To choose a breast lift surgeon in the UK, confirm they are on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery, ideally hold FRCS (Plast) and are members of BAAPS or BAPRAS, operate in a CQC-registered hospital and offer clear aftercare. The right surgeon will assess your breasts carefully, explain the scar pattern and risks honestly and never pressure you to book.
Why experience in breast reshaping matters
A breast lift is a reshaping operation, not simply a skin tuck. The surgeon must judge the new nipple position precisely, preserve the nipple’s blood supply, shape the breast tissue so it holds its form and place scars where they will be least visible. Errors such as a nipple set too high are difficult to correct later, so choosing a surgeon with thorough training in breast surgery is one of the most important decisions you will make.
Credentials to look for
- GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery: in the UK any registered doctor can perform cosmetic surgery; specialist registration confirms completed training in plastic surgery. Check it free online.
- FRCS (Plast): the exit examination for specialist plastic surgery training.
- BAAPS or BAPRAS: membership of these associations reflects a commitment to safety, audit and continuing education.
- NHS or teaching background: many specialist plastic surgeons have trained or worked in NHS breast and reconstructive services.
Where surgery takes place
Ask which hospital will be used and check it is registered with the Care Quality Commission. The hospital should have a consultant anaesthetist, experienced theatre and ward nurses, overnight beds and arrangements for emergencies. Mr Nassab operates at Deansgate Hospital in Manchester and at a private hospital in London, and some local anaesthetic procedures may be carried out at CLNQ. Choosing a hospital within reasonable travelling distance of home also makes it easier to attend follow-up appointments and to be seen quickly if you have any concerns in the early weeks.
The consultation process
A thorough consultation includes a discussion of your goals, a medical history, examination and measurement of the breasts, and an explanation of the type of lift recommended and why. You should see where the scars would sit, understand whether an implant is advised, and receive written information about risks and recovery. A good surgeon will be open about limitations, including that breasts continue to change over time. You should be offered time to think and, ideally, a second consultation before committing. The questions to ask guide offers a helpful checklist.
Red flags
- Cheap packages abroad: low prices can come with limited aftercare, and flying soon after surgery raises the risk of blood clots. Complications may have to be managed by strangers once you are home.
- Pressure selling: time-limited discounts, deposits requested before meeting the surgeon, or persuasion to add procedures.
- No clear aftercare: uncertainty about who will see you after surgery or how to reach the team.
- Unrealistic claims: promises of a particular result or statements that there are no risks.
- Seeing only a coordinator: the consultation should be with the surgeon who will operate.
About Mr Nassab
Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register (GMC 4704243), with FRCS (Plast). He is a BAAPS Council member and Chair of the ISAPS Social Media Working Group, and consults at CLNQ in Manchester, Knutsford and London, as well as practising in Dubai.
Cost and value
Price should never be the main reason for choosing a surgeon. A breast lift with Mr Nassab is from £11,500 and augmentation mastopexy from £12,500 (each including the surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, garment and routine follow-up). The £150 consultation is separate. Finance may be available through Chrysalis Finance, subject to status; Reza Nassab Ltd is a credit broker, not a lender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a cosmetic surgeon who is not a plastic surgeon do a breast lift?
Legally yes, which is why checking GMC specialist registration in plastic surgery is important.
How can a surgeon’s registration be checked?
Search for the surgeon on the GMC online register, which shows specialist registration and any restrictions.
Are before and after photos useful?
They can give a sense of a surgeon’s work, but every body is different and results cannot be predicted exactly.
Is it better to have surgery close to home?
Being near your surgical team makes follow-up easier and allows problems to be seen quickly.
Should a surgeon ever advise against surgery?
Yes. A responsible surgeon will advise waiting or a different approach if a lift is not in your best interests.
How important is the surgeon’s approach to aftercare?
Very important. Ask who reviews you after surgery, how many appointments are included and how quickly you can be seen if a concern arises. Continuity with the operating surgeon makes problems easier to identify and manage early.
