Who doesn’t love a good holiday deal? Inboxes are flooded this time of year with discounts on facials, laser treatments, injectables and much more. When shopping for family, friends, or yourself, the feeling of getting a “steal” can be an exhilarating and enticing driver to purchase – especially for the Groupon Generation.
However, when it comes to aesthetic treatments, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) warns that the best deal is not necessarily the best idea. If you are quick to jump at the offer, you may be sabotaging your safety for savings.
Bargain hunter beware, says Fred Fedok, MD, facial plastic surgeon and president of the AAFPRS. “Often, these deals present a false bill of goods. The procedure you sign up for may not be performed by a qualified professional, and the experience and results may be left lacking.”
When it comes to your face, this is not the place to scrimp and save. Issues can range from cosmetic dissatisfaction to critical injury.
“One of the main problems with these types of deals is that consumers assume a treatment at Clinic A will be the same as a treatment at Clinic B,” Fedok continues. “However, the quality of staff training, service, and results can vary dramatically from office to office. When selecting a Groupon or discount offer, the excitement at getting the ‘deal’ may overshadow due diligence in selecting a qualified provider. The aspect of an individualized treatment plan is also missing. Cosmetic treatments are not one size fits all.”
In fact, according to the annual survey of facial plastic surgeons by the AAFPRS, patients are most concerned with finding the right practitioner they can trust (39%), followed at quite a distance by concerns for the cost (24%).
The AAFPRS urges consumers to select a board-certified surgeon who specializes in plastic surgery of the face, head, and neck. Research providers and the treatment information via trusted online sources before scheduling your cosmetic procedure. Review before/after options, and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions about background and credentials.
The bottom line? “Trust your face to a facial plastic surgeon,” says the AAFPRS. You’ll come out looking gorgeous—and stay safe and healthy in the process. That’s a win-win.
[Source: Kelz PR]
