When choosing a gynaecomastia surgeon in the UK, check that they are on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery, hold the FRCS (Plast) qualification, belong to a professional body such as BAAPS or BAPRAS, and operate in a CQC-registered hospital. You should meet the operating surgeon at consultation, receive a clear plan tailored to your gland, fat and skin, and understand exactly what aftercare is included.
Check the GMC Specialist Register
Any doctor practising in the UK must be registered with the General Medical Council, but only surgeons who have completed recognised specialist training appear on the Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery. You can search the GMC website by name or reference number to confirm this. The term ‘cosmetic surgeon’ is not a protected title, so specialist registration is one of the most reliable checks you can make.
Qualifications and memberships
- FRCS (Plast): the fellowship granted after passing the intercollegiate specialty examination in plastic surgery.
- BAAPS: the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, whose full members are specialist plastic surgeons with a focus on aesthetic surgery.
- BAPRAS: the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, representing plastic surgeons across reconstructive and aesthetic practice.
- International bodies: memberships such as ISAPS indicate engagement with international standards and education.
For reference, Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register (GMC 4704243), holds FRCS (Plast), sits on the BAAPS Council and chairs the ISAPS Social Media Working Group.
The hospital matters
Gynaecomastia surgery should be performed in a hospital registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) in England, with a consultant anaesthetist, trained nursing staff, overnight facilities and arrangements for managing complications. You can look up any hospital’s registration and inspection reports on the CQC website. Ask where you would be seen if you had a problem after hours or in the days after discharge.
What a good consultation looks like
You should meet the surgeon who will operate, not only a coordinator. A thorough consultation includes a medical history covering medicines, supplements and any steroid use, an examination of the chest to assess gland, fat and skin, and an explanation of the proposed technique, likely scars and recovery. Risks should be discussed openly. You should leave with a written quote showing what is included, time to think, and the option of a second consultation. The surgeon should be willing to say if surgery is not right for you.
Understanding technique
Gynaecomastia often includes firm glandular tissue that does not respond to liposuction alone. A surgeon who assesses the tissue type and explains when direct gland removal is needed is more likely to plan appropriately. Be cautious of one-size-fits-all packages that promise the same procedure for everyone, as they can lead to residual puffiness or over-removal requiring revision.
Red flags
- Pressure selling: discounts that expire if you do not book quickly, or being encouraged to pay a deposit on the day.
- No surgeon at consultation: meeting only a salesperson or nurse, with the surgeon first seen on the day of surgery.
- Cheap packages abroad: lower prices can come with short hospital stays, flying home soon after surgery, and limited or no follow-up if problems arise.
- No clear aftercare: vague answers about who to contact, how many reviews are included and what happens if a revision is needed.
- Unrealistic claims: promises of a particular result or dismissing risks.
Cost and value
Price should be one factor among many. A clear quote should cover the surgeon’s fee, the anaesthetist, hospital and theatre costs, the compression garment and routine follow-up. With Mr Nassab, gynaecomastia surgery costs from £9,500 and the £150 consultation fee is charged separately. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a surgeon’s registration be checked?
Search the GMC online register by name or number and confirm the surgeon is on the Specialist Register for Plastic Surgery.
Is a ‘cosmetic surgeon’ the same as a plastic surgeon?
Not necessarily. ‘Cosmetic surgeon’ is not a protected title, so check for specialist registration in Plastic Surgery and FRCS (Plast).
Should the surgeon be seen before the operation day?
Yes. You should meet the operating surgeon at consultation to discuss your plan, risks and recovery.
Does membership of BAAPS or BAPRAS matter?
Membership shows that a surgeon is part of a professional body with standards and ongoing education. It is a useful check alongside specialist registration, not a substitute for it.
Is it reasonable to ask to see before and after photographs?
Yes. A surgeon can usually show examples of their own work in consultation, with patient consent, to help you understand typical outcomes.
Why is surgery abroad risky?
Travelling soon after surgery raises clot risk, and follow-up and management of complications can be difficult once you are home.
