Why is Plastic Surgery so Expensive?
Written by Mark Domanski, MD
With the average cost paid for a new car in the United States in 2025 approaching 50 thousand dollars, let’s examine the cost of plastic surgery.
Here are some factors that contribute to the price of plastic surgery:
1. Customization
Plastic surgery is a custom service – as each patient is different – and custom things cannot be mass produced.
2. Required Skills
Plastic surgery involves skill: In addition to the surgeon, there is frequently a nurse, surgical assistant, and anesthetist involved in the care of plastic surgery patients. Skill requires time and education to obtain.
3. Amount of Time Involved
Plastic surgery is time intensive to provide: In addition to the actual procedure, there is the time required for post-procedure checks, as well as the need to be available to patients for questions and other postoperative issues.
So, is plastic surgery expensive? In a word: yes. However, when compared to the cost of a new car, we believe that plastic surgery is better described as an “affordable luxury.” You may be okay with a Volkswagen, but there is nothing wrong with upgrading to an Audi.
Very Truly Yours,
