|
The first step, in BAAPS’ SURE code is to find the right surgeon, and check their credentials. A good place to start is the Healthcare Commission’s website, since all clinics should be registered with the commission, which took over the job of enforcing the Department of Health’s minimum standards on healthcare, including cosmetic surgery, in 2004. Their list of registered providers is available on their website,www.healthcarecommission.org.uk/cosmeticsurgery. A spokeswoman for the Healthcare Commission says: “Anyone who is providing that type of surgery must be registered with us. We carry out inspections and make sure they meet all the minimum standards, from cleanliness of the premises to making sure their equipment is up-to-date, to making sure the people providing the service have the right qualifications and training.
“Once we have granted registration we carry out annual inspections to make sure they keep up with minimum standards.
“Noone should use anyone who is not registered with us.”
Inside information can be very helpful in finding a surgeon. Ask around people you know who have had surgery, or talk to anyone you know who works in the medical profession – and that includes your GP.
“If you have a painful hip it is the British culture that you would go and see your GP first,” points out Grover. “With cosmetic things it is less likely that you would go to your GP – but we recommend it as the right thing to do. Get some medical advice first.”
He adds: “If I were looking for a solicitor, I wouldn’t have a clue, but people in the business would know. Similarly, if a member of the public wants to get information about a plastic surgeon, there is so much bogus information on the internet – but nurses in a hospital will know who is the best and who they would go to. That all helps patients find a path to the right people.” He added: “If you’ve gone through a good route you’ll find a good surgeon.”
Once you’ve identified a surgeon, advises the SURE code, it is vital to check their credentials.
They should be a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (FCRS) and have further specialist qualifications in plastic surgery. You can check that by visiting the GMC’s website, www.gmc-uk.org.-uk, and looking at their specialist register. Also find out whether they are a member of BAAPS – all of whom must have more than 20 years experience – or another professional organisation.
|
back to New you 
