Facial
Body
Breast
Minor ProceduresAre you considering cosmetic surgery to help you achieve your body goals? In certain situations, no amount of diet or exercise can provide the results you desire, in such cases cosmetic surgery may be the only option. Examples include post-pregnancy breast surgery, liposuction or tummy tucks. Should you wish to change the size and shape or your nose a rhinoplasty is the only permanent method, similarly, should you wish to rebalance your facial features, facial implants are a useful technique.
If you’re new to the world of cosmetic surgery, it’s only natural to have questions and concerns about finding the best cosmetic surgeon for your elected procedure.
To help you on your patient journey and ensure you’re making a well-informed decision, all while being aware of UK laws and best practices for surgeons and hospitals, we’ve compiled a comprehensive set of expert tips. Let’s delve into the key considerations when selecting the perfect surgeon and cosmetic surgery clinic for your transformative journey.”
One of the first things to check is whether the surgeon is on the General Medical Council (GMC) specialist register. This register indicates that they have undergone additional training and qualifications in their specific field, ensuring that they possess the necessary expertise for your chosen procedure.
- Clinic Achievements and Awards
Look for clinics that have received recognition and awards for their achievements in the field over a long period of time. While awards are not the sole indicator of quality, they can be a testament to a clinic’s commitment to excellence and patient care.
- Training in the UK
While not the most critical factor, it’s worth considering whether your surgeon has received training in the UK. UK-trained surgeons are likely to be familiar with local regulations and practices, which can be an advantage. It’s important to note that UK training is far more rigorous and regulated by groups such as BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) and RCS (The Royal College of Surgeons of England), an independent professional body and registered charity that promotes and advances standards of surgical care for patients, and regulates surgery and dentistry in England and Wales, ensuring a higher level of expertise and ensuring safety standards within the industry.
Please see https://cosmeticsurgery-partners.co.uk/advantages-cosmetic-surgery-uk-csp/ for further info.
- CQC Inspection
Verify whether the clinic or hospital where your surgery will take place has been inspected and accredited by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Accreditation ensures that the facility meets stringent standards for patient safety and quality of care.
- Accessibility
Choose a clinic that is within reasonable traveling distance, especially if you’re targeting the Greater London area. Long travel can be inconvenient for patients, particularly during the post-operative recovery period. Should something go wrong after surgery it’s best you can easily and conveniently visit the clinic, for this reason out of many, we must strongly advise against traveling abroad for cosmetic surgery.
- Independent Reviewer PHIN
Check if the surgeon and clinic are registered with the Private Healthcare Information Network (PHIN). PHIN is an independent reviewer that provides valuable information about the performance and outcomes of private healthcare providers in the UK.
- Online Reviews and Reputation
Research the surgeon and clinic online to read reviews and testimonials from previous patients. While no one is exempt from occasional negative feedback, a consistently positive reputation can instil confidence in your choice, it’s wise to check multiple review platforms and sources.
- Financial Options
Inquire about the availability of financing options, as this can make your surgical journey more accessible. Understanding the cost and payment options upfront is essential, and it’s also wise to find out what exactly is included in the cost- does the price cover everything?
- Getting the Most from a Consultation
A consultation with a prospective surgeon is your opportunity to gain valuable insights into the procedure and the surgeon’s approach. Come prepared with a list of questions and be open about your goals and concerns. A surgeon who actively listens and provides clear, honest answers is a valuable partner in your journey. A patient who does good research gets the best results, there is no such thing as asking too many questions, some patients may choose to have a number of consultations with a number of different surgeons, choose one you feel most comfortable with.
When choosing a clinic for surgery, it’s crucial to consider if they offer psychological support services. Surgery can be both physically and emotionally transformative, and access to professionals who can provide support and guidance is invaluable. At Cosmetic Surgery Partners, we prioritise staying ahead of the curve, as part of our patient journey we include a pre-op counsellor who can address these concerns. Surgeons should be able to identify and offer support to psychologically vulnerable patients.
Ask to see the surgeon’s portfolio and before-and-after photos of previous patients. This visual evidence can give you a clear idea of their skill and the potential results of your procedure, use a trained eye, a poor-quality photo with good results is better than a photo that has been heavily edited to conceal scars and tell-tale signs of surgery in photoshop!
In today’s busy world, the option for video consultations can be convenient, especially if you have logistical challenges attending in-person consultations. Although not a replacement for in person consultations, it could be a great way to get a feel for the surgeon and ask initial questions before booking a consultation in person.
Explore whether the clinic has a buddy system or patient support network where you can connect with others who have undergone similar procedures. Sharing experiences and insights with others can provide valuable emotional support.
By following these expert tips and considering the relevant factors, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision when choosing the perfect surgeon and clinic for your transformative journey. Remember that your health, safety, and satisfaction are paramount, and finding the right surgeon and clinic is a significant step towards realising your body goals safely and responsibly.
Cosmetic Surgery Partners: Meet Our Expert Surgeons
We appreciate more than most the daunting aspect of undergoing cosmetic surgery, especially for those who are new to it. Not only have we complied all the above tips to help you in your search, we’re also incredibly proud to offer a wide range of cosmetic treatments by certified specialists all under one roof at our London based hospital, thanks to our fantastic surgeons.
Meet Our Surgeons
Expertise: Abdominoplasty, Breast Augmentation, Facelift, Blepharoplasty, Mastopexy, Breast Reduction, Secondary Breast Surgery, Liposuction, Labiaplasty, Gender affirming Surgery, and a wide range of non-surgical treatments.
Dr. Miles Berry brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team. With a diverse skill set, he can help you achieve your desired results, whether you’re looking to enhance your body, face, breasts or combining a number of procedures to change overall appearance such as a “mommy makeover”. Dr. Berry is known for his precision and dedication to ensuring patient satisfaction.
Expertise: Cosmetic procedures to the face, nose and neck; facelifts, rhinoplasty, upper & lower eyelid surgery, jaw surgery, facial implants and a range of non-surgical treatments.
Dr. Andrew Douglas is not just an accomplished surgeon but also a compassionate humanitarian. He has volunteered in low-income countries, providing life-changing surgeries to those in need. His dedication to improving lives extends beyond his practice.
Expertise: Oncoplastic, Reconstructive, and Cosmetic Breast Surgery, a dedication to offering the best; breast augmentation, breast reconstruction, mastopexy, breast reduction
With over 25 years of experience, Mr. El Gammal is a UK accredited specialist in breast surgery. His extensive knowledge and research in the field have led to numerous international publications. He is dedicated to helping patients achieve their desired breast aesthetics while maintaining optimal health.
Contact Cosmetic Surgery Partners Today
We hope that the above information has provided you with the confidence and assurance you need to make the right choice. Whichever cosmetic surgeon you’re interested in learning more about, get in touch with our award-winning team to book a consultation today!
