Honest Review of MDI Medical Weight Loss & Aesthetics…read more
I recently visited MDI Medical Weight Loss & Aesthetics through a Groupon deal for a VI Peel advertised at $172. The office was clean, and I really appreciated the attention to hygiene. The receptionist stood out--she sanitized the entire reception area while wearing gloves and maintained a friendly, welcoming attitude. I would rate her a 10/10 for professionalism and customer service.
Pricing Issues & Customer Experience
Unfortunately, my experience with the owner was not as positive. When I arrived, she expressed frustration about the Groupon price, implying that I was taking advantage of her by using the advertised deal. She stated that the regular price for the service was $250 and attempted to charge me $225, despite my showing her the Groupon deal for $172. When I reminded her of the advertised price, she rudely dismissed it, saying it was "too low" and then demanded $175 instead.
Although it was only a few dollars more, the principle matters. Maryland law states that merchants must honor their advertised pricing, and a customer shouldn't have to negotiate or feel pressured to pay more than what was listed. For this issue, I would rate the pricing transparency a 0/10--very dissatisfied. Customers should not have to pay extra to avoid a negative interaction, especially for a chemical service that involves their face and skin.
The Impact on Customers
A business should honor its advertised pricing without making customers feel uncomfortable. The owner openly refused to honor the Groupon price, attempted to charge more, and created an awkward situation over just a few dollars. This approach caused customers to walk out, meaning lost business and a negative experience for those who showed up expecting the listed price.
If a business chooses to use Groupon to attract customers, they should not argue or negotiate over the price once people arrive. Instead, they should either honor the deal as advertised or clearly state any additional costs upfront. Pricing inconsistency and confrontation over small amounts create unnecessary frustration and drive away potential repeat customers.
Similar Issue With Another Customer
Shortly after my interaction, another customer had a similar issue with the provider regarding pricing. The owner did not seem to read the room well, as she continued the dispute in front of other customers. The young lady remained polite but ultimately said she would think about it and asked how to get a refund for the Groupon she had already purchased.
This interaction made it clear that my experience wasn't an isolated incident. The owner admitted that she uses Groupon to bring people in but then disputes the price once they arrive. This approach is misleading and can put customers in an uncomfortable position. Additionally, because the reception area lacks privacy, these conversations play out in front of other clients, which isn't ideal.
Service & Aftercare
As for the service itself, the owner applied the VI Peel well, and I was satisfied with the treatment process. However, she could improve on providing clear, in-person aftercare instructions rather than directing customers to scan a QR code from her living room after the service. A more personal approach in explaining post-treatment care would make a big difference.
Final Thoughts & Ratings
Receptionist: 10/10 - Professional, friendly, and maintains a clean environment.
Service Application: 7/10 - The peel was applied well, but aftercare instructions could be better.
Owner's Customer Service: 7/10 - She is clearly intelligent and knowledgeable but needs to work on professionalism, pricing consistency, and customer interactions.
Pricing Transparency: 0/10 - Extremely dissatisfied. Pricing inconsistency and confrontation with customers over the advertised price created uncomfortable situations, leading to lost business.
Which translates to a two stars out of five stars for this platform
