The most useful questions to ask at a skinny BBL consultation cover the surgeon’s qualifications and registration, the fat grafting technique and safety plane, whether you have enough fat for a worthwhile result, where the operation takes place, and what aftercare and revision arrangements are in place. The answers should be clear, specific and free of pressure.
Before you go
Write down what bothers you about your buttocks and hips, and what you hope to change. Photographs of shapes you like can help, but treat them as a starting point, since your own frame and fat reserves decide what is achievable. Bring a list of any medicines, supplements and previous operations. It is also worth bringing someone with you, as a second set of ears helps when a lot of information is covered. Cosmetic surgery is only offered to adults aged 18 and over.
Questions about the surgeon
- Are you on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery?: a good answer is a straightforward yes, which you can confirm yourself on the GMC website.
- What are your qualifications?: look for FRCS (Plast), the specialist qualification for UK plastic surgeons.
- Are you a member of BAAPS or BAPRAS?: membership of these professional associations indicates engagement with UK standards and safety guidance.
- How often do you perform buttock fat grafting?: a good answer describes regular practice without resorting to boasts about numbers.
Mr Reza Nassab is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon on the GMC Specialist Register (GMC 4704243), holds FRCS (Plast) and sits on the BAAPS Council.
Questions about technique and safety
- Where exactly will the fat be placed?: the answer should be the subcutaneous layer only, above the muscle, in line with BAAPS guidance. Be wary of vague replies.
- How much fat is available in my case?: a good surgeon will examine you and give an honest view, including if there is too little fat for a meaningful change.
- Which donor areas will you use, and why?: expect an explanation linked to your contour, not a standard package.
- How much fat is likely to be reabsorbed?: the answer should acknowledge that some fat is always lost and that the amount varies, without precise promises.
- What type of anaesthetic is used, and who gives it?: a consultant anaesthetist should be responsible.
Questions about the hospital and the day
Ask where the surgery will be performed and whether the hospital is registered with the Care Quality Commission. Find out whether you will stay overnight, what happens if you feel unwell after going home, and what measures are taken to reduce the risk of blood clots, such as compression stockings and early walking. A clear, confident answer here shows that the practice has thought through your safety beyond the operating theatre.
Questions about aftercare and revision
- How often are patients seen after surgery?: a structured schedule of follow-up appointments with the surgical team is a good sign.
- Who should be contacted with a concern at night?: you should be given a direct contact route, not just a general enquiry line.
- What happens if the result is disappointing?: expect an explanation of the practice’s revision policy and a reminder that the result is assessed once settled, usually after several months.
- What is included in the price?: the quote should set out the surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, garment and routine follow-up, with the consultation fee listed separately.
Red flags to watch for
Be cautious if a clinic offers discounts for booking quickly, cannot tell you who will operate, dismisses questions about the grafting plane, promises a particular size or shape, or offers little aftercare. Very cheap packages abroad often mean flying home within days, which raises the risk of clots and leaves you without local follow-up. A good consultation should leave you better informed and under no pressure to decide on the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many consultations should there be before a skinny BBL?
Many patients benefit from a second consultation to review the plan and ask further questions. It is sensible to allow a cooling-off period of at least two weeks before committing to surgery.
What does the consultation with Mr Nassab cost?
The consultation fee is £150, which is charged separately and is not included in the surgical price.
Is it acceptable to ask to see before-and-after photographs?
Yes. Photographs of previous patients can help you understand typical results, although your own outcome will depend on your anatomy and fat reserves.
What if the surgeon says a skinny BBL is not suitable?
That is a sign of an honest assessment. The surgeon should explain why and discuss alternatives, such as liposuction alone or a non-surgical approach.
