Why Do So Few Surgeons Work in an Actual Hospital As Opposed to Their Private Surgery Centers?

     There are many reasons for plastic surgeons to perform cosmetic surgery in a private outpatient surgery center. The facility should be accredited by AAASF or similar governing body. The surgeon should also have privileges in other facilities (hospitals/surgery centers) and chooses to operate in the their center because they can, not because they have to. Staff at private facilities are experienced and dedicated to cosmetic surgery which is usually not the case in a hospital. There is continuity of care benefits as well in our facility. The nurses, techs and other staff you meet during your consultation are the same caring people you will see before, during and after your surgery. Timing and scheduling of surgery is much more convenient in a private setting not to mention that it is quieter, less hectic and offers more privacy. Most of the time, private facilities are less expensive as well. Overall, a healthy patient in an accredited, properly staffed facility will receive care that is as safe as any hospital. Good luck.

The main reasons for a surgeon operating in his office are cost, convenience and efficiency. The back-up services  (cardiologists, anesthesiologists, other specialists, ICUs, special equipment etc.) are far greater in a hospital; so most people would consider that the hospital is indeed'safer.' The risk of infection in a hospital is not greater when we consider day surgery. 

Unfortunately, hospitals are not geared to quick turnovers and the nurses and technicians are not selected by the surgeon. Operating is not so slick and can be frustrating when the staff is inexperienced.

Furthermore, hospitals are not particularly keen on doing cosmetic surgery, because they are paid much, much, more by insurance companies for reconstructive cases. They do cosmetic surgery as a favor to the Plastic Surgeons, who they hope will use them for insured services.

Nevertheless, if a patient has any serious medical condition, then the operation should be done in a hospital.