Bargain Cosmetic Surgery: Does Low-Cost Really Mean It's a Good Deal?

PROMISES

A cosmetic surgery procedure is marketed as an inexpensive alternative or a standard procedure is priced well below the usual cost. Then again, there can be reasons why such "bargain plastic surgeries" are less expensive.

PITFALLS

• A surgical procedure is not a commodity like a manufactured product that is consistent in quality.
• There is wide variation in procedures, techniques, as well as individual surgeon's skills, judgment and experience.
• While the surgical procedure itself is important, patient selection, the preoperative planning and postoperative care have significant impact on the final result.
• “New” procedures that claim superiority may not be able to substantiate these claims.
• Patented "mini" procedures that are marketed as a standard procedure, can offer no assurance that each of the franchise doctors does the exact procedure or produces the same results. For more about this, please see our Promises and Pitfalls: Alternative Face Lift Procedures.
• High volume surgical practices minimize the preoperative time spent with surgeon, minimize surgical time, and delegate postoperative care to assistants. While this may be efficient, it may not be in the best interest of the patient.
• While secondary surgeries of unsatisfactory cosmetic results are possible, the first procedure has the potential for the best result.
• Many non-qualified surgeons offer surgery at "bargain rates" in order to compete. However, the final outcome may not turn out to be a bargain.
• Although complications are infrequent, cosmetic surgery is real surgery and has risk. Limited training and experience of a surgeon both increases risk and compromises diagnosis and treatment of a complication.
• Repair of a disappointing result can be expensive.