Hello!
I was trying to make an appointment to discuss the two surgeries I asked about here. I was advised it’s $200 for consultation plus $100 consultation fee for questions around each surgery? Is this the norm in the industry ?
No. I do not know anybody who charges for consultations.
Congratulations, you’ve obviously chosen surgeons who are well trained, skilled, experienced, have a thriving practice, and know the value of a consultation: to educate the potential patient. Dr. Dowbak and the colleagues that she says she knows must not fit into this category of surgeons (I personally know quite a few in her hometown of Miami, and you can be assured they charge a consultation fee). Hot spots for plastic surgery like Miami, NY (essentially where you’re from), and LA are extremely competitive, and surgeons who have not garnered an excellent reputation (for whatever reason), find no choice but to offer free consultations to eliminate any barriers to seeing new patients. Trust me, you’ve made the right steps by seeing this type of surgeon.
It is not unusual for plastic surgeons to charge for a consultation, so that you can get the benefit of their expertise and experience. The philosophy behind complimentary consultations is that there is no expense to the patient if the surgeon decides that you are not a good candidate for the desired procedure. Another approach is to apply the consultation fee toward the procedure.
Thanks for your question. It depends on the area. I see that you are in NJ many of us here in the area charge a consultation fee. My office is in Wall, NJ not too far from where you are. If you are interested in a consult, I’ll be happy to waive the consult fee. Please email me; contact info below.
Best wishes!
Charging for consultation fees varies by area. In our area of Bergen County, NJ, the vast majority of plastic surgeons do not charge for consultation fees.