnâ€™t be charged but they are still charging me. If you know anything about that please get back to me I am scheduled to have surgery in a few months. Thank you M

genevieve valentine on February 6, 2006 at 7:54 AM wrote: #

Hi iam in the national guard and wondering about lasik surgury can I get it free and where can i find the documents for the procedure?

sean on February 8, 2006 at 3:01 PM wrote: #

how do i go about gettin free surgery? who do i contact or see?

Heather on February 9, 2006 at 9:36 PM wrote: #

Well I had a couple questions, I am in the reserve for the army and I was wondering if you know if I get it for free, also my husband is active duty so how what I be able to get it if I am not able to get it since Iam only in the reserve? Thanks a bunch, sincerely, heather

tiffany c. on February 12, 2006 at 1:13 PM wrote: #

Hi,

My name is Tiffany and my husband is active and will be going to IRAQ later this year. We have been looking into cosmetic surgery for quite some time now. We have 3 children and after my last one I had gotten a tubal ligation. (tubes tied) We are not having anymore children and the ones we do have, have taken a tole on my body. I am trying to get information on what steps I need to take in order to get the surgery done. I do not mind paying for a portion of the surgery. We just do not have the thousands of dollars that it would cost to go to a Board-Certified Specialists around our area. (non military) If anyone could provide me with the information that both my husband and I are looking for it would be much appreciated.

Thank you for whatever information you can provide!!!

wes on February 12, 2006 at 6:49 PM wrote: #

I'm enlisted in the Army and I was wondering if I was allowed plastic surgery? It would consit of cheek implants and a jaw adjustment.

thanks

torey on February 13, 2006 at 2:12 AM wrote: #

I was wondering if anyone has found any information about the free plastic surgery?

Melanie O on February 14, 2006 at 3:40 PM wrote: #

Hi Im a military dependant and I was just wondering about getting a tummy tuck through the military I heard of it getting done for free and want to know a little more about it thanks much.

Debbie on February 14, 2006 at 5:17 PM wrote: #

can you really get the implants even if they don't have a training facility on your perticular base. Also where do you purchase implants? It said you must supply your own??????????

marcy on February 21, 2006 at 10:17 PM wrote: #

I wanted to know where to go to get my free plastic surgery. My husband is active Marines please let me know how this works.

Paris Lamberth on February 22, 2006 at 5:24 AM wrote: #

Well I would really love to get a tummy lift and a breast fix up, one of my breasts is one complete size different from another, I need help on loosing weight I'm 18 I have a son and a husband, and i have hardly any self-esteem.

Melany on February 22, 2006 at 6:39 PM wrote: #

My husband is active Army and I would like to know how to start the process for free cosmetic surgery. Anyone know?

Heather on February 22, 2006 at 7:54 PM wrote: #

For the most part the Military does not pay for plastic surgery on the spouse if there is not a natural defect, or maybe something caused by a car wreck for exaple. They do offer several things for the enlisted solider. For that you need to contact your PCP. I am sorry ladies to let you know this but there are several ways to pay for your service. There are alot of ways to find it too. Try goggleing it. Or just do it the old fasioned way and save the money.

Bernice Maymi on February 23, 2006 at 3:57 PM wrote: #

My husband is in the Army and we are station in West Point NY. I would like to know how can I get free plastic surgery and who to contact. Thank You

Carey Williams on February 27, 2006 at 10:39 PM wrote: #

I had a mini tummy tuck and some lipo while serving in the Army I found out about it when a friend showed up at the pharmacy I worked at on post. She told me what she was there for and was suprised the Army did that.So I went to my DR. Had him put in a referal for what I wanted to the plastic surgeon. They go over each case and then choose its a very long waiting list.I got in quick because I was active duty and I begged the Dr. I had in done in 2003 and the Dr. who did it was a real Dr. who had been doing this for over 20 years. He told me that there were only 2 of them in the Army and they rotate to diffrent bases. Now I am a retire and tryed to get my breasts done but because of whats going on overseas they are so behind and the list is so long they refer you out and thats what happened to me tricare sent me to MCG in Augusta Ga. I had no complaints with my Dr. I did have cosmetic dental procedure done also and found out afterwards the Dr. who did it he was a student practicing on soldiers and wasn't graduated yet. I did not know this and he messed my jaw up. I have chronic pain and still have a slight overbite. It was not worth it.I medically retired over this with 60%.He even tryed to talk me into having a eyebrow lift and nose job because it is practice for the new Drs. I didn't need that and thankfully didn't allow him to.If you get in just check the Dr. out like you would any other place you go to.

