I am currently searching for a HT doc in the New York City area and I want to conduct proper diligence. But all of the top doctors are charging outrageous fees for the first consultation. Dr. Bernstein charges $150 and Dr. Avram charges $375! I want to find the right doctor but I could end up spending over $1000 (which does not go toward the surgery) before I even commit. Is this a new trend? Am I missing something? Thought these were supposed to be free. I feel taken advantage of when all I want to do is find the right fit.

All of the top doctors aren't charging fees, let alone outrageous fees. And it's *not* the norm.

Go consult with Dr. Feller and Dr. True; both in NY.

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*A Follicles Dying Wish To Clinics*

1 top-down, 1 portrait, 1 side-shot, 1 hairline....4 photos. No flash.

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Enough is enough! Give me documentation or give me death!

Thanks for the advice. Probably shouldn't have said 'all,' but the first three I contacted had fees. Started to worry. Good to know there's some quality doctors out there that don't charge.

I think it's a little nuts for doctors to charge high consultation fees (and it seems, if there is this sort of fee, it invariably is high), but I suppose those who have enough patients coming in benefit from charging them both by making a little extra cash and by weeding out people who aren't "really" interested in the procedure.

Of course, this is elective surgery, and, I imagine, lots of people go into an office not totally sure of what they'll do afterward. Hell, a good idea may be to meet with more than one physician, even if you are strongly intent to undergo transplantation, in which case it stings to have to shell out a couple of hundred dollars per meeting.

If you're uncomfortable with such charges, just rule out offices that favor them. In New York, I think, Drs. True and Dorin, Feller, and Beehner offer free consultations (perhaps Dr. Epstein, too, does).

I think it is very stupid for doctors to charge a consultation fee! I had my procedure done with Doctor Feller and he did not charge me a cent for the consultation. In fact I met doctor Feller twice before my actual surgery and both times the meeting was free.

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My Hair Loss Website - Hair Transplant with Dr. Feller

Again, it's "stupid" is that it can drive away potential patients, but, in this same vein, perhaps not so stupid for the doctor who has a long line of clients waiting, and doesn't want to "waste time" with persons not sure enough of whether or not they'll have the procedure, to put down a couple of hundred dollars toward it (if I'm not mistaken, initial-consultation fees go toward the cost of operation, if one is performed).

For the patient, yes, it seems to be a terrible deal... .

Dr. Feller is on of the top docs not just in nyc, but the world. he will also not charge a consult fee. it's ridiculous imo, to be charged a consult fee.

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HT#2 Nov.23rd, 2007
Dr.Feller
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HT#3 April 2010
Fue 200/side into temple points

HT#4 February 2011

My Hair Loss Website - Hair Transplant with Dr. Feller

Dr Rahal, the best imo does not charge consultation fees...

Does Dr Feriduni charge a consultation fee? I think its better to get cheap flight just for consultation rather than have consultation right before surgery. Are the waiting lists long in his clinic?

I just checked Rahals website. Looks very impressive as does Feriduinis. Taking into account the price of the Dollar, its around the same price but going to canada would mean expensive flights and hotel stay for wk or 2. If i went to Belgium I could be home in ireland in a few days. Would it be possible to go to work after 2 wks without anyone noticing? Is the scar worth it? does Rahal do fue?