For many people choosing the right Plastic Surgeon to see for a consultation can be a difficult task. Below is Mr Richards’ 10 point guide to help you choose the most appropriate surgeon for you.
1. Have any of your friends, family or colleagues any experience of a Plastic Surgeon? Personal recommendation is often the best way to learn about the best Surgeons in your area as they rarely advertise.
2. Is your Surgeon listed on the General Medical Councils list of Specialist Plastic Surgeons at http://www.gmc-
3. Is your Surgeon a member of the following main professional organisations for Plastic Surgery in the UK?
a. The British Association of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeons http://www.bapras.org.uk/
b. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons http://www.baaps.org.uk/
4. Does your surgeon specialise in the procedure you are considering?
5. How many of the procedure you are considering does the Surgeon perform per year?
6. Ask the Surgeon if they have encountered any complications following the treatment you are considering. It is relatively common to have minor and less commonly more major problems following surgery and your Surgeon should be honest and open about this.
7. Will you be able to see before and after photos of patients your surgeon has treated? Ask how long after surgery the photographs were taken and check whether they are taken with the same lighting.
8. Is your surgeon happy to put you in contact with patient he or she has treated to gain a personal testimonial of their work?
9. Which Hospital will you be treated in? The major Hospital groups in the UK have very high standards are regularly audited. Have there been any cases of MRSA or C-difficile acquired in the Hospital.
10. What happens if you are not happy with treatment? Is there a policy for revision and who will be eligible for the costs of this? The major Hospital Chains often have a no charge policy for any revisional work performed within a year of Surgery.
