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Cosmetic Surgery - More than just a nip/tuck 03 March 2004 In the latest US import to hit our screens, NIP/TUCK portrays an extreme view of the cosmetic surgery business Stateside and shows what people are willing to endure for the body beautiful. The programme is drama and therefore dramatic so doesn’t show a realistic view of the cosmetic surgery industry. In the UK, it is not as widespread as in the US but there are signs it is becoming more mainstream. Bupa Hospitals has seen cosmetic surgery becoming more popular especially among the 25-35 year age range. In 2003 Bupa Hospitals experienced the fastest growth in recent years in cosmetic surgery with a 20 per cent boom in procedures performed across its 34 hospitals. Figures show that breast enlargement remains the most popular procedure, accounting for more than one in four cosmetic surgery operations, an increase of 28 per cent last year compared to 2002. According to Bupa Hospitals, demand for other procedures such as nose reshaping, eyelid surgery, breast reduction, breast uplift and tummy tuck is also increasing. The number of facelifts performed increased by 38 per cent in 2003 over the previous year, partly attributable to new techniques such as the new “mini-facelift” introduced at Bupa Methley Park Hospital in West Yorkshire which is a less invasive technique which can aid recovery. Bupa has found that demand is particularly strong in the north of England with Bupa’s hospitals at Leeds, Wakefield, Manchester and Edinburgh accounting for over a third of the hospital group’s cosmetic surgery business. Growth like this means more people are opting for surgery so Bupa has some advice for those who may be considering it. Bupa’s assistant medical director, Dr Annabel Bentley says: "Interest in cosmetic surgery is increasing and there are now a wide range of procedures. Many people want to change their appearance in some way, such as altering a feature they’ve always disliked. The way someone feels about their appearance affects their self-esteem and confidence and they may consider cosmetic surgery. However they should consider their reasoning carefully and surgery should not be seen as a quick-fix." Dr Bentley continues: "If cosmetic surgery is something you are seriously thinking about it is important to research all the options carefully. Make sure you see a consultant surgeon who is experienced in the procedure you are considering. Your consultation with the doctor should explore your motives and reasoning for surgery and help you have realistic expectations of what surgery can and cannot achieve. To make a fully informed decision you will need to discuss the risks as well as the benefits of the procedure and understand how they apply to you personally. It is advisable to get more than one opinion and ideally find a surgeon through a recommendation from a GP or friend." "Before you proceed, take some time to think about your motivations, what you want the surgery to achieve and why. Cosmetic surgery alone will not solve any personal problems or land you a dream job. Weigh up all the options and make sure that it is absolutely right for you." While researching and deciding where to go for surgery, do not accept a consultation with an adviser. Insist on seeing the consultant surgeon who is going to treat you. It is also important not to shop for a consultant based solely on price and take time to establish exactly what is included in your quote to avoid any hidden extras. It is also advisable and good medical practice to have a "cooling off" period between consultation and surgery to give the patient time for serious consideration prior to the procedure. Dr Bentley says that people considering cosmetic surgery should receive all the facts, including any risks and complications, so they can make a fully informed decision. "It is important that people are fully informed, in a Bupa hospital, all first consultations are with consultant surgeons so that people can discuss any concerns with a fully qualified doctor who has specialist training in the procedure." All cosmetic surgery units should reach high clinical standards and all surgeons must be qualified. Dr Bentley adds: "All doctors performing cosmetic surgery in Bupa hospitals are consultants whose names appear on the GMC (General Medical Council) specialist register and meet national care standards. In addition consultant cosmetic surgeons are members of the appropriate associations such as BAPS (British Association of Plastic Surgeons) or BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), or both." Being fully informed will maximise your chances of being satisfied with your treatment. It may help to ask the following questions:
Bupa Hospitals offers cosmetic surgery services across its 34 hospitals available as an Inclusive Care package which means that all aspects of the procedure and care are included in one price for the individual. For further information about the nearest Bupa hospital visit: www.bupahospitals.co.uk or call 0845 600 8822.
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