Breast Reduction Consultation Fees
In an ideal world, consultations would always be free but this isn't an ideal world, and they're not. Surgeons do not charge consultation fees as a form of income but rather to help weed out what is referred to as a "looky lou." This is a term for a person who may not be serious about booking a surgery but just wants to see what a consultation is all about. They may be interested in the computer imaging software, the attention and pampering, or just want to satisfy their curiosity.
This is not to say curiosity is wrong, but many surgeons prefer not to invest time in patients who never intend to have the surgery. It would be like having someone analyze your vehicle or the alarm system in your home to determine a problem or glitch you believe you may have. The technicians then go over everything and give you your options and then you say at the end, "Thanks, but I'm not interested in fixing it at this time." In fact, you knew you weren't interested in having it fixed, or you couldn't afford it, but you were curious as to what could be done and how much it would cost.
Cosmetic surgery prices vary around the country, as do plastic surgeon fees and consultation fees, which generally range from free to $500. The variables are the surgeon you choose, the region of the country, the status of the economy and the season. The average is between $75 and $100 for the initial consultation. Doctors in larger cities may tend to charge more for consultations, but doctors in areas heavily populated with plastic surgeons may run competitive consultation fees to get you in the door. Likewise, during slow seasons surgeons may run specials on consultations and the cost of breast reduction surgery to generate traffic. Surgeons who are well known in the media may be vastly more expensive than the lesser knowns. This doesn't mean they're lesser surgeons, just lesser known.
Be sure to determine the complete cost of your breast reduction surgery beforehand, including the plastic surgeon fee and other related charges. This will eliminate any confusion or awkwardness at your consultation. Added stress is not an option. You want to arrive prepared, relaxed and alert.
Some surgeons will apply the consultation fee towards a procedure or will waive the fee should you choose to book a surgery date. Please do not let this factor into your decision making process. Choose a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable and who you believe can give you the results that you desire. Bargain shopping is not a good way to go about getting plastic surgery. This includes all financial aspects of your surgical process.
You may wish to request a free consultation. You may not get it, but you never know. Do not be offended if they refuse.