Cosmetic Surgery Checklist
Here’s a checklist to help you attain a more worthwhile surgical experience and to decide what’s best for you.
Changes desired: Research and learn all about your desired treatment. Have a clear vision in mind of the changes you want to see and the reasons why.
Outpatient consultation and GP advice: Speak to your GP to get initial guidance and to help point you in the right direction.
Surgeon’s expertise: Find a surgeon with the right qualifications, who is on the specialist GMC register and is experienced in the area of your desired surgery. You may ask to see evidence (photographs and testimonials) of past procedures.
Medical complications: Remember that no procedure or surgeon is 100% risk-free. Majority of complications are inexplicable, can occur randomly or of a multifactorial cause.
Expectations: All types of surgery have certain limitations as to what’s technically achievable in a given patient. The more realistic your expectations are, the better the overall outcome. Remember that cosmetic surgery can turn back the natural ageing clock a few years back, but it doesn’t stop it ticking forward.
Timing & aftercare: This is an important as the surgery itself. You should be aware of who to contact and the follow-up arrangements. Arrange surgery at a convenient time with adequate home care and support in place.
Independence: To arrive at a decision, you need assistance in deciding what, if any, surgery is required. The information you receive should be balanced - don’t rush your decision or feel pressured into having extra procedures.
Cool-off period & cost: After your initial consultation, take time to decide and ensure you feel at ease with your surgeon. A second consultation before you procedure is recommended. Obtain information on the cost of the primary procedure and the terms for any remedial surgery, if required.
Surgical questions: Prepare and write down your questions before your consultation and request written information afterwords to help your recollection.
DISCLAIMER:
This website is designed to supply useful information, and isn’t to be regarded as advice specific to any particular case. The information contained is by no means exhaustive and it doesn’t replace the need for a thorough consultation. Restore Surgery accepts no liability for any decision taken by the reader in respect of the treatment they decide to undertake.