Is it Wrong to Try and Negotiate a Slightly Lower Price for Surgery?

Question

i've been to my cosmetic doctor 3 times. i've referred 4 people to him for major body makeovers. I want to go back to him for a tummy tuck but his cost is a little high. i don't want to go anywhere else. Is it still wrong for me to ask him for a better price? To make it a little more affordable for me?

John J. Corey, MD · Answer

Never hurts to ask! I know in my practice we have a reward program for referring patients (that actually schedule!!!). But I would run it by the office manager, rather than the doctor..then if you don't get the answer you want...move to the doctor!!!!!!!!!

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Patients negotiate price all the time,  there may be the opportunity to get a better price if you plan or gave the surgery on short notice by taking an unexpected cancellation.  I always give prior patients a discount especially if they have referred other oatients to me, but not plastic surgeons are as generous.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

I do not think it would rude to ask and you may be pleased with the answer.  You sound like you are an excellent referral source.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

You can always ask for a discount and in this tough economy we try to do what we can.  This is a very competitive field and we are all working to get your business.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I agree with the comments below. When patients return for multiple procedures over time, yes, some plastic surgeons will extend better pricing through some type of loyal client program. There are many factors to consider. The plastic surgeon may be able to give you a break on the surgeon's fee portion of the tummy tuck. However, some of the costs such as the anesthesia fee and the facility fee may be fixed and beyond the control of the surgeon himself/herself to adjust. You pay the total fee to the surgeon but then he/she must turn around and pay for the supplies, instrument processing, facility, anesthesiologist, etc.... You may be able to get better pricing but it may not be as much as you like. The least you could do is ask, and the worst that could happen is that he could say no. However, I wouldn't go elsewhere just to get a cheaper rate. It sounds like you have had a good experience and that you trust him. If you go elsewhere and it goes badly, the cost to fix an undesirable outcome may be much larger than paying full price for a tummy tuck well done the first time.

Mathew C. Mosher, MD · Answer

I can only speak for my practice. We highly value loyal clients and very much appreciate their referrals to our office. We have a loyal client program in place that gives value to patients who help us to by telling others. However, from an ethical and professional standpoint we also have policies in place that are predictable and consistent.

	You should also know that all Plastic Surgeons who maintain their Society memberships need to follow a strict Code of Ethics that prohibits offering any financial incentives for surgical or physician delivered services. For retail and other non-surgical services their may a little more flexibility available. As mentioned already, total procedure fees also include professional fees for our anesthesiologists, implants when needed and the use of an Ambulatory Surgery Centre which futher limits our ability to be flexible on prices.

	You also understand that you have a choice about where you have your procedure performed. If you feel you can get the same care, service and quality of results elsewhere then you are free to explore those options. An open discussion about fees and financial policies with your the patient coordinator is always welcomed.

	Dr. Mosher

Edward J. Bednar, MD · Answer

WE have some very loyal following of patients who refer many others to our practice. We most definitely offer them a pricing consideration which is handled through the patient coordinator at all times. But the pricing structure really has to be realistic , taking into account all aspects to running a business (I agree with comment below)

Ronald Levine, MD · Answer

It doesn't hurt to ask, but in a tactful manner. Perhaps you can gently remind them that you've referred 4 patients to him.

Raj S. Ambay, MD · Answer

Prices vary by geography but in Florida it can be between $5500-$8000. Factors such as surgeon, anesthesia, and facility cost play a factor. You lose nothing by asking for a price reduction. In my practice we always give special consideration to people who refer other patients. I practice with a dermatologist so our rewards program includes rewards from both specialties.

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Your question is an excellent one and a quite reasonable one. Given that you have had previous surgical procedures with him and have referred several patients, your request is quite reasonable. It would be both the right thing to do as well as good business sense for him to offer you a significant break on your desired surgical procedure. This would be a win-win for the both of you.

Is it Wrong to Try and Negotiate a Slightly Lower Price for Surgery?

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