Can I get my money back? (Photo)

Question

Hi I had liposuction from a non certified surgeon and I was also suppose to get a skin tightening but since I don't like how the lipo went so now I'm asking for some of my money back is that possible

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

It sounds as though you are responsible for this regrettable process by choosing a less than fully qualified surgeon. In any event, policy for revision refunds should be worked out prior to the procedure. At this point I think you have no recourse.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Most consent forms for surgery explain that this procedure is elective, that results cannot be predicted and often if you are unhappy additional procedures and surgery may be needed at a cost to you.  with that said, you should be going to a board certified physician that is experienced and tries to get the best results for his patients.  If my patients were unhappy I would do what I could to get the best outcomes.  It is unfortunate for you but likely this will require you to see an expert who is board certified for a revision procedure, which would be out of pocket.  Best, Dr. Emer.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

From this one limited view photo, and no preop photo is hard to draw a conclusion to fully answer your question. It seems that your BMI is high and you might've had a debulking lipo procedure. How far out from surgery, was it done under local or sedation? All these can determine what your surgeon can or cannot do. All these issues and your concerns need to be discussed preoperatively so there would not be a misunderstanding after the procedure. That is why it is important to seek out a board certified plastic surgeon. If you knew that your surgeon is not a plastic surgeon, and you still went ahead with the procedure, then you have no recourse. Less than optimal outcome in a high BMI patient is more the norm than the exception. The only way you might be able to get your money back, if the surgeon advertised him/herself as a plastic surgeon and they are cosmetic surgeons. This is deceptive advertisement and you might be able to have some of your fees refunded. You may write to your attorney general about this. Good luck.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

You can certainly request a refund from your doctor, citing the fact that the result is far less than you desired. Especially if the surgeon promised much better results. Your case adds credence to the argument of using a board certified plastic surgeon. It may appear a bit more expensive initially, but in the long run, the result will be better and cost the same or less because you may not get your money back, and may need to do the procedure all over again!

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your concerns after surgery. Most surgeons want to know if their patients are unhappy or depressed. I think that you will be best off communicating your concerns directly with your surgeon in a calm and constructive fashion. Working together, you will be able to come up with the best course of action. Many will provide revision surgery, but patients typically bear some of the cost. You should talk with your surgeon. Good luck.

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

All doctors have their own policies for refunds and dissatisfaction, so I would check with that practice. However, I believe you might not get your money back. Another option is to ask if you can get a touch-up for discounted or free.  I always recommend seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for future procedures.

Andrew Freel, MD · Answer

Every physician has their own policy regarding refunds but most will not refund your money if you are unhappy with your results.  I suggest discussing this with your surgeon in person.  I always recommend seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for plastic surgery procedures.

Sanjiv Kayastha, MD · Answer

Each surgeon has their own financial policy for how they handle situations like yours. Speak with your surgeon.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

You can always ask but very doubtful you will receive any positive responses. Sorry. Lesson learned is to use ONLY boarded Plastic Surgeons!

Stacey Folk, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, surgery is a service, not a product that can be returned, so returning fees is not common in the field. I would guess that most surgeons offer revisions if they feel their results did not meet their expectations or the patient's.  I am very sorry that are unhappy with the results of your surgery. It is really hard to tell much from your photo, but much of the skin tightening that occurs after liposuction is dependent on the elasticity of your skin and the volume removed. An abdominoplasty  may have been necessary to remove skin to the degree you needed. This could also have been due to your physician not setting realistic expectations for your results.I would recommend that you get a copy of your records and photos and get more opinions for what could possibly be done to improve your results. This is a lesson learned that when you don't see a board certified surgeon who can offer you the full range of procedures, you may get stuck having the only procedure they can offer you. I truly hope things work out for you.Sincerely,

Can I get my money back? (Photo)

Answers (13)

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