The popularity of cosmetic surgery has been soaring in the UK, with Brits seeking everything from non-invasive, anti-ageing procedures to more substantial procedures such as liposuction, rhinoplasty, or breast enlargement. While there's no shortage of cosmetic surgeons and clinics to carry out these procedures, the task of finding the right surgeon for you can seem overwhelming. After all, cosmetic surgery deals with your body, your image, and your self-esteem - so you'll naturally want to seek out the best person for the job. But rest assured, there are a series of steps you can take to ensure the cosmetic surgeon you choose is right for you.

To start off, remember that some surgeons specialise in certain cosmetic surgery procedures - even if they perform all procedures in their clinic. So, for instance, if you're interested in rhinoplasty, you might want to research surgeons that specifically demonstrate an exceptional reputation for this procedure. However, once you've sourced a list of these surgeons, your first step should be to check for their qualifications. While there is no official register of people who have the training to carry out cosmetic surgery procedures, qualified cosmetic surgeons (who are members of the The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) will show up on the General Medical Council's Specialist Register. Once you find a surgeon's name on this register - which you can source online - you'll be able to see whether they are on a 'specialist register' for people who have undergone further training in any medical speciality.

Another way to go about sourcing specialist names is to get a referral from your General Practitioner. GPs can usually name specialists in specific areas of cosmetic surgery, so they can easily point you in the right direction. Moreover, your GP can ensure that any important information on your medical condition is passed on to your cosmetic surgeon, in case any questions or concerns come up in preparation for the procedure, or afterwards.

Cost is another major point to consider when looking for a cosmetic surgeon. However, you should never choose a surgeon based on price alone, as opting for a cheaper surgeon could also mean compromising on the quality of your procedure. Patient referrals and reviews could really come in handy here, as you can find out whether past patients believe their procedures were worth the money they paid. If, for instance, you're considering a particular breast enlargement clinic, look for referrals and reviews from people who had their own procedures done at that clinic. It's always best to seek out referrals who you can actually communicate with and ask questions. However, many people will also post their reviews online.

Finally, once you've narrowed down your choices for cosmetic surgeons, it's important to meet with each surgeon to talk about your potential procedure with them. You should prepare a list of questions to ask, regarding such things as the surgeon's experience, the cost of the procedure, any risks that are involved, details of the procedure itself, if the procedure is right for you, and if your desired results are realistic. Speaking in depth with each potential surgeon will not only help you better understand the procedure you're seeking, but will also help you choose a surgeon and clinic that's best for your cosmetic surgery needs.