Plastic Surgery Consultant? Really?

You’ve got to be kidding me! It’s not bad enough we waste so much time and energy (and lives) on vanity; now we’re hiring consultants? Here’s a press release that just came across my desk for a plastic surgery consultant. I like how the first tip is to not fall in love with your surgeon. Hey, good advice! But wasn’t it Pygmalion that fell in love with his statue, and not the other way around?
 

April 2008 – Cosmetic plastic surgery is a
luxury in the best or worst of times. "Make no mistake about it people
will always want to improve their appearance with cosmetic surgery,"says Angela Segal, independent patient consultant for individuals
seeking cosmetic surgery. "People need to know how to cut through the
fluff and get the best value for the investment they are making in
themselves."

As an independent consultant, Ms. Segal works exclusively for the patient. Her popular website www.AngelaSegal.com
helps patients navigate the plastic surgeon selection process. Segal a
former 12 year veteran patient consultant and administrator provides a
unique approach from the "inside" on how to determine the best
procedures for the best prices.

Ms Segal contends there are 5 basic ways to help patients reach their plastic surgery goals:

1. Don’t fall in love with the surgeon. The personality of the surgeon
is of slight importance but remember you are paying the surgeon for
surgery. You will be asleep when the surgeon performs the service that
you are paying for. Obviously if the surgeon is rude or arrogant that
is unacceptable. The best indicator is the longevity and attitude of
the staff. Remember, the surgeon pays them to be there. If they are not
happy you probably will not be happy either.

2. Be honest about what you bring to the table. It’s a hard truth; but
price negotiation in elective plastic surgery always comes down to the
risk for complications and how long the surgery takes to perform. Time
is money.

3. Be firm but likable. Forcing the surgeon into accepting your price
can backfire, especially if the practice dreads your every contact. The
goal is to be fair and get the best value. Never forget that the
relationship should be a partnership.

4. Learn to compare fees by procedure, surgery time, facility and
supplies used. This can be tricky because sometimes these points are
not clearly written on the quote. A shifting of fees can leave a
patient believing they have a better deal than they really have. Don’t
be afraid to ask for the information that you need to compare fees if
it is not present on the quote.

5. Pay for your consultation. Paying for your consultation with the
surgeon proves to the surgeon that you are serious. A veterinarian does
not give free consultations. It is ridiculous to expect a medical
doctor with surgical experience to perform a medical evaluation for
free. Ask questions specifically related to you and what the
recommendations are. You are making a decision based on your desires,
what the surgeon can achieve, and the best value.

Ms. Segal offers her consulting services on line, by phone, or in person.

Press Inquiries Contact: askangelasegal@aol.com
(714) 425-5900