When choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon in the UK, check that they are on the GMC Specialist Register in plastic surgery (or ENT with a nasal focus), hold a specialist fellowship such as FRCS (Plast), belong to a professional body such as BAAPS or BAPRAS, operate in a CQC-registered hospital and provide clear aftercare. Rather than searching for a single ‘best’ surgeon, look for one whose training, approach and communication suit you.
Check the GMC Specialist Register
In the UK, any registered doctor can legally perform cosmetic surgery, so it is important to check more than a medical licence. The GMC’s online register shows whether a doctor is on the Specialist Register and in which specialty. For rhinoplasty, look for plastic surgery, or ENT (otolaryngology) for surgeons with a particular nasal interest. The register also shows whether a doctor has any conditions on their practice. This check takes a few minutes and is one of the most useful steps you can take.
Qualifications and memberships
- FRCS (Plast): the specialist fellowship gained by plastic surgeons after completing higher surgical training and exams.
- BAAPS: the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, whose members commit to standards in aesthetic surgery and safety.
- BAPRAS: the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, the professional body for plastic surgeons.
- Nasal surgery experience: ask how regularly the surgeon performs rhinoplasty, including septal work and revision cases.
For reference, Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register (GMC 4704243), holds FRCS (Plast), is a BAAPS Council member and chairs the ISAPS Social Media Working Group.
The hospital and team
Surgery should take place in a hospital registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), with inspection reports available online. A consultant anaesthetist should look after you during the operation, and there should be overnight nursing cover if you stay. Ask what happens if there is a problem after you go home, including who to contact out of hours, and whether you would be seen by your own surgeon.
What a good consultation feels like
The first consultation should be with the surgeon, not a sales adviser. Expect a thorough history, an examination of the inside and outside of your nose, a discussion of what is realistic for your anatomy and skin, and a clear explanation of risks. Photographs should be taken and used to plan, and you should be shown examples of the surgeon’s own work with patient consent. You should receive a written, itemised quote and be encouraged to take time and return for a second consultation. For a full checklist, see rhinoplasty questions to ask.
Red flags to watch for
- Pressure to book: discounts for booking on the day, limited-time offers or deposits taken before a second consultation.
- No surgeon at consultation: being assessed by a coordinator or salesperson rather than the operating surgeon.
- Promises of perfection: no responsible surgeon can promise a specific or perfect-looking result.
- Very cheap packages abroad: low prices often exclude aftercare, and flying soon after surgery increases the risk of blood clots. Managing complications once home can be difficult.
- No aftercare plan: vague answers about follow-up, out-of-hours contact or revision policy.
- Risks minimised: a surgeon who brushes aside complications or discourages questions.
Reading reviews and photographs
Online reviews can give a sense of patient experience, but they are not a substitute for checking qualifications. Before-and-after photographs should be consistent in lighting and angle, and ideally include results at least a year after surgery, when swelling has settled. Be wary of heavily edited images. Social media presence alone does not indicate surgical training. Recommendations from friends, your GP or other healthcare professionals can be a useful starting point, but it is still worth making your own checks. Meeting more than one surgeon is reasonable, and a good surgeon will not be offended if you want a second opinion before committing to such a personal decision.
Next steps
Rhinoplasty with Mr Nassab costs from £8,950 and the £150 consultation fee is separate. Consultations are available in Manchester, Cheshire and London. Learn more about rhinoplasty. Surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a rhinoplasty surgeon be a plastic surgeon or ENT surgeon?
Both can be appropriate. Look for GMC specialist registration in plastic surgery or ENT, and specific experience in rhinoplasty.
How can a surgeon’s registration be checked?
Search the GMC’s online register by name or GMC number to see specialist registration and any conditions.
Is it safe to have rhinoplasty abroad?
Standards vary. The main concerns are aftercare, flying soon after surgery and managing complications once home.
Does a high price mean a better surgeon?
Not necessarily. Qualifications, experience, hospital standards and aftercare are better indicators than price.
