cosmetic appeal: finding the right surgeon
by Sarah Myers
what type of research should I do?
If you want to avoid your GP, you'll need to invest some time in research. Fully trained plastic surgeons should be listed on the General Medical Council's specialist register. You can check this on the GMC website (see help and info). All doctors setting up as cosmetic surgeons for the first time from April 2002 must also be on the GMC's specialist register. BAAPS also have a list of people who are recognised as formerly trained plastic surgeons.
Gather information on surgery from newspapers, magazines and the internet, noting down the names of any surgeons who are mentioned or quoted. Learn as much as you can about the kind of procedure you think might suit you.
Talk to friends. Someone who has had a positive experience of a similar operation is the most reliable advertisement for a good surgeon. Bear in mind that while some people will be happy to discuss their new nose/ increased bra size, others may be reluctant to talk openly about plastic surgery.
When you've found out as much as you can about the surgeon and clinic, book a consultation. The first surgeon you see doesn't have to be the one you go with. It's really important that you feel comfortable with him/her as you'll need to talk honestly about what you are hoping to achieve and why. And of course some operations require more intimate conversations and examinations than others.
Do compare prices, but don't make a decision based on this factor alone. Don't rush your research – invest plenty of time in your choice of surgeon and procedure. Even for a minor operation, there can be serious risks involved and a hasty decision could result in irreparable damage.
(July 2004, resources updated Februrary 2005)
