Only three years ago, the number of patients who used financing for elective cosmetic plastic surgery procedures in my practice was around 10% or less. As we proceed forward into 2008, that number has jumped to over 30% and appears to be going even higher. There are many reasons for this trend from a general reflection of our society, the economic times, the emphasis on plastic surgery marketing, and the aging of our society, to name a few.
On the positive note, however, it indicates how many people want the benefits that plastic surgery offers…..which is basically the opportunity to feel better about one’s self. It also indicates that people can ‘afford’ what they want, not necessarily want they need. Is this a good trend? Most would say not but I would disagree. Plastic surgery, from a cosmetic standpoint, is a reflection of some of our societies deeper values. Valuing one’s appearance in an effort to improve social or work status has been around since the beginning of time. It has risen to its current level due to economic progress and information dissemination through the internet, both of which are unparalleled advancements that have heretofore not existed. It is no worse a reflection on society than any other advancement that we have seen in the past 20 years.
Of the many people who finance their plastic surgery today, the company Care Credit has proven to be the most successful and easiest for patients to use in my Indianapolis plastic surgery practice experience.
Dr Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana