How to cHoose a specialist

is best. Alternatively, look for a practitioner who is a member of a relevant industry body: the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (bcam.ac.uk), whose members are registered with the General Medical Council (GMC); the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (bacn.org.uk); the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (baaps.org.uk); the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (bapras.org.uk); or the British Association of Dermatologists (bad.org.uk).

The GMC has a leaflet on what to consider when thinking about cosmetic procedures (gmc-uk.org), and you should visit the clinic for a consultation before booking treatments (this may be chargeable), and ask to see before-and-after pictures of people who have tried the treatment. Also, check the complication rates and what happens if things go wrong. If you don’t like the practitioner, or the feel of the place, go elsewhere. Don’t be pressurised into signing up on the spot and be wary of clinics that offer cut-price treatments or financial inducements (they shouldn’t).

Botox makers Allergan offers a clinic finder (this-is-me.com), as does Galderma (proofirl.com), makers of Restylane fillers. Only approved clinics and practitioners are listed.