Cosmetic Surgery Considerations

Cosmetic Surgery FAQ

What is the recovery of plastic surgery like?
Every patient heals differently and the healing process will depend on the type of surgery undertaken. To enjoy the benefits of the surgery we would recommend our patients listen to their consultant’s advice on recovery and recuperation.

How do I go about finding the right surgeon?
First ensure the surgeon is accredited. The highest standards of training are demanded by the Irish Association of Plastic Surgeons (IAPS), Irish Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (IAPRAS) and the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS). These associations can supply a list of all members. These surgeons will also be on the Irish Medical Council’s specialist register of plastic surgery. Next talk to your surgeon as a professional, discuss the pros and cons of the surgery and discover if the treatment and the surgeon are right for you.

What types of treatments are available?
Cosmetic surgery covers a wide range of treatments to enhance or refine the form and shape of the body and face. There are many reasons for wanting surgery including:

- changes caused by body development, such as prominent ears, large nose, small or excessively large breasts.
- In middle or later years, patients may want to address sagging of the face, baggy eyelids, drooping or enlarged breasts or loose skin on the trunk or tummy.
- Cosmetic surgery is not generally the answer to excessive weight, but procedures such as tummy tuck or breast uplift can be beneficial after weight loss.

What next?
You have a number of choices:

Your GP - talk to your GP - many are sympathetic to requests for cosmetic surgery and will be able to offer direct referral to an expert plastic surgeon.

Self referral - this is often on the recommendation of a friend who has undergone satisfactory treatment. An appointment can be made
directly and, in line with the Irish Medical Council’s guidelines, your consultant plastic surgeon will wish to write to your GP following the consultation.

After your first appointment, it is often worthwhile returning to your own doctor to talk things over. If you have selected a surgeon, the chances are they will have knowledge about his or her work and can offer further advice.

So, is it really right for me?
Ensure you understand what can and what can’t be achieved and exactly what is involved.

What should I beware of?
“Special offers”, commercial pressure and being rushed into surgery. Being told “what you want to hear” or an absolute guarantee of success.
Trivialisation of surgery, such as not being told of the potential risks or effects of scarring.

Do I need to have private medical insurance to be treated at Blackrock Clinic?
No, you do not need private medical insurance to be treated at Blackrock Clinic. We do offer self pay packages for most procedures.

Will I need a GP referral if I need surgery?
For most procedures, a GP referral is required. Your GP has access to your medical history, which will not only benefit you but will also be helpful to your consultant and us.