This One Habit Among Aesthetic Patients Is Cause for Concern

When we want the latest information on beauty and aesthetics, we turn to our world-class community of readers and expert practitioners. In a recent survey conducted by our Beauty Engine, we asked aesthetic practices about patient loyalty and the popularity of treatments. Responses were collected from 821 (July 2024) and 792 (January 2025) aesthetic practices across the United States. And while treatment popularity is always in flux, there was one stat that drew our attention. In 2024 and 2025, 38 percent of patients were still shopping for aesthetic providers by the lowest price.

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What Experts Think

“Being in the hands of an inexperienced practitioner can result in expensive and time-consuming revisions,” says Houston dermatologist Jennifer Segal, MD. “It can be tempting to shop based on price, but if you’re not paying the industry standard, that’s a huge problem. You really want to get these treatments done right the first time.”

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Beverly Hills, CA facial plastic surgeon Kimberly Lee, MD agrees. “Shopping by the lowest price is dangerous and not recommended when seeking out the best experts to address your face or any aesthetic procedure,” she says. “Choosing a provider based solely on cost undervalues the expertise and artistry needed for safe, natural-looking results. Having been one out of 150 national trainers for Botox and fillers in the U.S., I bring a high level of expertise and skill to every treatment. Skilled providers may charge more, but their expertise justifies the cost. Aesthetic treatments are an investment in your appearance and well-being, and because facial treatments cannot be hidden like other procedures, it’s essential to choose a qualified expert for the best possible outcome.”

Rising Prices

It is true that the price tag for quality aesthetic procedures and treatments is rising.

Campbell, CA plastic surgeon R. Laurence Berkowitz, MD explains that the surgeon fee itself hasn’t really changed. It’s everything else. “Let me tell you, patients are shocked when they see the price of our surgery has not gone up,” Dr. Berkowitz says. “It was the cost of the operating room, anesthesia and all the supplies that have gone up. Nurses and anesthesiologists are very, very expensive now.”

Undoubtedly, patients have noticed the trend. However, experts explain that shopping by the lowest price may have devastating consequences.

“Providers offering low prices may lack the qualifications or experience necessary for safe, optimal results, increasing the risk of complications or subpar outcomes,” Dr. Lee says. “Aesthetic treatments require skill, expertise and proper training, and cutting corners can lead to dangerous or irreversible effects. Low prices may also mean substandard or unapproved products, leading to harmful results.”

The Lowest Price Has True Costs

“I think it’s important to understand that things like fillers, neurotoxins and aesthetic procedures are luxury items, and that is how they are priced,” Dr. Segal notes. “The products are expensive, the expertise is expensive. And trying to cut corners to get that luxury comes with serious risks. Fixing mistakes or revising an outcome is not cheap, so you’ll likely spend more in the long run than if you had just gotten it done right the first time.”

As a patient, you want to trust that your practitioner is prepared to address your concerns. And that ability only comes with experience and adequate training.

“Aesthetic treatments should be tailored to each individual’s unique features and desired results, ensuring that the outcome is balanced and harmonizes with the rest of your face,” Dr. Lee adds. “The cost reflects the quality of service, experience and expertise provided, including the use of FDA-approved products sourced directly from the manufacturer, optimized results and thorough follow-up care.”