If you are considering cosmetic surgery, a number of questions will likely pop into your mind. We have answered some of the most common queries about cosmetic surgery the Clinic gets when patients enquire. If you book a consultation, it is important to ask your surgeon questions. Even if the question feels silly, it is much better to know for certain than to assume.

Is Cosmetic Surgery Safe?

Cosmetic surgery, like any other surgical procedure, carries risks and potential complications. However, when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon in an accredited facility, the risks can be minimised.

Other factors such as your health, the type of cosmetic procedure being performed, the skill of the surgeon, and the quality o the facility where the procedure is performed will also affect the likelihood of complications.

It is important to note that cosmetic surgery is an elective procedure, in other words, it is not medically necessary. If you want to have a cosmetic procedure done, you must carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks before going ahead.

Are Cosmetic Surgery and Plastic Surgery the Same Thing?

Cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery are related, but they are not exactly the same thing.

Plastic surgery is a broad field that encompasses both cosmetic procedures and reconstructive procedures.

Cosmetic surgery is where a person chooses to undergo an operation, or invasive medical procedure, to change their physical appearance for cosmetic rather than medical reasons. Common examples of cosmetic surgery include Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, and Facelifts.

Reconstructive surgery is the other facet of plastic surgery. The purpose of reconstructive surgery is to repair damage and restore function. It is performed to repair and reshape bodily structures affected by things like birth defects, trauma/injury, infections, tumours, and disease. Some examples of reconstructive surgery may be familiar with include breast reconstruction following cancer, cleft lip and palate repair, and skin grafting.

While some plastic surgeons specialize in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, others may focus exclusively on one or the other. It’s important to choose a surgeon who has experience and expertise in the specific type of surgery you are looking for.

Am I Too Old to Have Cosmetic Surgery?

There is no maximum age for cosmetic surgery.

Research has shown that the postoperative complication rate between younger and elderly patients was not significantly different. What plays a much larger role in determining whether someone is a good candidate for surgery is their overall physical and mental health.

As we age, our bodies undergo changes that may affect the outcome of a cosmetic procedure. For example, the skin may lose elasticity and surgical incisions may take longer to heal. However, a skilled surgeon can tailor the procedure to meet these needs.

How Do I Know if a Surgeon is Fully Trained in Cosmetic Surgery?

A fully qualified plastic surgeon will be on will be registered on The Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery with the General Medical Council. They should also have gained the FCRS (Plast) qualification.

Also look out for surgeons who are members of professional associations, which ensures that all applicants have the relevant qualifications, experience, and insurance to perform certain types of surgery. The primary two examples include the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) and the British Association of Plastic  Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).

Is Plastic Surgery Considered an Outpatient Procedure, or Should I Prepare For a Hospital Stay?

The length of your hospital stay following a plastic surgery procedure will depend on the type of procedure being performed, and the surgeon’s recommendation. That being said, many plastic surgery procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you will be sent home the same day as your surgery. The overall risk is very low for performing plastic surgery in the outpatient setting.

Your surgeon will evaluate your individual case and determine the appropriate post-operative care. It’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure a safe and successful recovery.

Will I receive post-op care following my surgery?

Yes. Post-operative care is an essential part of the recovery process following cosmetic surgery. Be wary of any clinic or surgeon who does not make this clear to you. A good surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for yourself after the procedure and will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and address any concerns or complications.

Post-operative care may include pain management, wound care, and activity restrictions, among other things. Your surgeon may also prescribe medications, such as antibiotics or painkillers, to help manage any discomfort or prevent infection.

Will I have to take a significant amount of time off work?

The amount of time you will need to take off work following a cosmetic surgery procedure depends on serval factors. These include the type of procedure you undergo, as well as your own physical anatomy. Everyone is different. For more invasive surgeries such as Breast Reduction or Tummy Tuck will require more recovery time than Eyelid Surgery, for example.

Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on what activities you should avoid and for how long, as well as when it’s safe to resume work. You should plan to take the necessary time off work to allow your body to heal properly and avoid any unnecessary stress or strain on the surgical site. Rushing back to work too soon could jeopardise your results and increase your risk of complications.

If you have any additional questions you would like answered, get in touch today! We are here to help.