Choosing The Right Surgeon
How do you choose the right cosmetic surgeon?
Cosmetic surgery is on the rise both in the UK and Worldwide. If you’re considering cosmetic surgery then your safety should be a priority. Unfortunately the reputation of the cosmetic surgery industry has been brought into question over the years. There are many so-called experts with impressive sounding qualifications but make sure you do your research before embarking on treatment. Some ‘cosmetic surgeons’ are not fully trained in aesthetic surgery, their qualifications do not necessarily mean they are competent and safe to perform aesthetic surgical procedures. Mr Wokes has completed the Fellowship of the Royal College of Surgeons Plastic Surgery exams as well as the prestigious British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons Aesthetic Surgery fellowship. He is an established NHS Consultant specialising in Plastic, Reconstructive, Head & Neck and Aesthetic surgery.
Finding the right plastic surgeon for you
DOCTORS AND SURGEONS
- Only registered doctors can perform cosmetic surgery in England.
- You should check if someone is a registered doctor or surgeon on the General Medical Council online register.
- Some surgeons are also members of professional associations, which make sure they have the relevant qualifications, experience and insurance to perform particular types of surgery.
For example:
Cosmetic surgery
Check the clinic is registered
All independent hospitals and clinics that provide cosmetic surgery in England must be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Check the hospital or clinic is registered with the CQC, or ask them to show you its certificate. The CQC publishes quality ratings online, and hospitals and clinics must make sure all staff are properly trained to safely do their job.
- CQC: check hospitals in England and their quality of care
- CQC: check clinics in England and their quality of care
Cosmetic surgery
Find someone you trust
Much like finding the right family doctor or personal trainer, it may take a few tries before you meet a surgeon you feel comfortable enough with to trust. Having a personal rapport and ease of communication with your surgeon and surgical staff can mean the difference between a good plastic surgery experience and a great one.
Look for honesty
Finally, it’s not a plastic surgeon’s job to tell you what you want to hear. The best surgeons will give you honest, straightforward guidance on the best approach to your situation and the realistic results you can expect.
Things to avoid
Do not pay for a procedure until you’ve had a consultation to make sure it’s right for you.
You should also avoid:
- group treatments, or events involving alcohol
- treatment vouchers sold online on group discount or voucher sites
- mobile services where procedures are performed in places such as private homes or hotels
- practitioners who only advertise on social media
