Discount Plastic Surgery - You Generally Get What You Pay For

Implications: I believe that these discount programs are an attempt by a third party to obtain financial gain while the plastic surgeons perform the work.  The only benefit to the plastic surgeon is the volume the plan may provide - just like any other health insurance carrier.  If you want the most qualified, credentialed, and experienced plastic surgeon - it will generally cost more.

Analysis: I believe that these discount programs are an attempt by a third party to obtain financial gain while the plastic surgeons perform the work.  The only benefit to the plastic surgeon is the volume the plan may provide - just like any other health insurance carrier.  Therefore, the only reason a plastic surgeon would have an incentive to agree to accept lower rates is if he/she lacks the volume to sustain the practice.  This may apply to plastic surgeons who are (1) new in practice, (2) in geographic areas which are highly competitve, (3) in areas where the demand for plastic surgery is low, (4) in areas where population does not support high-priced plastic surgery.  While low priced plastic surgery is not synonmyous with low quality (and high priced plastic sugery is not synonymous with high quality), you generally get what you pay for.  If you want the most qualified, credentialed, and experienced plastic surgeon - it will generally cost more.