Is Negotiating Cost a Myth?

Thank you for the question. I do not think that you need to be concerned about “insulting” a plastic surgeon if you politely ask for a discounted price for surgery.  Personally I can tell you that if, during the consultation process, I find that the patient is a good candidate for surgery ( physically, emotionally, psychosocially etc.) and has a “glass half full” ( and likable) personality,  I am inclined to find a way to discount the surgeon's portion of fees. On the other hand, if a patient does not fit the above criteria, he/she will not even receive a quote, much less a discounted one. 

 Furthermore, many offices including ours will provide a discount of surgeon's fee for military personnel/family, teachers, nurses etc.

 Again, it does not hurt to ask.

Best wishes.

I don't think that you will offend anybody by asking.  What is the purpose for the discount?  I ask because my hope is that your not trying to find the cheapest surgeon.  My goal is not to be the cheapest surgeon but to be the best.  If you met with your surgeon and find there is value to the service and have a good relationship, that is a win win situation.  People pay more for Lexus than a Toyota, despite that they are made by the same company.  There is value that justifies the higher cost.  Good luck  

                   I do not think it would hurt to ask.  I do think that there are some patients who are less difficult and some who are more difficult based upon anatomy and goals.   Find a plastic surgeon with ELITE credentials who performs hundreds of tummy tucks and liposuction procedures each year.  Then look at the plastic surgeon's website before and after photo galleries to get a sense of who can deliver the results.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA