Questions to ask before cosmetic surgery
Prepare for your cosmetic surgery consultation by making a list of questions.
It’s important to do your research and understand as much as you can about:
- your procedure
- your medical practitioner
- the facility or clinic where your procedure will take place
- your recovery and aftercare
- who to call if you have concerns with your procedure.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
This list can help guide the conversation with your medical practitioner.
Questions about your practitioner
- What are your qualifications?
- How many times have you performed this procedure, and how often do you do it?
- What procedures do you regularly perform?
- Can I see photos of your work?
- Will anyone help you perform my procedure? What are their qualifications?
- Who will give my anaesthetic? What qualifications do they have? What kind of anaesthetic will I receive?
Questions about your surgery
- Where will the procedure be performed? Is it licenced for my procedure?
- What are the risks of this procedure? And are there any risks unique to my health history?
- What are the side effects?
- How many people have experienced complications when you have performed this procedure and what were they?
- Are there any alternative options to this procedure?
- What will it cost and what do those costs cover?
- Will it cost extra to have further treatment if something goes wrong?
- How long do the results last? Will I need further procedures?
- What will the scarring be like?
- What if I'm not pleased with the result?
Questions about your recovery and aftercare
- What care will I need and receive after the procedure and who will give it?
- What kind of discomfort or pain should I expect following the procedure and how will it be managed?
- How long will I need to be home/off work for recovery?
- What activities can I do during recovery time?
- When can I start showering, exercising, driving, grocery shopping, etc.?
- What do I do if something goes wrong? Who should I call?
To report any concerns go to Ahpra.gov.au or call 1300 361 041.
This factsheet has been produced by the Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care.
The original version is available online at health.gov.au/cosmetic-surgery/resources
Created: April 2024 | Reviewed: November 2024
