Is Rhinoplasty Affordable for a College Student?

A rhinoplasty is an extensive procedure and should not be done if you are going to be looking for a 'budget' surgery. 

If it is not done right the first time you will need a revision rhinoplasty (as almost 20% of the population does) so will end up costing even more in the long run.  You really do get what you pay for in most situations.

However, my office sometimes offers special discounts if we can use the patient's testimonial and before/after photos for a video on the web.  If you have any breathing issues you also may be able to get some of it covered by medical insurence.  There are also financing options available to spread out the cost over a few years.
 

If you truly want to have a rhinoplasty, seek out the most qualified Facial Plastic Surgeon that does ALOT of rhinoplasty. Get a second opinion if you have any doubts and a third opinion after that if necessary. Look at lots of photos. Ask your surgeons if they can use software to give you a look at the result they're seeking to obtain. Make sure that you and your surgeon are on the same page. Pick your surgeon, then consider the cost. If you cannot afford it then wait until you have the means. If you choose your surgeon to save money, your risk of being unhappy with the result is elevated. This will cost you a lot more in the long run.
Best,Stephen Weber MD, FACS

Rhinoplasty should be performed by an experienced professional who understands the aesthetics, anatomy, and function of the nose.  You are considering making a change to your face - your social fingerprint to the world.  Choosing the right surgeon is essential, regardless of price.  Make sure you do your research and not hunt for the best bargain.  Just like anything, you get what you pay for.

Greetings,
Truthfully, different college students have different means, depending on their background, number of hours they work, and their expenses. There's a wide range of prices for rhinoplasty out there, but I'd caution you not to bargain shop. It's important you find an experienced and qualifie plastic surgeon who you feel comfortable with. Many surgeons offer third party financing, which you may qualify for.

Thank you for the question.
In our practice, we use Care Credit as well as other companies; they have been used by our patients with no problems.  They do have different rates so please make sure you get all of the information you need prior to signing up with any financing company.
Generally speaking, it is always in patients' best interests to achieve a certain degree of financial stability prior to undergoing elective surgery of any type. Patients should also keep in mind that additional surgery may be necessary in the short or long term, following the primary procedure that is being performed;  this additional surgery may be associated  out-of-pocket expenses. Again, best to achieve a physical, emotional, psychosocial, and financial “stable state” prior to considering elective plastic surgery. Best wishes.

Costs can vary widely across the country and even in the same city. We have a number of college students who have surgery with us.  The most important consideration that we tell them is to ensure that it is done with a reputable surgeon and that you are not rushing the surgery to fit into your college schedule. 3rd party financing such as CareCredit can often spread out the costs for a patient.

Rhinoplasty is the most complicated of all cosmetic surgeries.  I would seek consultation with multiple surgeons to get several different opinions.  Cost can vary widely, but do not pick you surgeon just because he is the cheapest.  Seek a surgeon who does several surgeries a week, not the occasional rhinoplasty surgeon.  Be sure to see lots of before and after pictures.  Board Certification by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is preferred, as these surgeons have spent their entire training focusing on nasal surgery.  Good luck.

Warmest regards,

Dr. Pippin

Hello and thank you for the question.

There is quite a variety in prices for a primary rhinoplasty and it is region  and surgeon dependent. In Beverly Hills, you can expect to pay anywhere from $7500 up to  $22,000 USD for a primary rhinoplasty. I suggest you consult with Board Certified Plastic Surgeons or Facial Plastic Surgeons  and get as many opinions as necessary to make you comfortable with the procedure.

 

Best of luck,

Glenn Vallecillos, M.D., F.A.C.S. 

Rhinoplasty is an expensive surgery but, worth it for many patients. Affordability is always a personnal issue. But, don't overextend your self in this economy

Rhinoplasty can be affordable. The price can range from $4000 to $10,000. It can be finance, but be sure to avoid predatory lenders. You can save for it as you would for a vacation or a new car. If the deal sounds too good to be true it probably is. Check your surgeons credentials and opt for an experience nasal  surgeon.