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What to Expect at Your Surgical Consultation — and What You Should Ask

Booking a consultation is the first real step in your surgery journey — and it should be a space where you feel informed, supported, and safe.

Whether you’re considering cosmetic surgery, weight loss procedures, or gender-affirming care, your consultation isn’t just about deciding if surgery is right for you — it’s also your chance to make sure you’re choosing the right surgeon and the right provider.

At Cosmedicare, we believe patients deserve transparent, no-pressure consultations where you feel confident asking questions, exploring options, and understanding every part of your care. Here’s what to expect, and what to ask.

What Happens at a Consultation?

Your consultation is a one-to-one meeting with your surgeon, usually lasting 30–60 minutes. Here’s what typically happens:

  • You’ll be asked about your medical history and current health
  • You’ll talk through your concerns, goals, and expectations
  • The surgeon will assess whether the procedure is suitable and safe for you
  • You may be examined, and clinical photos or scans may be taken (with consent)
  • Your options will be explained clearly, including risks and recovery
  • You’ll get the chance to ask questions, and discuss pricing and next steps

You should never feel rushed or pressured to book — and you should leave with a clear understanding of what’s involved.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

These questions will help you get a full picture of your surgeon’s background and approach:

  1. Are you on the GMC Specialist Register for this type of surgery?
  2. How many times have you performed this procedure?
  3. What are the risks and how often do they happen?
  4. What results can I realistically expect?
  5. Can I see before-and-after photos of your work?
  6. What will recovery look like, and how long will it take?
  7. What happens if there’s a complication or I’m not happy with the result?
  8. Will you be doing the surgery yourself?

Any experienced and ethical surgeon will answer these questions honestly — and if they don’t, that’s a red flag.

Questions to Ask Your Provider or Clinic

It’s just as important to understand who’s behind the scenes and how the facility is run:

  1. Is the hospital or clinic regulated by HIS (Scotland) or CQC (England)?
  2. Do you have on-site anaesthetic and resuscitation support?
  3. Is aftercare included, and for how long?
  4. Will I have a named point of contact for questions or concerns?
  5. What’s your cancellation or refund policy?
  6. Do you offer finance options or a price-match policy?
  7. Are you insured, and what does your cover include?

You deserve clear, transparent answers — because surgery is not just about the day of the procedure, it’s about the entire journey.

The Cosmedicare Approach

At Cosmedicare and St. Ellen’s Hospitals, our consultations are:

  • Free and no-pressure
  • Led by GMC-registered specialist surgeons
  • Carried out in regulated, hospital-grade settings
  • Designed to give you time, space, and full information

We’ll never push you to commit. We’ll only ever proceed when we’re sure it’s the right procedure, with the right surgeon, at the right time — for you.

Your consultation is more than just a box to tick — it’s your chance to take control of your care, ask the right questions, and make a fully informed decision.

It’s your body, your choice — but it should always be a safe one. Ready to book your consultation or just have a few questions? Get in touch with our friendly team — we’re here to listen, not to sell.

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