It is vital to do your own research, but you can ask your GP to refer you to someone who is known and trusted. Your GP knows your medical history will know what services are available locally and offer impartial advice.
You need to be happy with your choice of surgeon; qualifications are immaterial if a surgeon makes you anxious or uncomfortable.
Beware of organisations who offer discounted cosmetic treatments or who try to tie you into a surgical procedure via a non-refundable deposit. If you opt for cut-price surgery, you may pay for it later.
Always research the reputation and reviews for any company that you are considering. Some companies employ surgeons that are not UK accredited, so would not be allowed or entitled to apply for a job as an NHS Consultant Plastic Surgeon. There are cosmetic surgery companies whose surgeons are non-uk and cannot speak fluent English. For your safety always choose a Plastic Surgeon who is a full member of BAPRAS (The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons).
Aftercare is a crucial part of your recovery. Complications post surgery can happen and you need to be able to go back to the clinic or hospital easily. If you do experience any problems you should not have to travel far to see your surgeon. The distance that the clinic or hospital is from your home should play a part in your decision. You should not expect the NHS to pick up the pieces although it will help with a medical emergency.
Get details of the clinic or hospital that the surgeon is recommending and check that they are fully registered with the appropriate regulatory body in your country (in England the CQC)
The Care Quality Commission
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and social care in England. The CQC regulate treatments that involve surgical procedures. It is a legal requirement that services who offer these types of treatments are registered with the CQC. You can also check that the hospital or clinic that you are considering is registered. If they are not they may be practising illegally and their insurance may not cover them or you if anything goes wrong. For more information go to: www.cqc.org.uk/content/choosing-cosmetic-surgery
Northern Ireland
Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority – http://www.rqia.org.uk.
Scotland
http://www.healthcareimprovementscotland.org
Wales
The Health Inspectorate Wales – http://www.hiw.org.uk/home
Make sure your surgeon arranges full aftercare for you following your operation. This aftercare needs to be during your stay in hospital, then afterwards with follow-up consultations and any further treatment that may be required to resolve any problems. Good aftercare is just as important as the surgery itself, and will usually be provided by the surgeon and their personal team. You should not be in any doubt of who to contact at any time if you have any concerns.
Questions to ask your Surgeon:
- Who will operate on me?
- What are your qualifications?
- What are the potential risks and complications?
- What is your complication and re-operation rate?
- What results can I expect and how long will they last for?
- What aftercare do you provide?
To find out more about this go to:
http://www.bapras.org.uk/public/think-over-before-you-make-over/key-questions-to-ask-your-surgeon