Subprime mortgage crisis affects Plastic Surgeons

The robust business of cosmetic surgery is apparently feeling the economic downturn just like everyone else.  According to an article in yesterday’s Chicago Tribune the multi-billion dollar business of plastic surgery will have a difficult 2008. This revelation is not surprising considering plastic surgery falls under discretionary spending, but it is interesting in that for many the practice of medicine is appealing because it’s a recession proof career. Despite the desire for a steady career many doctors have resorted to providing cosmetic services to patients due to decreasing Medicare reimbursement. It will be fascinating to follow how the economy affects not only cosmetic surgery but other discretionary procedures such as LASIK surgery, or cosmetic dentistry. For any practicing doctors out there, are you noticing any affects on your practices with regards to discretionary care? Let us know in the comment section.