The risks of cosmetic treatmentsWhen to walk away

Are there alternatives to surgery?

Is surgery the answer?

Be clear about what you expect cosmetic surgery to do for you. It won't change your life or solve problems with relationships or jobs. If you feel anxious about situations or relationships, it’s worth talking to your GP and considering seeing a counsellor or psychologist.

Also, it’s always worth thinking about the alternatives to surgery. We all know we should eat healthily and exercise – cosmetic operations aren’t a way of getting out of it. If you don’t eat well and exercise after surgery the results generally won't last, for instance.

Improving your diet and exercise can also be safer, cheaper and carry fewer risks. Ask your GP if you need more information about what exercise and diet would be right for you.

If you’re pregnant

You should not have cosmetic surgery if you're pregnant. Some medical conditions or medicines can make you unsuitable for surgery. Ask your GP for more information.

Last chance to walk away

If you find yourself in any of the following situations, walk away:

• You're about to have surgery and you haven't met the surgeon before.
• You're going for surgery or laser treatment and discover that the clinic isn't registered with the Healthcare Commission, for England, or the Healthcare Inspectorate Wales.
• The clinic is putting pressure on you to have surgery or treatments that you don't want or need.
• You're prescribed Botox® by someone other than a nurse, doctor or dentist.
• The clinic or hospital is telling you to sign straight away or lose the deal.