When it comes to rhinoplasty, “bargain” should not be a word you consider important. There are many items and services you should absolutely bargain-hunt for, but rhinoplasty is not one of them. Cosmetic nasal surgery is a permanent procedure that is extremely complex and can make significant changes to the appearance and function of the nose. It is a difficult procedure that should never be attempted by any but the most experienced, skilled, and artistic facial plastic surgeons.
However, the amount you will pay for rhinoplasty will differ greatly depending on the area and the surgeons themselves. So what should you expect to pay for this premium procedure? What is normal when it comes to rhinoplasty costs in the United States?
The Median Range
According to OkCopay, a website that provides average prices for comparison purposes, the median average for rhinoplasty in the United States is $5,350. That is not too high, considering what goes into a successful procedure and the lasting results of rhinoplasty. However, this median does not necessarily reflect what you might pay for your procedure.
Cities are More Expensive (In General)
As with most goods and services, cities tend to dictate a premium price for rhinoplasty. New York City is the most expensive area in the country to pursue rhinoplasty, with the priciest procedures ringing in at $15,000 and $12,000. That is not to say that all surgeons in urban areas charge a huge amount beyond the median price (the median price for New York is $7000), but many of them do. The benefit of cities, of course, is that the pool of talented surgeons tends to be larger.
Cheap Prices Abound
All across the country, OkCopay identified a number of surgeons who charge way below the average—about $1500 to $3000 per procedure. There doesn’t seem to be a pattern as to where these clinics are located, in fact, they are spread out very evenly across the country. While paying so little for nasal surgery may seem very attractive, beware of a “bargain” rhinoplasty and do your research carefully.
Expensive Is Not Always Better
While it makes sense to pay for quality, you also should not immediately jump to the surgeon that charges the most in your area. Price is not always an indication of quality, and what you want to look for is value: what kind of quality will you be getting for your rhinoplasty?
Some surgeons do charge a fee for scheduling a consultation, as they are busy and need to spend as much time with current patients and serious rhinoplasty candidates as possible. Fees like this should not scare you away from a consultation with these doctors—it is important to find the right fit for you.
Judging on Other Qualities
The bottom line is: do not cut corners on your rhinoplasty. Cost should be the last factor in choosing your plastic surgeon. You should be evaluating candidates by many other standards, including:
- Board certification
- Skills (as demonstrated by testimonials and before-and-after photos)
- Experience
- Range (ability to provide quality results for a diverse patient base & accomplish many different goals)
- Safety record
- Consistency
- Bedside manner & rapport
- Proximity
Remember, your rhinoplasty results will last a lifetime, and paying a little more upfront for the right surgeon can save you a lot of frustration and heartache in the long run.
A True Specialist
Rhinoplasty is so versatile and complex that many surgeons can and do make the procedure a focus of their practice. These dedicated doctors are the best choice for your surgery, as they are constantly working to provide patients with the best results that enhance the other facial features.
If you would like to speak with a specialist in the Boston area, come to Bentkover Facial Plastic Surgery in Worcester (508-363-6500) or Stoneham (617-247-0033), MA to consult with experienced, double board certified surgeon Dr. Stuart Bentkover. Dr. Bentkover has been helping rhinoplasty patients reach their goals for over 25 years, and is standing by to discuss your procedure. Call either location today to schedule your consultation.