Choosing where to have plastic surgery performed isn’t something to rush. Even if you already know which procedure you’re interested in, the clinic you choose can shape your experience from the first consultation to your recovery. With so many options that may appear similar on the surface, it’s important that you look deeper into what each clinic actually offers, how they operate, and what their environment is like. The details matter a lot more than you might initially think.
In this blog, we’ll go through what you should check before deciding on a plastic surgery clinic near you, from verifying credentials to understanding how they approach care and follow-up.
How qualified is the surgeon performing the procedure?
Before anything else, you’ll want to make sure that the person performing your procedure is properly qualified. It’s not just about whether they call themselves a cosmetic or plastic surgeon, but about what specific training and experience they have. In Australia, cosmetic surgery can only legally be performed by a doctor with relevant surgical training and registration. However, not all doctors who perform cosmetic surgery are trained to the same level.
You can verify your surgeon’s qualifications through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Their public register allows you to check whether the surgeon is registered and whether they hold specialist recognition in surgery. It can also help to check if they are a member of professional associations related to plastic or cosmetic surgery, as these organisations usually require ongoing training and compliance with ethical standards.
It’s also helpful to ask your surgeon directly about their experience with your specific procedure. For instance, a surgeon who mainly performs breast surgery might not have as much recent experience with facial procedures, and vice versa.
What kind of consultations do they offer?
A thorough consultation is one of the most important parts of the process. It’s your opportunity to discuss your medical history, surgical options, and expectations. A good consultation should not feel rushed. The surgeon should examine the area being treated, explain the surgical process, and discuss potential risks.
You’ll also want to see whether the consultation is being conducted by the surgeon themselves or by another staff member. While nurses or patient coordinators can help with general information, your surgical consultation should always involve the surgeon who will perform your procedure.
What happens before and after surgery?
Understanding what happens before and after surgery is just as important as knowing what happens during it. Before surgery, the clinic should provide clear instructions regarding preparation, such as fasting, medication management, and any lifestyle adjustments that might help with recovery.
After surgery, you’ll want to know what kind of follow-up care is offered. Ask how often post-operative appointments are scheduled, who you’ll see at those appointments, and how the clinic handles any concerns that arise during recovery.
It can also be helpful to ask about how accessible the surgeon is after the procedure. Some surgeons maintain contact with their patients directly during recovery, while others rely more on their nursing team. Neither approach is inherently better, but you should know what to expect so that you feel supported during recovery.
What is their approach to patient care and communication?
Good communication matters in every stage of surgery. From the consultation to follow-up appointments, you should feel that the clinic is attentive and organised. Ask how they communicate updates or reminders, and whether there’s a direct contact for patients during recovery.
If the clinic is difficult to reach, slow to respond, or unclear with information, that can be a reflection of how they handle patient care overall. A clinic that takes time to explain details and answer questions is more likely to provide consistent care throughout the process.
Are you comfortable with their overall approach?
Comfort doesn’t refer to emotion as much as practicality here. You’ll want to feel confident that you understand what will happen, who is involved, and how the clinic manages its processes. Every interaction, from your first email to your final follow-up, should reflect organisation and attention to detail.
If you feel uncertain after your consultation, it’s completely reasonable to seek a second opinion. Comparing clinics can give you a clearer perspective on how different surgeons approach similar procedures and help you make a more informed decision.
Dr Grant Fraser-Kirk: Specialist Plastic Surgeon on the Sunshine Coast
Choosing a plastic surgery clinic should be about understanding who is performing your procedure, where it’s being performed, and how you’ll be looked after before and after. If you’re looking for a clinic that focuses on detailed planning, experienced surgical care, and structured recovery support, you can arrange a consultation with our team to discuss your options in more detail.
Dr Grant Fraser-Kirk is a Fellow of the Royal Australian College of Surgeons (RACS) and a qualified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, with a specific interest in skin and breast reconstruction.
To book your consultation on the Sunshine Coast, please get in touch with our team.
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