Sometimes patients call up and ask for discounts when undergoing plastic surgery like a tummy tuck. Some patients even ask for free surgery because of certain hardships. Many plastic surgeons will make considerations for certain situations. For example, several plastic surgeons participate in programs for domestic violence that provide free surgery such as rhinoplasty for the victims. Discounts may be commonly given for a patient that has had several other procedures performed, or who has referred many patients to the practice. Sometimes complimentary procedures can be performed such as a Botox injection when undergoing other procedures. For example, we are currently giving patients a free Botox injection when they undergo a Coolsculpting treatment.
“It is, however, important for a regular patient not to seek out only plastic surgery practices that give the biggest discounts for no other reason than to just give the discount,” says Dr. Andrew Miller, a facelift plastic surgeon in NJ. Discounts or free surgery are usually given out for a particular reason like customer loyalty or multiple referrals. Most experienced plastic surgeons will not just give away their services without a good reason. If a surgeon is making an offer like this, be sure to research the surgeon thoroughly to make sure he or she is qualified.
There are many fees that go into a procedure that make it difficult to just be given away. There is a surgeon’s fee, which can easily be discounted. The surgery center fee is used to pay the nurses and for the supplies. The anesthesia fee goes to a separate physician who monitors you during surgery so unless he agrees to a discount, he would have to be paid in full. Finally, there is NJ state tax, which even though it is only 2% currently, the law requires it to be paid.
Free plastic surgery is usually reserved for a surgeon’s spouse or close friends and family, but developing a good relationship with a qualified plastic surgeon can have its benefits. “I have many patients who have come for several procedures and have referred many friends to the practice, so they can get some nice discounts,” says Dr. Miller, who also specializes in Fraxel laser treatment. “We always make our patients appear natural, and they are usually happy with their rejuvenated appearance.” So it is perfectly fine to develop a nice relationship with a qualified plastic surgeon, and take advantage of any benefits that come with it.