Cosmetic procedures and private treatment
Over the last few years, cosmetic procedures have become commonplace. If you are considering paying for treatments or surgery, here’s some advice that may help. It is, however, advisable to visit your GP to discuss medical matters and before making any major medical decisions.
Make sure you thoroughly research the procedure you are considering. There are a number of websites offering advice, but the best starting point is the Department of Health’s own information site at www.dh.gov.uk/cosmeticsurgery
Many companies offer free seminars about cosmetic procedures (although you should not be pressurised into booking procedures at these events) and you can also get advice from your GP.
Many cosmetic surgeons will see you without a referral however, if you decide to proceed, he/she should contact your GP for details of your medical history, especially if you are having a general anaesthetic.
- Once you’ve done your research, make a list of the hospitals and clinics based on factual information. It’s a good idea to visit, talk to their advisors or attend a seminar (if they have them).
- In England, in accordance with the Care Standards Act 2000 and the Health and Social Care (Community Health and Standards) Act 2003, all hospitals and clinics in England are regulated by the Commission for Healthcare Audit and Inspection (known as the Healthcare Commission) and are inspected regularly against the Department of Health Independent Healthcare National Minimum Stands. These cover issues such as the quality of treatment and care and safety. You can check the registration details of a hospital or clinic on the Healthcare Commission website (www.healthcarecommission.org.uk). In Scotland, you can check on www.carecommission.com and in Wales www.hiw.wales.gov.uk. You can ask to see a hospital’s most recent Healthcare Commission inspection report.
- Many hospitals and clinics offer a fixed price for private treatment or cosmetic work. Make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully and ask if you are not sure about something. Also, ask exactly what is included, i.e. ask if follow-up consultations and treatment is included and whether your drinks and meals are included during your stay.
- Ask what the emergency procedures are once you return home. Also consider the location of the hospital and what happens if you live some distance away.
- Choosing the right surgeon for you is an important step. You should certainly check that he/she is qualified in the procedure they are going to carry out on you.
- Other practitioners, such as nurses, dentists and GPs, can offer non-surgical cosmetic treatments (also known as aesthetic treatments) such as anti-wrinkle treatments and pulsed light therapy. Again, check the registration of any practitioner who is carrying out these treatments.
- You should be given a full explanation of any risks, side-effects, possible complications, scarring, recovery times etc. before you agree to any procedure.
- Cosmetic surgery agencies act as brokers to match you with a hospital/clinic and surgeon. Read their terms and conditions carefully before you agree to anything.
- Ensure that you see the surgeon who will be operating on you prior to the procedure, rather than just a sales advisor.
- If you are considering cosmetic surgery abroad, take care to consider the standards of care you will receive.
- Don’t get rushed into a decision. You should be given time to talk things over with friends or family first.
