Initial consultationYour initial consultation will begin with an introductory conversation with a cosmetic surgeon so they are able to fully understand the history of your cosmetic problem. Depending on the nature of the issue, our experts will aim to find out the timeline of the problem, the initial cause of any problem such as trauma or illness, as well as whether the problem has previously been treated in other ways before. Our cosmetic surgeons may also ask in-depth questions about your own medical history to exclude any underlying medical problems which may be causing certain cosmetic disorders.
Following a comprehensive discussion, our consultants will conduct a thorough physical examination. For cosmetic issues of the chest and face this will include a technical assessment of the underlying bone structure, muscles and soft tissue beneath the skin. This will determine which treatment options may deliver the most effective results.
For other conditions and certain types of skin lesions, as well as a physical examination, our experts may also use a specialist microscope to examine the area. This procedure is often referred to as dermoscopy and allows visualisation of the deeper layers of the skin and a better understanding of the exact nature of the lesion in question.
State-of-the-art diagnostics available for you
In cases where there is a purely cosmetic need to seek an appointment, diagnostic scans and tests may not be needed. However, for varicose veins a test known as a duplex ultrasound may be used. This gives our experts a detailed view of the venous system in the legs and enables any faulty valves which may be causing the varicosities to be identified.
Occasionally, our cosmetic surgeons will also wish to exclude any underlying medical cause for certain inflammatory skin conditions and skin lesions. This may include requesting blood tests to examine markers of inflammation and genetic markers. Specialist imaging may be requested to examine any possible vascular supply to the area and in rare cases, our surgeons may request a biopsy for certain types of skin lesions.
The right treatment for you, always
Whether a non-surgical or surgical management plan is chosen, we provide convenient follow-up appointments as required. Surgical management will be supported by a thorough pre-operative assessment clinic in which our anaesthetists, specialist nurses and cosmetic consultants are able to answer any questions you may have around the surgical procedure.