In the latest episode of Arbrea Talks, we hosted Dr. Barbara Cagli, a renowned plastic surgeon, for a thought-provoking discussion on the implications of Black Friday deals in the world of plastic surgery and aesthetic procedures. The session aimed to provide insights for both doctors and patients while encouraging reflection on the broader implications of commercialization in the field.
The Ethics of Discounts in Plastic Surgery
Dr. Cagli opened the conversation by expressing her clear stance against the concept of discounts or Black Friday promotions in plastic surgery. “We are physicians,” she emphasized, “and it’s crucial to remember that aesthetic surgery is still a medical procedure. Offering discounts diminishes the seriousness of the profession and can create dangerous misconceptions.”
She compared aesthetic surgery to general surgery, asking, “Would you ask for a discount on an appendectomy? The answer is a clear no.” This analogy highlighted the risks of treating plastic surgery like a commodity, where price takes precedence over quality and safety.
Risks Associated with Discounted Procedures
Dr. Cagli cautioned against prioritizing cost over expertise, emphasizing that aesthetic procedures, while aimed at improving appearance, carry significant risks. She explained that choosing a surgeon based solely on promotional pricing often compromises the quality of care, including:
The operating environment where the procedures take place. Which means they might be conducted in facilities not up to the high standard you might be looking for.
The factor of professional expertise, where the surgeon’s qualifications and experience might not meet necessary standards.
The materials used, where for lower-cost surgeries inferior products or equipment can be used.
The post-operative care, where comprehensive follow-up, crucial for recovery and results, could be inadequate.
“We must educate patients to prioritize safety and expertise over discounts,” she stated. “Health is not something you should gamble with.”
Social Media and Patient Education
The conversation also touched on the role of social media in shaping patient perceptions. While Dr. Cagli acknowledged the benefits of platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn for patient education, she also raised concerns about superficial content.
“I use social media to share clear, accurate information,” she said. “But the rise of trends like TikTok dances and sensationalized posts detracts from the seriousness of our profession.”
Dr. Cagli encouraged patients to look beyond social media profiles and check. They need to check a surgeon’s credentials, professional experience, and published work. “A consultation is essential,” she emphasized. “This is where trust is built and decisions are made based on a thorough understanding of the patient’s needs.”
”We must educate patients to prioritize safety and expertise over discounts
Dr. Barbara Cagli
Building Trust Through Transparency
Transparency in consultations emerged as a recurring theme. Dr. Cagli explained that her approach involves understanding the patient’s expectations and providing honest feedback about achievable outcomes. “Sometimes, it’s clear that I am not the right surgeon for a patient,” she shared. “In such cases, it’s better to part ways than to compromise on results or ethics.”
She also discussed the importance of maintaining professional integrity, even if it means losing potential clients. She stressed that “Patients must choose their surgeon based on philosophy and approach, not on price or trends”.
Advice for Patients
When asked for her final advice to patients considering Black Friday deals, Dr. Cagli offered a balanced perspective: “Reflect before making decisions. Surgery is a powerful and transformative process, but it must be approached responsibly. If a surgeon offering a discount has strong credentials and experience, then it might be worth considering. However, patients should be cautious and prioritize quality over cost.”
She concluded with a strong, but often forgotten reminder: “Good surgeons don’t need to rely on discounts. Their work speaks for itself.”
The Industry’s Role
Dr. Cagli also addressed the responsibilities of the industry, urging companies and professionals to uphold high standards of communication and ethical practices. “We all share a responsibility to educate and guide patients toward safe and informed choices,” she said.
As the conversation wrapped up, Dr. Cagli highlighted the importance of continuous learning and collaboration among professionals. “Plastic surgery is an art and a science,” she reflected. “By staying committed to excellence, we can ensure the best outcomes for our patients.”
Final Thoughts
This episode of Arbrea Talks sheds light on the delicate balance between commercial trends and ethical responsibility in plastic surgery. Dr. Barbara Cagli’s insights served as a valuable reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety, expertise, and transparency in aesthetic medicine. Black Friday has passed, but discounts are still present in the Aesthetic Medicine field. That’s why patients, plastic surgeons, and aesthetic doctors are encouraged to reflect deeply on the choices they make and the values they uphold.
Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on Arbrea Talks, where we explore the evolving landscape of plastic surgery and technology.
About Dr. Barbara Cagli
Dr. Barbara Cagli is a distinguished plastic surgeon with extensive expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. Known for her patient-focused philosophy, she is dedicated to delivering natural, transformative results while upholding the highest standards of safety and ethics. Dr. Cagli leverages cutting-edge technologies, including the Arbrea Suite, to provide an enhanced consultation experience and ensure optimal outcomes for her patients. Renowned for her transparency and commitment to education, she empowers patients to make informed decisions, earning her a reputation as a trusted leader in the field of plastic surgery.
