Guide to Getting Plastic Surgery for Women in UK
In recent years, the United Kingdom has seen a significant rise in the number of women opting for plastic surgery. This surge is fuelled by a variety of factors, including advancements in medical technology, the growing influence of social media, and an increased emphasis on personal appearance and self-esteem. Plastic surgery, once a taboo subject, is now widely discussed and considered by women across different age groups and backgrounds in the UK.
The decision to undergo plastic surgery is personal and can be driven by many reasons, from the desire to enhance physical features to the need for reconstructive surgery following an accident or illness. Whatever the motivation, it’s important for women to approach this decision with a clear understanding of the procedures available, the potential risks and benefits, and the importance of selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon.
In this blog, Chester Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna aims to provide an insightful overview of plastic surgery for women in the UK, covering popular procedures, key considerations before going under the knife, and essential criteria for choosing the right surgeon.
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Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures for Women in the UK
Plastic surgery includes a wide range of procedures, each designed to address different areas of the body and specific concerns. In the UK, certain procedures have gained popularity among women seeking cosmetic improvements. Here are some of the most sought-after procedures:
- Breast Augmentation: Also known as a “boob job,” breast enlargement involves using implants or fat transfer to increase the size, shape, or fullness of the breasts. It remains one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the UK, appealing to women who wish to enhance their breast size or restore volume lost due to weight changes, pregnancy, or ageing
- Liposuction: This procedure is designed to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and arms, which may not respond to diet and exercise. Liposuction is not a weight-loss solution but rather a way to contour and shape the body
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Aimed at creating a firmer, flatter abdomen, a tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat while restoring weakened or separated muscles. This procedure is particularly popular among women post-pregnancy who wish to reclaim their pre-baby body contours
- Facelift (Rhytidectomy): A facelift targets signs of aging by removing excess skin, tightening underlying tissues, and repositioning skin on the face and neck. It can significantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin, offering a more youthful appearance
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): This procedure can correct drooping upper lids and puffy bags below the eyes, features that can make one look older or more tired than they feel. By removing excess tissue, eyelid surgery can help rejuvenate the eye area
What You Should Know Before Getting Plastic Surgery
Deciding to undergo plastic surgery is a major step that comes with its own set of considerations and preparations. Before starting this process, it’s crucial to arm yourself with knowledge and set realistic expectations. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding Your Motivations
The first step in considering plastic surgery is to understand your motivations. Are you seeking to boost your confidence, correct a physical issue, or are you trying to meet someone else’s standards of beauty? Having a clear understanding of your reasons will help you communicate your goals to your surgeon and ensure that you’re making the decision for yourself.
Researching Procedures and Outcomes
It’s essential to research the specific procedure you’re considering thoroughly. Understand what the surgery entails, the recovery process, potential risks, and the realistic outcomes. Remember, plastic surgery can significantly enhance your appearance and self-esteem but it has limitations. Setting realistic expectations can lead to greater satisfaction with the results.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Selecting the right plastic surgeon is paramount to your safety and the success of your procedure. Look for a surgeon who is certified in plastic surgery, has extensive experience in the procedure you want, and can provide before-and-after photos of their work. Schedule consultations with potential surgeons to discuss your goals, ask questions, and get a feel for their approach and personality.
Understanding the Risks
All surgeries carry risks, and it’s important to be aware of them before proceeding. Complications can include infection, scarring, dissatisfaction with the outcome, and more serious medical risks. Ensure you discuss these with your plastic surgeon to fully understand the potential side effects and how they are managed.
Considering the Financial Cost
Plastic surgery can be expensive, and it’s often not covered by insurance if it’s for cosmetic reasons. Be prepared to cover the cost out-of-pocket, including the surgery, anaesthesia, facility fees, and any follow-up care. Some practices offer financing plans, so ask about your options during your consultation.
Preparing for Recovery after Plastic Surgery
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and the individual. It may require taking time off work, having help at home, and temporary limitations on activities. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions for care post-surgery to ensure the best outcome and minimise the risk of complications. Following these instructions is crucial for your healing and results.
Is Plastic Surgery for You?
Making the decision to undergo plastic surgery is personal and requires introspection and careful consideration. Here are a few factors to help you determine if plastic surgery is the right choice for you:
- Physical Health: Good candidates for plastic surgery are generally in good physical health, without chronic illnesses or conditions that could complicate surgery or recovery. Discuss your medical history with your plastic surgeon to determine if plastic surgery is safe for you
- Psychological Readiness: It’s important to be psychologically prepared for the changes that come with plastic surgery. Some individuals may experience a period of adjustment to their new appearance, even if the results meet their expectations. Mental resilience and a stable support system can aid in this transition
- Financial Preparedness: Considering the financial implications is crucial. Ensure you are in a position to afford not only the surgery but also any unforeseen expenses that could arise from complications or the need for revision surgery
- Realistic Expectations: Having realistic expectations about the outcomes of plastic surgery is crucial. While surgery can enhance your appearance and boost your self-esteem, it’s important to understand that perfection is unattainable. The goal should be improvement, not perfection
- Long-term Considerations: Some procedures may require maintenance or revision surgeries in the future. Consider whether you’re prepared for potential additional surgeries and the long-term care of your surgical results
Risks of Getting Plastic Surgery Abroad
In search of more affordable options for plastic surgery, some women consider traveling abroad—a trend often referred to as “medical tourism.” While the lower cost can be appealing, it’s important to be aware of the risks and challenges associated with undergoing plastic surgery outside your home country. Here’s what you need to know:
Quality of Care and Safety Standards
One of the primary concerns with undergoing plastic surgery abroad is the variability in quality of care and safety standards. Medical regulations, certification processes, and hospital accreditation standards can differ significantly from those in the UK, potentially affecting the quality of care you receive. It’s essential to research and verify the credentials, qualifications, and reputation of both the surgeon and the facility to ensure they meet your expectations for safety and quality.