Cantrea on February 28, 2006 at 2:37 PM wrote: #

Hello, My husband is in the USMC and is now deployed for 7 months in Africa. We have been blessed with two handsome sons and I wouldn't trade them for anything in the world. However, because I had two C-sections I was left with what I call a kangaroo pouch and I am very self conscience about it. With that said, can you provide me with the information needed to get this service provided free through the military. Thank you for any and all information that you can provide.

Ashley Lee on March 2, 2006 at 8:06 AM wrote: #

My husband is a marine who has served time in Iraq twice. I had a baby in August and it has done a number on my body. I would like breast implants. I was told that you can get the surgery done for free throught active duty members. My husband has been in 5 going on 6 years and will continue to serve our country for the next 15 years.

Please let me know where I can go for information thank you.

Ashley

Ana Smith on March 2, 2006 at 3:26 PM wrote: #

Hello,

I would like to know the process in order to get a plastic surgery done. My husband is Active Duty currently deployed. I am a mother of three living in Upstate NY. Please contact me via email with any information that you can provide. Thank you very much.

Monica F.S on March 8, 2006 at 10:38 PM wrote: #

I reside in San Antonio and needing a rhinoplasty. I know that at the military hospital for us spouses should be free, can anyone give some more info so I can contact someone at the surgery center. Thank you Monica

AC360 on March 10, 2006 at 1:04 PM wrote: #

I am a producer at CNN doing a story about plastic surgery and the miltary...Both as a bonus for soliders and their families and as an important way to bring soliders who have been wounded back to their previous appearences. If you have would be willing to talk about this subject ofr have any insights please e-mail me at cnnproducer15@yahoo.com.

Tracy on March 17, 2006 at 8:57 AM wrote: #

Hi, My husband is a member of the Marine Corps and we currently reside in Virginia. We have been discussing breast augmentation for myself for quite sometime now. I have recently lost some weight and have had two children that has left me absolutley nothing up top. I am curious as to how I go about getting information on obtaining the the surgery through the military. If there is any knowledge that anyone could offer, it would be greatly appreciated... Thanks

Diana Downs on March 18, 2006 at 5:36 PM wrote: #

I would like to find out how to go about getting some plastic surgery done. My husband is in the military. Thanks. Diana-

Tonia on March 21, 2006 at 3:12 PM wrote: #

Hey, Just like every body out here. Looking for some information about plastic surgery. My husband is jar head.

Ashley Morales on March 22, 2006 at 2:35 PM wrote: #

I was wondering about the plastic surgery? My husband is in the airforce and our insurance is refusing to pay to redo my implants even though the doctor said that they are very bad. Can I get some info on the program that you are talking about? Thank you

Alisa on March 23, 2006 at 3:21 PM wrote: #

I was just wondering if you could send me the information on the "free" cosmetic surgery for active military. I would like to get my breast done and would like to know how much the implants run for, and what military installations do these procedures. My husband is currently deployed and I would like to get the surgery before he gets home. Thank you!

Noelle on March 28, 2006 at 2:30 PM wrote: #

I was wondering how to get the free cosmetic surgery. Is there a website providing all fo the information. Thank you

John on April 2, 2006 at 7:34 AM wrote: #

Would just like to know how I would go about getting this cosmetic surgery. I would like a hair transplant. Thanks

Paige on April 3, 2006 at 3:37 PM wrote: #

Hello - Can you please let me know what bases offer this free service? I am a dependant looking for liposuction or a tummy tuck. Please send me information. Thank you

Audrey on April 3, 2006 at 4:19 PM wrote: #

Just looking for a website or some direction to how I can find more information on the free cosmetic surgery. My husband is in the navy and stationed in VA. Thanks!

