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HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SURGEON

There is never just one best doctor for any procedure in the realm of cosmetic surgery and treatments. There are almost certainly several, sometimes many, practitioners who can give you an excellent result.

The best way to find a great cosmetic surgeon is to ask around, get references and talk to patients who are happy, (or unhappy), with their results. Talk to your own GP and, if you have access, to other doctors, anaesthetists and theatre nurses, too; they are mines of information.

You can find lists of aesthetic plastic surgeons, who have all achieved consultant status, from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). Click here for contact details.

Before scheduling an initial appointment to see a short list of two, or preferably three or more surgeons, request brochures describing their practice, experience and special interests; also check their websites – most have them nowadays. Most surgeons will charge a fee for the first visit, so ask in advance.

Never go with the first or only cosmetic surgeon you see, (at least, when it comes to having an operation; a non-invasive procedure doesn’t carry the same risks). Even if you love the first one you meet, and feel very comfortable and confident with him/her, go to see the others for information and comparison, even if only to confirm your initial impression. Only then are you qualified to choose wisely.

Remember that you should always feel comfortable with the doctor and with their recommendations for your treatment. They should also counsel you to make sure that you are ready to undergo this treatment and understand all the implications and risks. If you don’t like the person, continue with the interview, but wait and have another think: certainly don’t commit unless you are sure. Once you decide, get all the fees and hospital costs in writing.

Key questions to ask:

What are your qualifications and training?
What professional bodies do you belong to?
How long have you been practising, and where?
Exactly what do you recommend for me, and why?
How many of these procedures have you performed during the last year?
Where will it be performed?
What kind of anaesthesia will I have and who will be administering it? (The qualifications and experience of the anaesthetist are as important as those of the surgeon).
How long will the procedure take?
Will I need to stay in hospital overnight and where will that be?
How many incisions will there be and where exactly will they be placed?
What is the estimated length of time for recovery, absence from work and overall healing?
Can I see pre and post-operative photographs of other patients that you have operated on?
What results can I reasonably expect?
Have you had any legal action taken against you as a result of surgery you have performed, or is there any case outstanding?

(You can check this with the General Medical Council. Click here for contact details.)