The Cost of Plastic Surgery

There are hundreds of plastic surgery procedures available today. The cosmetic industry is one of the fasting growing industries in America. Many of the procedures are affordable and require minimal recovery time. There many details to consider before scheduling a plastic surgery procedure. Cost can vary from state to state. Here are some ideas to help reduce the costs:

• Off Season. Many plastic surgeons offer discounts in their off season. The majority of surgeries take place during the school year. Summer discounts can reduce costs by up to 25%.
• Friends and Family. Some surgeons offer a 2 for 1 discount if two or more people go through the consultation and surgery together. If two patients share the same room, that can reduce costs too.
• Stand-by. Surgeons block operating rooms for eight hours. If one or more patients cancel, they are stuck paying for idle hands. Volunteer to go standby. Most patients cancel within a 10 day window.
• Bundle Services. It is more cost effective to undergo several procedures at one time. Many surgeons are offering bundle discounts. It is common to realize a savings of 5% off the second procedure, 10% off the third and so on.
• Pay Cash. Credit card companies charge a fee to process payments. Many surgeons will pass along savings of up to 5% for cash clients. Some clinics also offer a lay-away program where patients can pay over time, then schedule the procedure once the fees are paid off.
• Insurance. Surgeries such as rhinoplasty, breast reductions and upper eyelid reductions may be covered in full or in part by insurance. Once insurance deductibles have been met out of pocket costs are greatly reduced.
• Manufacturer discounts. Bulk purchases on products like breast implants, offer free products. Ask to see if your surgeon offers discounts based on manufacturer discounts.
• Talk to the press. Nothing makes more impact than a personal referral. Offer to have before and after photos taken, and agree to talk to local press about your procedure. Discounts can be negotiated.

While cost is a concern, there are several factors that go into the costing of a surgery. Each patient's circumstance is unique due to his/her medical history. Fees should include the costs of facility, labs, implants, anesthesiologist and the surgeon's fees. Based on the size of the surgeon's practice, he may be able to offer lower prices due to volume discounts.