Chris on April 12, 2006 at 11:49 AM wrote: #

I am currently in the Army my wife and I are both interested in Lipo and my wife also wants a tummy tuck any info on the authenticity would be greatly appriciated. Thanks

nikki on April 13, 2006 at 2:42 PM wrote: #

hi my husband is in the air force and i was wondering how i could go about getting some cosmetic surgery via the military? thanks nikki

Kris Egan on April 14, 2006 at 6:52 PM wrote: #

I am a military wife of 20 years have three children. Would like information on plastic surgery for tummy tucks and breast lifts.

Latisa on April 15, 2006 at 11:38 AM wrote: #

Yes I am getting married next week.My fincee is in the army.I would like info on lipo,breast lifts,& laser hair removal.Thank you

Rebeca Macy on April 15, 2006 at 1:05 PM wrote: #

Hi, i need some information on how to go about getting the free cosmetic surgery. Who do i contact??

Kimberly on April 15, 2006 at 3:56 PM wrote: #

To everyone who is looking into cosmetic surgery: as of April 1,2006, the is no more such thing as free cosmetic surgery. Not even for active duty service members. Everyone is being charged. You have to pay for the OR time, the doctor, the anesthesia, medication, and your follow up appointments. This is really a sad situation. I was on the wating list but now I have to pay for my surgery before I can even have it done. Something needs to be done about this. How can we risk our lives everyday but not be able to a free service. For more info on this, you can go to the DOD website.

Janice Wright on July 3, 2006 at 1:09 AM wrote: #

My sister is in the military and she has complained about her body for a long time. But she doesn't have the money to get what she wants done. Someone told her that she could get it done through the military for free. Can this be done and how would she go about getting this taken care of.

alicia on July 6, 2006 at 1:32 PM wrote: #

I was just wondering how to get a hold of someone who does the plastic surgery's for military families.

Katie on July 10, 2006 at 9:10 AM wrote: #

I think plastic surgery for military members is excessive - but they do sacrifice their lives. However, I can't see giving free plastic surgery to their spouses! I actually know a woman who married a military member for just the free plastic surgery. I would imagine that many women and men will take advantage of this plastic perfection and use a military person for the pleasure of new breasts or a better nose!

Tanya on July 25, 2006 at 4:38 AM wrote: #

Can you send me some information on free cosmetic sergery, My husband is in the Us Navy Stationed in Florida.

Rachel on July 25, 2006 at 7:57 AM wrote: #

I am active duty Marine, and I was just wondering how to go about receiving breast augmentation via the military. I have heard about it a lot, but I have also heard that it was just a rumor. Please clarify. And, are there usually waiting lists and do dependants (military wives) have priority over the female active duty on the list? If so, why? Thank you for you time. LCpl/USMC

Christina on August 7, 2006 at 11:20 PM wrote: #

You guys have to realize that there is no sign up list for FREE cosmetic surgery. There is a lot of requirements involved. You have to be stationed where a MTF is located that provide this service. There is a waiting list. There are protocols in order to qualify for certain procedures. For tummy tuck you have to be at your ideal body weight or have a bad hernia. Like someone else mention it's all in who you know. You can't walk in the door and say hook me up Extreme Makeover Style it's not going to happen. It is a long process. I qualified for the breast reduction and lift because of my large breast. But I could not qualify for the tummy tuck because I needed to lose more weight. Not all doctors are inexperienced. My doctor has been practicing for over 20 years and they ask if it is okay if a entry level (CPT) surgeon is present. I said he can look but don't touch. For my tummy tuck I am willing to pay the 8k for a civilian doctor because he will also lipo me and I know I can sue his ass if he mess me up. A couple of my friends have gotten tummy tucks and they did not lipo their sides and back when they did their operation. Their policy at our MTF is one procedure at a time. So now they have to go back for lipo. Just trying to give a little info to let you all know its not that easy and there is no sign up list.

Military perk: free cosmetic surgery

Karen Schaler writes about free cosmetic surgery for members of the United States armed forces in the July 26 issue of the The New Yorker.