Communication Barriers
Language differences can pose a significant challenge when seeking medical treatment abroad. Effective communication with your plastic surgeon and medical staff is critical to understanding the procedure, expressing your expectations, and being informed about post-operative care and potential complications. Language barriers can complicate these discussions, increasing the risk of misunderstandings and dissatisfaction with the results.
Risks Associated with Travel
Traveling long distances for surgery adds its own set of risks, especially when considering the recovery period. Long flights can increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other complications. Additionally, if you experience complications after returning home, it may be challenging to seek follow-up care or address issues with your plastic surgeon who is located in another country.
Lack of Legal Recourse
Should complications arise or if you are dissatisfied with the results, pursuing legal recourse can be significantly more complicated and less likely to be successful when the surgery is performed abroad. Different laws and medical regulations can limit your ability to seek compensation or hold the medical practitioners accountable.
Post-Operative Support and Follow-Up Care
Effective post-operative care is essential for a successful recovery and optimal results. When having surgery abroad, there may be limited options for follow-up care with the plastic surgeon who performed the procedure. This can be problematic if you experience complications or have concerns about your recovery. It’s also important to consider that your local healthcare providers may be hesitant to manage post-operative care for a surgery they did not perform.
FAQs about Plastic Surgery for Women in UK
How many women in the UK have had plastic surgery?
- Estimating the exact number of women in the UK who have undergone plastic surgery is challenging due to the private nature of medical procedures and the fluctuation in annual surgery rates. However, data from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) and other industry reports suggest a steady increase in the number of cosmetic surgeries performed each year. Surveys and studies indicate that hundreds of thousands of women in the UK have had some form of plastic surgery, ranging from minimally invasive treatments to more complex surgical procedures. The growing trend reflects a broader acceptance and desire for aesthetic enhancements and reconstructive surgeries.
What is the most common plastic surgery in the UK?
- Breast augmentation remains the most common plastic surgery procedure among women in the UK. This procedure, aimed at enhancing the size and shape of a woman’s breasts, consistently tops the list of cosmetic surgeries in terms of popularity. Its prevalence is attributed to its ability to boost self-esteem and body confidence, along with advancements in surgical techniques that offer more natural-looking results. Other popular procedures include liposuction, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), and eyelid surgery, but breast augmentation continues to hold the top spot for its wide appeal among diverse age groups.
How much is plastic surgery in the UK?
- The cost of plastic surgery in the UK varies widely depending on the type of procedure, the surgeon’s expertise, the location of the clinic or hospital, and the complexity of the surgery. On average, breast augmentation can cost between £3,500 and £7,000, rhinoplasty might range from £4,000 to £7,000, and a facelift could set you back £6,000 to £10,000. Liposuction and tummy tucks often fall within similar price ranges. These figures are indicative and can vary; hence, it’s important for individuals to consult with specific clinics or surgeons for precise quotations, which should include all associated costs such as surgeon’s fees, facility fees, anaesthesia, and aftercare.
Is plastic surgery common in England?
- Yes, plastic surgery has become increasingly common in England, reflecting a broader trend observed across the UK and globally. The demand for both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures has been on the rise, driven by factors such as advancements in medical technology, the influence of social media and celebrity culture, and a growing societal acceptance of cosmetic enhancements. While exact numbers vary from year to year, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) and other industry bodies report a steady growth in the number of procedures performed annually. This trend underscores the significance of plastic surgery in modern British society, with more individuals considering these procedures to enhance their appearance or address medical concerns.
Further Reading about Plastic Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna
- Read more about What Is a Healthy Weight for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
- Read more about Recovery Timeline after Breast Augmentation
- Read more about How to Get a Natural Looking Breast Augmentation Using Smaller Implants
- Read more about Cosmetic Surgery for Women in UK
- Read more about Menopause Makeover
- Read more about What do Tummy Tuck Scars look like and can they be Reduced?
Medical References about Plastic Surgery for Women in UK
- The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
- Overview -Plastic surgery – NHS
- Choosing who will do your cosmetic procedure – NHS
- Considering cosmetic surgery – BAPRAS
- Is cosmetic surgery available on the NHS?
Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of breast, body and face surgery and minor skin procedures.
