
When choosing a cosmetic surgeon, the one you select must
have full qualifications as well as experience. When deciding to undergo cosmetic
surgery it is important to choose a private hospital where the consultants who
practice also hold NHS consultant appointments. This will guarantee
the quality of the surgery.
Avoid establishments that have a 'hard sell' approach and
make sure your initial consultation is with the person who will perform the
treatment. This pre-treatment consultation is vital. Never be afraid to ask
about the consultant’s qualifications and experience.
If the consultant doesn’t recommend that you go ahead with the treatment,
he or she should tell you so. You should recognise that a reputable surgeon
would rather lose your business than cause any risks to your health and well-being
on a cosmetic procedure. He or she may recommend against surgery for the following
reasons: if your expectations are unrealistic, an improvement is unlikely or
if the surgery is inappropriate.
It’s often wise to take along a friend or relative whose
opinion you trust to help you make a judgement. A consultant should always complete
a full medical history and examination. He or she must also explain the risks
and benefits of any surgical procedure. A consultant will often show you photographs
of previous successes. Bear in mind that these may be misleading as they provide
no guarantee that you will have a similar result. In fact, you should beware
of a surgeon that does guarantee results, as there’s no such thing as
an exact science.
Make sure that you feel comfortable with this person; that
they are easy to talk to, friendly and professional.
To find a consultant, firstly you should speak to your GP. If the GP is unable
to recommend a consultant or clinic, see the website of the British
Association of Cosmetic Doctors.
If you are considering going to a consultant recommended
by a friend or from an advertisement, call the General Medical Council advice
line on 020 7915 3630 to check his or her credentials.
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