Ethics of dynamic and differential pricing for cosmetic procedures

Abstract

Patient demand for procedures has increased in the evolving landscape of cosmetic dermatology. This has been fueled, in part, by social media and the growing normalization of cosmetic enhancements, developments that have led some patients to have potentially unrealistic expectations and place undue pressure on dermatologists to meet these often unrealistic demands. This pressure is exacerbated further by patients who are seen as difficult, demanding, and time-consuming and who may require extensive counseling. Physicians may adopt dynamic or differential pricing strategies to offset the additional time and effort that these patients require. We discuss the ethical concerns surrounding these pricing strategies in the cosmetic sphere, highlight the importance of transparency in pricing, and offer suggestions to promote clarity and fairness in cosmetic dermatology practices.