How Much Does a Plastic Surgeon Cost in the UK?

Plastic surgeon costs in the UK vary significantly depending on the procedure, surgeon experience, and clinic location. A straightforward rhinoplasty might cost £6,000–£10,000, while a full facelift can reach £12,000–£20,000 or more. Unlike NHS procedures (which are free but restricted to reconstructive cases), private surgery is entirely self-funded, and prices reflect surgeon credentials, facility standards, and aftercare. This guide breaks down real costs, what influences them, and how to avoid overpaying for procedures that don't deliver results.

Typical Plastic Surgery Costs in the UK (2025–26)

As of 2025–26, private plastic surgery in the UK follows these approximate ranges. Prices vary by region—London surgeons typically charge 15–25% more than provincial practitioners—and by individual surgeon reputation. All figures below are indicative and should be confirmed directly with clinics:

• Breast augmentation: £5,000–£8,500 (includes implants and theatre time)
• Rhinoplasty (nose reshape): £6,000–£10,000
• Facelift: £12,000–£20,000
• Liposuction (single area): £3,500–£6,500
• Tummy tuck: £7,000–£12,000
• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty): £3,500–£6,000
• Botox or dermal fillers: £150–£600 per session
• Breast lift (mastopexy): £6,000–£10,000
• Chin implant: £3,000–£5,000

These prices typically cover the surgeon's fee, anaesthesia, operating theatre, and one or two post-operative check-ups. They do not always include revision surgery if complications arise, so clarify this before booking. Private hospitals and clinics often charge facility fees separately, which can add £1,500–£3,000 to the total.

What Affects Plastic Surgeon Fees?

Surgeon fees aren't arbitrary. Several legitimate factors drive variation in cost across the UK market.

Surgeon Experience and Credentials

A consultant plastic surgeon on the General Medical Council (GMC) Specialist Register typically charges 20–40% more than a newly qualified surgeon. This reflects years of training (minimum 8–10 years after medical school), published research, and a track record of results. Look for surgeons with GMC registration and membership of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS). Surgeons with international fellowships or specialist training abroad may also command higher fees due to their expertise.

Location and Facility Costs

London and the South East have the highest surgeon fees; a Harley Street facelift may cost £18,000–£22,000, whilst the same surgery in Manchester or Birmingham often runs £12,000–£15,000. Rural areas and smaller towns are sometimes cheaper, though travelling for surgery adds risk. If complications occur post-op, you'll need local follow-up care. Private hospital and clinic overheads also vary: branded, luxury facilities with hotel-like amenities charge more than clinic rooms in shared medical buildings.

Procedure Complexity and Time

A straightforward procedure takes 1–2 hours; complex work, such as revision rhinoplasty or multi-level facelift, may require 4–6 hours and more than one surgeon. Theatre time, anaesthetist fees, and longer recovery support increase the total cost. Combining procedures (for example, breast augmentation with liposuction) is often cheaper per procedure than booking them separately, though the total cost rises.

Anaesthesia Type

Local anaesthesia with sedation costs less than general anaesthesia with intubation. Most surgical procedures require general anaesthesia, which adds £500–£1,500 to the bill depending on duration. An anaesthetist must be present for all general anaesthesia cases. Check that your quote includes their fee.

Hidden Costs and What to Check Before Booking

The headline price is rarely the final bill. Ethical surgeons will itemise all costs upfront; others may omit certain expenses to appear cheaper. Always ask for a detailed written quotation.

• Revision or correction surgery: Some surgeons include one revision if results are suboptimal; others charge full price again. Clarify in writing before surgery.
• Complications: If infection, bleeding, or poor healing occurs, follow-up treatment may cost extra. Ensure your policy is clear.
• Overnight stays: If general anaesthesia is required, you may need to stay overnight in the hospital. This adds £1,000–£2,500.
• Compression garments and support wear: You'll need to buy post-operative garments, costing £100–£400.
• Medications and dressings: Prescribed painkillers, antibiotics, and sterile dressings are not always included, typically costing £50–£200.
• Time off work: Most surgery requires 1–4 weeks recovery; factor in lost income if self-employed.

Many clinics offer financing via 0% APR plans over 12–36 months. Be cautious: a surgery costing £8,000 over 36 months at even "interest-free" rates may incur hidden admin fees. Check the total amount payable and whether there are early-repayment penalties.

NHS vs. Private Plastic Surgery: Cost and Access

The NHS funds plastic surgery only for reconstructive purposes: burns, trauma, congenital defects, or post-cancer breast reconstruction. Cosmetic surgery, which changes a normal feature for aesthetic reasons, is never NHS-funded. Waiting times for NHS reconstructive surgery vary by trust but often exceed 12–18 months.

