Quizzing your Consultant: What to Ask Before Getting Cosmetic Surgery
It is said that your body is a temple and, no matter what part you wish to enhance or change, undergoing cosmetic treatment is a very personal decision.
Every year, thousands of people in the UK put themselves at serious risk by undergoing bad or inappropriate surgery that could be easily avoided by asking some simple questions about their treatment.
Our dedicated cosmetics team are here to ensure you feel safe, comfortable and satisfied both before and after your procedure, helping you to become a more confident version of yourself.
Thinking about cosmetic surgery? Our Cosmetic Sister Sarah Grantham has compiled a handy list of questions to ask your consultant to ensure you get the most out of your initial consultation and prevent any unnecessary risk.
- Who will operate on me?
This may sound like an obvious one, but it’s not uncommon for prospective patients to be unaware of who will be in control of their treatment.
I agree with the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS), which recommends that you only visit a licensed surgeon who can offer a thorough consultation without pressuring you into having surgery.
At St Hugh’s Hospital, we understand that it takes time to properly determine whether a procedure is right for you, as it is a big commitment – both personally and financially.
You should weigh up the pros and cons and if your surgeon doesn’t afford you the opportunity to be thorough in your decision, simply walk away.
It’s also important to ensure your surgeon is properly qualified for the job. Like BAPRAS, we recommend only visiting a plastic or other speciality surgeon who is listed on the GMC Specialist Register.
- What are the potential risks and complications?
It’s important to know that there are risks associated with any medical procedure – especially those that involve anaesthetic – and cosmetic ones are no exception.
When you have a consultation, you should be wary of any surgeon who shies away from talking about the risks or potential complications for each procedure.
All good surgeons dedicate time to cover any questions or worries you may have during your initial consultation, which is simply part of the procedure at St Hugh’s Hospital.
- What is your complication / re-operation rate?
With any medical procedure, transparency is key.
And when it comes to cosmetics, it’s vital to visit a surgeon who takes the time to explain how they measure patient outcomes and how many of their patients require further corrective surgery after the main procedure.
We truly believe that no stone should be left unturned, which can not only ensure you feel comfortable and well equipped before your procedure but can also minimise the risks associated with it.
- What results can I expect and how long will they last for?
Enhancing your physical appearance through cosmetic surgery isn’t always a one-stop shop; it involves commitment and upkeep.
I’d always recommend that you only visit a surgeon who can provide a full and realistic picture of the follow ups needed and further costs likely to maintain the desired effect.
A vital element of my role is to ensure patients are left well-equipped and know how to maintain the effects once the surgery is done; wraparound care is an important part of the deal when receiving treatment at St Hugh’s Hospital.
- What aftercare do you provide?
The relationship you have with your surgeon and your hospital shouldn’t end once the procedure is over; it’s advisable to find out how you’ll be looked after following your surgery, including what you are entitled to and how your hospital can offer it.
This enables you to monitor your procedure once it is done, while having a reliable platform for advice and aftercare should any problems arise. This is something we really value at St Hugh’s Hospital.
When the choice is careful and considered, having cosmetic surgery can change your quality of life for the better and reveal a more confident version of yourself.
Ensuring that you’re well-informed and that your surgeon properly answers any questions you may have before committing to a procedure is vital.
To find out more about the cosmetic treatments we offer, visit www.hmtsthughs.org/treatments or call us on 01472 251100.