Private surgery costs more upfront but offers faster access (typically 2–8 weeks from consultation to surgery), choice of surgeon, and a more comfortable environment. However, if complications arise after private surgery, NHS A&E will treat them for free, but ongoing aftercare may be your responsibility. Some private surgeons offer complications cover (included or as an add-on) that covers revision surgery; this costs £500–£1,500 extra and is worth considering.

How to Verify a Surgeon's Credentials and Avoid Overpaying

Verify registration on the GMC website (www.gmc-uk.org)—search by name to confirm specialist registration and any recorded fitness-to-practise investigations. BAPRAS membership is a gold standard; all members have met accreditation requirements. Check whether the surgeon holds:

• GMC Specialist Register (Plastic Surgery)
• BAPRAS membership
• Published peer-reviewed research or book chapters
• Hospital consultant privileges at a recognised NHS or private hospital

Red flags include surgeons who only operate in clinics (not hospitals), those without GMC specialist registration, or those who pressure you to book immediately. Request before-and-after photos of similar procedures—at least 10–15 examples; poor-quality photos or refusal to show results suggests a limited portfolio. Ask whether the surgeon will personally perform your surgery or whether trainees will assist. This should be explicit.

Online reviews on Google, Trustpilot, and RealSelf can be useful but are not always reliable. Verified patient reviews (with date and procedure name) are more trustworthy than vague 5-star ratings. Contact the clinic's telephone number independently; be wary of clinics that only respond via Instagram or WhatsApp.

Cost-Effective Surgeon Selection: Premium Doesn't Always Mean Better

A surgeon charging £22,000 for a facelift is not automatically better than one charging £15,000. Price often reflects location (Harley Street premium) and marketing spend rather than superior results. Research 3–5 surgeons in your region, compare their credentials, ask for similar patient examples, and book consultations. Most cost £150–£300 and are sometimes waived if you proceed.

Some patients travel abroad (Turkey, Poland, and Spain are popular) where the same procedure costs 40–60% less. However, aftercare is complex if you live in the UK, exchange rates introduce hidden costs, and standards vary. If you do choose overseas surgery, ensure the surgeon has experience with UK patients and arrange follow-up care with a UK surgeon before you leave (expect to pay £500–£1,500 for this alone). Most UK surgeons will not revise botched foreign work, so avoid this false economy unless you understand the full risk.

Financing Your Plastic Surgery and Setting a Budget

If you're saving, realistic timescales are 6–18 months for procedures costing £5,000–£12,000. Medical finance companies (Chrysalis, MediCard, and others) offer 0% APR over 12–60 months; typical repayment on an £8,000 procedure is £150–£220 per month. Always read the terms: some plans charge arrangement fees (£100–£300) or exit penalties if you repay early.

Avoid credit cards unless you pay off the full balance within the promotional 0% period; after that, interest rates often jump to 19%+. A personal loan from your bank is often cheaper. Never borrow against your home unless you're certain you can afford the repayments, especially since surgery outcomes can vary and revision costs may follow.

Set a realistic budget based on your income and savings, not on finding the cheapest surgeon. A £3,500 rhinoplasty with a less experienced surgeon may require a £5,000 revision, wiping out the saving. A £7,000–£8,000 procedure with a BAPRAS-accredited surgeon is usually safer and delivers more predictable results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim plastic surgery on private health insurance?

No, cosmetic surgery is explicitly excluded from all UK private health insurance policies. If surgery is reconstructive (post-cancer, trauma, or congenital), some policies may cover it, but you'll need clinical evidence and prior authorisation. Check your policy wording or contact your provider directly.

How long do plastic surgery results last?

Results depend on the procedure: facelifts typically last 10–15 years, whilst Botox lasts 3–4 months and fillers 6–12 months. Liposuction is permanent (fat cells are removed), but weight gain will distribute differently. Implants may require replacement after 10–20 years due to wear or rupture.

Are there payment plans that don't charge interest?

Yes, several clinics offer 0% APR plans over 12–36 months. However, always check for hidden arrangement or admin fees that increase the total cost. Compare the total amount payable, not just the monthly instalment, and ensure early repayment has no penalty.

What should I do if I'm unhappy with my surgery results?

Contact your surgeon within the first 2–4 weeks (some issues resolve as swelling reduces). Request a revision consultation, usually free if the surgery was suboptimal. If the surgeon refuses or charges again, escalate to the clinic manager or consider seeking a second opinion from another surgeon (charged separately, typically £150–£300 for consultation).

Do I need medical screening before plastic surgery?

Yes. You'll need a pre-operative consultation to assess your health, medications, and suitability for anaesthesia. If you have underlying conditions (heart disease, diabetes, bleeding disorders), you may be referred for additional blood tests or cardiology review, adding £200–£600 to costs but ensuring safety.